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Australian Ataturk Cultural Centre Inc.
Throughout the year, Australian Ataturk Cultural Centre Inc., also known as Ataturk School, has actively contributed to its mission of providing Turkish language and cultural education to children and fostering multicultural understanding within the Sydney community. Despite the challenges posed by the global COVID19 pandemic, we adapted our programs to continue serving our community effectively. Language and Cultural Education: We provided comprehensive Turkish language and cultural education to primary and high schoolaged children through our Ataturk School. These educational sessions were conducted online for most of the year, ensuring that our students continued to receive highquality education despite the pandemic restrictions. Community Engagement and Multicultural Activities: Our organization traditionally organizes and presents national day festivals, musical performances, dance, and theatre events, which are open to the multicultural footprint of the Sydneywide region. These events celebrate Turkish culture and heritage while promoting multiculturalism and social harmony. Although the pandemic halted inperson events, our commitment to cultural exchange remained steadfast. Participation in Broader Community Events: We actively participate in various cultural events within the Australian community, supporting other cultures and working towards a harmonious and mutually respectful multicultural society. This engagement helps build stronger community ties and fosters understanding among different cultural groups. Monthly Information Seminars: We conducted monthly information seminars covering a variety of topics, ranging from tax updates provided by the Australian Tax Office to health and wellbeing sessions. These seminars were offered in a bilingual format (English and Turkish) and were driven by community feedback, ensuring they addressed relevant and timely issues. Youth Programs: Our youth programs, such as discussions on Ataturk s principles and Turkish folk dancing classes, provided valuable opportunities for young people to engage with their heritage and develop new skills. These programs promoted the universal principles of Ataturk, such as laicism and peace, encouraging youth to reflect on their application in both historical and contemporary contexts. Support for the Elderly: Our women’s group continued their visits to retirement villages, offering companionship and support to elderly community members, particularly those without family. These visits, which included delivering food and presents, helped alleviate loneliness and provided muchneeded social interaction for the elderly. Commemoration and National Celebrations: Despite the limitations imposed by the pandemic, we upheld the spirit of significant national days through online activities and community engagement. These included International Women’s Day, the Commemoration of the Dardanelles Campaign, ANZAC Day, and Republic Day. These events not only honored our herit