- Western Sydney Region Settlement Consortium and SSI to host 'Silence to Power' event at Park Royal Parramatta for International Women's Day 2026
- Event aims to celebrate refugee and multicultural women's strength and leadership, bringing together government and community leaders
- Female artists will showcase art as a form of expression, alongside facilitated discussions with multicultural women leaders
- Event emphasises the journey from silence to empowerment for refugee and migrant women
The Western Sydney Region Settlement Consortium (WSRSC) and SSI, with the support of 2M Language Services, will host Silence to Power: Amplifying Voices for Justice today (9th March) at Park Royal Parramatta. This International Women’s Day 2026 event will honour the strength, resilience, and leadership of refugee and multicultural women, bringing together leaders from government, councils, not‑for‑profit organisations, and community groups. The event recognises the profound journeys many women undertake as they move from silence to empowerment.
Clement Meru, Settlement and Community Engagement Manager at SydWest Multicultural Services, said: “International Women’s Day calls us to recognise not only the achievements of women, but also the barriers many continue to face. The stories we are honouring today remind us that silence is never the end of the journey. When women are supported, believed, and empowered, their voices become catalysts for justice and transformation. At the WSRSC, we remain committed to ensuring every woman has the opportunity to shape her own future.”
Yamamah Agha, General Manager - Newcomers, Settlement and Integration at SSI, said: “The courage of refugee women inspires us to reflect deeply on our responsibility as leaders, as institutions, and as a community. Their lived experiences strengthen our resolve to build systems that are safe, inclusive, and responsive to the realities faced by women from refugee and migrant backgrounds. ‘Silence to Power’ is not just an event - it is a reaffirmation of our collective commitment to dignity, equality, and the enduring power of women’s voices.”
The event will feature a group of talented female artists demonstrating how art can serve as a powerful form of voice and expression. In addition, a facilitated conversation with multicultural women leaders will invite audience participation and explore themes such as the role of community, the authority of lived experience, and claiming leadership in the face of barriers. At the heart of the event is Amera Ali, who will share her courageous journey toward renewed purpose.
Contact details:
Name: Peter Skarparis
Position: Head of Marketing & Communications
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 0434403273
Name: Hannah Gartrell
Position: Head of Executive Communications and Media
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 0423 965 956