Hidden Stories: Faces of our Community

Migrants, refugees and asylum seekers face a daunting array of challenges on their journey to find safety and a better life. They often flee violence, persecution, or economic hardship, only to encounter new dangers and obstacles. Treacherous border crossings, exploitation by smugglers, and the constant fear of detention or deportation haunt their steps. Many struggles with language barriers, cultural differences, and discrimination in their new communities. Access to basic necessities like healthcare, education, and employment can be severely limited. The emotional toll is immense, as they grapple with trauma, separation from loved ones, and the loss of their familiar way of life. Despite these hardships, they continue to persevere, driven by hope and the dream of a brighter future for themselves and their families.

Our Commitment

House to Grow, in collaboration with creative visual photographer and storyteller Pilar Lopez, is dedicated to illuminating and giving voice to the untold stories of NSW’s multicultural community through the exhibition “Hidden Stories: Faces of Our Community.” Hosted at the historic Harold Park Community Hall (TramSheds) in July 2025, this exhibition will showcase portraits capturing the rich diversity and inspiring narratives of the community. Accompanied by performances from artists of various backgrounds, multicultural food, and engaging speakers, this event aims to celebrate and amplify the unique experiences that shape our vibrant society.

The Artist

Pilar Lopez is not only a creative photographer and founder of Shooting For a Reason but also a storyteller and migrant herself and CEO of House to Grow. With a passion for people, photography, and community empowerment, she has combined these three passions into a career over the past 25 years. She is a dedicated advocate for inclusion, diversity, and equality, and has received multiple awards.

• Finalist in the Burwood Art Prize 2024 for her photography "Eternal Whispers.”
• Mental Health Matters Community Initiative Award in 2023 by WayAhead – Mental Health Association NSW.
• 2023 Edna Ryan Award for Women Mentoring, recognizing her impactful work in empowering women and girls.
• Multicultural Leadership Award 2023
• International Film & Entertainment Festival Australia, (IFEFA) Awards 2024. This recognition underscores her commitment to promoting inclusion, diversity, and harmony within our community.

Activities

• Multicultural Performances

Artists from different countries will transform this multicultural event in Sydney into an extraordinary sensory experience, inviting audiences on a sonorous voyage. Our cultural artists don't just perform—they create bridges between communities, emotions, and lived experiences, offering a profound, unforgettable exploration of human diversity.

• Inspirational talks

Powerful personal stories of migration, resilience, and hope from multicultural speakers will share their migration journeys. Also, a comedic monologue will turning migrant challenges into laughter and celebrating the universal human spirit of adaptation. An unforgettable exploration of diversity, emotion, and connection.

• Taste of the Word

Taste of Spanish favorites and discover authentic Spanish bites that will transport you to the vibrant streets of Spain. Enjoy a delicious journey through Spain's culinary traditions, offering a taste of authentic flavors that will make our multicultural event truly unforgettable.

• Children’s activities

Our puppet show will captivate young minds with a powerful, educational story that celebrates differences and teaches fundamental values of empathy, understanding, and respect. Inspired by puppetry experts who believe in using performance as a tool for social learning, our show will create a safe, imaginative space where children can explore concepts of inclusion and diversity through the magic of storytelling. Cultural workshops for children and multicultural art activities will be part of our kids' activities developing emotional intelligence, and promoting cultural diversity.

Register Now! Don't miss out on this vibrant celebration of culture, community, and creativity. We can't wait to welcome you!

RSVP: Attendance is only permitted by confirmed registration

Dress Code: No specific code is required but we encourage you to wear some of your traditional dress costume, to create a vibrant environment if you wish!

Photo Release Notice: By registering for this event, you consent to photography, audio recording and/or video recording and release, publication, exhibition or reproduction that may be used for promotional purposes, advertising, and inclusion on our website or social media pages. Further, you agree to waive all rights to claims of payment or royalties in connection with promotional use of such media.