In a powerful tribute to the strength and spirit of women, the Harman Foundation hosted its 12th Annual Fundraising Gala, themed “Light & Hope: A Tribute to All Mothers”, at Bowman Hall, Blacktown. The event, held on Sunday, 11th May, brought together community leaders, supporters, and changemakers for an evening dedicated to resilience, healing, and impact.
Welcoming over 300 guests, the gala was a heartfelt celebration of the Foundation’s continued commitment to supporting victims of domestic and family violence. At the centre of the evening was the launch of the Annual Impact Report by Chairman and Co-Founder Maninder Singh (Mr/He/Him), who shared inspiring highlights of the Foundation’s achievements over the past year.
“In 2024, our collective efforts resulted in real outcomes for people, including 15 women and 5 children rebuilding their lives at HER House, over 3500 crisis calls managed, and 500 families supported — all made possible by our 200 sincere volunteers,” Mr Singh stated, underscoring the community-driven model that powers the Foundation’s work.
Among the distinguished guests were Mr Stephen Bali, MP for Blacktown, Dr Hugh McDermott, MP for Prospect, and Cr Sameer Pandey, former Lord Mayor of the City of Parramatta. Members of the Blacktown Council, including Cr Dr Moninder Singh, Cr Susai Benjamin OAM, and Cr Pradeep Pathi, also attended, alongside major sponsors and community partners.
The Foundation extended heartfelt appreciation to the Perera Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the Castle Group, for their fourth consecutive year of sponsoring rent for HER House. Other major sponsors included imb bank Community Foundation, CommBank Staff Foundation, and Workers.
One of the evening’s most poignant moments was the Dignity Walk — a powerful visual statement where volunteers took to the stage dressed in preloved clothing from the Foundation’s Thrift Factory initiative, each carrying messages and statistics on domestic violence. Designed to create emotional and social connection, the walk served as a reminder of the lived realities many women face and the community’s shared responsibility to act.
“Stand with us,” urged CEO and Co-Founder Harinder Kaur, OAM, in her stirring address. And the audience did — standing in unison to affirm their support, creating a wave of hope and solidarity that rippled through the hall.
The evening was further enlivened by graceful and high-energy performances from the Ruchi Sanghi Dance Company, survivor stories that moved many to tears, and a lively fundraising segment. A live auction helped raise vital funds for HER House, while a raffle draw saw lucky winners take home luxurious pamper hampers generously donated by sponsors including the Castle Group, PropXperts, Kaur Kollections, SABA, Sportscraft, and others.
Guests were treated to a sumptuous North Indian dinner, celebrating culture and community through food, dance, and stories of resilience. More than a fundraising event, “Light & Hope” was a reminder of the power of collective compassion and the incredible impact a united community can achieve.
The Harman Foundation continues to be deeply grateful for the unwavering support it receives from community members, businesses, sponsors, and local and state officials. With each year, the Foundation grows stronger in its mission to empower lives, one step at a time.
