From little things big things grow: Addressing isolation and promoting connection in Whitehorse 

In this story for Australian Baha’i Horizons, we unearth how the Baha’i Ruhi curriculum is raising capacity in individuals to survey their own reality and empower them to address key issues in their locality through specifically-curated social action projects.

In 2018, a group of individuals in the locality of Whitehorse, Melbourne expressed a shared desire to contribute to the advancement and upliftment of their community. 

Having participated in the Ruhi Institute materials – which focus on the spiritual transformation of individuals and building capacities to serve society – as well as a document exploring social action developed by the Baha’i World Centre in 2012, the group felt empowered to identify key needs in their community particularly within the population of new arrivals.

“Two main priorities emerged,” the Whitehorse team reflects. “Access to English language learning and employment support.” 

“This led to the launch of English classes for newcomers and CV-writing workshops.  

“As participants began bringing children, children’s classes and later a junior youth group also started.”

It has been seven years since the first initiatives launched. Starting with a few activities, there are now about 30 taking place at a local school every week. Activities start from noon and run until 6pm. Programs include everything from English classes to CV-writing workshops and vocational classes, yoga and sports to driving preparation, computing classes to arts and crafts sessions. 

About 180 people attend at least one activity regularly. The majority are from the Persian community, with growing participation from a range of other cultural backgrounds.

The team says the initiatives address the challenges of integration, isolation, and unemployment faced by new immigrants.  

“English classes help newcomers improve communication skills and confidence. CV workshops and vocational classes connect people with job opportunities. Activities foster friendships, cultural exchange, and community belonging.”

Institute activities, including junior youth groups and children’s classes, act as the engine that propels the process, nurturing the moral education of participants and promoting leadership and resilience.  

“Activities are facilitated by teachers, animators, tutors, and volunteers, many of whom are participants in the institute process and active in community-building.” 

The process is one that is self-sustaining. Many participants join the Ruhi institute’s study circles, which equip them with skills and confidence to initiate activities themselves.

Youth are also taking charge, leading junior youth groups, helping with festivals, youth gatherings and devotional spaces. 

“Reflection meetings and [19-day] Feasts build consultative capacity and strengthen collective planning.” 

“As participants witness peers serving, they are inspired to contribute in their own way.” 

As the years have gone by, the community has welcomed members of parliament, civic leaders, members of the interfaith community and has forged stronger civic connections. “Partnerships are also developing informally as community members connect newcomers to resources, employment networks and cultural programs,” the team says.  

“These gatherings showcase shared values, creating natural openings for further collaboration.” 

The team reflects on the transformative impact that has been witnessed over the years, not just on individuals, but on the entire community. As participants advance their language skills, they secure jobs and overcome isolation – reporting improved mental health and confidence. As families extend their support networks and children and youth develop moral values, friendships and leadership skills, a whole-community culture of mutual assistance and collaboration emerges. 

“Friendships bridge cultural backgrounds, public events draw hundreds, and more people are actively contributing to the common good.”