On 15 November, the Multicultural Women’s Alliance Against Family Violence brought the community together in Casey for its Healing Through Henna event, filling the room with colour, conversation and a relaxed atmosphere. The gathering was supported by the Victorian Government through the Multicultural Festivals and Events Program and drew a strong turnout from local residents who arrived for henna art, music and a space to unwind.
Belinda Wilson MP joined Mayor Stefan Coomen, Cr Michelle Crowther, Cr Scott Dowling, Cr Carolyn Eaves and Cr Kim Ross for the occasion, adding to the sense of shared community effort. The hall stayed lively throughout the day as families sat together over henna designs, chatted across tables and joined in the dancing that carried the mood forward.
Henna carries different meanings across cultures, from wishes of good fortune to a symbol of affection or protection. It has also become a simple creative outlet for many, which helped the event strike a warm, familiar tone. The organisers wanted an atmosphere where families could relax, meet new people and feel supported.
Dr Veena Barsiwal, Co-Chair of MWAAFV, said she was “heartened by the turnout. The ambience was just right, with parents and children enjoying a fun day out. The success of this event reflects the hard work behind it, and seeing more smiles in the room made it worthwhile. The music, dance and food added so much to the day.”
Her fellow Co-Chair, Nisha Gull-e-Nishat, said the afternoon showed what community connection can do. “Healing Through Henna brought culture, calm and connection into one room, an uplifting way to reduce isolation and remind everyone that wellbeing starts in community.”
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