By LACHLAN MOORHEAD
BERWICK-BASED president of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Association (AMA) of Victoria played a key role in advocating the Ahmadiyya community’s internationally renowned gathering in Sydney last month.
A number of members from the Ahmadiyya Muslim Association (AMA) of Victoria travelled to Sydney to attend the 30th annual Jalsa Salana (annual gathering) convention from 18 to 20 April, that coincided with the 125th anniversary of the worldwide Ahmadiyya Muslim Community.
More than 2000 people from 12 countries participated in the three-day convention, with more than 100 Victorian families attending.
Jalsa Salana is a century-long tradition in the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community that was first practised in 1891.
The annual conventions are held throughout the world by Ahmadiyya Muslims to promote peace and tolerance and to educate community members.
President of AMA Victoria Javed Safdar Choudhary from Berwick was given the honour of raising the Australian flag to open the convention.
“The main objective of the Jalsa Salana of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community is to spiritually recharge the members of the community,” Mr Choudhary said.
“This year’s community leaders and scholars delivered speeches on various topics including Ahmadiyya mosques in Australia, the need and importance of a mosque in society, and what it means to be an Ahmadi Muslim.
“The convention attracted many MPs and faith leaders who spoke about the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community’s efforts for interfaith harmony and efforts to establish peace in the Australian society.”
Mr Choudhary said the annual convention acted as an excellent networking opportunity for the Ahmadiyya community.
“We have doctors, engineers, lawyers, IT professionals and many successful businessmen who attend the convention from all over the country and many new members can get in touch with them and seek professional advice,” he said.
“I personally know many members who start their jobs just after the convention as they meet other community members.
“It’s a very helpful platform for all members.
