Unity Grammar’s Third Annual Multifaith Iftar

Unity Grammar, an Islamic school in Sydney, welcomed more than 120 guests from schools, community organisations and civic groups to its third annual Multifaith Iftar on Tuesday 24 February, marking the largest gathering since the event began.

Now in its third year, the Multifaith Iftar continues to grow, welcoming more schools and community partners than ever before and reflecting the strong relationships being built across our region. Guests from partner organisations reflected on the significance of the evening, with Paul Dennett from the Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research noting that “Events like these are powerful in building understanding and connection across communities, and Unity definitely lived up to its name in bringing together such a diverse group of guests over amazing food and fascinating conversation.”

The evening brought together faith leaders, educators, community organisations and civic representatives in a shared spirit of respect and understanding. As the sun set, Unity Grammar’s Faith Prefects opened the program with a Qur’an recitation, setting a reflective tone for the night.

Executive Principal Sam Halbouni spoke about the importance of creating spaces where different faith communities can come together with openness and mutual respect. Reflecting on the purpose of gatherings such as this, he shared that “A multifaith iftar brings people of different faith and ethnicity together… to break down barriers and preconceived assumptions about one another in an organic way.”

Unity Grammar’s Head of Islamic Faith, Ustadh Ali Assaad, also spoke about the meaning of Ramadan and the values of gratitude and reflection that guide Muslims throughout the fasting month, reminding guests that the spirit of Ramadan encourages both personal reflection and a deeper sense of community.

The Adhan (call to prayer) marked the breaking of the fast, with guests sharing the moment together. For many attending, the evening provided an opportunity not only to experience the traditions of Ramadan but also to connect across faiths and cultures. As Kimberley Logue from St Francis Catholic College reflected, “Multi-faith Iftar is a wonderful opportunity to come together, share a meal and learn from one another. More than simply breaking the fast, it was an opportunity to gather with people of different faiths in a spirit of respect, friendship, and openness.”

Unity Grammar was proud to host representatives from neighbouring schools including St Francis Catholic College, St Benedict’s Catholic College, Bellfield College, Australian International Academy, Amity College, Malek Fahd Islamic School and Minarah College.

Members of the broader community were also in attendance, including representatives from the State Emergency Service (SES), Casula Rural Fire Service (RFS), Charishma Kaliyanda (State Member for Liverpool), Nathan Hagarty (State Member for Leppington), Richard Ammoun (Liverpool Councillor), Western Sydney Airport, the Ingham Institute, Catholic Mission and Human Appeal Australia.

Reflecting on the importance of events that bring communities together, Charishma Kaliyanda, Member for Liverpool, shared: “Events like these are fundamental to building the bridges that connect all of us, regardless of faith or cultural background. It has never been more important to foster cultural understanding, and I look forward to seeing Unity Grammar do just that for the years to come. Ramadan Mubarak!”

Nathan Hagarty, Member for Leppington, also acknowledged the significance of the gathering, sharing that “I commend Unity Grammar for organising this year’s Multifaith Iftar and for bringing together schools and community members from many faith traditions. In times such as these, events that foster understanding, respect and connection between people of different backgrounds are more important than ever. Sharing this moment during Ramadan reminds us of the strength of our multicultural community and the value of coming together.”

Community service organisations also highlighted the importance of building relationships with the communities they serve. Nicole Torta from the Casula Rural Fire Service said “Being involved gives us the chance to connect with the community in a meaningful way, make a positive difference, and experience something new and enriching each time. Multifaith collaboration plays an essential role in building trust, fostering respect, and ensuring that everyone feels supported especially in times of need.”

Events such as the Multifaith Iftar reflect Unity Grammar’s commitment to fostering dialogue, connection and shared understanding. As a school committed to developing learners who are true global citizens, the event provides learners with the opportunity to witness firsthand the strength that comes from respectful engagement across faiths.

Unity Grammar extends its gratitude to all guests who joined and contributed to an evening defined by warmth, conversation and community.