Multicultural Affairs and Citizenship
2025
EID Adha Gathering
This year’s Eid Adha Gathering was more than just a celebration, it was a powerful expression of unity, resilience and cultural pride.
From the rhythmic beats of Afghan drumming to the stunning Palestinian fashion show and heartfelt reflections, the day beautifully showcased the rich diversity within our community.
We also paused to honour the ongoing sacrifices and be reminded of the sufferings of our Muslim brothers and sisters around the world especially in Palestine, holding space for their strength, courage, and unwavering spirit in the face of adversity.
Olive Pickling
Our participants rolled up their sleeves for a special hands-on session, learning the authentic art of Palestinian olives pickling, a cherished tradition rooted in family, land, and heritage. Led by Palestinian women with lived experience, the workshop was more than just a recipe; it was a beautiful exchange of stories, memories, and tips passed down through generations.
From slicing lemons to preparing the perfect salt brine, everyone brought something to the table.
Thank you to everyone who joined us, keeping these precious traditions alive — one olive at a time! 🍈
Claypot Painting
A heartfelt day of creativity, connection, and solidarity. 🌱🎨 MWASA’s pot painting workshop brought Muslim women together to paint clay pots adorned with Palestinian-themed art and stickers, each design a symbol of hope and unity. We ended the session by planting seeds of growth and resilience. Together, we create, we support, and we stand with Palestine. 🌱
Leadership Ice Skating
Our Ice Skating Day was more than just gliding across the rink, it was a remarkable experience in teamwork, leadership, and personal growth! ⛸️🌟
From helping each other balance to cheering on every brave move, our young leaders showed what true support looks like. To all who brought your energy, support, and good vibes to this activity, you lit up the ice and made the whole day unforgettable! 🤝✨
Apple Picking
MWASA brought together a group of amazing women for a day of apple picking at the beautiful Lenswood Pick Your Own orchard in the Adelaide Hills. 🌳🍎
We kicked things off with a mindful stroll through the orchard, where everyone picked fresh apples, breathed in the crisp air, and truly connected with nature. 🌱🧘♀️ And the best part? After the adventure, we gathered for a cozy picnic where we enjoyed delicious shawarma in a company of great people. 🧺💕
It was a refreshing day focused on well-being, nature, and savouring the simple joys of apple season. ✨
Mount Lofty Botanic Garden
The women enjoyed a beautiful day as they wandered through the stunning Mount Lofty Botanic Gardens, soaked in the views, then laid a cosy picnic to relax, chat and just enjoy each other’s company. Sometimes, the best memories come from simply slowing down and soaking up the good vibes with people who matter. ✨💛
Stitches of Heritage
MWASA hosted a Stitches of Heritage workshop where participants learned tatreez, traditional Palestinian embroidery. This hands-on session offered more than just a craft, it was a journey into Palestinian culture, with each stitch representing identity, resilience, and history.
Participants connected with the art’s deep cultural significance, creating beautiful pieces while preserving a powerful tradition.
Taste of Heritage - Shish Barak
Our latest Palestinian Cuisine Session was a delicious journey through culture and flavors! Ten amazing women from diverse backgrounds came together to roll, fold, and cook their way through Shishbarak – those irresistible dumplings filled with seasoned meat and bathed in creamy yogurt sauce. 🥟💫
Not only did we dive into the hands-on cooking process, but we also shared stories about the rich history of this dish and how it’s celebrated across the Levant. It was a beautiful reminder that food has the power to connect us all, no matter where we come from. 🌍❤️
From mixing dough to adding the perfect garnish of mint and garlic, the session was full of laughter, learning, and flavor-packed moments.
Taste of Heritage - Knafeh
The latest Taste of Heritage workshop took us on a delicious journey into the heart of Palestinian culture through Kunafeh – the ultimate dessert! Women from all backgrounds came together, not just to bake, but to connect over food, stories, and shared experiences.From the golden, crispy kataifi dough to the fragrant, sweet syrup, every bite of Kunafeh was a tribute to tradition. We laughed, learned, and shared stories of similar desserts from our own cultures, proving that food is the universal bridge between us all.
