Shugoofa Organisation
Non-For-Profit Organisation
A Wonderful Day of Youth, Culture & Community!
A Wonderful Day of Youth, Culture & Community!
We are so proud to share the success of our Shugoofa Cultural Association Youth Festival!
It was a beautiful day filled with fun, learning, friendship, culture and celebration. Our young people participated in a range of fun and educational activities, games and cultural activities, creating opportunities to build confidence, teamwork and meaningful connections.
We were delighted to recognise and celebrate the achievements of our talented young people by presenting certificates for their efforts, achievements, creativity and contributions to our community.
The festival also celebrated our rich Afghan heritage through music, poetry, art, cultural activities and delicious Afghan food.
A very special thank you to the Victorian Government for supporting and sponsoring this meaningful event and helping us create positive opportunities for young people in our community.
We would also like to extend our sincere appreciation to Monira Tahiry from Wellspring for her wonderful support and sponsorship. Your contribution helped make this celebration possible and meaningful for our young people and families.
Thank you to all the young people, families, volunteers, supporters and community members who joined us and made the day so special.
Together, we celebrate our youth, our culture and the strength of our community.
Empowering Women Through Financial Wellbeing
Shugoofa Organisation is proud to partner with Good Shepherd Australia New Zealand and Afghan Women’s Organisation Victoria (AWOV) to deliver a series of Financial Wellbeing Workshops that support women to build financial confidence, independence, and wellbeing.
Our first workshop was successfully held at the Clyde Township Community Centre, where women came together in a safe and welcoming environment to learn practical financial skills and share their experiences.
During the session, participants explored topics including financial autonomy, managing personal finances with confidence, setting achievable financial goals, and recognising their financial strengths. The workshop encouraged open discussion, learning, and mutual support, helping women feel more confident in making informed financial decisions.
We are grateful to Good Shepherd Australia New Zealand and Afghan Women’s Organisation Victoria (AWOV) for their valuable partnership, and we thank all the women who participated. Together, we are empowering women with the knowledge and confidence to build a more secure and independent future.
Health, Our Life, Our Voice
Today 23rd July 2026 in our Thursday women’s community session, Shugoofa Organisation welcomed a representative from the Southern Migrant and Refugee Centre (SMRC), who introduced the “Health, Our Life, Our Voice” project to our participants. The information session provided Afghan community members with an opportunity to learn about the project, complete a confidential survey, and share their experiences of accessing healthcare services in Australia. The discussion encouraged participants to talk about the challenges they face and how healthcare services can become more accessible and culturally responsive. We are grateful to SMRC for partnering with our community and helping ensure that Afghan voices are heard to improve health services for everyone
Together We Shared Food, Stories and Smiles
Today we had a beautiful “Share Your Plate” session in collaboration with AWOV (Afghan Women’s Organisation Victoria), filled with connection, culture, and meaningful conversations.
Women came together to share delicious dishes, stories, and experiences while building friendships and strengthening community connections. We also enjoyed some fun group games and activities that supported mental wellbeing, encouraged laughter, reduced stress, and helped create a safe and welcoming space for everyone.
Through these gatherings, we continue to create opportunities for women to connect, support each other, share their voices, and celebrate our diverse cultures.
Thank you to everyone who joined and contributed to making today’s session so special.
Empowering Women Through Road Safety Education and Driving Support
Successful Community Information Session
We are pleased to share that we recently held a successful information session in partnership with Afghan Women’s Organisation Victoria (AWOV).
This important session was delivered by South East Monash Legal Services and provided practical information to help women better understand their rights and responsibilities on the road, including driving laws, car insurance, fines, and car accidents.
As part of our ongoing commitment to supporting women’s empowerment, confidence, and independence, through AWOV we will support women by providing access to 10 driving lessons to help them improve their driving skills and become safer drivers.
We have collected the list of interested participants and will continue supporting women throughout this program.
Thank you to South East Monash Legal Services, AWOV, and everyone who attended and contributed to making this session a success.
Baking workshop led by Naleeza Ibrahim
Another Wonderful Thursday Session in Clyde North, City of Casey!
Today, in partnership with Afghan Women’s Organisation Victoria (AWOV), we held another successful Thursday community session featuring a wonderful baking workshop led by Naleeza Ibrahim.
The session brought women together to learn how to bake a delicious banana cake while enjoying meaningful conversations about healthy, affordable, and sustainable food choices. It was a beautiful opportunity to connect, learn new skills, and strengthen community bonds.
