Members of Australian Baha’i community recognised for their ongoing contributions to advancing society

Members of the Baha’i community have recently been recognised across the country for their contributions to the advancement of society. 
 
Lawyer, writer and Italian-Australian author Michael Curtotti was recently appointed Cavaliere dell’Ordine della Stella d’Italia (Knight of the Order of the Star of Italy) – a rank bestowed for promoting friendly relations and co-operation between Italy and other countries. 
 
Dr Curtotti received the honour in a ceremony at the Italian Embassy in September for his tireless work translating Italian literature into English, including translating the original Italian stories that inspired Shakespeare’s prominent plays Romeo and Juliet and Othello. 
 
Romeo and Juliet is inspired by a novella by Matteo Bandello titled Romeo e Giulietta, while Othello is based on the work titled Un capitano moro (A Moorish Captain) by 16^th century Italian novelist Giraldi Cinthio. 
 
Dr Curtotti said it was important to bring the original Italian stories to more people because they are beautiful versions in their own right and a connection between cultures, languages and peoples. 

“It’s amazing to me that five hundred years later these stories still resonate with us. Sharing them helps bring us together,” he said. 
 
“I felt humbled and touched to receive this award because it was for something that has been a labour of love for me.” 
 
Queensland’s Soheil Abedian AM and Anne Abedian were recognised recently for their ongoing commitment to their community at the 2026 Queensland Philanthropy Awards.  
The couple received the Community Award for their generous philanthropic efforts across education, health, youth and community wellbeing for more than two decades. 
 
In a Queensland Gives social media post, it was stated that the Abedians’ support has created opportunities for hundreds of students, including more than 600 Griffith University students through equity scholarships, while their philanthropy at Bond University has supported almost 100 students and helped establish the Abedian School of Architecture.  

“Following personal loss to blood cancer, the Abedians also contributed to help establish the Clem Jones Sunland Blood Cancer Centre in Brisbane – a purpose-built village providing free accommodation for blood cancer patients and their families. Their philanthropy goes beyond financial giving. Through mentoring, advocacy, fundraising and encouraging others to give, they continue to use their resources, experience and influence to create lasting change,” the post read. 

Member of the Manningham Baha’i community, Ahmad Sami, was also recently recognised for his contributions to the wellbeing of senior residents in the community. 
 
Sami received the 2026 Manningham Ageing Well Award at the Manningham Community Awards which celebrate individuals and groups whose dedication and service have made a meaningful difference to the lives of others.

The local governing body of the Baha’i community, the Local Spiritual Assembly, said Ahmad’s recognition was a wonderful reflection of his ongoing commitment to serving the community with compassion, generosity and care. 
 
“Through his involvement in community programs, practical assistance and initiatives that foster social connection, Ahmad has helped support the wellbeing of older members of the community and contributed to creating a stronger sense of belonging and companionship,” it said. 
 
“His achievement is particularly inspiring as it reflects the spirit of service that lies at the heart of a vibrant community and emphasises the importance of honouring the dignity of every individual and of dedicating ourselves to the wellbeing and advancement of society.” 

Featured image: Michael Curtotti receives his award from Ambassador Nicola Lener at the Italian Embassy