_edited_edited.png){kind=small}
Centre for Human Values, Conference, NSW 2026
- 4 hours ago
- 3 min read
Building Ethical and Harmonious Communities Through Shared Human Values
The Sri Sathya Sai Global Council Australia recently hosted a thought-provoking community forum titled “Building Ethical and Harmonious Communities Through Shared Human Values,” bringing together civic leaders, educators, faith representatives, academics, and community members for an afternoon of meaningful dialogue and reflection.
The program commenced with an Acknowledgement of Country delivered by Mr Michael Clarke of the Narromine Local Aboriginal Land Council, recognising the traditional custodians of the land and setting a respectful tone for the gathering.
Guests were then welcomed by Mr Balram Sharma, National President of the Sri Sathya Sai Global Council Australia, who highlighted the importance of human values in fostering social harmony and collective wellbeing. As part of the event, the distinguished guests, councillors, and community leaders were presented with copies of the Prasanthi Declaration, a document that reflects a shared commitment to human values, ethical leadership, and community wellbeing. This was followed by remarks from Councillor Julie Griffiths AO of Blacktown City Council, who acknowledged the vital role community organisations play in strengthening connections across diverse communities.
The first keynote presentation was delivered by Mr Neville Fredericks, former Zonal Chair of the Sri Sathya Sai Global Council and former Mayor of Kiama Council. Speaking on “Transformational Leadership – The Role of Human Values,” he explored how values-based leadership can inspire positive change and create lasting impact within communities.
A lively Multi-Faith Panel Discussion followed, examining “The Role and Value of Love and Compassion.” The panel brought together distinguished faith leaders and community representatives including Murabbi Qammaru Zaman from the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Australia, Rev Dr Patrick McInerney from the Columban Centre for Christian Muslim Relations, Ms Ling Lambert from Nan Tien Buddhist Temple, and Mr Sanjay Kumarasingham, Director of the Sri Sathya Sai Centre for Human Values. The discussion highlighted the shared principles that unite different faith traditions and emphasised the universal importance of compassion in addressing contemporary social challenges.
The audience was then treated to a musical interlude by the Sri Sathya Sai Youth, followed by refreshments and opportunities for networking and fellowship.
The second half of the program featured an inspiring presentation by Dr Chandrika Subramanian, scholar, author, solicitor, academic, and journalist. Her address, titled “A Sacred Stewardship: Honouring Community Welfare through Social Ethics and Moral Conscience,” explored the ethical responsibilities of individuals and institutions in promoting community wellbeing and social justice.
This was followed by a presentation from Mrs Gurmit Thakur, teacher, educationist, and National Education Coordinator of the Sri Sathya Sai Global Council Australia. Speaking on “Growing Hearts and Minds: Education in Human Values for Lifelong Character Development,” she underscored the importance of nurturing character, empathy, and integrity from an early age through values-based education.
The forum concluded with a panel discussion featuring community leaders Councillor Sreeni Pillamarri of Parramatta Council, Councillor Diane Randall of the NSW Aboriginal Land Council, Mrs Padma Ayyagiri, Chair of the National Academy of Human Values, and Mr Sridhar Subramonion of the Sri Sathya Sai Global Council. The panel explored the question: “How can community organisations strengthen social cohesion by promoting shared respect, collective responsibility, and a sense of belonging across different groups, rather than reinforcing silos?” Their insights highlighted practical pathways for building stronger, more inclusive communities.
The event concluded with a heartfelt Vote of Thanks delivered by Mr Sudhagar Sivabalan, NSW Region Chair of the Sri Sathya Sai Global Council Australia, who expressed gratitude to the speakers, panellists, organisers, volunteers, and attendees for contributing to a successful and inspiring forum.
The gathering served as a powerful reminder that despite differences in background, culture, or belief, the universal values of love, compassion, respect, and selfless service remain the foundation for ethical and harmonious communities.
Comments