Description
The IWD 2026 event will be jointly hosted by the Community Migrant Resource Centre (CMRC) and Freedom for Humanity, bringing together community leaders, service providers, advocates, and women from diverse cultural, migrant, refugee, and humanitarian backgrounds. This important occasion will provide an opportunity to recognise the achievements of women while also addressing the persistent challenges faced by women in our communities, particularly those experiencing vulnerability, exclusion, and violence.
Our 2026 International Women’s Day celebrations will be delivered under the global IWD focus on advancing gender equality, women’s safety, and inclusive participation. Central to this theme is the understanding that women’s safety, dignity, and empowerment are fundamental to social cohesion and community wellbeing.
Event Highlights
MC: Vinisha Rathod
Opening & Welcome: Melissa Monteiro – CEO of Community Migrant Resource Centre
Welcome to Parramatta: Cr Martin Zaiter – Lord Mayor, City of Parramatta Council
Setting the Scene: Anna Ruth – CEO & Founder Freedom For Humanity
Guest of Honour: Her Excellency Ms Arjaree Sriratanaban – Ambasador of the Kingdom of Thailand to the Commonwealth of Australia
Panel Moderator: Arabela Macpherson
Panel:
- Sara Lackner – Operational Lead, Life Without Barrier
- Mr Fadi Chalouhi – lived experience survivor
- Mans Carlsson, OAM – Head of ESG at Ausbil Investment Management Ltd
- Rabbi Zalman Kastel – Founder and Dean at Together for Humanity
- Prof Jennifer Burn – Anti-Slavery Australia at UTS
