Writing Amid the Rubble: Life and Loss in Gaza By Maria Lammerding “The war destroyed all the dreams,” Amer says, simply. Photo by Mohammed Ibrahim There are conversations that make you acutely aware of your own circumstances. Speaking with Ruwaida Amer was one of them. As I sat in Melbourne, surrounded by routine and relative certainty, … Continue reading Writing Amid the Rubble: Life and Loss in Gaza
Category: Refugees
IN CONVERSATION: With Rasha Abbas from the PARA Foundation
Written by Daisy Henry for Welcome Merchant PARA is led by Australian Palestinians and is dedicated to supporting Palestinian migrants and refugees in Australia. Their mission is to amplify Palestinian voices and provide comprehensive support for resettlement. Rasha Abbas is the Founder and Executive Director of PARA, with extensive leadership experience in community services, dedicated … Continue reading IN CONVERSATION: With Rasha Abbas from the PARA Foundation
Mahshid Babzartabi: A Journey of Resilience, Food, and Storytelling
The name Mahshid Babzartabi is synonymous with Iranian cuisine. Through her various culinary ventures, including her first book, she’s already introduced us to the rich history and flavours of Persian cooking. However, Mahshid’s latest release, Stop, Next Chapter, takes an autobiographical turn, inviting her readers into a deeply personal narrative: her own extraordinary journey. The … Continue reading Mahshid Babzartabi: A Journey of Resilience, Food, and Storytelling
Understanding Internally Displaced People (IDPs)
Defined by the United Nations, internally displaced people are “persons or groups of persons who have been forced or obliged to flee or to leave their homes… and who have not crossed an internationally recognised state border.” IDPs remain in their own country, and thus unfortunately do not receive the same access to rights, protections … Continue reading Understanding Internally Displaced People (IDPs)
Defining ‘Refugee’: The Refugee Convention
At Welcome Merchant, refugees and people seeking asylum are at the heart of everything that we do. But to accurately support these people, it’s critical to have a clear understanding of the refugee rights and protections: who qualifies as ‘refugee’ and how do they reach that status? Photo by Folco Masi, via Unsplash In 1951, … Continue reading Defining ‘Refugee’: The Refugee Convention
Meaningful Gifts That Give Back This Christmas
The countdown to Christmas is on and if you’re still searching for meaningful gifts, Welcome Merchant has you covered. Our curated gift guides are filled with options that will not only been cherished by your friends and family, but also support refugees and people seeking asylum. With something for everyone, from the avid readers to … Continue reading Meaningful Gifts That Give Back This Christmas
The Perfect Presents for Your Loved Ones
Once again it is that time of the year to start gift shopping for your friends and family. The festive season comes around far too quickly. This is the time to spoil the ones you love and admire with a gift they will cherish. The small businesses featured have a passion for the products and … Continue reading The Perfect Presents for Your Loved Ones
Historic Open Letter Demands Permanent Visas for Refugees After 100 Days of Protests
After an unprecedented 100 days of national protests led by refugees themselves, a historic open letter signed by 75 prominent organisations has urged the Albanese Government to provide a clear pathway to permanent visas for the approximately 8,400 people failed by the now-defunct Fast Track refugee assessment system. The open letter, addressed to Prime Minister … Continue reading Historic Open Letter Demands Permanent Visas for Refugees After 100 Days of Protests
Finding The Confidence To Start Your Own Business In Australia
Starting your own business in a new country is an exciting opportunity, but it can also feel overwhelming. Whether you're just starting out with a brand new idea or looking to grow your existing business, confidence is a key ingredient to success. Fortunately, there are plenty of resources and support systems available to help you … Continue reading Finding The Confidence To Start Your Own Business In Australia
Sudan in Crisis
A humanitarian crisis of unprecedented scale has been unfolding in Sudan. Since April 2023, violent clashes between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have displaced over 10.2 million people, exacerbating existing issues of conflict, disease outbreaks, economic instability and climate related natural disasters. The numbers are staggering. Half of … Continue reading Sudan in Crisis