Hazaras laugh it up

Workshop participants with, fifth from left, Community Four CEO Gavin Ackerly, Chinmay Ananda and Tom Ballard.

By Casey Neill

Comedy, inspiration and finance advice came together at a careers event for Dandenong’s Hazara community.
The Dandenong Civic Centre hosted the Community Four event on Saturday 1 July.
CEO Gavin Ackerly said it was part of a 12-week program designed to inspire, educate and guide young Hazara community members toward professional success.
Comedian Tom Ballard opened the event.
“Aside from spreading much laughter and joy, Tom shared his reflections on life and the important lessons he has learnt on his career journey,” Mr Ackerly said.
“He also talked about believing in yourself and what it takes to sustain yourself through the tough times.
“We especially loved his adage, ‘Laughter is the only rational response to life’.
Best-selling author, financial educator and Finance Academy founder Chinmay Ananda also spoke.
“Chinmay shared the story of his amazing professional journey from failing in business to becoming a best-selling author and financial expert,” Mr Ackerly said.
“He also shared the secrets to financial success for our personal and professional lives.
“And he made it all very easy to understand and maybe even a bit fun!”
Community Four’s work is about resourcing and connecting communities committed to tackling their biggest challenges.
“Saturday was a great example of community members from very different backgrounds coming together to make sure Australian Hazaras have the best chance of achieving their career aspirations,” Mr Ackerly said.