By Eleanor Wilson
Narre Warren South’s Oakgrove Community Centre was transformed into a cultural shopping paradise on Friday 14 April, as locals reveled in an annual Eid Exhibition hosted by local business Mannat’s Collection.
Local, female-owned Indian, Pakistani and Afghani businesses selling cultural clothing and jewellery filled the centre, while children played as they lined up patiently for face painting and henna art.
The event, which had attendees entertained from the early afternoon late into the evening, allowed locals the chance to shop for clothing and accessories for the upcoming Islamic Eid festival.
Mannat’s Collection owner Galsum Foladi said she started the exhibition three years ago to empower multicultural, female small business owners.
“I’ve been running my business for four years, I started with a very small box and now I have a big room filled with jewellery and clothes,” she said.
“I’m really happy to support my family, my children,” she said.
Mrs Foladi said setting up Mannat’s Collection four years ago helped her overcome her struggle with anxiety.
“I had very bad anxiety, my daughter said you have to keep yourself busy with something or your anxiety will not get better,” she said.
“Now all my anxiety is gone, I feel fit and more young because I can connect with these women and travelling all around Melbourne
The event was held ahead of Eid celebrations this weekend, which will see Muslims across the world mark the end of a month-long fast, Ramadan.
This year’s Eid celebrations will take place around 21 and 22 April, when families come together to pray, before sharing a meal and celebrating.
