In a blessed evening of faith and food, Ginninderry hosted its fourth annual Community Iftar on Sunday.

Run in collaboration with Helping ACT and UnitingCare Kippax, the event was the biggest ever for the Ginninderry community, bringing more than 180 people together at The Link.

An Iftar is the ‘breaking of the fast’ during the Muslim month of Ramadan. This family-friendly event is open to all ages, nationalities and faiths while providing an opportunity for the wider community to learn more about and share in the blessings of Ramadan.

UnitingCare Kippax was thrilled to participate in the event again this year, believing it provides a unique opportunity for those of different faiths to gather and connect in a way that acknowledges both similarities and differences.

“An event like this epitomises that it’s important to focus on what unites us as opposed to what makes us different, so we’re delighted to be involved in this wonderful community event and encourage people of all faiths to come and enjoy an evening of food and connection,” said Aimee Kent Community Relationships Minister, Kippax Uniting Church.

HelpingACT, a charity that provides food security to vulnerable Canberrans – refugees, asylum seekers, homeless people, international students, and anyone else in need – knows all too well what coming together over a meal can mean to the community.

“Ramadan is a month of blessings not only for Muslims but all human beings around the world. Ramadan dinners demonstrate peace and harmony and mutually share the blessing of the holy month. UnitingCare Kippax cohosting the event speaks volumes about accepting and embracing ‘difference’,” said Mohammed Ali, Chair of HelpingACT.

“Such gatherings bring all together and foster a positive relationship between all communities. Together, we can foster more love, peace and harmony,”

Creating a community is about much more than the buildings and Ginninderry’s focus on community sets out to encourage diversity and foster inclusion, with the annual Iftar being one example of bringing this vision to life.

“We look forward to the Iftar event every year, and we’re thrilled to be hosting it for the fourth consecutive year. At Ginninderry, it’s incredibly important to us to foster an inclusive community. What better way to do that than to congregate for an evening of delicious food and a true sense of community”, said Stephen Harding, Ginninderry Project Director.

The event saw friendships blossom and conversation flowing over a scrumptious feast of Turkish and Indian curries, zucchini balls, lentil soup, an assortment of pide, salads, meat dishes and kebabs.

And if you are interested in attending a culturally enriching experience such as this, the good news is Ginninderry, HelpingACT and UnitingCare Kippax will host a second Iftar at UnitingCare Kippax on Saturday 6 April 2024. The event is free but bookings are required at eventbrite.com.au.