Sydney: The Bangladeshi community in Australia has accorded a reception to Camden City Council Deputy Mayor Eliza Azad Rahman. To celebrate her achievements in local politics, contribution to the community, and her journey to a leadership position as an immigrant woman, speakers at the event congratulated her and stated that her success is a matter of pride for the Bangladeshi community in Australia and a special source of inspiration for women.
In her emotional speech responding to the reception, Eliza said, "I want to say just one thing—I love you." Highlighting the role of the community's love, cooperation, and support in helping her reach today's position after overcoming various life challenges, she stated that the true achievement of her life is not wealth and property, but the love of the people.
This reception event was held on Sunday (October 25) at 7:00 PM at the Camden Civic Centre. Presided over by community leader Gama Abdul Kadir, the event was conducted by Dr. Sakhawat Noyon. Distinguished community members who spoke at the event included Bangladesh Awami League President Dr. Md. Sirajul Haque, Ajay Das Gupta, community leader Md. Shafikul Alam, Abdullah Al Noman Shamim, Camden Branch Labor Party President Brian Kalkat, Councillor Ashikur Rahman, Councillor Sherin Akter, Dr. Masudul Haque, Rahmat Ullah, Abdul Matin, and Mahika Rahman.
Speakers stated that Eliza Azad Rahman becoming the Deputy Mayor is not merely her personal achievement; it is also an important event in the representation of the Bangladeshi community and women's leadership in Australia. They expressed hope that her success will encourage the new generation as well as other women in the community to participate in local politics and public service.
The speakers noted that Eliza has established her political and social identity through creating her own position in a new society as an immigrant, building relationships with local people, and engaging in public service activities. They further mentioned that Eliza's responsibility as the Deputy Mayor of Camden is not limited only to the Bangladeshi community. She is the elected representative of all residents of Camden. Therefore, this achievement of hers is an occasion of joy and pride for both the Bangladeshi and Australian communities. The speakers expressed expectations that she will uphold the dignity of the position of Deputy Mayor through her work efficiency, sincere relationships with people, and dedication in performing her duties.
Eliza Azad Rahman's speech in response to the reception was filled with gratitude, emotion, and a pledge to stand by the people. Describing the individuals present at the event as her own family, she said that the presence of each of them is a very big achievement for her. She stated that she deeply feels the love of those who spent their valuable time on a Sunday evening to come and honor her. In her words, these people did not let her feel alone during either good or bad times in her life.
Recounting her journey, Eliza said there were various challenges at every step. She had to face difficult situations many times. However, the cooperation of the community's people gave her strength. She stated that no achievement in life is possible alone; true strength lies within the love and support of people. Evaluating her own success, she views relationships built with people as greater than wealth and property. In her words, "My earnings are you, your love, and people like you. You are my strength."
Eliza stated that she wants to serve people all her life. Mentioning that she has been elected as a public servant, she invited the community's people to contact her for any need. She also noted that there is no specific time limit for standing by people.
Highlighting her experience of coming to Australia from Bangladesh, Eliza said that at the beginning of her journey in a new country, she did not know what was waiting ahead. With time, those who stood by her are the ones she has earned as the valuable assets of her life.
In her speech, she also brought up her husband and daughter. According to her, it is not just blood relations that make people close; love, feelings, and heart-to-heart bonds for people build true relationships. She expressed gratitude for the contributions of her husband and teacher Dr. Masudul Haque in her journey of coming to Australia and acquiring educational qualifications.
Expressing her emotions, Eliza said that tears, whether in joy or sorrow, are an expression of human feelings. She does not see crying as a weakness; rather, she sees it as an expression of the good fortune of receiving so much love from so many people. She requested everyone present to keep her in their prayers and said that the love and respect of the people inspire her to work with greater responsibility.
Pledge to stand by the people
In the concluding part of the event, Eliza once again expressed her love and gratitude to everyone present. She stated that serving people is her goal and, as a public representative, she wants to work for everyone.
Her speech highlighted that relationships with people, mutual cooperation, and a sense of responsibility towards society are more important than personal success. The guests present at the reception wished her success in executing her new responsibilities.
Brief biography of Eliza Azad Rahman
Eliza Azad Rahman, who is known as 'Dumpa' to those close to her, is a native of Chuadanga, Bangladesh. She is the daughter of Freedom Fighter Azadul Islam. She came to Australia from Bangladesh as an international student more than two decades ago.
During her residency in Australia, she became active at the local level through community involvement and the political activities of the Australian Labor Party. In 2024, she was elected as a councillor from the North Ward of Camden City Council. Later, on September 8, 2026, she was elected as the Deputy Mayor of Camden.
This achievement of hers is significant not only for the representation of people of Bangladeshi descent in local government but also in the field of women's leadership. Taking on the responsibility of local government leadership, especially rising from an immigrant background, is a notable milestone in her long journey.
