Book Saturday workshops

Book Sunday workshops

Saturday Program

• Talks

  Radical Justice

  9:30 to 10:30AM | LONG ROOM | INCLUDED WITH FESTIVAL PASS
  Hear from the perspectives of powerhouse women, who advocate for multidisciplinary forms of justice, about how radical ideas are necessary to mobilise communities.

  Speakers: Dr Randa Abdel-Fattah, Amran Hassan-Ali, Dr. Bushra Othman and Nesreen Bottriell
  Host: Tasneem Chopra OAM

  On Bla(c)k Storytelling: Forging Authentic Stories

  10:30 to 11:30AM | LONG ROOM | INCLUDED WITH FESTIVAL PASS
  Unpack the importance of resistance and representation through art, and the necessity of centralising communities in their own narratives. Explore how the ancient art of storytelling, deeply rooted in Black culture, is essential in forging authentic representations of Bla(c)k voices.

  Speakers: Miski Omar, Shemsiya Waritu and Samira Farah
  Host: Safiah Rind

  Shattering the Silence

  11:30am to 12:30PM | LONG ROOM | INCLUDED WITH FESTIVAL PASS
  How can survivors of gendered abuse be expected to fight Islamophobic stereotypes while also challenging the patriarchy in their own communities? Drawing from their myriad of experiences, panellists unpack how the weaponisation of religion, and domestic violence, disproportionately affect Muslim women, and the importance of ensuring that religious institutions enable faith as a protective factor.

  Speakers: Amani Haydar, Hana Assafiri, Dr. Naba Alfayadh and Samia Baho OAM
  Host: Tasneem Chopra OAM

  The (In)Visible Advocate: Senator Fatima Payman x Soaliha Iqbal in Conversation

  1:30 to 2:30PM | LONG ROOM | INCLUDED WITH FESTIVAL PASS
  Corporations want visibly Muslim women to be at the centre of their diversity campaigns, but these women are the first to get cut if they act in accordance with their beliefs. Don’t miss this riveting and robust conversation that brings to the forefront how Muslim women are churned in and out of the political machine.

  Speakers: Senator Fatima Payman and Soaliha Iqbal

  Beyond the Pyre: Shame and Success in the Age of Influence

  2:30 to 3:30PM | LONG ROOM | INCLUDED WITH FESTIVAL PASS
  In this fiery discourse, panellists confront the witch-hunting of Muslim women who are often held to unattainable expectations, facing death threats and shaming for daring to be visible and successful online. Hear firsthand the responsibilities and burdens placed on Muslim women of influence, and the complexities of shame and fame within the context of oppressive double standards.

  Speakers: Nawal Sari, Salsa Aldabel, Basra Ajeh and Kauthar Abdulalim
  Host: Zulfiye Tufa

  Radical Representation

  4 to 5PM | LONG ROOM | INCLUDED WITH FESTIVAL PASS
  Meet trailblazers who have ushered in a new era, including the first hijabi Australian Muslim woman to represent at the Olympics and in the Senate. Hear from panellists about their unchartered journeys, and the joys and challenges they’ve encountered along the way.

  Speakers: Tina Rahimi, Inty Elham, Senator Fatima Payman, Tasnim Hossain and Samira Farah
  Host: Sowaibah Hanifie

• Learning sessions

  All About (Sexual) Consent

  10:30 to 11.30AM | THEATRETTE | INCLUDED WITH FESTIVAL PASS
  Explore this widely debated topic through a contemporary lens rooted in Islamic values. Facilitator Toltu Tufa provides you a safe space to dispel myths, challenge taboos and deepen your understanding of the spiritual and emotional aspects of intimacy.

  Ask A Big Sis

  11:30AM to 12:30PM | THEATRETTE | INCLUDED WITH FESTIVAL PASS
  Ask young leaders your deepest questions at this open Q&A featuring Olympian Tina Rahimi, reporters Amal Wehbe and Sowaibah Hanifie, journalist Soaliha Iqbal and fashion creative Nawal Sari. Facilitated by Sarah Baarini, you can participate openly or anonymously, and learn direct-from-source the challenges young Muslim women face in the spotlight.

  Parenting in Practice

  2:30 to 3:30PM | THEATRETTE | INCLUDED WITH FESTIVAL PASS
  An empowering and intimate chat with psychologists, Dr. Selma Music and Toltu Tufa, where parents can delve into the unconscious biases that impact our styles and approaches to parenting.

• Wellness & art sessions

  Morning Run and Yoga

  8 to 9AM | OUTDOOR | FREE ADD-ON
  Kickstart your day with an invigorating run, followed by a restorative yoga session in a supportive setting, facilitated by Her Run.

  Paint ‘N’ Sip

  9:30AM, 12:30PM & 3:30PM | COURTYARD/OUTDOOR | $40 ADD-ON
  Unleash your creativity while enjoying a complimentary mocktail. Facilitated by Aysha Tufa, this is the perfect opportunity to connect, create, and make lasting memories between sisters! (2 hours per session).

