Greater Wollongong, Illawarra and Macarthur Region

This conference is one of thousands taking place across the planet, between Feb-Apr, with 80 being hosted in Australia by Baha'i Communities across the country.

People from all backgrounds, cultures, religions and ages are warmly invited.

Conference Purpose:

The purpose of the conference is to strengthen our capacity as individuals, communities and organisations, to contribute to a better world, founded on our inherent oneness. The conference is focused on inspiring individuals and communities to release the potential that lies within to act.

We will be exploring how we have been and can better contribute to social transformation through:

Transcending Differences: What is the common ground needed on which to build our communities together?

Harmonising Perspectives: How do we build a unified vision for our area amongst diverse beliefs and backgrounds?

Developing Qualities for Service: What human characteristics and values are building blocks for a stable social order?

Promoting Consultation: How do we navigate a pathway to decision making through inclusivity, understanding and detachment?

Recognising our oneness: How is our understanding of the inherent oneness of humanity a means for social progress?

Program Overview:

You are warmly invited to participate in-person in a program that recognises the power of communities to unify, heal, and transcend differences; where everyone feels empowered to contribute to the betterment of all.

The program weaves storytelling, presentations, films, art activities, dialogue, and reflection.

Programs are running for all ages. In addition to a program for adults and youth, sessions are offered for children (5 - 11 years) and junior youth (12 - 15 years).

Whilst there isn't a program for children aged younger than 5 years, a room is being made ready for parents of toddlers and babies, with live streaming to plenary sessions. The room is also near all main activities, enabling ease of access to the conference program, as well as a quiet space.

Live Streaming:

The conference plenary sessions will be live-streamed via Zoom. More details will be provided to you if you register for virtual attendance.

Program Schedule:

Friday, 25th March

6:30pm - 7:00pm ~ Registration

7:00 - 8:30pm ~ Offical Conference Opening

Saturday, 26th March

8:30 - 9:30am Registration

9:30 - 12:45 (Includes morning tea break)

Welcome and community gathering
Exploring Baha'u'llah's vision for humanity
Reflecting on a history of endeavours

12:45 - 2:15 Lunch (Self-purchase / BYO)

2:15 - 5:00 (Includes afternoon tea break)

Building vibrant communities

5:00 - 6:45 Dinner (Self-purchase / BYO)

6:45 - 9:30

Evening program - Food for the Soul, People and Planet

Join us for musical performances and supper; followed by the Earth Hour Film Festival will start at 8:30-9:30pm

Sunday, 27th March

9:00 - 9:30am Registration / Arrival

9:30 - 12:45 (Includes morning tea break)

Welcome and community gathering
Exploring community education and the training institute
Contributing to social transformation

12:45 - 2:15 Lunch (Self-purchase / BYO)

2:15 - 3:30

Contributing to social transformation (continued)

3:00-4:00

Conference Closing Session

Refreshments:

Morning and afternoon tea is provided. Please note, lunch and dinner are not provided. You are welcome to BYO picnic for you / your family.

Organisers are liaising with restaurants to ensure food is available for purchase nearby. Morning tea and afternoon tea is provided.

COVID Plan:

The event will be following the UOW COVID Campus Plan, and NSW Health guidelines. More details will be forthcoming as we get closer to the event.

Transport and Parking

Parking is available onsite a the University of Wollongong, free of charge, after 6pm on Friday, and all day Saturday and Sunday.

The closest parking area to the venue is P5.

Attendance at the conference is free to all. You are welcome to contribute

Attendance at the conference is free to all. It is acknowledged however that many participants will feel moved to give generously towards the cost of hosting such a momentous event.

You are welcome to contribute through this registration form or at the conference venue itself, where there will be a treasury desk available for participants to make contributions.

For the full conference website visit: https://www.conferences.bahai.org.au