Thursday 5 March 2026

SydWest Multicultural Services will host its 2026 International Women’s Day celebration this Friday 6 March at the Glenwood Community Hub, bringing together community members, leaders and performers to honour women’s strength, resilience and leadership across Western Sydney.

This year’s global theme, Balance the Scales, will shape an afternoon of storytelling, culture and conversation focused on inclusion, belonging and the ongoing work to accelerate gender equality—particularly for women from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds.

SydWest CEO Elfa Moraitakis said this year’s theme resonates deeply with the organisation’s mission and the communities it supports:

“Balancing the scales means more than talking about equality; it means building structures where every woman, in all her diversity, can thrive. At SydWest, we see daily the strength, courage and leadership of women from migrant and refugee backgrounds. Empowering them strengthens entire families, strengthens communities, and ultimately strengthens our society. We’re proud to honour that power today.”

The event will be hosted by renowned media personality Susie Elelman, with a Welcome to Country by Aunty Christine of the Deerubbin Local Aboriginal Land Council.

Attendees will hear keynote insights from Captain Mona Shindy CSC, a recognised national advocate for diversity and social cohesion, a decorated Australian Navy captain, a Muslim woman, and a senior professional who has spent decades serving Australia. Her address, Balance the Scales: Diversity, Social Cohesion, Fostering Inclusion, Belonging and Inspiring Positive Change, will explore the systems and attitudes that must shift to create a more equitable Australia.

Additional highlights include cultural performances by the Ah Chong Sisters Pacific Dancers, a spoken-word performance by poet Richa Gautam, and the premiere of Emie Roy’s short film, Lines, Life, Art, which celebrates women’s artistic expression and lived experience as Kolam and Rangoli practitioners in Australia.

Blacktown City Mayor Brad Bunting will also deliver an opening address, recognising the vital contributions of women across the region.

With more than 120 community members expected, the event will conclude with a grazing table and networking opportunities.

CLICK HERE to download the full Media Release