The Albanian Australian Islamic Society (AAIS) are celebrating the 50th Anniversary of their mosque in Drummond Street, Carlton North. It was the first mosque in Melbourne when it opened in 1969, and it became a place for Albanian Muslims in Australia to express their religion, as well as providing a sense of community and unification.
"Over the years the mosque has been used not only for worship, but also for wedding services, religious education, funeral services, meetings, tours and also social gatherings," says Indira Kulafi, who is part of the AAIS Women's Committee.
The AAIS holds community events and activities, including getting involved in National Tree Day, Australia's Biggest Morning Tea, Red Cross blood donation, AAIS open days and a number activities out of their youth centre in Truganina.
"The mission has always been to not only be an organisation for the Albanian community, but also to reach out by promoting harmony, mutual understanding and cooperation among the broader Australian community as well," says Indira.
Street festival celebrating 50 years
AAIS are celebrating the 50th anniversary of the mosque with a free street festival open to the whole community. Join them at the mosque in Carlton North on Sunday 17 November for guided tours, Albanian folk dancing, arts and craft activities, face painting, food trucks, Albanian desserts and more!
