Captivating culture: Notre Dame students share traditional Indian dances.
Photo by
Kady Hadjab
Australia’s cultural landscape is rich and diverse, with 27.7 per cent of its total population born overseas as of 2021.
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Harmony Week, a national celebration since 1999, shines a spotlight on Australia’s multicultural heritage every year.
Voices for Harmony organised a gathering at Shepparton Golf Club to commemorate the occasion, which took place on Thursday, March 21.
This year marked the 17th occurrence of the Shepparton event, and its focus was ‘Mental Health Inequalities and Spirituality’.
The event boasted speakers and performers from various cultural backgrounds. Students from two Notre Dame College groups showcased vibrant dances from India and the Philippines, adding a lively cultural dimension to the gathering.
Among the speakers were notable figures such as state Member for Shepparton Kim O’Keeffe’s media adviser Caleb Francis, St Brendan’s Parish Priest Father Joe Taylor, and Voices for Harmony co-ordinator and 2021 Shepparton and Greater Shepparton Citizen of the Year Cameron Albanoi.
Mr Francis, originally from Cape Town, South Africa, shared his journey of overcoming the challenges of growing up in Apartheid-era South Africa and adapting to a new country amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
On belonging: State Member for Shepparton Kim O’Keeffe’s media adviser Caleb Francis.
Photo by
Kady Hadjab
“I used to feel like an outsider,” he said, highlighting the struggle of being a minority and the subsequent feeling of isolation.
“The sense of not belonging was a trial.”
However, Mr Francis said he found solace and a sense of belonging in Shepparton.
“These challenges taught me a lot about diversity,” he said.
“I now understand what it truly means to be a part of a community.
“I found in Shepparton a place where I feel I belonged outside of my own family.”
Sharing insight: Voices for Harmony co-ordinator and 2021 Greater Shepparton Citizen of the Year Cameron Albanoi.
Photo by
Kady Hadjab
Mr Albanoi provided thought-provoking insights into the connection between mental health issues, stigma and discrimination, raising questions about the political will needed to effect change in the community.
Reflection meets humour: St Brendan’s Parish Priest Father Joe Taylor.
Photo by
Kady Hadjab
Fr Taylor brought humour and wisdom to the gathering, reflecting on his experiences in Papua New Guinea and exploring the intersection of faith and wellbeing. He challenged attendees to consider the moral framework that guides society.
Through engaging speakers, vibrant performances and meaningful discussions, Shepparton’s Voices for Harmony event has been a catalyst for understanding, acceptance and celebration of Australia’s multicultural identity, inspiring hope for a more inclusive future.
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