Sada-e-Watan Sydney
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A Historic event in Sydney for Dr Qazi Ashfaq Ahmad and 10 years
of AMUST
Senator Fatima Payman, Mrs
Mehar Ahmad and Mr Zia Ahmad
Significance of independent media: Marking a decade
of AMUST’s ‘Ink & Impact’
(By:
Zia Ahmad, Editor-in-Chief AMUST and Rubinah Ahmad)
The
Australasian Muslim Times AMUST marked a significant milestone in Sydney on
Sunday 15 September 2024 at the Highline Venue in Bankstown with its theme “AMUST10:
Ink & Impact,” marking a decade of AMUST’s contribution to independent
multicultural
A man of the Century: Dr Qazi Ashfaq Ahmad Marhoom
World
known journalism in Australia and paid tribute to the legacy of its late
co-founder, Dr Qazi Ashfaq Ahmad OAM, whose life’s work was dedicated to
nurturing the Muslim community.
The celebration was a powerful reminder of
the role of independent media with the keynote address delivered by Senator
Fatima Payman, in shaping public discourse and championing justice for all,
especially for the Palestinians’ ongoing genocide for almost a year, a
reverberating concern at the event.
The gala dinner brought together a diverse
audience of over 300 attendees, including, writers and supporters of AMUST,
community and interfaith leaders and a large contingent of family and friends
of Dr Ahmad.
Dr Qazi
Ashfaq Ahmad with his family members
Central to the evening was
the recognition of Dr Qazi Ashfaq Ahmad OAM, whose vision and tireless work
laid the foundation for AMUST’s success. Professionally a professor of
mechanical engineering and a scholar of Islam, Dr Ahmad was deeply involved in
all aspects of volunteer work as a way to serve the Muslim community in
Australia for more than half a century.
Dr Ahmad passed away in
February 2022, aged 91, leaving behind an enduring legacy of interfaith
dialogue, community empowerment, and Islamic education. His influence was felt
throughout the event, as speakers fondly remembered his contributions to the Muslim
community in Sydney.
The night opened with the
recitation of the Holy Qur’an by Dr Hafiz Waliullah Bokhari who recited from
Surah Nisa “How
is it that you do not fight in the way of Allah and in support of the helpless
– men, women and children -who pray: ‘Our Lord, bring us out of this land whose
people are oppressors and appoint for us from Yourself, a protector, and
appoint for us from Yourself a helper’? “(Quran 4:75)
Mrs Mehar Ahmad, President
of Seena Inc, publishers of AMUST welcomed the guests and spoke about the need
for independent media as well as Seena’s ongoing projects, in particular for
women and people with disability.
Mr Zia Ahmad then asked
for a minute of silence in prayer for the Palestinian journalists killed during
the last one year in Gaza deliberately targeted by armed forces of the state of
Israel with complete impunity.
Senator Fatima
Payman, an Independent from Western Australia, was the keynote speaker for the
vent who spoke on the need of independent media in Australia in relation to
mainstream media dominated by the rich and the powerful with their vested
interests.
She
highlighted the vital role of independent media in giving voice to marginalised
communities and holding power to account.
Senator
Payman, who made headlines for breaking ranks with her former Labor party,
focused her remarks on the limitations of mainstream media, which she described
as often being driven by corporate interests and acting as “an echo chamber”
for the powerful.
She argued
that this leads to the silencing of “the voices of everyday Australians,”
noting that critical issues like housing affordability, the rising cost of
living, climate change, and the recognition of migrant and Indigenous voices
are often ignored or misrepresented.
“If you’re
like me—and I know you are—you’ve probably seen issues that affect our
communities being brushed aside,” Senator Payman remarked, calling attention to
how mainstream media fails to tell stories that “truly reflect our lived
experiences.”
She contrasted
this with independent media, which she described as “brave” for reporting on
issues that mainstream outlets often overlook.
“This gives people like
you and me… somewhere to turn for truth,” she said, taking aim at media moguls
like Rupert Murdoch, whom she accused of promoting division and fear to serve a
far-right agenda.
Senator Payman
also criticised the lack of diversity in Australia’s media landscape, comparing
it to “a beige wall.” Despite Australia being one of the most multicultural
societies globally, she pointed out that its media does not reflect this
diversity.
She further
argued that independent media outlets are often the ones amplifying the voices
of migrant workers, young Australians facing university debt, and communities
affected by climate change.
Beyond representation, Payman
highlighted the role of independent media as a watchdog, calling it “a sassy,
unafraid watchdog that keeps the big guys honest.”
Her words underscored
AMUST’s mission: to provide a platform for voices sidelined by the mainstream
media, particularly those advocating for justice in Palestine.
