An inspirational Ipswich man is rewarded for his kind spirit
Photo: Tuba Media Productions
Despite having racial abuse directed at him and his family, and having his restaurant vandalised by armed robbers in recent months, Rajesh Sharma moves through life with a smile on his face.
A fearless, compassionate man, and a constant giver to society, Rajesh Sharma was the recipient of the Minister’s Award for Community Harmony at the Premier’s Cultural Diversity Awards held recently in Brisbane. These awards, spread over 14 categories, recognise the valuable contributions of Queenslanders who strive for a harmonious and inclusive society. Rajesh received the award from Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and Multicultural Affairs Glen Elmes.
“This recognition is a great pat on the back from Queensland. What a great honour to be acknowledged in this way,” Rajesh told Indian Link.
Hailing from Himachal Pradesh, Rajesh has been living in the city of Ipswich for over a decade and is the owner of Indian Mehfil Indian restaurants and other businesses.
Over the years Rajesh has raised money for various charities. He does this by organising events during Diwali that gather people from across multicultural communities to come together, 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 Himachal Pradesh in January 2014, and now a reciprocal Indian team will come to play in Brisbane in January 2015. Rajesh also provides assistance to Indian-origin students in whatever way he can.
“Harmony is all about living in peace and respecting each other’s culture and values,” Rajesh says.
Continuing to live in Ipswich even after hurtful events, Rajesh is keen to spread a spirit of brotherhood within the local community.
