Women of Wyndham (WOW), a not for profit grassroots organisation working towards women empowerment and prevention of family violence organized its inaugural annual multicultural evening on February 18th in Werribee at Suzanne Cory School.
An event attended by over 400 people from diverse cultural backgrounds is by no means a small feet and all kudos must be given to the hardworking team of WOW led by their President Monica Raizada, a well-known community leader and social activist who has dedicated her life to the prevention of family violence and helping those affected by domestic violence.
The multicultural evening was unique as it brought together people from all age groups and cultures with varied activities including Ms Teen, Miss and Mrs WOW Walk for a cause and not a pageant show, Ms Little sunshine, multicultural dance and singing acts. Audience was particularly seen cheering for the African Congo dance, and Punjabi Bhangra performance by young kids.
The pageant show saw participation by 15 women who were thankful for the opportunity to show their talent. In the words of one of the winners, “this was such a wonderful platform for all of us, most definitely a confidence booster so thank you WOW for the opportunity.”
WOW also recognized over 24 community champions, extraordinary men and women, from different walks of life and diverse cultural backgrounds for their contribution and service in building and strengthening the community.
The event was attended by the Speaker of the Victorian Parliament and member for Derrimut, Telmo Languiller MP, Member for Lalor, Joanne Ryan MP, Iramoo ward Councillor Peter Maynard, Harrison ward Councillor and Deputy Mayor Kim McAliney, former Councillor Bob Fairclough, social worker and public figure Jasvinder Sidhu of Lets Feed Homeless, Founder of Jagriti amongst other distinguished guests.
According to President of WOW, Monica Raizada, “we are delighted to see such a tremendous response to our inaugural event. It was all about encouraging and empowering women, recognising those doing great service to the community, raising awareness on family violence, increasing harmony, wellbeing and togetherness in the community and I believe we have made some progress towards that.
I would like to particularly thank all the volunteers, other community organisations who worked hard and selflessly in making this event a success. Although this was a free event with only a gold coin donation requested at the door, all the funds collected from the night will be used towards helping family violence victims. On behalf of the entire organising team we thank everyone who attended and participated in making the event successful.”
The judges of the Walk for a cause show included Shama Bhangu, Komal Popli, Anna Fairclough, Sein lele, Tufah Gerad, Pam Frank and Rajitha Sagar
The show was ably hosted by Dr Sonia Singh, Preeti Daga and Ritesh Chugh.
Just over a year of its inception WOW, auspiced by Ramon Helps, comprises of voluntary members from all over Melbourne. And through their events the organisation has been making great strides in achieving their vision of educating and empowering communities particularly creating awareness on prevention of family violence. And looking at their hard work and success, their vision of connecting Women of Victoria and then Women of Australia as well as Women of the World seems achievable real soon.
