“We wanted to acknowledge and support the kaupapa of Frocks On Friday and also raise awareness about mental health affecting our ethnic communities, especially newcomers to our region who are adjusting to the challenges of many changes” Mr Naresh said.
Good food and conversation provided a platform for people to come together and connect with those they might not usually have the opportunity to meet.
Bollywood owner Baljeet Sandhu and his staff provided a buffet of delicious Indian food and sponsored the beverages for the luncheon.
It was also announced that for the month of December, 5 percent of Bollywood Restaurant’s total sales from dine in, take-away or delivery would be donated to Hear4U.
TMC ethnic community connector Meredith Jassnoor Kaur Khalsa said the event was also about bringing woman face to face in an atmosphere of empathy, kindness and compassion.
“Regardless of our ethnicity or background we are curious to learn more about each other, and making connections through conversations with someone from a different cultural background creates opportunities to form friendships, and strengthen the sisterhood of women and the support network.”
The Frocks on Friday season was scheduled to run from November 1 to March 1.
However, FOF founder Jo McLean is excited about extending the season by one week, as suggested by TMC, to include Friday, March 8, which is International Women’s Day.
A celebratory event is to be revealed closer to the time.
“Since the inception of Frocks on Friday, I have been blown away by the support of different organisations in our community and the diversity of women this campaign has attracted” Ms McLean said.
Hear4U founder Krissy Mackintosh was likewise humbled by the ongoing support shown to the kaupapa of supporting men in their mental health wellness journeys.
TMC plays an active role in helping ethnic and minority groups settle into life in the community. Support is given in the form of practical advice and assistance in areas such as accommodation, travel, employment matters and general wellbeing.
It also promotes multiculturalism by educating the wider community in embracing cultural diversity.
It also assists ethnic women with family violence issues as women from migrant families can be unaware of the support services available.
The not-for-profit organisation also hosts community events such as the annual OWD Socks Colour Run and the Diwali Festival of Lights, which features local and national performances and entertainment.
Friday’s luncheon included raffles and spot prizes. Koha raised went to the FOF campaign.