As Senator Payman
remarked, independent media like AMUST is a vital force in “shaking things up”
and keeping the powerful accountable.
The event also showcased
three exhibition, Palestine art by Roger Ibn Tyrone, Time
line of achievements and awards to AMUST as well as life and times of Dr
Ahmad and awards that he received.
The evening included an
exciting auction, of framed special issues of AMUST, by Hussin Goss, the
popular Muslim auctioneer ever present at Islamic fundraising events from the
Gold Coast, raising over almost $5,000 for Human Appeal’s Jenin fund.
She recounted her interviews with Dr Ahmad as
he reflected on his deep love for Prophet Muhammad (s) and Dr Ahmad’s view of
himself as a “revert” to Islam due to his rediscovery of the faith as a young
man who then dedicated his life in serving Islam as a Quranic scholar, an activist
and a community leader through dialogue and establishing diverse organisations
and institutions that still thrive today.
A tribute video honouring
Dr Qazi Ashfaq Ahmad was followed by heartfelt reflections from community
leaders, many of whom were either part of the organisations he founded or had
collaborated closely with him.
Father Patrick McInerney
from the Columban Centre for Christian-Muslim Relations reflected, “Friendship
is a great achievement, and I am grateful that Dr Qazi Ahmad was my friend.”
Rabbi Zalman Kastel from
Together for Humanity shared how Dr Ahmad would speak to him on the importance
of promoting interfaith respect and friendship, while Mr Elias Attia from the
Islamic Council of NSW highlighted Dr Ahmad’s forward-thinking vision for the
Muslim community in NSW.
Mr Chaaban Omran from
Australian Islamic Mission congratulated AMUST for honouring Dr Ahmad, a
founding member of AIM back in 1972 praying for Al Firdaus for him and others
who helped build the community.
Mr Omar Tariq
representative of Sydney University Muslim Students Association (SUMSA) talked
about Dr Ahmad’s being the founding President of SUMSA in 1972 and his guidance
in nurturing students for Islamic activism at the campus.
Mr Aamir Ahmad, President
of the Multicultural Eid Festival & Fair (MEFF), spoke on his grandfather’s
vision of inclusivity and cultural exchange, saying, “This remains a guiding
force behind MEFF’s success.”
Similarly, Mr Zohair
Ahmad, President of the Islamic Foundation of Education & Welfare (IFEW),
acknowledged Dr Ahmad’s dedication to Islamic education, interfaith
understanding and community welfare which “has laid the foundation of
everything I do today.”
Mr Riyaz Akhtar from the
Aligarh Muslim University Alumni of Australia referred to Dr Ahmad as a mentor,
affectionately calling him “Abbu,” who established its scholarship project back
in 1996
Mrs. Sumaiya Quasim from
Canberra Islamic School remembered Abbu as a relentless visionary, constantly
pushing for growth and innovation. She also honoured Mrs Jamal Ara Ahmad, his
late wife, stating, “Ammi (Mother), Jamal Ara, was by his side every step of
the way.”
Mr Zia Ahmad, Dr Qazi Ashfaq
Ahmad, Mrs Jamal Ara Ahmad and Mrs Mehar Ahmad at the IFEW Annual Conference,
2019.
Finally, Mrs Najia Khalil,
Dr & Mrs Ahmad’s daughter, spoke of her mother’s quiet yet powerful
influence, particularly on the women she helped empower. “Her quiet power truly
left an enduring legacy,” she remarked, highlighting the strength and compassion
Mrs Ahmad embodied in her community work.
The evening concluded with
the the presentation of the Ink & Impact awards,
given to individuals and organisations who have tirelessly advocated for the
Palestinian cause and against the ongoing genocide perpetrated by Israel.
The awards recognised the
importance of truth-telling and activism in promoting justice, community
support, and the defence of human rights.
Awardees included OnePath
Network, Pearls & Irritations’ John Mahoney, Princess R Lakshman, The
Australia Palestine Advocacy Network, Dr Randa Abdel-Fattah, Suprovat Zaman, Mahamed Omar, and Dr Mahreen Faruqi.
These individuals and
organisations have made significant contributions to advocacy for Palestine and
the broader struggle for justice, ensuring that the stories of the persecuted
and oppressed are heard.
The event was generously
sponsored by Human Appeal Australia, AFIC, Salaam, Halal Certification
Authority, Amanah Islamic Finance, Catholic Cemeteries and Crematoria, Think
Studio, and Western Grammar School showcasing the collective effort behind this
influential news media platform.
