Greater Cumberland Chamber of Commerce

11/08/2026

It was a pleasure to attend the event with Olufemi Pedro at The Ponds Community Hub.

A big thank you to Ola Fareo, President of the Nigerian Association, for the kind invitation and warm welcome.

It was inspiring to see the High Commissioner actively promoting international business, stronger connections and new opportunities between communities and countries.

It was also fantastic to meet the President of the Nigerian Chamber of Commerce, who travelled all the way from Nigeria to attend the event.

A wonderful evening of networking, meaningful conversations and building stronger international business relationships. 🇳🇬🇦🇺

16/07/2026

The very first fringe event hosted by the South Asian Advisory Forum was held on 4 July as part of the NSW Labor State Conference.

The discussion highlighted the Labor Party’s commitment to better understanding the needs of South Asian communities and developing policies that help these communities thrive.

The panel featured Charishma Kaliyanda MP (Liverpool), Ash Ambihaipahar MP (Federal Member), and Warren Kirby MP (Riverstone). Also in attendance were Zhi Soon MP (East Hills), Anthony D’Adam MLC, Donna Davis MP (Parramatta), and several local councillors.

It was wonderful to see a full house, with many attendees standing due to the high level of interest. The strong turnout reflects the importance of continuing meaningful conversations and strengthening engagement with our diverse communities.

We look forward to seeing this event become a regular feature at future NSW Labor State Conferences.

15/07/2026

It was an honour to attend the NSW Labor State Conference at Sydney Town Hall as a delegate.

The conference brought together around 800 delegates from across New South Wales to discuss key issues that will help shape the future of our state.

One of the major announcements came from Premier Chris Minns, who reaffirmed the NSW Government’s commitment to bringing train manufacturing back to the Hunter with a $12 billion investment over the next 15 years. This initiative will create local jobs, apprenticeships and strengthen Australian manufacturing.

Delegates also debated important issues including gambling reform, community protections and protest laws, reflecting the value of open discussion and democratic decision-making.

It was a privilege to be part of these conversations and to contribute to the policymaking process. Thank you to everyone involved in organising such an important conference.

02/07/2026

Part 4 of our Cross-Cultural Workshop Series, held on 29 June at the Granville Centre, was another successful and engaging session.

The workshop, led by Sharmily, CEO of LEAD, brought together a highly engaged audience and sparked thoughtful discussions on the opportunities and challenges of leading in a cross-cultural environment.

Participants explored the complexities of working with teams made up of people from diverse cultural backgrounds and gained practical insights into effective communication, inclusive leadership, and building stronger multicultural workplaces.

Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to such meaningful conversations. We look forward to continuing this important series.

09/06/2026

On 1 June, representatives from the Greater Cumberland Chamber of Commerce had the privilege of hosting a distinguished delegation from China National Gold Group Corporation at the Holroyd Centre.

China National Gold Group is China’s largest gold mining company and the only centrally administered state-owned enterprise dedicated exclusively to the gold industry. The Group plays a significant role in the global mining sector through its involvement in geological exploration, mining, refining, engineering, research, and international resource development.

Among the 15 delegates were:

• Mr Yin Changbo – President, China National Gold Group Co., Ltd.
• Mr Cui Yang – General Manager, Strategic Management Department & Policy Research Office, China National Gold Group Co., Ltd.
• Mr Lu Shudong – General Manager, Mineral Resources Department & International Cooperation Department, China National Gold Group Co., Ltd.

It was fascinating to learn that China is the world’s largest gold producer, followed by Australia, while India remains the world’s largest consumer of gold.

Following the meeting, our Chamber facilitated a visit to Malabar Gold & Diamonds in Harris Park, one of India’s largest jewellery retailers, with an annual turnover exceeding AUD 12 billion.

The delegation expressed strong interest in exploring opportunities in Australia, including the establishment of retail operations and potential acquisitions within the Australian gold sector.

Local representatives attending the meeting included:

• Dr Diane Coleman – Councillor, Cumberland City Council
• Susai Benjamin – Councillor, Blacktown City Council
• Immanuel Selvaraj – President, Greater Cumberland Chamber of Commerce and Councillor, The Hills Shire Council
• Irfan Malik – Former President of AIBC and Director, Malabar Gold & Diamonds

The meeting highlighted the importance of strengthening international relationships, fostering investment opportunities, and creating meaningful partnerships that can contribute to economic growth and multicultural business collaboration in Australia.