Through the collaboration of Shugoofa Cultural Association and Afghan Women’s Organisation Victoria, we continue to support women in Clyde North and across the City of Casey through a range of programs and opportunities, including:
Aged Care Courses
Food Handling Certificate Training
Driving Lessons and Road Safety Support
Community Workshops and Social Activities
Skills Development and Employment Pathways
Together, we are committed to empowering women, building confidence, fostering independence, and creating pathways to education, employment, and community participation.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended today’s session and to Naleeza Ibrahim for sharing her knowledge and passion with our community.
Together, Shugoofa Cultural Association and Afghan Women’s Organisation Victoria are creating opportunities, building connections, and empowering women to thrive.
Celebrate Youth Week with Shugoofa Organisation!
At Shugoofa Organisation, we are proud to celebrate Youth Week by recognising the incredible talents, creativity, leadership, and achievements of young people in our community.
Youth Week is an opportunity to celebrate the voices of young people, encourage their participation, and acknowledge the positive impact they make in our communities. We believe that every young person has unique strengths, ideas, and potential to become a leader and create meaningful change.
Join us for an inspiring and vibrant celebration featuring cultural performances, music, art, storytelling, interactive activities, and opportunities for young people to connect, learn, and share their experiences. This special event will bring together families, community members, and local organisations to celebrate diversity, inclusion, and the bright future of our youth.
Our event aims to empower young people by building confidence, promoting leadership, encouraging community participation, and creating a safe and welcoming space where everyone feels valued and respected.
Whether you are a young person, parent, friend, or community supporter, we invite you to be part of this exciting celebration. Together, we can recognise the achievements of our young people and inspire the next generation to reach their full potential.
Event details, including the date, time, and venue, will be announced soon. Please stay tuned by following our website and social media channels for updates.
Everyone is welcome, and we look forward to celebrating with you!
Digital Literacy and Wellbeing Program for Women 50+
Digital Literacy and Wellbeing Program for Women 50+
Shugoofa Cultural Association is delighted to invite women aged 50 and over to join our Digital Literacy and Wellbeing Program, held every Thursday.
This program is designed to help participants:
Build confidence using smartphones, tablets, and computers
Learn how to use apps and online services safely
Support mental and emotional wellbeing
Connect with other women, make new friendships, and strengthen community ties
Whether you are new to technology or would like to improve your digital skills, this program provides a welcoming and supportive environment where women can learn together and support one another.
We gratefully acknowledge the support of Good Things Foundation Australia, whose partnership helps make this program possible.
Every Thursday
info@shugoofaorganisation.com.au
www.shugoofaorganisation.com.au
We look forward to welcoming you and helping you stay connected, informed, and confident in the digital world.
#Shugoofa #DigitalLiteracy #Women50Plus #CommunityConnection #Wellbeing #EmpoweringWomen #AfghanCommunity #MulticulturalCommunity
Building Stronger Futurres in casey
Today, Thursday 3rd June, during our weekly session, we celebrated Eid together with our group. It was a joyful and meaningful gathering where we all shared our plates, enjoyed traditional food, and celebrated this special occasion as one community.
We are also very proud to announce our new partnership with AWOV, an organisation that has long been supporting the Afghan community in different and important ways.
As our goal is to provide accessible services within the Casey area, this partnership creates a valuable opportunity to strengthen support for women’s mental health, small business development, and driving support programs. It will help us continue building stronger pathways for women and families in our community.
It was a warm and positive environment, especially for our newly arrived members, giving them connection, support, and hope for a better future. Moments like this remind us how important it is to come together, share, and grow as one community.
Mother's Day Celebration
14 of May, We had a Mother’s Day celebration for our members who regularly attend our Thursday sessions. Most of them have recently arrived in Australia and have been feeling isolated in a new environment.
These Thursday gatherings help create a sense of belonging, connection, and support within the community.
We celebrated with music and a cooking session, where everyone cooked together and shared joyful moments. It was a wonderful opportunity to appreciate and honour all the proud mothers in our community.
COOKING & SUPPORT SERVICES SESSION
On Thursday, 7 May, Shugoofa Organisation held another meaningful and engaging community session.
We were pleased to welcome Vineet from the City of Casey, who facilitated a valuable service session with the participation of all group members. The session encouraged discussion, connection, and learning within a warm and supportive environment.
We also enjoyed a wonderful one-hour cooking session, where everyone had the opportunity to learn new skills, share experiences, and enjoy the positive feeling of cooking together as a community.
In addition, we were honoured to have Monira Tahery from Welspring join us. She introduced the support and services offered by Welspring to assist women and families, and spoke about the important collaboration between Welspring and Shugoofa Organisation in supporting women in our community.
Thank you to everyone who participated and contributed to making the session welcoming, informative, and enjoyable.
