Grief in Times of Genocide
A community-based initiative

Join us in a safe space to share, reflect, and receive support as we navigate grief and collective trauma together. In light of ongoing pain, rage, and heartbreak, this gathering provides an opportunity for reflection, connection, and solidarity.

Hear from our speakers on:

Coping with intergenerational trauma
Navigating community-wide psychological distress
The role of faith in times of crisis
Building resilience and healing tools
Somatic practices for nervous system regulation (optional)

Panelists include:

Rula Khalafawi - trauma-informed yoga coach, Community Educator with NSW Refugee Health Service and activist.

Rafik Tanious - counsellor with 30+ years of experience working across education, mental health, and social services, with a strong background in trauma recovery.

Assala Sayara - counsellor, social worker, social justice activist, orator, storyteller and PhD student. Assala's deep connection to her Palestinian identity drives her community engagement, both locally and internationally. Assala's work as a school counsellor and her experience in Palestine, Jordan, and Indonesia highlight her dedication to providing specialised care and support. She is also the founder of Hawayete, a digital platform sharing the Palestinian experience, and amplifying the voice of resistance

The moderator, Paz Roman (she/her), is a counsellor and community development project worker, currently supporting newly arrived Palestinian refugees from Gaza. A former child refugee, she brings over 15 years of experience in trauma recovery, mental health, and refugee settlement. Paz’s work is grounded in decolonial, trauma-informed practice and a commitment to collective healing. She centres community-led responses to grief, displacement, and systemic violence, creating culturally safe/r spaces where survivors can reclaim agency, honour resistance, and heal through connection.

What to Expect:

Doors open: 5:45 PM
Panel discussion: 6:00 – 7:15 PM
Break: 7:15 – 7:30 PM
Optional somatic session with Rula: 7:30 – 8:00 PM

Tickets are $5 (plus booking fee), with proceeds supporting Al-Jawad Camp in Gaza — an educational initiative providing free services and support for displaced children.

Disclaimer:
This event is a panel discussion, not a group therapy session. While we will be exploring sensitive topics related to grief and trauma, it is not a substitute for professional mental health support. If you need individual assistance, we encourage you to seek help from a qualified professional. Feel free to reach out to us for recommendations or referrals.