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This week, the Asylum Seekers Centre (ASC) community came together for a special evening of connection, reflection, and celebration at our annual Iftar dinner.
Community members, staff, volunteers, and partners gathered to break the Ramadan fast, share a meal, and celebrate the spirit of generosity and belonging.
Hosted in partnership with the Galaxy Foundation and Advocates for Dignity, the evening has become a special event in the ASC calendar, bringing people together across cultures and faiths.
“This gathering is a way to honour and celebrate our Muslim community during Ramadan, while also warmly welcoming people of all faiths and backgrounds to join in the experience,” says Novela Corda, Community Engagement Specialist at the ASC.
“Sharing Iftar together is a powerful reminder that interfaith connection can bring understanding, respect, and friendship.”
A community effort
This year’s event was led by the ASC’s Iftar committee members composed of staff and volunteers.
Members supported the event through planning and coordination, food preparation with cultural considerations, decorations, set-up and pack-down, and welcoming guests throughout the night.
“Our Iftar was also made possible through collaboration with a community of like-minded advocates, partners, and supporters including Galaxy Foundation, Advocates for Dignity, and Multicultural NSW, who all believe that everyone deserves dignity and a seat at the table,” shares Novela.
“When people come together with that shared purpose, moments like this become possible.”
The evening was hosted by Meg MacCallum, the ASC’s Community Participation Coordinator, who served as emcee and guided the program with warmth and enthusiasm.
Celebrating culture and connection
The event was filled with conversation and laughter. For many, the sense of community was the highlight of the evening.
“Everyone was very friendly, eating together,” says ASC community member Tina*, reflecting on the welcoming atmosphere.
Children enjoyed dedicated activities throughout the event, while raffle games added a sense of excitement and fun for guests of all ages.
A highlight of the night was a live music performance featuring the rhythmic sounds of a tabla drum played by an ASC community member alongside a teacher from the Galaxy Foundation. Their collaboration, sparked through the ASC, symbolised the connections that events like this nurture.
A moment for reflection
For many attendees, the gathering created a strong sense of belonging.
“I felt very connected to the community,” says ASC community member Chuck*.
Lucia* adds, “It’s so nice that ASC celebrates Iftar. It’s an important event in the ASC calendar.”
The evening also reflected the deeper meaning of Ramadan.
“Ramadan is a time for reflection, generosity, and community,” says Novela.
“Moments like this Iftar bring people together not only to break bread, but to strengthen connections, uplift one another, and remind our community members that they are seen, valued, and supported.”
*Names changed for confidentiality reasons
We extend our sincere thanks to our partners and supporters including Advocates for Dignity, Galaxy Foundation and Multicultural NSW for making this event possible.