Inspiring Women
Citizenship Celebration and Community Support
23 Apr 2026
We were pleased to commence our first session of the term on a beautiful sunny day, accompanied by coffee and light refreshments.
A highlight of the session was celebrating Faranaz Qurbani on her achievement of becoming an Australian citizen. Faranaz is a highly valued and active member of our group, consistently demonstrating dedication and commitment to supporting the community.
The session also included a member presentation on her dress business, which was both informative and engaging for participants.
In addition, we provided an information session on available support services for individuals experiencing financial hardship. Attendees were informed about the new Casey office in Clyde, which offers assistance with utility bills, fines, rental support, and other essential services.
Overall, it was a productive and positive start to the term, fostering connection, awareness, and community support.
We Are Honoured to Be Nominated!
We are proud to share that Shugoofa Community Organisation has been officially nominated for the Community Group of the Year award at the City of Casey 2026 Casey Community Awards.
In addition, our CEO & founder, Shugoofa Bakhtery, has been nominated for the Casey Equity & Inclusion Award
These nominations recognise our valuable contribution to the Casey community, and we are truly grateful for this honour.
This recognition belongs to all the women, families, volunteers, and community members who are part of our journey. Thank you for your ongoing support and for believing in our mission to build a more inclusive and connected community.
Women’s Social Group -A Beautiful Gathering
Manna Gum Family & Community Centre
This Thursday 5th Feb 2026, we had a wonderful gathering of women, filled with connection, smiles, and supportive conversations. It was truly heart-warming to see everyone come together in a safe and welcoming space. Sharing stories and spending time with one another was not only enjoyable, but also very helpful for women’s mental health and wellbeing.
We would also like to say a big thank you to Hanna for kindly contributing and providing bread for the group Your support is truly appreciated.
We’re excited to share some more lovely news
From next week, Jan Joyce, an experienced English teacher, will be joining our Thursday sessions to support women with everyday conversational English, helping build confidence for daily life and communication.
We look forward to many more meaningful Thursdays together and warmly welcome all women to join us!
@Casey
Supporting Mental Wellbeing Through Community Engagement
On 18 December, we hosted a supportive community gathering in a welcoming environment, shared over breakfast and lunch, for newly arrived Afghan women. We were honoured to welcome Mehatab from ASURIA, who provided valuable guidance on employment pathways and financial support, including assistance with driving expenses and study-related costs. We also welcomed Mehri from Polaran, who shared information about available community supports and services. The session encouraged open discussion, connection, and learning, and participants were invited to complete a feedback form, allowing them to share their experiences and suggestions. This feedback will play an important role in shaping and improving our sessions planned for the coming year, ensuring they continue to meet the needs of the community.
Certificate of Appreciation from Services Australia – Refugee Week Recognition
Shugoofa Bakhtary the founder and CEO of Shugoofa Organisetion honoured to receive the certificate of appreciation from Services Australia during Refugee Week.
This recognition reflects the speech she delivered a few months ago and, more importantly, the ongoing hard work and commitment of Shugoofa Organisation in supporting culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities.
Grateful for the opportunity to collaborate, share information, and work together to empower communities through access to essential services, information sessions, and community engagement.
Thank you for the warm support and meaningful partnership. Together, we make a difference.
Community Health Session for New Aarivals
Today we held our Community Health Session as part of the Water Well Project, hosted by the Shugoofa Cultural Association.
The session took place on Thursday, 11 December 2025, at 45 Valetta Street, Clyde VIC.
Our topic focused on sexual health, consent, and preventing unplanned pregnancies especially in situations where a pregnancy might put a mother’s health at risk. This information was particularly helpful and important for our newly arrived community members, providing a safe space to learn, ask questions, and build confidence about their health and wellbeing.
We also enjoyed coffee and snacks, creating a warm, friendly, and supportive atmosphere
Thank you to all the amazing women who attended and made this session meaningful.
Hanna & Friends Food Recovery
Breast Screening Visits for Our Community
Breast Screening Visit – 20 November
On 20 November, we had the pleasure of accompanying a wonderful group of women from our community to Breast Screen Victoria for routine breast cancer screening. For many, this was their first screening, making it a particularly important step in taking care of their health.
We travelled together by taxi to the clinic and back, ensuring comfort and safety for everyone. Regular breast screening every two years is crucial, as it can detect breast changes early even before any symptoms appear greatly increasing the chances of successful treatment.
This initiative is especially valuable for women who are new to Australia and have never had a breast screening. Providing guidance, support, and a safe environment helps them take this vital step in preventive healthcare.
We are excited to announce that another group will be attending Breast Screen Victoria on 4 December, continuing our commitment to raising awareness, supporting women, and promoting better health in our community.
