Annual Ramadan Iftar Brings Community Together In Chadstone Hosted by Egyptian Community.

On the evening of Saturday, Match 15, the Friendship Australian Egyptian Association 

{FAEA } committee and community members gathered along with the other Arab community in Melbourne for the heartfelt Ramadan Iftar event at the Egyptian Hub in Chadstone.

The Chairman of FAEA MS. Mona Radwan said that FAEA’s Annual Iftar is the result of many efforts and contributions by the community members, The event is a great celebration of cultural exchange that defines the holy month of Ramadan and the spirit of unity. Ms Radwan also added that this year’s Iftar held special significance as it aligned with Diversity Week, emphasising the values of compassion, inclusivity, and shared traditions.

VIP and Guest speaker General Consul of Egypt HE. Haitham Mokhtar also announced that this year is a significant year because Australia and Egypt are celebrating 75 years of diplomatic relations, he mentioned that more celebrations are planned for this magnificent occasion.

The program featured inspirational speeches By Imam Elsedeak Heidelberg Mosque / Imam Alaa Alzokm, recipient of the Order of Australia  and Reverend Father Mark Atalla, St John and St Verena Church, Armadale.

Alzokm – OAM gave his speech about Islamophobia and how both Christian and Muslim community in Egypt are setting an example of influence in unity, solidarity and they are working together to support peace and tolerance and stand strong against racism in any shape or form to anyone regardless their religion and culture.

Father Mark Atalla, shared his memories of Ramadan sprites in Egypt and how religious leaders exchange their greetings and support during Ramadan and other religious events for both Christian and Muslim throughout the calendar year.

Guests  speaker underscored the values of compassion, generosity, and solidarity, reinforcing the beauty of Ramadan as a time for both spiritual and social connection, they reflected on Ramadan’s spiritual impact on community bonds, as well as the importance of cultural and religious harmony.

The sprites of unity was amazing, distinguished guests was a representative from St. Mark’s Coptic Orthodox Church in Melbourne and Haj Reaid, former President of the JMCA ( Jewish Christian Muslim Association), he has been one of the early supporters of FAEA since 2012 and has granted FAEA an award of recognition for spreading peace and harmony among community members.

One of the highlight of the evening was multicultural gatherings and the delicious international meal, bringing Arab community from across the Arab community together with local community and community leader over a delicious meal.