  Islamic Calligraphy for Kids

  9:30 to 11AM | EDUCATION CENTRE | $20 ADD-ON
  Discover the beauty of this ancient art form. Facilitator Ayesha Shaf teaches you the intricacies of calligraphy, and its rich history, in this mindful and tranquil experience. Ages 8+.

  Healing Circle

  11:30AM to 1:30PM | EDUCATION CENTRE | FREE ADD-ON
  Facilitated by Malakeh Mourad and Ayse Han from Fitrah Counselling, this women’s circle offers a sacred space for storytelling, focusing on personal and ancestral narratives of homelands. Participants are encouraged bring an item that represents “home”, and a journal for self-reflection.

  Jars of Self Preservation

  1:30 to 2:30PM | EDUCATION CENTRE | FREE ADD-ON
  Curate a jar of inspirational quotes to dip into when feeling overwhelmed and alone, alongside facilitator Dr Randa Abdel-Fattah. A selection of quotes from First Nations and Muslim thinkers, poets and artists will be provided, but participants are invited to bring their favourite literary sayings as well.

  Oud and Perfumery

  1:30 to 3PM | COURTYARD | $30 ADD-ON
  Learn the science of scent and develop a signature perfume to take home. Run by Aquil Ouds founder and owner, Kareema Toutounji, embark on a journey to discover your personal scent.

  Poetry Workshop

  2:30 to 3:30PM | EDUCATION CENTRE | FREE ADD-ON
  Want to find your power and strength on the stage? Facilitated by Bankstown Poetry Slam, this introductory workshop is the perfect springboard into the poetry slam world.

  Taekwondo

  2:30 to 3:30PM | COURTYARD/OUTDOOR | FREE ADD-ON
  Get back to basics in this beginner’s class for all skill levels! FITNAS Studio teaches fundamental drills to build a strong foundation in this martial art. Expect light exercises that enhance your flexibility and strength. Ages 12+.

Sunday Program

• Talks

  Q&A with Yassmin Abdel-Magied (appearing via Zoom)

  9:30 to 10:30AM| LONG ROOM | INCLUDED WITH FESTIVAL PASS
  Learn from the incredible perspective of, Yassmin Abdel-Magied, a Sudanese diaspora writer, broadcaster and award-winning social advocate. A former engineer, and author of five books, her writing has appeared in TIME, the New York Times and Vogue. Bring your biggest questions as Yassmin zooms live from the UK, in this enlightening session facilitated by Dandenong’s Young Leader of the Year, Danya Daoud.

  Not Your Business

  10:30 to 11:30AM | LONG ROOM | INCLUDED WITH FESTIVAL PASS
  Deep-dive into how we do business – whether it’s innovating technology, the business of raising children, building wealth and sustainability, or even side hustles. Explore how Muslim women in business can apply Islamic practices within capitalist systems in ways that enable their financial autonomy.

  Speakers: Priyanka Ashraf, Asia Hassan, Eman Serhan and Dr. Lubna Alam
  Host: Mariam Mohammed

  On the Medical Frontlines

  11:30AM to 12:30PM | LONG ROOM | INCLUDED WITH FESTIVAL PASS
  From being on the front lines during a genocide, to advocating against racism and developing health resources for migrant communities – these doctors share compelling stories of strength that extend beyond a duty of care, and into pure compassion.

  Speakers: Dr. Naba Alfayadh, Dr. Umber Rind, Dr. Amireh Fakhouri and Dr. Bushra Othman
  Host: Dr. Mariam Tokhi

  Radical Realisations

  1:30 to 2.30PM | LONG ROOM | INCLUDED WITH FESTIVAL PASS
  Whether it is praying publicly in a park, or explaining Eid to your boss, this enlightening dialogue delves into the transformative power of Islam and how it can empower us to unapologetically embrace our beliefs. Proud Muslim women candidly discuss their un-romanticised journeys with faith and finding a sense of purpose and direction.

  Speakers: Meg Sowersby, Ruhee Meghani and Angelica Hazel Toutounji
  Host: Dr. Eugenia Flynn

  The Cost of Free Speech: Senator Mehreen Faruqi x Sara Saleh in Conversation

  2:30 to 3.30PM | LONG ROOM | INCLUDED WITH FESTIVAL PASS
  Muslim Women of Colour routinely pay the price for speaking their community’s truths. From online and workplace bullying to demeaning media headlines, Senator Mehreen Faruqi and Sara Saleh unpack their experiences, and the important lessons they have taken away from the past year.

  Speakers: Senator Mehreen Faruqi and Sara Saleh

  The Write Side of History

  4 to 5PM | LONG ROOM | INCLUDED WITH FESTIVAL PASS
  A thought-provoking discussion delving into the ways language is wielded to dehumanise marginalised communities. From media narratives that perpetuate stereotypes, to the words used to describe the systematic murder of Brown and Black bodies, this panel dissects the subtle yet powerful ways in which language shapes perception.