30/05/2026

Around 600 guests gathered at the 4th Oz Arab Media Gala held on 22nd May 2026 in Belmore — a wonderful celebration of multicultural leadership, business excellence, and community connection.

A special highlight of the evening was the official launch of AIM TV, a new platform dedicated to giving multicultural communities a voice and a channel to share their stories and experiences.

The Gala featured an esteemed panel of 5 judges:
• Sofia Sarkis
• Nissy Mattar
• Immanuel Selvaraj
• Carol Ferrone
• Mohamed Hage

Congratulations to all finalists and winners:

🏆 Business – Knox and Floyd
🏆 Entrepreneur – John Azzi
🏆 Not for Profit – Little Wings

Congratulations also to Scott Dickson, General Manager of Bankstown RSL, who received the AIM Hero Award.

The evening was attended by many distinguished guests including:
• Tony Burke – Minister for Home Affairs, Immigration and Citizenship, Cyber Security and the Arts
• Jihad Dib – Minister for Customer Service
• Lynda Voltz MP
• Nathan Hagarty MP
• Julia Finn MP
• Mark Buttigieg – Parliamentary Secretary for Multiculturalism
• Robyn Preston MP

Thank you to Remy and Charbel for the invitation and for once again bringing together and celebrating our diverse multicultural communities. It was truly a wonderful evening filled with inspiration, connection, and recognition of outstanding contributions to our society. ✨

📰 Article:
https://ozarab.media/around-600-guests-gather-as-oz-arab-media-celebrates-community-leadership-business-excellence-and-the-launch-of-aim-tv/

27/05/2026

The Masterclass on Personal Branding, organised by Cumberland Council in partnership with the Greater Cumberland Chamber of Commerce and AWIBA, was a sold-out event held on 21 May at the Shangri-La Hotel Sydney.

This inspiring event, created especially for women, highlighted the importance of personal branding in today’s social media-driven world. Guests enjoyed an engaging and insightful presentation by Carol Ferrone Carol Ferrone Media Personality from ABC, who truly captivated the audience with her experience and knowledge.

A special thank you to Ola Hamed Mayor Ola Hamed for attending and sharing her valuable insights as well.

It was wonderful to see so many women coming together to learn, connect, and support one another in both business and personal growth.

02/05/2026

WOMEN IN BUSINESS – MASTERCLASS

Join us for an inspiring evening designed for women in business and aspiring entrepreneurs.

Facilitated by Carol Ferrone — Entrepreneur, Brand Builder and Strategic Thinker — this masterclass will offer valuable insights, practical strategies, and motivation to elevate your business journey.

Proudly co-hosted by Cumberland City Council, this session brings together like-minded professionals for learning, growth, and meaningful connections.

Date: Thursday, 21 May
Time: 6:00pm – 8:00pm
Location: Level 1 Lounge, Shangri-La

Secure your place here:
https://events.humanitix.com/women-in-business-master-class

17/04/2026

Join us for an unforgettable evening at the Oz Arab Media Gala Dinner !

This beautiful evening will feature the announcement of the AIM Business Awards (Australian International Multicultural Business Awards), recognising outstanding achievements within our diverse and vibrant community.

In the spirit of giving back, part of the proceeds will be donated to Parramatta Mission, supporting an important cause.

📍 Venue: The Lemnos by Clarence House, 44 Albert St, Belmore NSW
🎟 Ticket: $275 (incl. GST) | Table: $2,200

📩 RSVP by 21 April 2026
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 0481 330 490 (Charbel)
Please advise of any dietary requirements.

We look forward to celebrating with you.

10/04/2026

Thank you, Oz Arab Media, for capturing our Women in Leadership, Business & Beyond event.

We invite you to read the full article and relive the highlights of this special evening.
https://ozarab.media/greater-cumberland-chamber-of-commerce-celebrates-successful-female-leaders-from-all-walks-of-life/

The Greater Cumberland Chamber of Commerce celebrated International Women's Day 2026, spotlighting women’s achievements in leadership and business. Discover the inspiring stories and challenges discussed at this impactful event.