Together, we stand for women’s health, empowerment, and early detection.
City of Casey
Support, Learning & Wellness
Thursday Community Session – City of Casey
We had a wonderful Thursday session in the City of Casey, featuring our special guest from Wellsprings for Women, Monira Taheri, who shared valuable information about the support available for newly arrived community members.
We also introduced a helpful opportunity from Enliven Victoria about becoming a Youth Recital Mentor, encouraging young people to get involved, grow their skills, and build confidence.
Our morning began with a warm, welcoming breakfast.
A big thank you to Hanna Bakery and Hanna & Friends Food Recovery for generously donating fresh bread for our session.
We wrapped up the day with an energetic and fun Zumba session, helping our women stay active, happy, and healthy.
English and Support Work Information Session at Casey
English and Support Work Information Session at Clyde North @City of Casey
Today we had a wonderful session at 45 Valetta Street, Clyde North, where our community learned about the free English course and Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability) offered by MAX Solutions.
It was a great morning filled with learning, connection, and a welcome breakfast for everyone to enjoy.
A special thank you to @hanna&friendsfoodrecovery for their generous bread donation, which brought warmth and joy to our community gathering.
It was inspiring to see so many new arrivals eager to improve their English, gain confidence, and take steps toward future work in aged care and disability support.
Together we’re helping our community learn, grow, and support each other.
Environment Friendly Knowledge Event!
Thursday, 30th October 2025 at Clyde North for our recycling awareness session!City of Casey
It was wonderful to see so many community members come together to learn about Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme (CDS Vic) and how small actions like recycling bottles and cans can make a big difference for our planet.
Your enthusiasm and participation made the event a success!
We hope you enjoyed learning, connecting.
Together, we’re building a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable community.
CLP Alumni Event at Bunjil Place – 25th October
We were thrilled to be part of the CLP Alumni Event yesterday at Bunjil Place! The event brought together inspiring leaders, including Mayor Stefan Koomen and keynote speaker Sukart Alex, to celebrate community impact and leadership.
Shugoofa Organisation, represented by Karima Nasimi, was proud to share our work supporting Afghan, Iranian, and Indian women, youth, and families , especially new arrivals through empowerment, education, and advocacy.
It was wonderful to connect with fellow alumni and celebrate the incredible contributions of everyone making a difference in our community.
Engaging with Victoria premier and Member of Parliament
A wonderful community gathering was hosted by MPs Gary Maas, Belinda Wilson, and Pauline Richards, with Premier Jacinta Allan in attendance. Leaders from diverse communities joined to discuss new initiatives and shared goals for a better Victoria. It was a great opportunity to connect and celebrate our collective efforts.
Understanding Rights in Relationships Workshop
Understanding Rights in Relationships Workshop
Date: Thursday, 23rd October 2025
Location: 45 Valetta Street, Clyde North
Partner: South-East Monash Legal Service Inc.
Shugoofa Organisation hosted another successful community session as part of Get Online Week, focusing on “Understanding Rights in Relationships.”
The event began with a warm welcome and shared community breakfast, creating a friendly and supportive atmosphere. Participants then joined an informative workshop led by representatives from South-East Monash Legal Service Inc., who provided valuable insights about:
• Recognising healthy and unhealthy relationships
• Understanding what constitutes an abusive relationship under family violence law
• Learning about the benefits of respectful and supportive relationships
• Discussing the age of consent and individual rights
The session encouraged open discussion, allowing participants to ask questions and share their experiences in a safe and respectful environment.
This workshop was part of Shugoofa’s ongoing commitment to empowering women, youth, and families through education, awareness, and community connection.
We sincerely thank South-East Monash Legal Service Inc. for their partnership and ongoing support. Together, we continue to promote safety, equality, and wellbeing in our community.
Meeting with the Australian Federal Police – Supporting Our Community
Meeting with the Australian Federal Police – Supporting Our Community
Friday 17/10/2025
We recently had a productive meeting with representatives from the Australian Federal Police (AFP) to discuss ways we can work together to better support our community.
The discussion focused on building stronger relationships between the AFP and community members, improving safety awareness, and finding effective ways to assist families and individuals in need of guidance or support.
We appreciate the time and effort of the Federal Police team for engaging with us and for their commitment to community wellbeing. Together, we aim to strengthen trust, understanding, and cooperation to create a safer and more connected community.
Women’s Mental Health Session – Strengthening Connection and Wellbeing
Clyde North Community
16 October 2025
We had a wonderful session focused on women’s mental health, exploring how mothers can build positive and healthy communication with their children and teenagers.
The discussion provided a safe and friendly space for women to share experiences, ask questions, and learn practical ways to manage daily challenges, support emotional wellbeing, and strengthen family relationships.