  Speakers: Dr. Susan Carland, Dr. Nora Amath, Samah Sabawi and Lamisse Hamouda
  Host: Haneen Mahmood Martin

• Learning sessions

  Just Delusional: Live Podcast Recording

  9:30 to 10:30AM | THEATRETTE | INCLUDED WITH FESTIVAL PASS
  A fashion and beauty influencer, Nawal Sari uses her podcasting platform to not only express personal style, but to further humanitarian conversations and causes. Join Nawal as she talks about her journey through social media, navigating her 20’s, things she is loving and hating, and the occasional bit of useful advice.

  Radical Unity

  10:30 to 11:30AM | THEATRETTE | INCLUDED WITH FESTIVAL PASS
  A candid discussion between Naz Sharifi, Hajjeh Maha Abdo OAM and Ramila Chanisheff confronting the issue of sectarianism within the Muslim community. Facilitated by Hawraa Kash, uncover how internal divisions hinder our abilities to unite and advocate for common goals, and learn strategies to overcome divides and foster solidarity.

  Struggling with Sisterhood: Connection in the Digital Age

  11.30AM to 12:30PM | THEATRETTE | INCLUDED WITH FESTIVAL PASS
  Navigating sisterhood is not an easy task in a world bombarding us with messages of hyper-individuality. Speakers Zebunissa Khan, Rana Hussain, Adriana Rizwan, Haneen Mahmood Martin, and host Eman Mourad, shed light on the challenges we face balancing self-care with the need to sustain real connections with our sisters.

  Advocacy in Action (for teens aged 16+)

  2:30 to 3:30PM | THEATRETTE | INCLUDED WITH FESTIVAL PASS
  A transformative workshop to empower young women, led by Naz Sharifi – a proud Hazara woman, the first Muslim female President of Sydney University Law School, and Board Director at USYD Union. Drawing from her extensive experience, Naz guides you through essential skills in leadership and public speaking – ignite your advocacy journey and claim your seat at the decision-making table!

• Wellness & art sessions

  Pop Up Breakfast: Sunday Kitchen

  8 to 9AM | KITCHEN | $15 ADD-ON
  Join food creative, Karima Hazim, for a special Sunday breakfast preparation of traditional Lebanese food. Enjoy warm zaatar man’oush and learn the importance of preserving culture through family recipes.

  Paint ‘N’ Sip for Kids

  9:30 & 11:30AM | COURTYARD | $20 ADD-ON
  A fun-filled art session designed just for kids! Facilitated by Sumaya Asvat, young artists learn to express themselves through painting, while making new friends and sipping delicious juices. Ages 8+. (1.5 hours per session)

  Henna Workshop

  9:30 to 10:30AM | TRIBUTE GARDEN | $15 ADD-ON
  Henna is an ancient and captivating body-art where each design tells a story. Guided by expert artist, Mona, you’ll learn to create intricate motifs and leave with stunning artwork to showcase on yourself.

  Destigmatising Divorce

  9:30 to 10:30AM | EDUCATION CENTRE | FREE ADD-ON
  A supportive session highlighting key qualities to seek in a partner, and relationship red flags. Facilitated by lawyer Lamia Daher, learn when to consult a counsellor, insights into the divorce process and engage in an open Q&A about how to navigate relationships and the legal landscape.

  Tezhip Workshop

  10:30AM to 12:30PM | TRIBUTE GARDEN | $30 ADD-ON
  Tezhip is the traditional Islamic art of illumination. Meyem Aker of the Aker Arts Academy teaches the history of this unique and delicate artform, in a hands-on session where you’ll create your own vibrant masterpiece.

  Halaqa

  11:30AM to 12:30PM | EDUCATION CENTRE | FREE ADD-ON
  Palestinian poet and community organiser, Sanabel Ramahi, creates a safe space to explore concepts of connection and sisterhood. Drawing from topics like religion and the role of decolonisation in everyday life, this session is supported by a range of exploratory activities perfect for teens.

  Islamic Crafternoon for Kids

  1:30 to 3PM | COURTYARD | $20 ADD-ON
  This hands-on workshop encourages creativity and sparks imagination in young artists through fun and engaging projects. Facilitator Sumaya Asvat helps children experiment with painting, collage and other colourful and memorable DIY crafts. Ages 8+. 

  Making Bank

  1:30 to 2:30PM | EDUCATION CENTRE | FREE ADD-ON
  A financial literacy workshop facilitated by financial expert and New South Wales’ Young Woman of the Year Finalist, Mariam Mohammed.

  Healing Through Health: The Amannah of our Bodies

  2:30 to 3:30PM | EDUCATION CENTRE | FREE ADD-ON
  Tackling topics of fertility, health care, ill-health and body positivity, learn how to be gentle with yourself and heal from the inside out, with facilitator Angelica Lindsey-Hazel.

Accessibility

Please view our accessibility page for general information. Contact our team on 13 11 02 or email us at [email protected] to discuss how we can support your visit.

Partners

Muslim Agenda is presented in collaboration with Immigration Museum and Arts House and supported by AusRelief as the charity partner.