Spirit of Welcome Community Festival 2026
Hosted by SSI
Where: Community Refugee Welcome Centre | 504 Wharf Rd, Lilyfield, Sydney
When: Sunday 14 June | 12-4pm
Tickets: Free | Register here
Join SSI, Inner West Council, and the Community Refugee Welcome Centre for an afternoon of cross-cultural performances, global food, art, and genuine community connection — where newly arrived Australians and Inner West locals come together to celebrate everything that welcome makes possible.
Bring family and friends to enjoy:
- A showcase of work by refugee artists
- Live music and dance performances from across cultures
- Creative workshops and activities for kids and families
- Global food stalls
- A celebration of SSI’s 10-year partnership with Allianz through the Refugee Education Scholarship Program
- And more!
Art After Hours: Refugee Week
Co-hosted by SSI
Where: Art Gallery of NSW | Art Gallery Road, Sydney
When: Wednesday 17 June | 6-9pm
Tickets: Free
Art After Hours: Refugee Week reflects the many lived experiences, memories and voices that shape community and belonging. You’re invited to move between spaces and take part in a range of free offerings, including both drop‑in sessions and bookable programs. Spend time with artworks, sit with stories, and connect in a calm and welcoming environment.
This a collaborative partnership between the Art Gallery of New South Wales, SSI and Asylum Seekers Centre.
Nawfel’s Story
Hosted by City of Sydney
Where: Ron Williams Community Centre | 5-11 Kepos Street, Redfern, Sydney
When: 17 Jun 2026 | 10.45am – 12pm
Tickets: Free | No booking required
Join us for an Iraq-inspired morning tea and hear from guest speaker Nawfel, a Refugee Ambassador with the Refugee Council of Australia.
Nawfel was born in Baghdad, Iraq, into the Mandaean faith, a small religious minority that has long faced persecution in the region. He was studying Pharmacy at the University of Baghdad when the 2003 invasion of Iraq intensified threats against his community. Two years short of completing his degree, Nawfel was forced to flee in 2004 to survive. Nawfel was later granted a visa for Australia and arrived in December 2005.
Shabnam’s Story
Hosted by City of Sydney
Where: St Helen’s Community Centre | 184 Glebe Point Road, Glebe, Sydney
When: Thursday 25 June | 11am – 1pm
Tickets: Free | No booking required
Join an Iranian-inspired morning tea and hear from guest speaker Shabnam, a Refugee Ambassador with the Refugee Council of Australia.
In 1994, Shabnam and her family were forced to flee Iran due to the persecution of their Bahá’í faith. Denied basic human rights and facing ongoing threats, they undertook a dangerous journey through mountainous regions into Pakistan in search of safety and freedom. After seeking asylum, Shabnam and her family were granted the opportunity to resettle in Australia, where they began rebuilding their lives.
NSW Humanitarian Awards 2026
Hosted by STARTTS
Where: NSW Parliament House, Sydney
When: Friday 26 June
The NSW Humanitarian Awards will recognise the remarkable individuals and organisations who have gone above and beyond to support refugees and people seeking asylum in New South Wales. Each year, the Awards celebrate those whose tireless efforts have helped to build a more inclusive, compassionate, and resilient society.
The NSW Humanitarian Awards is a private event.
