A good old fashioned roundtable was had in Mernda on Tuesday, April 16, giving multicultural leaders the chance to speak their minds to some important figures.
Yan Yean MP Lauren Kathage and Multicultural Affairs Minister Ingrid Stitt hosted and attended the discussions.
Ms Kathage said she was proud of the way the local community leaders conducted themselves with the Minister present, and feels that positive results could come from the meeting.
The roundtable brought together several multicultural leaders from Whittlesea and included groups such as Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), Sarbojanin Puja Utsav of Victoria (SPUVIC), Melbourne Malayalee Association (MMA) and The Doreen Mernda Nepalese Community (DMNC).
These groups all aim to build inclusivity within the community and give opportunities to those of all different backgrounds.
The meeting covered topics ranging from the opportunities and challenges faced in the north, designated places of celebration and worship, days of celebration, access to Mental Health and
upcoming events.
Shital Patel, a volunteer at BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir, Mill Park, said the meeting was a great experience for all.
“This initiative has proven invaluable in understanding the challenges faced by various communities and in conveying our concerns and recommendations to the Multicultural Affairs Minister,” he said.