It was inspiring to see so many amazing women come together , supporting, listening, and empowering one another. Thank you to everyone who joined and made the session so meaningful!
We also enjoyed a light breakfast and shared fresh bread donations, which added a warm and caring touch to the gathering.
Breast Cancer Awareness Session
On 9 October 2025, we hosted a special Breast Cancer Awareness Session at 45 Valetta Street, Clyde North, in partnership with Monash Health. The session focused on understanding how to detect breast cancer in its early stages, recognising the signs and symptoms, and learning how common it is among women in Australia.
To make sure everyone could benefit, we provided translators to support women from different language backgrounds. Participants were encouraged to book their breast screening tests, especially women over the age of 40.
It was a warm and supportive morning where women could ask questions, gain important health information, and feel empowered to take care of their wellbeing. We also enjoyed a lovely community breakfast together, creating a friendly space for connection and conversation.
We were also grateful to receive a bread donation, which we shared with attendees as part of our breakfast adding an extra touch of community care and generosity to the event.
Thank you to Monash Health for their support, and to all the wonderful women who joined us for this meaningful session!
Celebrating Youth Festival
Thursday , September 25, 2025
9:30 AM – 2:30 PM
45 Valetta Street, Clyde VIC 3978
We had an amazing time celebrating our Youth Festival!
The day started at 9:30 AM and wrapped up at 2:30 PM full of learning, fun, and community spirit.
We were honored to have Silva Nazaretian (Director) and Janneke from Enliven, who inspired our youth to become digital mentors.
We also welcomed Indah Johannes from South East Community Link, who shared lots of useful information and connections to support young people .
A big thank you to Shahla Jan Dastyar, who guided the youth in creating amazing things from recycled materials. It was not only fun but also a great way to care for our environment
In the morning, everyone enjoyed coffee, tea, and sweets, and for lunch we shared vegetable wraps, chicken kebab, and chips together.
It was truly a wonderful day filled with skill building, creativity, and joy. Thank you to everyone who joined and made this festival so special!
Youth Festival
It’s all about youth this week!
We’re celebrating our young people with a special event of empowerment, skill-building, and creativity.
Thursday , September 25, 2025
9:30 AM – 2:30 PM
45 Valetta Street, Clyde VIC 3978
Activities include hand-crafting with recycled materials, fun, and friendship
join us.
Thursday's Women's Gathering - Active, Informed, and Connected
Thursday Women’s Gathering 7th August 2025
Location: 45 Valetta Street, Clyde VIC
Organised by: Shugoofa Cultural Association
On Thursday, 7 August, we had another warm and engaging Thursday Women’s Gathering, bringing together community members for learning, connection, and empowerment.
The morning began with an energetic Zumba session, which was enjoyed by participants of all ages. The activity not only promoted physical health but also created a fun and uplifting atmosphere that set the tone for the rest of the day.
Following Zumba, participants received valuable information about the $200 Sports Voucher program, enabling families to better understand how to access this support for their children’s activities.
We also dedicated part of the session to digital literacy support, assisting community members with using their devices, navigating online forms, and improving confidence in technology use. This hands-on help empowered participants to better manage daily tasks in the digital world.
Throughout the morning, everyone enjoyed snacks, coffee, and tea, creating a warm and friendly space for conversations and networking.
The day concluded with open discussions and a supportive environment where women could connect, share experiences, and strengthen community bonds.
Key highlights:
• Fun and active Zumba session
• Sports Voucher program information
• Digital literacy assistance for community members
• Snacks, coffee, and tea for a relaxed atmosphere
• Friendly, inclusive, and empowering environment
Shugoofa Cultural Association remains committed to providing a welcoming space for women and families to learn, connect, and thrive together.
Women’s Night Program , Mental Health & Creative Handcrafting
Date: 26 July 2025
wonderful Women’s Night program focused on mental health awareness and handcrafting from recycled materials. It was an inspiring and fun evening for our community, especially for new arrivals.
We were honored to have special guests join us:
Kim Gammon – Sergeant, Multicultural Liaison Unit, Southern Metro Region, Victoria Police
D/LSC Katherine Fitzpatrick – Human Exploitation Community Officer, Crime Command
Silva Nazaretian – Director, Enliven
Cr Carolyn Eaves – Quarters Ward, City of Casey
Monira Tahiri from wellsprings for Women
Mehri vijdani from Polaran
Although Cassandra Fernando MP couldn’t attend due to the arrival of her newborn baby, she sent a heartfelt and beautiful message which we played during the program.
Highlights of the night:
Mental health session on challenges like depression and anxiety, which was very helpful for newly arrived women.
