Ravi is the co-founder of Parliament on King, a social enterprise established in 2013 that offers a safe and caring space for refugees and people seeking asylum. Through the sharing of food, it builds community and supports people as they rebuild their lives.
For Ravi, this work is grounded in something simple but powerful: a desire to create a place shaped by compassion, safety and love in a world that can feel uncertain and divided. Through Parliament on King, he connects with people who are navigating new beginnings in Australia, addressing social, cultural and economic barriers.
Food sits at the heart of this work. Besides functioning as a cafe and community space, Parliament on King provides catering services that showcase dishes from their chefs’ countries of origin, creating livelihoods and a way for people to share their stories and culture.
It was here that Ravi met Hani, in what he describes as more a miracle than a meeting.
Hani came into Parliament on King to learn how to make coffee. “It was sunshine on a cloudy day. It took us about five minutes to figure out we were going to be friends. And 10 years later, here we are,” Ravi remembers.
Their friendship has grown over the past decade. “Hani’s wit, intellect and disposition have made this a friendship that has helped me grow and deepen. We can have big conversations that take us into complex and challenging places, yet still find ourselves in tears of laughter five minutes later,” Ravi shares.
Relationships like this are at the core of why Ravi does this work. Getting to know people like Hani has not only shaped his perspective, but changed how he lives his life.
There is so much chaos, suffering and turmoil in the world, and that’s easy to see. But I’ve come to see so much more: the kindness, compassion, strength and love within us. I see people who believe in a better world and better lives, and who have the courage to make it so.
Ravi believes that creating welcoming communities comes down to everyday choices, and to meeting others with openness and care.
Reflecting on Australia’s welcome of one million refugees, Ravi sees what’s possible. “It’s a sign that we can do this. And in doing it, we’re all better, safer and stronger.”
