On Friday evening 17 November 2023, the Victorian Afghan Associations Network (VAAN) celebrated the outstanding achievements and contribution of women and girls of Afghan background in sports.  This event was the first of its kind within the Afghan communities in Australia.

It was an excellent opportunity to hear success stories and inspiration from women and girls from the Victorian Afghan community.

The event began with an acknowledgment to the country by talented MC Freshta Bakhtiari.

Dr Hafiz Asadi, President of VAAN welcomed all guests to the event and provided a highlight of VAAN’s current and past activities.

The event was attended by several VIP guests and speakers including:

• Mayor Cr Lana Formoso – Noble Park North, Mayor of City of Greater Dandenong
• Gary Maas MP, State Member for Narre Warren South
• Cassandra Fernando MP, Federal Member for Holt
• Mr Liaquet Ali AMERI, Deputy Head of Mission, Afghanistan Embassy Canberra
• Pauline Richards MP, State Member for Cranbourne
• Sylvia Coombe, Victorian Multicultural Commission

The Hazara Dance and Fashion Group amazed the audience with their fashion show and dance performance.

Zarafshan Ehsani-زرافشان احسانی a female musician and new arrival to Australia performed a special song dedicated to women.

Zabi Mazoori (the event coordinator) explained the award nomination process and thanked the 55 individuals who nominated nine individuals and five teams. Nominees were assessed on the basis of their sporting achievements, contribution to supporting other women to enter sports and being a role model for the community.

The standard of nominations was high, and the committee ultimately decided to recognise multiple award winners in each category:

Best Female Athlete

• Fatima Ahmadi (Taekwondo)
• Shekiba Fuladi (Taekwondo)
• Asma Mirzae (Football/Soccer)

Outstanding Club

• Afghanistan Women’s National Football Team
• World Taekwondo Centre
• Melbourne United Football Club
• Melbourne Storm Women’s Volleyball Club
• Master Najafi Kung Fu Academy

The awards were presented to the winners by our distinguished guests, community leaders and elders, and members of VAAN.

A panel discussion on Afghan women in sports was held following the award ceremony and the topics of the discussion included:

• Personal stories of success and engagement in sports.
• How can the community, families and organisations support women and girls to participate and thrive in sporting activities?
• Messages of encouragement and inspiration to other women and girls.

The panellist included:

• Fatima Yousufi, member of Afghanistan Women’s National Football Team and player at Melbourne Victory
• Zuhra Kazimi, coach at World Taekwondo Centre
• Asma Mirzae, manager and player at Melbourne United SC
• Shekiba Fuladi, member of World Taekwondo Centre

Traditional Afghan food was served to the 200 attendees.

The event was concluded by the amazing music performances by talented artists Emal Hamraz and Ramin. Participants came to the dance floor to enjoy the music and dance.

Thanks to MAA Production team and Manager Shirzad Ahmad for the photos and filming the event. Video to be released soon.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank the Victorian Government for funding this important event.