Cassandra Fernando (Holt, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Attending the Victorian Afghan Students Association's Afghanistan's Got Talent show was an experience like no other. The Victorian Afghan Students Association, known as VASA, is a not-for-profit student-led organisation that is committed to supporting both university and high school students from Afghan backgrounds across Victoria. Conducted as part of the Victorian Youth Fest 2023, Afghanistan's Got Talent was a spectacular night dedicated to supporting and showcasing the remarkable abilities of young upcoming Afghan Australian artists. As promised, it was a fascinating display of creativity through music, dance, poetry, comedy and even martial arts.

Youth Organisations like VASA are essential to empowering our youth to take up leadership positions within their community and make a positive impact on society. In the past, VASA has organised several social, cultural and educational events, including career panels and workshops, iftar dinners, trivia nights, and Nowruz festivities. These events ensure a holistic support ecosystem for Afghan Australian youths, many of whom came to Australia fleeing the longstanding political turmoil in Afghanistan. I would like to commend the VASA executive, especially Shekofa Jafari, for their wonderful work, and I look forward to visiting. (Time expired)