VAAUS unites to champion “Change the Story” initiative across Australia

Viqarunnisa Alumni Australia (VAAUS) successfully hosted the VAAUS Grand Reunion 2025, presented by AIS Marine Investments, on 9 November 2025 at Lantana Venues in Sydney. The event welcomed around 1,100 guests, including nearly 400 former Viqarunnisa students who travelled from across Australia and Bangladesh.

This year's reunion marked the official launch of "CHANGE THE STORY", a community-driven initiative promoting respect, equality, and a safer future for women. The evening featured a silent art auction displaying works by acclaimed Bangladeshi visual artist Professor Rokeya Sultana, recipient of the Ekushey Padak 2025, Bangladesh's second-highest civilian award.

Adding to the event's significance, Mr. Tri Vo, MP for Cabramatta, attended on behalf of Hon. Chris Minns, Premier of New South Wales. Guests were treated to a high-energy live performance by Bangladeshi stars Pritom Hasan and Protic Hasan, alongside cultural showcases and activities by VAAUS members.

"For eight years, VAAUS has supported communities across Australia, and tonight they're raising funds to protect women and children — an incredibly important cause. I encourage everyone to give generously and enjoy this wonderful evening," said Hon. Chris Minns, Premier of New South Wales.

The "CHANGE THE STORY" campaign focuses on ending domestic and gender-based violence by encouraging empathy, open dialogue, and community engagement. Funds raised will support two women's empowerment organisations: ALO Enlightened Women (Canberra) and Cultural Diversity Network Inc. (Sydney), both dedicated to helping women from diverse and migrant backgrounds.

VAAUS also launched an Australia-wide Mentorship Program for new Viqarunnisa graduates, and announced that $20,000 has already been raised to support its 2026 initiatives promoting safer and more inclusive communities.

"This initiative reflects our shared purpose — to turn compassion into action," said Dr. Suranjana Jennifer Rahman, President of VAAUS. "Our vision is a future where every woman feels supported, every voice is heard, and every act of kindness leads to lasting change."

Over the past seven years, VAAUS has expanded from a small alumni circle into a registered charitable organisation under the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC), with Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) status. During this time, the organisation has donated more than $42,000 to partner organisations across six Australian states, supporting disaster relief, children's health, and women's wellbeing.

AIS Marine Investments served as the Title Sponsor of the VAAUS Grand Reunion 2025, highlighting shared values of community development and sustainable growth. As a leading private investment company with a diverse portfolio across government, offshore, and infrastructure sectors, AIS Marine Investments reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives that inspire unity and social progress.

Through every shared story and act of generosity, VAAUS continues to demonstrate that true education extends beyond the classroom—thriving through service, sisterhood, and a commitment to meaningful change.