Powerful presentation by Katherine Fitzpatrick about youth, children, and social media guiding mothers on how to support and protect their children online.
Creative handcrafting workshop using recycled materials,the youth enjoyed making beautiful items while learning about sustainability.
Music, dinner, and lots of dancing, bringing joy, connection, and fun to everyone.
It was a meaningful evening filled with learning, creativity, and community spirit.
Thank you to all our wonderful guests, volunteers, and participants for making this night so special!
Thursday sessions
24 July 2025
Our First Thursday Women’s Session
A Beautiful Start!
We were delighted to welcome women and children from the Casey community to the very first Thursday Women’s Session at Shugoofa Cultural Association.
Women enjoyed a fun and empowering morning with self-care activities like gentle face care, helpful information about the Parents Pathways Program (which includes driving classes) and information about Digital Sister program.
Children had a joyful time with fun activities while their mothers connected, learned, and shared experiences in a warm and welcoming space.
We also had a lovely snack break with coffee, tea, and sweets, creating a relaxed moment for conversation and new friendships.
It was a heartwarming start, filled with smiles, learning, and community spirit. We look forward to many more Thursdays where women can learn, connect, and feel empowered together.
Join us next Thursday!
9:30 AM – 12:30 PM
45 Valetta Street, Clyde VIC
Women’s Wellbeing & Entertainment Night
Don’t forget to contact us if you’re interested in coming!
Phone: 0421 738 556
We’d love for you to join us!
Community & Workforce Freedom
Date: 20/06/2025
Shugoofa Organisation Recognised at Polaron Connect and MAX Solution Event
We were honored to be invited to a special event hosted by Polaron Connect and MAX Solution and where leaders and changemakers from across Melbourne gathered to celebrate the power of multicultural communities.
The event was attended by key figures including representatives from the Victorian Multicultural Commission Bwe Thay , Eva Hussain, Director of Polaron, David Youssf Genral manager of Max Solution, Vicki Selimi & Lu Zhang Multicultural Service Officer and many inspiring community advocates.
Our CEO, Shugoofa Bakhtary, was invited as a guest speaker. She shared her personal journey to Australia and the founding story of Shugoofa Organisation,highlighting the challenges, resilience, and vision behind supporting newly arrived women and youth.
We are proud to share that Shugoofa Bakhtary received a Certificate of Appreciation in recognition of her active role in strengthening multicultural communities.
We thank Polaron Connect and MAX Solution for this meaningful opportunity and for acknowledging our work. Events like these remind us that when communities come together, powerful change is possible.
#PolaronConnect #MAXsuolution#VictorianMulticulturalCommission #EvaHussain #ShugoofaOrganisation #MulticulturalMelbourne #CommunityLeadership #RefugeeVoices #WomenEmpowerment #YouthSupport #CertificateOfAppreciatio
Community Connection at Casey Hub – Cranbourne Park Shopping Centre
Date: 23/05/2025
Location: Cranbourne Park Shopping center Hub
We had a wonderful time hosting a special event at the Casey Hub in Cranbourne Park Shopping Centre!
Our program was filled with fun activities for kids, including crafts and creative play. Parents and young adults also benefited from an informative session by a skin specialist, who shared great tips on how to keep your skin clean, healthy, and glowing.
Thank you to everyone who joined us your energy and smiles made the event extra special!
Women’s Mental Health First Aid Course in Casey
Shugoofa Organisation, in collaboration with Wellsprings for Women, has started a Mental Health First Aid course for women in Casey.
The 6-week program is still in progress and is helping women gain knowledge, confidence, and tools to support their mental wellbeing and that of their communities especially meaningful as Eid approaches.
We are proud to see these women coming together, learning, and growing stronger each week.
A Fun and Active Day for Women and Kids in Cranbourne West
Date: 08/05/2025
Location: Cranbourne west
We had a wonderful time this Wednesday in Cranbourne West, bringing together women and children from our community for a joyful and engaging program, run in collaboration with Wellsprings for Women.
We started the day with some light exercise, helping moms get active and learn simple movements to support their health and wellbeing. It was a great way to energize the group and set a positive tone for the rest of the day.
Later, we held a hands-on playdough-making session, where mums learned how to make colorful playdough at home using simple ingredients. It’s a fun and creative way to keep children busy while building stronger connections between parents and kids.
Thank you to everyone who participated and a special thanks to Wellsprings for supporting this wonderful day. We look forward to more meaningful sessions like this!
Stronger Together
Date: 30/04/2025
Location: Cranbourne west
This session brought together women and young children from the community in a warm, supportive environment to encourage connection, socialization, and mutual support. The gathering offered a welcoming space where women could sit together, share snacks, and engage in conversation while their children interacted in a safe and playful setting.
