International Human Rights Day 2025 On 10th December each year, we observe International Human Rights Day, marking the date the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was adopted in 1948. Human rights can sometimes feel like an abstract, distant idea; something reserved for world leaders and landmark moments, but most of us experience them in far … Continue reading The Threads That Hold Us Together
Welcome Merchant had the privilege of speaking to the founder of One of a Kind Skin, Rawan. A skincare business that started in 2020, derived from all-natural and sustainably sourced ingredients, with a message to treat yourself with kindness. A one-woman business championing natural Australian ingredients, with proceeds going to much-needed charities. Rawan was born … Continue reading Skincare That Gives Back | One of a Kind Skin
On 15 August 2021, the Taliban seized control of Kabul, marking their return to political power and a devastating turning point for the people of Afghanistan. Nearly four years later, the consequences remain profound, within the country and across the world. As of mid-2025, Afghanistan continues to face a humanitarian crisis: more than half the … Continue reading Four Years Under Taliban Rule: What Has Changed for Afghanistan?
Refugee Week in Australia, which ran last month from 15th to 21st June 2025, is a time to celebrate people from refugee backgrounds. This year’s theme, ‘Finding Freedom: Diversity in Community’, reminds us that ordinary acts of kindness can have extraordinary ripple effects. But the work of inclusion doesn’t begin or end with this week. … Continue reading Why Supporting Refugee-Owned Businesses is Year Round Activism
Refugee Week’s theme, “Finding Freedom - Diversity in Community,” feels tailor-made for Afghan-Australian designer and advocate Anjilla Seddeqi, a woman whose story weaves together strength, dignity and creativity in every thread. Anjilla is a lawyer-turned-fashion designer whose journey from refugee child to acclaimed advocate is deeply rooted in her Afghan heritage and a lifelong sense … Continue reading Community, Craft and Courage: Afghan-Australian Designer and Advocate, Anjilla Seddeqi on the Power of Representation
As we celebrate Mother’s Day this weekend in Australia, we’re reflecting not only on the love and strength of mothers and mother figures everywhere, but the generational stories, recipes, and resilience they’ve passed down. This piece is based on questions prepared by fellow blog writer, Nrutya Sangdhore. Arifur Rahman, via Unsplash We spoke with two … Continue reading ‘A Mother to All’: honouring the women who shaped us, this Mother’s Day
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
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
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
Sydney food enthusiasts, we have a treat in store for you on Sunday, August 18th, 2024. Welcome Merchant is hosting a Malaysian pop-up event at Little Lagos in Enmore. The star of the show is Malar Sathasivam, the talented chef behind Sangee's Kitchen. This event promises to bring authentic Malaysian street food flavours to the … Continue reading Authentic Malaysian Cuisine at Little Lagos Pop-Up Event
