Victorian Multicultural Commission celebrates connection and culture at 2025 End of Year event
The Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) marked the close of 2025 with a vibrant celebration at Broadmeadows Town Hall on 10 November. More than 500 community leaders, partners and multicultural Victorians came together for an evening of reflection, culture and connection.
The program spotlighted Victoria’s rich cultural diversity through dynamic performances and discussion. Highlights included a graceful Sri Lankan dance by the Shashila Dance Troupe and lively Italian tunes by Segmento, who invited guests to join in the traditional tarantella.
Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ingrid Stitt MP delivered the keynote speech, reaffirming the Victorian Government’s ongoing support for multicultural communities and social cohesion across the state.
VMC Chairperson Vivienne Nguyen AM reflected on the resilience and achievements of Victoria’s communities over the past year, while VMC Director Kashif Bouns presented key outcomes from the 2024–25 work program, outlining the Commission’s priorities and partnerships that continue to strengthen multiculturalism in Victoria.
The evening’s proceedings were guided by MC and former Hume City Council Mayor Joseph Haweil. Dr Chris Mallika Bhadra, a member of the VMC Regional Advisory Council, facilitated a panel featuring community leaders Dorcas Maphakela, Dalal Samaan and Dr Bruce Wong. Together, they explored how organisations like the VMC can elevate multicultural voices and shared practical ideas for building a more inclusive Victoria.
Guests also enjoyed connecting over locally sourced food, reflecting the VMC’s commitment to inclusion, belonging and community-led engagement.
VMC Chairperson Vivienne Nguyen AM said the event captured the enduring spirit of Victoria’s multicultural people.
“The VMC End of Year event showcased the strength, resilience and spirit of Victoria’s multicultural communities and recognised the Commission’s 42-year history of supporting Victorians from all backgrounds. It was a special opportunity to celebrate major achievements and renew our shared commitment to an inclusive future.”
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