On Thursday 9 April, Auburn Gallipoli Mosque had the honour of welcoming Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC, Governor of New South Wales, accompanied by her husband Mr Dennis Wilson.
During her visit, Her Excellency was given a tour of the mosque and its community facilities, offering insight into the role the mosque plays not only as a place of worship, but as a hub for connection, education, and support within the wider community. The visit continued with a roundtable discussion, bringing together mosque management, staff, and young members of the community.
The conversation focused on key issues impacting the community today, including youth wellbeing and belonging, social cohesion during times of heightened tension, and the unique challenges faced by young Muslim Australians. The discussion also highlighted the work of GTCF through initiatives such as iYouth, peer support programs, and broader community services aimed at fostering resilience and connection.
Young participants spoke openly and candidly, sharing their lived experiences and perspectives on what is needed to build a stronger, more inclusive future. Their voices formed a central part of the conversation, reflecting the importance of creating spaces where young people feel heard, supported, and empowered.
As shared by Councillor Enver Yasar, the visit provided an important opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue around the issues that matter most to the community, while also showcasing the efforts being made to address them.
GTCF is no stranger to hosting guests from both local and international communities. These visits play an important role in promoting understanding, strengthening relationships, and fostering mutual respect across diverse groups. In times where connection and dialogue are more important than ever, opportunities like this reinforce the value of coming together, listening, and learning from one another.
We extend our sincere thanks to Her Excellency for her time and interest in our community, and we look forward to continuing our efforts in building bridges and supporting a more connected society.