The representatives of the
sponsoring organisations also addressed the audience appreciating the media
services provided by AMUST, acknowledging the contribution of Dr Ahmad to the
Muslim community as well as giving a glimpse of services provided by their
institutions.
Dr Rateb Jneid talked about Dr Ahmad being
the founding President of AFIC 1976-1977 and collaboration between AFIC and
AMUST since 1991.
Mr Omar Al-Jamal representing HAA Director
Bashar Al-Jamal pointed out HAA advertising and news making collaboration with
AMUST again since its first issue in January 1991 and great friendship between
Dr Ahmad and Mr Bashar Al-Jamal spanning almost four decades.
Professor Talal Yassine acknowledged the
presence of movers and shakers present at the event and his commitment to
support AMUST in its services as an independent media outlet.
Dr Anisa Buckley who has close relationship
with the Ahmad family since her very childhood showcased Amanah services to the
community.
Nadia El-Mouelhy talked about services
provided by the Halal Certification Authority, its founding by her dad Mr
Mouelhy and collaboration of his father with Dr Ahmad at AFIC premises during
the 1980’s.
Mr Subhan Ali from WGS
recalled his time spent with Dr Ahmad in Papua New Guinea where foundations for
an Islamic organisation and mosques were laid with initiatives of Dr Ahmad
during the early 1980’s.
Mrs Sakinah Ahmad, Seena
Inc secretary, remarked in her closing vote of thanks: “His vision of unity and
community has brought together generations of people, and it’s heartening to
see his ideals continue to inspire us as we gather here on this event.”
*********************************************
AMUST10: Ink & Impact celebrations on
Sunday 15 September 2024 marking a decade since its rebranding from July 2014
issue was indeed a great success with participation from a diverse range of
people associated with AMUST networks.
First, we wish to acknowledge the generous support of our sponsoring
organisations without whose financial support we, as a not for profit
organisation would not have been able hold such a lavish gathering at an
upmarket venue.
Therefore I wish to express my gratitude to lead individuals for facilitating
sponsorships namely:
1. Amin
El‑Bureeny, Head of Community Care, Human Appeal Australia;
2. Dr Rateb Jneid, President, Australian Federation of Islamic Councils (AFIC);
3. Professor Talal Yassine AM, Managing Director, Salaam;
4. Lauren Hardgrave, CEO, Catholic Cemeteries & Crematoria;
5. Nadia El-Mouelhy, Director, Halal Certification Authority;
6. Waqar Mirza, Executive Director, Amanah Islamic Finance;
7. Annas Agha, Creative Director, Think Studio and
8. Irfan Afzal, Principal, Western Grammar School.
We are also grateful to our supporters: Gould Studio, City of Canterbury
Bankstown, Islamophobia Register Australia and Crave Cola. Your support has
been instrumental in making this event a reality.
*Our heartfelt appreciation goes to the two distinguished speakers, Senator
Fatima Payman and Dr Mahsheed Ansari, for their insightful words a nd inspiring contributions.
Their presence had truly enriched this event and honoured the spirit of AMUST10
and Dr Qazi Ashfaq Ahmad’s legacy.*
Thank you to Roger Ibn
Tyrone for his powerful exhibition on Palestine, the Three Rivers Ensemble for
their beautiful music and Hussin Goss for facilitating the auction that raised
thousands of dollars for Human Appeal Australia’s Gaza Appeal. We cannot forget
the ongoing genocide and struggle of the Palestinian people.
We specially thank each and
every one of our guests for joining us at the special occasion in celebrating
10 years of AMUST and honouring the remarkable legacy of Dr Qazi Ashfaq Ahmad
OAM.
His vision of unity and
community has brought together generations of people, and it’s heartening to
see his ideals continue to inspire us as we gathered for AMUST10.
Lastly, we acknowledge the
great teamwork put together by the Seena Inc/AMUST team for holding this great
event, excelling in organisation, displaying resilience and showcasing superb
event management
The regular production of
AMUST with consistency, resilience and passion through the last 10 years has
been highly acknowledged by the community and we pray for AMUST to become
bigger and stronger in the years to come Insha’Allah.
Mr. Zia Ahmad (Elder son
of Dr Qazi Ashfaq Ahmad)
President AFIC Dr Rateb Jneid receiving award
Abdulla
Yousaf receiving award
Mrs
Mehar Ahmad and Mr Zia Ahmad
Senator
Fatima Payman with Mrs Mehar Ahmad and Mr Zia Ahmad.
3 Journalists- Mr. Zia Ahmad, Syed Zafar Hussain and Abdullah Yousaf
Mr.
Zia Ahmad, Editor-in-Chief
of the AMUST
Senator Fatima Payman addressing at the event.
