Sada-e-Watan Sydney
sadaewatan@gmail.com
Shafaq Jaffery, President of APWA
Mothers Day Celebration Event held at Penrith Community Centre Sydney
Mother I Salute You” – A Soulful Celebration of Strength, Love, and Community
Hosted by Australian Humanity Support Limited & AusPak Women Association (APWA)
In a vibrant and emotionally uplifting gathering held at the Penrith Community Centre, Australian Humanity Support Limited, in collaboration with AusPak Women Association (APWA), proudly presented the “Mother I Salute You” Mother’s Day 2025 celebration was held on Saturday, 10th May — an event overflowing with culture, gratitude, and heartfelt recognition of the women who shape our homes and communities.
With the theme “Celebrating the Heart of Every Home,” this soul-stirring event honoured not only mothers, but also grandmothers — recognizing their boundless contributions and lifelong love. The day brought together powerful voices, community leaders, and families for an afternoon of empowerment, connection, and joy.
The event was beautifully hosted by the graceful Sahar Iqbal and Maheen Khan, with opening remarks from Shafaq Jaffery, President of APWA and Australian Humanity Support, who set the tone with a powerful message:
“Today is not just about honouring mothers but reminding them that their wellbeing matters too. Mothers give endlessly — it’s time they feel seen, heard, and celebrated.”
She shared her personal story of losing her mother at a young age, expressing how she writes a letter to her every year. “My parents were born in Hindustan. Their motherland was India and their second home was Pakistan. But for me, Pakistan is my motherland, and Australia is my second home. I dedicate this Mother’s Day to the love of all three lands.”
A stellar panel of speakers followed, sharing their insights on “Mothers’ Wellbeing: Nurturing the Nurturer.”
* Samira Kord, a yoga and meditation teacher, emphasized mindfulness as a survival tool for mothers.
* Aurelia Rahman, Stakeholder Engagement Manager at CMRC, reflected on inclusion, identity, and the importance of building empowered communities.
* Kamellah Khan Miankhel, an esteemed solicitor and fierce advocate for women’s rights, offered guidance on legal empowerment.
* Shenila Budhwani, a mental health expert, highlighted the emotional burdens mothers often carry.
• Dr. Noor, a passionate healthcare advocate. a globally trained psychiatrist, enriched the conversation with cultural context and decades of experience in mental health.
* Sabreen Faruqi, a respected social worker with deep grassroots impact.
Guests were treated to a live painting session by renowned Pakistani artist Anjum Ayaz, who beautifully captured the bond of a mother and child on canvas, adding an unforgettable emotional dimension to the celebration.
The celebration included a moving real-life story from a local mother, whose courage and vulnerability brought tears to many eyes. There was dancing, live singing performances (including a moving set by singer Ritika), laughter-filled games, and a lucky draw that had the audience cheering.
Mothers were pampered with beautifully curated gift bags, a mouthwatering buffet lunch by Sultan Palace, and a custom cake sponsored by The Hair Bar by Noureen. The event was organised by Pehchan Event Management Company and covered by Pehchan Media Network and Sada-e-Watan Sydney. Beautifully planned and executed. The beautiful stage was set by Sana Awan and her team.
The event was graced by State Member for Penrith, Karen McKeown OAM, whose words of encouragement and continued support for multicultural women’s initiatives added further meaning and pride to the occasion.
This celebration was made possible by Australian Humanity Support Limited in Collaboration with Aus Pak Woman Association the generous grant from Penrith City Council, with key support from Southern Cross Institute, Sultan Palace, and other community champions.
From tears to laughter, and speeches to song — “Mother I Salute You” was more than an event. It was a tribute to resilience, a celebration of motherhood, and a testament to the power of women united in community.
For more information or to support future initiatives, please visit: www.apwa.org.au
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Hon. Karen McKeown, MP
Shafaq Jaffery (President APWA)
Dr Sabrin Farooqui
Mr. Anjum Ayaz
Mr. Javed Nazar
Kamellah Khan Miankhel
Rao Noor Ahmad and Anjum Ayaz
Rao Noor Ahmad, Shafaq Jaffery and Syed Zafar Hussain
Nadeem Sheikh, Syed Zafar Hussain and Affan Shahid
