Michaela Meade
Hume mayor Joseph Haweil held a morning tea last Thursday, in celebration of International Women’s Day.
Cr Haweil said being able to host an event in person for the occasion was a privilege.
“I am… absolutely delighted… After being elected mayor last November, one of the first things I put [into action] was a large and fitting celebration of this international day,” he said.
He noted the council and its role in the movement that the day signifies.
“As leaders of this community… it is critical that we exercise our civic duty in proudly and prominently celebrating the achievements of members of our community and addressing the challenges that we should be working on,” he said.
“It should not be strange that a male express such interest in honouring the achievements of women.”
Several women from the community addressed the gathering, sharing their stories.
Chair of the Victorian Multicultural Commission Vivienne Nguyen said women have played a major role in the community’s development.
“I thank the people that came before me to create this space,” Ms Nguyen said.
“[We] will continue to develop the space into one where everyone can have the opportunity to rise.”
Young Hume local Rihan Rafaeel said, “there is no age, gender, or background requirement necessary to make a difference and bring about positive change.”
Marie Younan gave an emotional retelling of her life with blindness, highlighting that, “[she has] always been a fighter.”
Artist Lisa Buckland’s pieces were on display at the event, and she described how the various paintings were influenced by her life experiences.
MP Maria Vamvakinou said the three women who spoke were “inspiring guides” for the assembly.
“[You show that] with support, with opportunity, and with belief in self, you can virtually overcome absolutely anything.”
