Viqarunnisa Alumni Australia, known as VAAUS, has brought together more than 1,100 participants, including 400 former Viqarunnisa students from Australia and Bangladesh, to launch the ‘Change the Story’ campaign aimed at promoting women’s safety and equality, said a press release.
The VAAUS Grand Reunion 2025, presented by AIS Marine Investments, took place on November 9 at Lantana Venues in Sydney.
VAAUS President Suranjana Jennifer Rahman said the initiative focuses on turning collective compassion into long-term action.
“This initiative is a reflection of our shared purpose, to turn compassion into action,” she said.
NSW Parliament Member Tri Vo attended the programme, representing New South Wales Premier Chris Minns.
The reunion also featured a silent art auction highlighting works by Ekushey Padak-winning artist Rokeya Sultana, live performances by musicians Pritom Hasan and Protic Hasan and cultural presentations by VAAUS members.
Funds raised will support community organisations ALO Enlightened Women based in Canberra and Cultural
Diversity Network Inc in Sydney, both working with migrant women and vulnerable communities.
The group also launched a nationwide mentorship programme for new Viqarunnisa graduates in Australia and has already raised $20,000 for 2026 community initiatives.
Over seven years, VAAUS has evolved into a registered charitable organisation under the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission and has contributed over $42,000 to projects supporting disaster recovery, children’s health and women’s welfare across six Australian states.
AIS Marine Investments served as the title sponsor for the reunion, reaffirming its role in supporting community development and social impact initiatives, the release added.
