Youth Week Event
Youth Week Event
September 2024
Victorian Afghan Associations Network has proudly and successfully celebrated the Youth Week Award 2024 event on September 21.
The purpose of this event was to acknowledge and celebrate the exceptional achievements and commitment of the youths who significantly laid the foundation for lifelong success and contributed positively to society in our community.
This appreciation not only acknowledges their hard work and dedication but also inspires them to continue reaching for their goals and contributes to building their self-esteem.
At this great event, delegates from the City of Greater Dandenong, community representatives, service providers, elders, youths and community members participated.
Mrs Freshteh Sherzad, the MC had the opening by formally welcoming the audience, and then Mr Hafiz Asadi, the president of VAAN delivered his speech. Then the program was followed by a speech from Jim Memeti the councillor from the CGD, a poem by Kubra Ghulami, Help Hands Healthcare info, and an excellent performance by the fashion show group.
Further, Asif Mellatyair, the secretary of the VAAN and the event’s coordinator delivered his speech. He gave detailed information regarding Youth Week and its procedures for choosing candidates for the Youth Week Awards 2024. Also, we had a great message from Zakia Khodiadadi, the first-ever Refugee Paralympic Team medallist and a poem from Rezwani.
The four successful candidates Ms Arozoo Rahimi, Ms Faiza Zeerak, Ms Fatima Ahmadi and Ms Sohaila Rahimi received their awards from the VAAN team members and the community representatives.
In addition, live music was performed during dinner time and the event closed by 9:30pm.
Overall, it was one of the greatest and successful events that VAAN has organised in the past years. We would like to thank you who supported this event and specifically the VAAN team.
Note: Photography by Sherzad
VAAN Iftar Dinner 2025
March 2025
On 9 March 2025, the Victorian Afghan Association Network (VAAN) successfully hosted its annual Iftar Dinner at Maiwand Reception, Dandenong, attended by over 300 people, including newly arrived migrants, community members, service organizations, and local leaders. The event aimed to foster unity, strengthen community connections, and support the emotional well-being of newly arrived immigrants.
Program Highlights
- Opening: Hosted by Ms. Shirzad Mohseni, the evening began with a Quran recitation by Mr. Ali Rezaei.
- Welcome & Keynote: Dr. Hafiz Asadi, VAAN President, welcomed guests and outlined VAAN’s community programs.
- Cultural & Inspirational Presentations:
- Poem by Ms. Farwa Timori in recognition of International Women’s Day.
- Speeches from Jim Memeti (Mayor of City of Greater Dandenong), Stefan Koomen (Mayor of City of Casey), Mr. Mohammad Tavhidi on spirituality and self-improvement, and Dr. Reza Aloudal on health and well-being.
- Maghrib Prayer & Iftar Meal: Led by Ali Aqa Fahimi, followed by a communal dinner symbolizing unity and the spirit of Ramadan.
- Program Updates: Mr. Zabi Mazoori and Dr. Hafiz Asadi shared updates on the 2025 Nowruz Festival.
- Community Recognition:
- Nazar Yousafi discussed building respectful relationships.
- Shukoor Farahmand presented appreciation plaques to active participants of previous Nawruz festivals.
- Special recognition of women who completed VAAN driving lessons, celebrated by Ms. Rabia Safa and Ms. Kobra Gholami.
Impact
The event:
- Fostered community cohesion and reduced social isolation.
- Provided emotional support and a sense of belonging for newly arrived families.
- Created an inclusive cultural exchange opportunity for diverse communities.
The event was coordinated by Mr. Shukoor Farahmand and successfully reflected VAAN’s commitment to building strong, inclusive, and supportive communities.