Key Activities:
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Informal conversations among women, fostering social support and a sense of belonging.
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Shared light snacks and tea, creating a relaxed atmosphere.
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Play-based interaction for children, promoting social development and peer bonding.
Purpose:
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To reduce isolation among women, especially new arrivals or mothers.
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To provide a supportive community space for informal learning and emotional exchange.
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To strengthen ties between families in the local community.
Impact:
The session was filled with laughter, conversation, and joy, as seen in the engagement between participants. It helped build stronger social networks among women and created a fun and welcoming environment for children to play and learn.
women &Children Community Gathering
Tech Awareness for
Parent-Youth
Connection At Noble Park Language School
Shugoofa Organisation had the pleasure of joining Kate Fitzpatrick, Human Exploration Community Officer,as presenters at Noble Park Language School .Togethe,we spoke with parents and students about the importance of building strong and healthy relationships between parents and their children.
We discussed how technology, when used positively and mindfully, can be a powerful tool for learning and growth. We also highlighted the potential risks of technology especially social media when used in unhealthy or harmful ways.
It was a meaningful and engaging session, and we were pleased to see such strong interest from both parents and students.
Harmony Day
Shugoofa Organisation had the pleasure of attending Harmony Day, celebrating the beauty of cultural diversity in our community. It was amazing to see people from so many backgrounds, from Afghanistan to Malaysia and beyond, coming together with pride, joy, and unity.
The energy, the traditional clothing, the music, and the shared smiles truly showed what harmony looks like. We are proud to be part of such a vibrant and inclusive community!
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Eid Celebration in Casey
Shugoofa Organisation was delighted to join over 1000 community members in celebrating Eid!
It was an honor to have Ms. Pauline Richards, MP for Cranbourne (Australian Labor Party), celebrate with us.
A wonderful gathering filled with joy, unity, and cultural connection!
انجمن شگوفه was happy to celebrate Eid with more than 1000 community members! We were honored to have Pauline Richards, Member of the Cranbourne Regional Parliament from Labor Australia join us at the celebration.
A celebration full of happiness, solidarity and cultural connection!
Women's Wellbeing and Community Support Group
Shugoofa Cultural Association proudly supports the Wellsprings for Women’s Wellbeing Group every Wednesday from
9:30 to 11:30 AM.
Our sessions provide a welcoming and supportive space where women can come together, connect, and overcome isolation by making new friends. We always have a guest speaker to share valuable knowledge on various topics related to women’s health and wellbeing, ensuring that all information is accessible with Dari interpreter available.
Mothers are encouraged to bring their preschool-aged children, who will have a great time in a friendly environment while their mothers engage in learning and discussions.
Enjoy a free morning tea, and join us in celebrating art, culture, and community.
A Day of Art, Fun and Connection at Cranbourne Park Shopping Center
Community Hub
We had a fantastic day filled with creativity and fun at Cranbourne Park Shopping Centre Community Hub!
Shugoofa Organisation hosted an interactive arts and craft session for children and their moms, creating a space for joy, connection, and creativity. It was heartwarming to see families come together, share moments, and enjoy a hands-on experience.
A big thank you to everyone who joined and made this day special! Stay tuned for more community events.
Shugoofa Organisation Highlights 2024-2025
The year 2024 was truly a year full of success and achievements for Shugoofa Organisation. The cultural, literary, informational, and health programs we organised had a profound impact on improving the community and supporting individuals. We actively involved youth, providing them with opportunities to showcase their talents and encouraging them to engage with the community. The Shugoofa team, with their dedication and tireless efforts, proved that positive and lasting changes are possible. We are grateful to everyone who trusted us and supported our programs. Wishing you and the Shugoofa Organisation even greater success in the upcoming year!
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Digital Sisters Computer Literacy Program
Date: 22/11/2024
Location: Lynbrook Community Centre
The “Digital Sisters” Computer Literacy Program for Afghan women was successfully held on 22nd November 2024 at the Lynbrook Community centre. This program is designed to support Afghan women in building essential computer skills, with special attention to cultural and linguistic needs.
The class was led by a trained female mentor who provided step-by-step guidance. The participants showed great enthusiasm and engagement, and they were able to learn key digital skills that will help them in their daily lives and future opportunities.
The session was very successful, and we are excited to announce that the program will continue. If you are interested, please register with us to be part of the next session and take advantage of this valuable learning opportunity.
Exclusive Information Session for Women and Children
Location: Dandenong Park
Date: 14th November 2024
Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
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Topics Covered
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Oral Hygiene: Presentation by a qualified nurse.