Mochi Ice Cream and Bubble Tea making
🍡🧋 A Sweet and Creative Experience! 🧋🍡
MWASA hosted a fun-filled cooking session where young women came together to make mochi and bubble tea from scratch! With step-by-step guidance, participants learned new culinary skills and bonded over the joy of creating these tasty treats. 🌟
The session was all about teamwork, creativity, and building confidence while having a blast. From kneading mochi dough to crafting bubble tea, the atmosphere was lively and full of laughter. And the best part? Enjoying their delicious creations together at the end! 🍵✨
Leadership Movie Moana
🌟✨ Empowering Future Leaders! ✨🌟
This summer, MWASA hosted an inspiring event for young women focused on leadership and growth. The day began with a screening of Moana 2, sparking meaningful discussions about resilience, teamwork, and the importance of believing in oneself. 🎥💪
Over lunch at Agha Juice House, participants reflected on the movie’s themes and shared how they could apply leadership in their own lives – whether at home, in their communities and beyond. 🌱💬
Thank you to everyone who joined us in nurturing and empowering these amazing young women to step into their leadership potential! 🌟💖
Bowling & laser tag
MWASA’s school holiday fun day at Goodwood Zone Bowling had mums and daughters teamed up for a day filled with laughter and friendly competition. 🌟 It wasn’t about the score – it was all about strengthening connections and sharing moments of joy. Can’t wait for the next adventure! 💕
Cherry Picking
🍒✨ Cherries, Chats, and Chill! ✨🍒
MWASA organised a trip to the cherry farm, where nature’s beauty met great company! From picking the juiciest cherries to enjoying a relaxing picnic at Hahndorf Park, it was a perfect blend of fun, laughter, and unforgettable moments. 🌳💕
2024
Taste of Heritage - Labneh
Savor the Flavors of Palestine—A Journey of Culture & Connection!
Session 3 of our Taste of Heritage series was all about mastering Labneh— a creamy, savory delight that’s a beloved staple of Palestinian breakfasts! Under MWASA’s staff guidance, a wonderful group of women came together to learn the art of making this velvety, tangy treat. From hand-shaping thickened yogurt into perfect bites to infusing the rich flavors of Nigella seeds and olive oil. Not only did participants gain a new culinary skill, but they also connected over food, exchanging traditions and deepening their appreciation for Palestinian culture.
The best part? By the end, each participant took home a jar of Labneh to share with their families, bringing a taste of Palestine into their homes.
Taste of Heritage - Msakhan
Taste of Heritage: Where Food Meets Friendship! Session 2 of our Taste of Heritage series was a flavor-packed journey into Palestinian cuisine. MWASA brought women from diverse backgrounds together to cook Msakhan – a dish bursting with tradition, heart, and rich, authentic flavors. From the sweet caramelized onions and sumac-spiced chicken to the crispy almonds on soft flatbread, the experience was more than just food – it was about forging connections and celebrating culture.
The highlight? A communal feast where everyone shared the fruits of their hard work – Msakhan made with love and served with joy! Join us next time for another taste of tradition, a dash of culture, and a whole lot of new friendships!
Taste of Heritage - Maqluba
Missed our first Palestinian cooking workshop? No worries—here’s a taste of the magic! 🌟 We dove into the rich tradition of Makloubeh, a dish packed with flavour and history. The highlight? Flipping the Makloubeh and that thrilling tap on the pot before revealing the mouthwatering masterpiece inside! 😋🍲
Want to experience it for yourself? Sign up for our next workshop and immerse yourself in the vibrant flavours of Palestinian heritage! ✨
Art therapy at Woodhouse
An unforgettable journey into Aboriginal and First Nations art! 🎨✨ Participants embraced dot painting to connect with nature, storytelling, and community 🌿🖤 Inspired by the spiritual bond between people and the land, this hands-on experience sparked creativity and reflection on Indigenous traditions 🌏💫 Set in a relaxed, picnic-style setting, it fostered artistic expression and meaningful connections 🧑🎨👩🎨, leaving everyone inspired and eager for more. This event beautifully blended creativity, culture, and community—an experience that will resonate long after the last dot! 💖🌟
Leadership at Woodhouse
What’s better than unlocking your inner leader while making new connections? 🌟
Our adventure day at Woodlouse Adventure Park was all about stepping out of our comfort zones and unleashing our leadership potential! From navigating The Labyrinth Maze to zooming down the Tube Slide and tackling Woody’s Challenge Hill, these incredible women tackled every challenge with enthusiasm and teamwork. 💪🎢
A delicious BBQ lunch brought everyone together, igniting new friendships and inspiring conversations. 🌭✨
Art Therapy at glenelg
🎨🌅 Art meets seaside serenity at Glenelg Beach. Our sunset session combined creative expression with the calming effects of art therapy, providing an enriching experience for these amazing women. Surrounded by stunning views and a relaxing atmosphere, we painted, picnicked, and bonded as the sun dipped below the horizon, enhancing our mental well-being through creativity and community. 🌊✨
Information Session
🌟 What an inspiring start to our community program! 🌟
Our information session brought light to the emotional and psychological impacts of the Middle East conflict on Palestinian-Australian and broader Muslim communities. 🌍✨ Women shared their stories, built support networks, and discussed crucial mental health resources. 💪🏽❤️ A special thank you to Wedad who shared her powerful journey from her struggles during the current Palestinian conflict to building a new life in Australia. Her story of resilience and hope touched us deeply.
Together, we explored the new program, discussed how we can support each other, and brainstormed activities for the future. The morning was brimmed with meaningful conversations, new connections and, of course, delicious, authentic Palestinian breakfast. 🥐✨
