Downunder 🇦🇺

01/12/18 04:37

April 2016: A Mission to Australia for Tahir’s Safety

In April 2016, I travelled to Australia for a deeply personal and meaningful purpose: to explore the possibility of relocating Tahir, whose vulnerable situation in Thailand required urgent attention (as mentioned in earlier posts in this thread). This journey was both emotional and action-packed, as I worked to seek options for his safety and future.

The Mission: Advocacy and Support

During the visit, I was fortunate to be assisted by Lucy, a wonderful friend I had met years earlier in Addis Ababa. Lucy’s guidance and connections were invaluable as we met with human rights organisations and members of the Ahmadiyya diaspora in Australia. These conversations revolved around finding safe options for Tahir and learning how the diaspora community could provide support to individuals like him, who had faced persecution for their faith. The discussions were thought-provoking, inspiring, and shed light on the complexities of navigating such challenges.

Exploring Brisbane and Sydney

Although the trip was focused on advocacy, I managed to squeeze in some time for sightseeing. In Brisbane, I enjoyed the laid-back charm of this sunny city, with its riverfront promenades, vibrant cultural scene, and sprawling parks. Walking along the Brisbane River, exploring the South Bank Parklands, and experiencing the friendly, welcoming vibe of the city was refreshing.

Sydney offered a different energy altogether. I visited iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge, soaking in the city’s stunning harbour views. Strolling through The Rocks, Sydney’s historic district, and exploring Darling Harbour were highlights, as was taking a ferry ride to Manly Beach. Sydney’s blend of modernity and natural beauty was captivating.

Chance Meetings with Friends

By coincidence, the trip also turned into a reunion of sorts. In Sydney, I met with Monika, my Polish friend, and her husband Robert, who were visiting the city. We spent a delightful day catching up and exploring together. To add to the serendipity, I also reconnected with Penny, my dear friend from the Whitsundays, who had hosted me during my first-ever trip to Australia years ago. Sharing time with these friends made the trip even more special and memorable.

A Journey of Hope

The visit to Australia was a mix of emotions—hope, determination, and gratitude. While we didn’t have immediate answers for Tahir’s relocation at the time, the connections we made and the insights gained were invaluable. The kindness of friends like Lucy and the members of the Ahmadiyya community, as well as the support from Monika, Robert, and Penny, reminded me of the power of friendship and solidarity in navigating life’s challenges.

This journey, though brief, left a lasting impression on me and marked an important step in the ongoing efforts to secure a safe and stable future for Tahir.

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Downunder 🇦🇺