The Women’s Executive Committee of the Australian Lebanese Cultural Union (ALCU) recently travelled to Canberra for a special return visit to Her Excellency Mrs Mirna El Khawly, Ambassador of Lebanon to Australia, further strengthening the relationship established during the ALCU’s inaugural International Women’s Day Dinner earlier this year.
The visit followed Her Excellency’s participation as a distinguished panellist at the ALCU Women’s International Women’s Day event held in March, where she shared her inspiring journey and perspectives on leadership, diplomacy, and empowering women within the Lebanese-Australian community.
During the visit, six members of the ALCU Women’s Committee were warmly welcomed by Her Excellency at the Lebanese Embassy. In recognition of her valuable contribution to the International Women’s Day event and her ongoing support of the Lebanese community in Australia, the committee proudly presented Her Excellency with a Medal of Appreciation on behalf of the Australian Lebanese Cultural Union Women’s Committee.
The meeting provided an opportunity for an open and engaging discussion, with committee members thanking the Ambassador once again for accepting their invitation to participate in their inaugural women’s event. The conversation naturally turned to Her Excellency’s own professional journey, as she reflected on her experience as Lebanon’s Ambassador to Australia since commencing her role in November 2025.
Her Excellency spoke about the broad role of the Lebanese Embassy, explaining that its work extends far beyond consular services to strengthening the enduring relationship between Lebanon and its diaspora, supporting Lebanese citizens, and fostering meaningful engagement with the wider Australian community.
The discussion also focused on the remarkable achievements of Lebanese women across Australia. Her Excellency shared an exciting initiative she hopes to develop in the near future—one dedicated to recognising, supporting, and highlighting the many success stories of Lebanese women throughout the Australian diaspora. The initiative aims to celebrate leadership, encourage greater community participation, and inspire future generations by showcasing the extraordinary contributions of Lebanese women across a wide range of professions and industries.
The ALCU Women’s Committee expressed its enthusiasm for the initiative and immediately offered its support to help bring the project to life. Her Excellency warmly welcomed the offer, and both parties agreed to remain in close contact throughout the year to explore opportunities for collaboration and to work together in empowering Lebanese women across Australia.
Following the meeting, the visit concluded in the most fitting way possible—with Lebanese hospitality.
The committee invited Her Excellency to lunch at one of Canberra’s Lebanese restaurants, where conversations continued over a table filled with authentic Lebanese cuisine. It was a relaxed and heartfelt afternoon, filled with nostalgic stories of Lebanon, shared memories from home, and discussions about the future of the Lebanese community in Australia.
As the gathering came to a close, glasses were raised in a heartfelt toast—to Lebanon, to its people, and to the enduring spirit that continues to unite Lebanese communities around the world.
The Australian Lebanese Cultural Union Women’s Committee extends its sincere appreciation to Her Excellency Mrs Mirna El Khawly for her warm hospitality, generosity, and continued commitment to engaging with the Lebanese-Australian community. The visit marks another important step in building a strong and lasting partnership between the Lebanese Embassy and the ALCU, united by a shared vision of celebrating Lebanese heritage, empowering women, and strengthening the bonds that connect the diaspora with its homeland.
