Sydney will soon host a unique cultural and environmental gathering, bringing together community voices from Punjab and regional Australia. On Saturday, 13 September (5–7pm), the Jim Southee Community Centre in Kings Langley will screen the acclaimed short documentary Voices for the Valley.
The documentary follows Manjot Kaur, a young climate leader raised on Wiradjuri Country in Mudgee, NSW, who also shares deep roots in Punjab. Through her story, Voices for the Valley highlights the shared struggles of coal-affected communities in Australia and farmers in Punjab grappling with the realities of climate change.
Honouring Bhagat Puran Singh Ji
The evening, titled ਸਾਂਝ: ਕਹਾਣੀਆਂ, ਹਵਾ ਅਤੇ ਜ਼ਮੀਨ | سانجھ: کہانیاں، ہوا تے زمین | Togetherness: Stories, Air & Land, is dedicated to the memory of Bhagat Puran Singh Ji, 33 years after his passing. Renowned for his seva (selfless service) and tireless care for the environment, his legacy continues to inspire action for people, land, and all forms of life.
Voices of Change
Event co-organiser Sukhdeep Singh, also known as hip hop artist L-FRESH the LION, emphasised the importance of shared responsibility:
“Punjabi communities around the world are facing the reality of climate change — from water scarcity and crop damage in Punjab, to extreme weather and environmental destruction here in Australia. This film reminds us that our struggles are connected, and so is our responsibility to act.”
Adding to this, Ramandeep Sibia highlighted the urgent need for collective action:
“Life can only keep weaving its story here if we do two things together — stop filling the sky with the smoke of coal, gas, and oil, and protect the rich diversity that helps all life adapt to a warming world. Saying no to the Moolarben coal mine expansion is saying yes to the forests, the rivers, the birds and to the possibility that our children’s children will still call this planet home.”
Beyond the Film
Along with the screening, the evening will feature:
- Community storytelling
- Letter-writing to decision-makers
- Information on how to oppose coal mine expansion in NSW
- Traditional chai, pakoras, and sweets for guests
Importantly, 20% of ticket sales will be donated to Pingalwara, the home founded by Bhagat Puran Singh Ji in Amritsar.
Event Details
Saturday 13 September, 5–7pm
Jim Southee Community Centre, Kings Langley, Sydney
Tickets & info: nature.org.au/manjot
Chai, pakoras and sweets provided
About the Organisers
- Ramandeep Kaur – Certified Warm Data Lab Host and co-founder of Punjabis for Climate, she creates spaces connecting cultural identity, climate care, and collective action. Her work focuses on building relationships and exploring the deep ties between people, land, and community.
- L-FRESH the LION – One of Australia’s most recognised hip hop artists and a passionate climate advocate. His song Mother was a finalist in Australia’s Environmental Music Prize. Beyond his music career, he serves as Artistic Director of the Conscious program at Campbelltown Arts Centre.
- Manjot Kaur – Climate leader and central voice in Voices for the Valley.
The event is organised by Manjot Kaur, Sukhdeep Singh, and Ramandeep Kaur, in partnership with local community and climate groups.
