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2026 The Purpose
The Purpose

The 2026 National Social Cohesion and Inclusion Conference is the sixth in a series of conferences on social cohesion hosted by the Australian Baha’i Community. These conferences aim to be an ongoing space to explore the various settings, approaches, and methods that help to foster greater social cohesion and inclusion in Australia. This conference is an opportunity for those who are thinking deeply about the progress of our country to deliberate, learn, share ideas and reflect on experience. 

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This years conference themes include:

  • Constructive and unifying dialogue

  • Extending participation through neighbourhoods and communities

  • Redefining relationships across leadership and institutions

  • Drawing on the capacities of youth

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The conference included thoughtful presentations, inspiring panels and engaging small group discussions with civil society leaders and a diversity of community representatives. 

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Speakers & Panellists

Mark Groote - Head of the Office of Social Cohesion, Department of Home Affairs
Elfa Moraitakis - CEO of SydWest Multicultural Services
Susan Moylan-Coombs - Director, Gaimaragal Foundation

Aleem Ali - CEO, Welcoming Australia 
Dr Rumbi Mabambe - Executive Director, Chain Reaction Foundation
Eva Hussain - Founder and Director of Relationships & Growth, Polaron Connect
Dr Andre Van Eymeren - Author, Community Builder and Educator
Dr Soheila Lew - Program Manager, Refugee Migrant Children Centre
Ronna Guzman - Social Impact Founder, Community Leader & Advocate

Dr. Penny Taylor - Race Relations Researcher 

Micheal West - Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council 

Shephalie Williams - Director of Public Discourse
Mateen Navidi - Project Coordinator, Fred Murray Community Centre

Carmel Maaelopa - Programme Coordinator, Mt. Druitt

Hari Remala - Community Programme Coordinator 

2026 Presenters
Program
2026 The Program

8:30am - Registration

9:00am - Introduction and Welcome to Country

9:20am - Session 1

10:30am - Morning Tea

11:00am - Artistic Presentation

11:10am - Session 2

12:30pm - Lunch

1:30pm - Artistic Presentation

1:45pm - Session 3

3:00pm - Afternoon Tea

3:30pm - Session 4

5:00pm - Conference Close

*Each session includes 30-45 minutes of small group discussions

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2026 Media
2026 Conference Media
2026 conference videos coming soon. In the meantime,
we invite you to view 2025 conference videos below.
2026 Conference Photos
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