On June 10th, Afghan Women on the Move and Kateb Hazara Association Inc-Sydney, in collaboration with STARTTS and supported by the Migration Council Australia - MCA, organised a vital health forum to address the COVID-19 virus outbreak, prevention efforts, and mental health post-pandemic for vulnerable community members.

The event was thoughtfully designed to engage and empower newly arrived Afghan refugees, providing them with crucial health information and resources. Exploring the effects and concerns associated with Long COVID-19 and offering expert insights and discussions tailored for newly arrived refugees from #Afghanistan.

We had the privilege event speakers comprised Julie Leask, a respected professor of public health and vaccine acceptance researcher at the University of Sydney, and Dr. Kerrie Chant, the esteemed Chief Health Officer and Deputy Secretary of Population and Public Health in the Ministry of Health. The event was MC by Arif Nabizahda, and panel discussion was led by Maryam Zahid.

Our panel members included Fouzia Hamdard from Refugee Health, Khalida Hussaini from STARTTs Dr. Zia Gul Rezai, Dr. Juli, and Dr. Kerry Chant.

Five audience members graciously shared their experiences and concerns about COVID-19, examining misconceptions, mental health impacts, and religious views regarding vaccinations. The discussions aimed to educate community members from both a religious and professional perspective, displaying great respectfulness and understanding.