UMQ’s Women and Wellbeing, Panel Discussion on Collective Flourishing and World Record Certificate Distribution
United Malayalees of Queensland, the umbrella body for all Malayalees in Queensland, held a seminar titled Women and Wellbeing. Connections conversations and collective flourishing held at the Holland park Library Hall on Sunday 5th May. Dr Jacob Cherian, President of UMQ inaugurated the event, welcomed the gathering, and briefly explained the aims, objectives of UMQ.
The discussion was co-ordinated by Prof Abraham Francis, Associate Prof: Sociology, James Cook University, Townsville. Facilitators were Dr Chaitanya Unni, Ms Bindu Rajendran, Jiji Jaynarayanan, besides Dezima Fernandez & Nikitha Rebello, research scholars from Manipal University Over 30 ladies from various walks of life participated.
Aspects of self-care, challenges faced by women, adolescent mental health, were some of the subjects explored, strategies to care and communicate was discussed. The highlight in fact was the participants enthusiasm to be at the gathering. Panellists, provided guidance, based on their life experiences.
This was followed by a panel discussion, held at the Speakers Hall, Queensland Parliament at 5.30 PM on the subject of Collective Flourishing. Dr Jacob Cherian, President UMQ welcomed the gathering, which included many community leaders, and representatives of various Indian/ Malayalee organisations. The discussion was moderated by Prof: Abraham Francis. Panellists were Hon James Martin member for Stretton [who was also the gracious host of the meeting], Senator Paul Scarr, Cr Emily Kim, Mr Palani Thevar and Mr Asish Katta. A very fruitful and enlightening hour.
World Record Certificates, to participants of the Australian record performance of the Thiruvathira dancers which was held on 12th August 2023, were distributed.
Mr Shaji Theckanath, PRO of UMQ, acknowledged the vote of thanks to all dignitaries, sponsors, community leaders, award recipients and their families. UMQ committee members – Dr. Jacob Cherian, Jiji Jayanaranan, Shaji Theckanath, Prof Abraham Francis & Jolly Karumathy – presented a token of appreciation to Hon James Martin for His support.
Photographs – Courtesy Mr Dev Thottunkal.
