By ZAIDA GLIBANOVIC
TRAFALGAR’S very own Arfa Sarfaraz Khan was recently inducted into the Victorian Multicultural Honour Roll for Women.
The Victorian Multicultural Honour Roll recognises the efforts of individuals who have made exceptional and lasting contributions to multiculturalism in Victoria.
Ms Sarfaraz has worked tirelessly for multicultural identities here in Gippsland.
“I am totally humbled and grateful for all the love and support from each and everyone in the community for being so kind and supportive of the work I do in the community,” said the latest Victorian honour roll inductee.
As the president of the United Muslim Sisters of Latrobe Valley (UMSLV), Ms Sarfaraz has led the charge in instigating social change in the region since 2015.
“UMSLV serves as a central point where members of the community gather to build their extended connection,” she said.
“Over the years, we have collaborated and partnered with multiple government and community organisations to deliver multiple projects for the diverse and broader community to connect, inform, enlighten, and educate.
“Along with the committee we have delivered projects for youth engagement, women empowerment and professional development, healthy living, to organise festivals and celebrations.”
Originally from Pakistan, Ms Sarfaraz holds a Master’s Degree in Political Science, Development Journalism and a Master’s of Philosophy in Mass Media and Communication.
Ms Sarfaraz has worked in academics, media, public relations, and social welfare for a number of years.
She has a great deal of planning, research, and project delivery expertise. She has volunteered in the areas of child education, women’s empowerment, and interfaith dialogue.
“I work to influence all levels of government by amplifying the issues and voices of Muslim and multicultural communities to influence all tiers of government,” Ms Sarfaraz added.
“This encompasses challenges and issues like anti-racism, bias, bigotry, discrimination, employment insecurities, socially equitable policies, lack and availability of culturally appropriate food and approaches for a cohesive and inclusive region.
“I worked very hard along with other committee members to gain representation and a seat at the table to discuss our concerns.”
Her charitable endeavours included tutoring impoverished kids and collecting money for organisations that support environmental justice, the Pink Ribbon Foundation, flood victims, hospitals, orphanages, and those with special needs.
Graduating from Leadership Victoria’s New and Emerging Communities leadership course and the Gippsland leadership program in 2017, Ms Sarfaraz has honed her skills as a community leader.
No stranger to the local community, Ms Sarfaraz previously worked as editor of the local newspaper ‘Traf News’ and was also associated with Trafalgar community development and chaired the library chapter.
Active in the spaces that she loves, Ms Sarfaraz is a member of Trafalgar community and development authority. She sits on different boards attempting to start positive change for multicultural communities, including the Latrobe Health Assembly and the Victorian Police multicultural task force.
Joining Ms Sarfaraz on the honour roll is Baw Baw Shire Councillor and dear friend Farhat Firdous.
Ms Sarfaraz took time to thank her supporters.
“Induction in the honour roll would not have been possible without the support and trust of my community, my executive committee, to the nominator, the referees and especially the support of my late husband, Dr Asad Khan, and my gorgeous daughters, who were instrumental in what I have accomplished,” she said.
