This page has been machine translated for your convenience. Persian has been used, which is readable for Dari and Hazaragi speakers.
While we strive for accuracy, unintentional errors may occur. Please refer to the original English version for official content.
Fazela Abbasi named recipient of the 2025 Greater Shepparton Women’s Charter Award
Posted on
Wednesday 24th of September, 2025,
Greater Shepparton City Council has announced Fazela Abbasi as the winner of the 2025 Greater Shepparton Women’s Charter Award at the Soroptimist International of Shepparton Inc High Tea and Annual Women’s Charter Award Ceremony, held on Sunday 14 September at the Woolshed, Emerald Bank in Shepparton.
The Annual Women’s Award, established in 2013 by the Greater Shepparton Women’s Charter Advisory Committee, recognises women who make a difference in their community, embrace diversity, inspire others, and promote equality through leadership, support or mentorship.
This year’s award attracted 18 nominations, with four women shortlisted: Mellisa Silaga, Seema Abdullah, Debbie McColl and Fazela Abbasi.
Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali, congratulated all nominees and highlighted the outstanding calibre of women recognised.
“The high quality of nominations this year made the panel’s task incredibly difficult. Each nominee has made a significant contribution to Greater Shepparton and deserves our gratitude. It gives me great pleasure to announce Fazela Abbasi as the winner of the 2025 Annual Women’s Award,” he said.
Fazela, a young Afghan woman who has lived in Shepparton for 20 years, was acknowledged for her strong community leadership and tireless volunteerism. She has supported newly arrived families through the Afghani/Hazara Community Centre and her local mosque, worked with Save the Children on the Safer Pathways Project, and facilitated Supported Playgroups at local schools.
As Vice President of the Goulburn Valley Afghan Women’s Association, Fazela has organised women’s gatherings, health and educational workshops, and large multicultural celebrations including Afghan New Year and Eid Festivals. She has also been a visible advocate for migrant women, helping improve service delivery and raising awareness about issues such as mental health and gender-based inequality.
Chair of the Greater Shepparton Women’s Charter Advisory Committee, Councillor Sam Spinks, also praised Fazela’s impact.
“Fazela embodies the spirit of the Women’s Charter Award. She uplifts others through her compassion, advocacy and leadership. Her work ensures that women and girls feel seen, supported and empowered to reach their potential. Fazela is an inspiration to our community,” she said.
Council congratulates Fazela on receiving the 2025 Greater Shepparton Women’s Charter Award and thanks all nominees for their important contributions to the region.
Posted on Wednesday 24th of September, 2025,
Greater Shepparton City Council has announced Fazela Abbasi as the winner of the 2025 Greater Shepparton Women’s Charter Award at the Soroptimist International of Shepparton Inc High Tea and Annual Women’s Charter Award Ceremony, held on Sunday 14 September at the Woolshed, Emerald Bank in Shepparton.
The Annual Women’s Award, established in 2013 by the Greater Shepparton Women’s Charter Advisory Committee, recognises women who make a difference in their community, embrace diversity, inspire others, and promote equality through leadership, support or mentorship.
This year’s award attracted 18 nominations, with four women shortlisted: Mellisa Silaga, Seema Abdullah, Debbie McColl and Fazela Abbasi.
Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali, congratulated all nominees and highlighted the outstanding calibre of women recognised.
“The high quality of nominations this year made the panel’s task incredibly difficult. Each nominee has made a significant contribution to Greater Shepparton and deserves our gratitude. It gives me great pleasure to announce Fazela Abbasi as the winner of the 2025 Annual Women’s Award,” he said.
Fazela, a young Afghan woman who has lived in Shepparton for 20 years, was acknowledged for her strong community leadership and tireless volunteerism. She has supported newly arrived families through the Afghani/Hazara Community Centre and her local mosque, worked with Save the Children on the Safer Pathways Project, and facilitated Supported Playgroups at local schools.
As Vice President of the Goulburn Valley Afghan Women’s Association, Fazela has organised women’s gatherings, health and educational workshops, and large multicultural celebrations including Afghan New Year and Eid Festivals. She has also been a visible advocate for migrant women, helping improve service delivery and raising awareness about issues such as mental health and gender-based inequality.
Chair of the Greater Shepparton Women’s Charter Advisory Committee, Councillor Sam Spinks, also praised Fazela’s impact.
“Fazela embodies the spirit of the Women’s Charter Award. She uplifts others through her compassion, advocacy and leadership. Her work ensures that women and girls feel seen, supported and empowered to reach their potential. Fazela is an inspiration to our community,” she said.
Council congratulates Fazela on receiving the 2025 Greater Shepparton Women’s Charter Award and thanks all nominees for their important contributions to the region.
More News from Greater Shepparton
Wednesday 1st of October,
Nominations now open for the 2026 Australia Day Awards
Greater Shepparton City Council invites individuals, community groups, and organisations to nominate local residents who have made a significant contribution this year, demonstrated outstanding service to the community, or positively impacted Greater… Read more
Tuesday 30th of September,
Greater Shepparton Heritage Advisory Committee achievements noted in Annual Report
The achievements of the Greater Shepparton Heritage Advisory Committee were highlighted in a 2024 Annual Report noted at Greater Shepparton City Council’s September Council Meeting last week. Read more
Monday 29th of September,
Community spirit shines at Tatura’s Dunk and Skate event
Greater Shepparton City Council, alongside local and regional partners, celebrated the completion of the new Tatura Skate Park and Basketball Court with a Dunk & Skate event on Monday 22 September 2025. Read more
Monday 29th of September,
Tatura and district community invited to engage with Police and Council at Tatura Community Meeting
Residents of Tatura, Murchison, Merrigum, and Undera and surrounds are invited to attend a community engagement meeting hosted by Greater Shepparton City Councillor Rod Schubert and local Victoria Police on Tuesday 7 October 2025. Read more
Thursday 25th of September,
Contract awarded for Lenne Street Drainage Upgrade Stage 2
Greater Shepparton City Council awarded the contact for Stage 2 of the Lenne Street Drainage Upgrade at its September Council Meeting on Tuesday, paving the way for the second stage of the stormwater drainage improvements to be undertaken. Read more
Thursday 25th of September,
Bin Collection on Friday 26 September 2025
There will be NO CHANGE in the Kerbside Bin Collection and Nappy and Incontinence Aid Collection Services on the AFL Grand Final Day public holiday on Friday 26 September 2025. Read more
See All News
Want to get the latest news and events in your Facebook feed?
Just go to our Facebook page and click the Like button.
More Events in Greater Shepparton
Saturday 4th of October,
Love Murchison
A family event filled with fun, food, music and community spirit. Read more
Friday 3rd of October,
Yarn Over Yarn Knitters Group at Shepparton Library
All welcome! Read more
Thursday 2nd of October,
School Holiday Activity - Spring Nature Mobiles
Free school holiday activity! Read more
Thursday 2nd of October,
Kids art workshop in Congupna
School holiday artmaking fun comes to Congupna with SAM Camp: On the Road Read more
Thursday 2nd of October,
Victorian Seniors Festival - Libraries After Dark Board Game Fun at Shepparton Library
Free board game fun at Libraries After Dark! Read more
Saturday 4th of October,
CANCELLED: MC Production present Elvis to the Extreme -- The Iconic Career
Step into the world of Elvis Presley and relive the magic of his legendary career in this spectacular live production. Elvis to the Extreme – The Iconic Career takes you on a journey through his greatest… View on Riverlinks
See All Events