The Purpose
The conference will explore the settings, approaches, methods and experiences that will guide our country to forge a socially cohesive and inclusive nation into the future. It caters to those who are thinking deeply about the progress of our country, to come together to reflect on action, lessons learnt, deliberate, and share ideas.
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There will be opportunities for all participants to actively engage with presenters and panellists, and to explore insights and experiences during intimate small group discussions as part of the program.
This past year the global health crisis has affected us all and caused many to reflect on our way of life. We have grown increasingly conscious of how interconnected we are. How does this heightened sense of interconnectedness find expression in our efforts to be a more inclusive and socially cohesive society? How do we move from an acceptance of diversity towards harmonisation? How do we invite the participation of growing numbers in a collective conversation?
"The earth is but one country and mankind its citizens."
"Ye are the fruits of one tree and the leaves of one branch, the flowers of one garden."
Baha'i Writings
Speakers and Presenters
Keynote Speaker
Pastor Ray Minniecon - Pastor, St. John's Anglican Church & CEO, Bunjil Consultancies
Presenters and Panelists
Joseph La Posta - CEO, Multicultural NSW, Religious Communities Forum
Penny Taylor PhD - Race Relations Researcher, University of Tasmania
Maria Koleth & Rosalie Atie - Policy Officers, Australian Human Rights Commission Race Discrimination Team
Ryan Epondulan - Youth and Networking Coordinator, Youth PoWR - Columban Centre for Christian-Muslim Relations
Mateen Navidi & Jamalieh Maaelopa - Project Coordinators, Fred Murray Community Centre
The Program
Conference Video Gallery
Tuesday 12th October (10 am - 11 am)
Session 1: Oneness, Inclusion & Diversity (Opening & Keynote Address)
Formal Opening & Welcome to Country:
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Representative of the Australian Baha'i Community
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Yvonne Weldon - Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council
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Introductory Address:
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Honourable Natalie Peta Ward MLC - NSW Minister for Sport, Multiculturalism, Seniors and Veterans
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Keynote Address:​
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Pastor Ray Minniecon - Pastor, St. John’s Anglican Church & CEO, Bunji Consultancies
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In conversation:
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Pastor Ray Minniecon - Pastor, St. John’s Anglican Church & CEO, Bunji Consultancies
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Penny Taylor PhD - Race Relations Researcher, University of Tasmania
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Format:
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Keynote Address & conversation with Penny Taylor, followed by an audience Q&A
Tuesday 12th October (11 am - 11:45 am)
Session 2: Creating Spaces for Constructive and Unifying Dialogue (Panel Discussion)
Panellists:​
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Joseph La Posta - CEO, Multicultural NSW - Religious Communities Forum
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Dr. Maria Koleth & Rosalie Atie - Policy Officers, Australian Human Rights Commission, Race Discrimination Team
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Ryan Epondulan - Youth and Networking Coordinator, Youth PoWR - Columban Centre for Christian-Muslim Relations,
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Mateen Navidi - Project Coordinator, Fred Murray Community Centre
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Moderator:
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Ida Walker - Director of Public Discourse, Australian Baha'i Community
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Format:
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A panel discussion followed by an audience Q&A
Tuesday 12th October (11:45 am - 1:00 pm)
Session 3: Sharing Insights and Experiences (Workshop & Closing)
Facilitator:
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Representative of the Australian Baha'i Community
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Format:
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Small group discussions followed by a plenary session.