Communi

An inspirational Ipswich man is rewarded for his kind spirit

Despite having racial abuse directed at him and his farn.ilv, and having his restaurant vandalised b y armed robbers in recent months, Rajesh Sharma moves through life with a smile on his face.

A fearless, compassionate man, and a constant giver co society, Rajesh Shmrna was the recipient of the i\tliniscer's Award for Community Harmony at 1.he Premier's Cultural Diversic:y Awards held recently in Brisbane. These awards, spread over 14 categories, recognise the valuable contributions of Quee.nslanders who strive for a harmonious and inclus ive society. Rajesh received the award from i\t1inister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and l'vfulticulmral Affairs GlenELnes.

" This recognition is a great pat on the back from Queensland. \Yhat a great honour to be acknowledged in tlus way," Rajesh co ld Indian U11k.

Rajesh has been living in die city of Ipswich for over a decade and is the owner of Indian 1v[ehfil lndian restaurants and ocher businesses.

Over tl1e years Rajesh has raised money for various charities. He does this b y organising events during Diwali that gather people from across multicultural communities co corne rogether, eat and celebrate, all for a good cause.

As part of the Harmony Cricket Challenge, Rajesh and his teammates went to play a cricket series in Hirnachal Pradesh in January 2014, and now a reciprocal Indian team will come to play in Brisbane in January 20 15. Rajesh also provides assistance to Indianorigin students in whatever way he can.

"Harmony is all about living in peace and respecting each other's culture and values," Ra jesh says.

Continuing co live in Ipswich even after hurtful events, Rajesh is keen to spread a spirit of brotherhood within the local community.

Hailing from Hin1achal Pradesh, Tasneem Zavery