Batul Gulani received 2017 Multicultural Awards for Excellence recognised as one of ‘Victoria’s Multicultural Heroes’. This has been one of the highest honours received by a Shia Muslim in Australia. Governor of Victoria Linda Dessau, Minister for Multicultural Affairs Robin Scott and Deputy Premier James Merlino joined hundreds of people at a special ceremony at Government House on Thursday 23 November 2017.

The state government media release reads, “Among the recipients was… Pakistani-Australian psychotherMrs Gulani is the chairperson and founder of the not-for-profit charity organisation AMAFHH Federation. She received the prestigious Premier’s Award for Community Harmony in recognition of her outstanding commitment to wellbeing, inclusion & harmony for culturally diverse communities.

A passionate proponent of empowerment of culturally and linguistically diverse Victorians, Mrs Gulani’s leadership encompasses initiatives that include the provision of social and counselling services offered at the AMAFHH Federation, aiming to increase the wellbeing Victorians in culturally and linguistically diverse communities, with a particular focus on young people and women, especially those experiencing domestic violence and other forms of abuse. Mrs Gulani has also established counselling and education programs specifically for Shia Muslims, but the services of her charity are extended to all Victorians in need.

Working to bring people together in cooperation, she has facilitated the establishment of the Islamic Shia Council of Victoria, uniting more than 20 Shia organisations. She has recently joined the Victorian Government’s Multifaith Advisory Group, which includes members of all major faiths represented in the state.’

There is no way I can list all of Mrs Gulani’s achievements. There is no doubt that she has dedicated all her time and energy to serving the community and contributing to the prosperity and harmony of Victorian Shia Muslims community members and all other Victorians. Please pray for her health and further success in the service of the community.