New immigrant not-for-profit Ashvora set to host Albany Utsav, first indoor Diwali festival in Albany

A new not-for-profit helping migrants settle into WA is to host its first event in Albany this month supporting “hope, empowerment and inclusion”.

Ashvora will host Albany’s first indoor Diwali event, Albany Utsav — Festival Under the Stars, at Manley Hall on October 25.

The event is a traditional Indian ceremony where guests can enjoy a three-course meal, Bollywood dances, Indian classical and folk performances, art displays, a fashion showcase and live music.

The new organisation is run by Southern Aboriginal Corporation chief executive Asha Bhat, who said she wanted to provide a voice and safe space to the often disenfranchised immigrant community.

“As a migrant myself, I know what it is like to face isolation, barriers and silence in regional communities,” she said.

“There is an unmet demand here (as) migrants contribute so much, yet too often they have no voice.

“Our vision is to empower migrants holistically, to help them integrate, and to show that regional towns thrive when everyone is included.

“It is the first indoor Diwali event in Albany, a celebration where communities come together, where migrants are honoured, and where hope is turned into action,” she said.

Ashvora member Sri Mallela said Albany Utsav is more than just a festival.

“It is a demonstration of what happens when culture, community and opportunity are nurtured together,” he said.

“It proves that regional towns can be inclusive, resilient and vibrant when we celebrate all who call them home.”

Tickets for the event are available on Humanitix.