Sydney Hosts Peace Road & Multicultural Peace Festival

Sydney, Australia – The Peace Road and Multicultural Peace Festival 2025 was held at Ismay Park in Sydney on September 28, 2025, organized by UPF-Oceania. The event brought together community leaders, ambassadors for peace, and diverse cultural groups. It highlighted UPF’s vision of “One Family Under God” through the symbolic Peace Road Walkathon and a vibrant multicultural festival. It also marked the UN International Day of Peace.

The program began with a warm welcome from the MCs, Ms. Sambriddhi Neupane and Ms. Seon Min Lim, followed by a Zumba session involving light exercise and dance. At 10:00 a.m. the Peace Road Walkathon was officially flagged off, symbolizing unity and the collective pursuit of peace. Participants returned by 11:00 a.m., energized and inspired.

An Acknowledgement of Country was offered, recognizing and respecting the Wangal people of the Eora Nation as the traditional custodians of the land on which the event took place. This practice is an Australian custom that honors the original Indigenous people of the area and their ongoing connection to the land.

Mr. John Adamedes, president of UPF-Australia, delivered the opening remarks, highlighting the vision of Peace Road. Mr. John-Paul Baladi, mayor of Strathfield, gave a special guest speech, recognizing the importance of peace and multicultural unity. Ms. Daphne Lowe, director of the Chinese Museum of Sydney, shared remarks on cultural exchange and harmony. Other distinguished guests included Mr. Yutaka Yamada and Mr. Greg Stone, chairman and president, respectively, of UPF-Oceania.

The second half of the event celebrated Australia’s diversity through cultural performances. Communities from Vietnam, Nepal, Russia, the Philippines, Mongolia, China, and Korea presented their traditions, embodying the spirit of unity in diversity.

The program concluded with a vote of thanks from Mr. Santosh Neupane, secretary general of UPF-Oceania, and program coordinator. He expressed gratitude to all distinguished guests, performers, volunteers, and participants. Light refreshments were served to encourage fellowship and continued dialogue.

By Santosh Neupane, Secretary General, UPF-Oceania September 28, 2025