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Active Kids Vouchers: Guidance on applying for $200 per child.
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Environmental Awareness: Tips on keeping the environment clean, delivered by a guest speaker from Wellsprings
Especial guest: Katherine Fitzpatrick, Human Exploitation Community Officer
The Shugoofa Cultural Association hosted an exclusive information session for newly arrived migrant and refugee women and children on Thursday, 14th November, at Dandenong Park. The session aimed to enhance knowledge and understanding on various topics essential for settlement and integration.
Attendance:
Approximately 60 women and 15 children participated in the session. The Better Health Network (BHN) contributed by providing dental care packs to encourage better oral hygiene practices.
Collaboration with Wellsprings for Women:
As part of the Community Capacity Building (CCB) Activity, Wellsprings for Women partnered with Shugoofa Cultural Association to share information about their services for women and children. The highlight of the session was the new funding available for the Settlement Program, designed to support newly arrived families and help them transition smoothly into Australian society.
The session successfully provided valuable resources and practical support to attendees, fostering greater community awareness and integration.
Conclusion:
Participants appreciated the information session, togetherness, refreshments and expressed enthusiasm for future programs and activities. Efforts will be made to keep them informed about upcoming opportunities to support their settlement journey and community engagement.
Wellsprings for Women and Shugoofa Cultural Association are committed to working together in the future, collaborating to provide meaningful sessions and activities that support and empower the community
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Suzani Stories
One of Shugoofa Bakhtary the founder of Shugoofa Organisation's most meaningful experiences has been being invited by The_social_studio to share her poetry. They wanted her to put into words the feelings of Afghan women who had gathered together to share their thoughts and emotions through poetry and music. As a poet and woman activist, She felt honored to help express their voices and stories. She wrote a couplet for them, which they carefully stitched onto a fabric. This piece is displayed in Bunjil Place in Melbourne Australia, sharing a part of Afghan women journey and culture with others.
Youth Engagement Through Art and Music
We hosted an art program with support from Komak, designed to involve youth in our community through meaningful activities. The program consisted of six sessions that aimed to provide an incredible opportunity for young individuals to connect with their heritage and learn more about their cultural music and instruments, particularly the Rubab
Participants were engaged in:
• Learning to play traditional musical instruments.
• Hands-on video recording and production activities.
• Active participation in the program to gain a deeper understanding of our culture and traditions.
The event successfully brought the youth closer to their roots while fostering creativity and teamwork. We’re proud to support initiatives that nurture cultural pride and artistic skills among the next generation.
Wellbeing and women rights in Australia
Shugoofa organisation hosted an event with financial assistance from Komak for women specifically for newly arrived women from Afghanistan residing in the Southern Metro region of Victoria (City of Casey). The event aimed to provide an opportunity for these women to meet one another and learn about personal well-being. A mental health and emotional well-being coach delivered a session on self-care for women. We also raised awareness about women’s rights in Australia and highlighted opportunities for them to connect both informally and formally with each other, as well as with support services in the local community.
Women Needs and requirement
Shugoofa Organisation celebrated its 2nd anniversary on Sunday, October 13th, combined
with a special program for newly arrived Afghan refugee women and young girls, focusing on
their wellbeing and needs. The event was held at Marriot Community Centre, featuring guest
speakers Katherine Fitzpatrick from the Australian Federal Police, Mehri Vijdani, Multicultural
Engagement & Partnership Coordinator, along with other distinguished attendees. Guests
were welcomed by serving them some traditional homemade Afghan sweets, accompanied
by tea and coffee.
The event’s opening speech was delivered by Shugoofa Bakhtary, the CEO and founder of
the Shugoofa Organisation. She briefly highlighted the organisation’s achievements over the
past two years, shared details about current programs, and introduced future projects aimed
at supporting newly arrived Afghan women and young girls as they embark on their new
journeys and settlement in Australia. Shugoofa’s speech was followed by Kate and Mehri,
who each spoke about their involvement in the multicultural community. They discussed the
services they offer to newly arrived refugees and grassroots organisations, highlighting their
commitment to supporting these communities through various initiatives and partnerships.
Swimming Session for Youth
Shugoofa Organisation offered swimming sessions for both girls and boys during the school holidays, creating a valuable opportunity for personal and social growth.
Alongside the remarkable improvement in their swimming abilities, the program had a transformative effect on the youth. It fostered a strong sense of belonging, boosted their confidence, and encouraged positive social interactions. These sessions served as more than just a physical activity—they became a platform for the youth to connect, support each other, and build lasting friendships. Shugoofa Organisation remains committed to empowering the younger generation through initiatives that not only enhance skills but also nurture their overall well-being and sense of community.
