The Bryan Brown Theatre in Bankstown came alive with culture, creativity and community spirit on Friday, 2 October, as the AIM Talent Awards 2026 attracted a sold-out audience of nearly 300 guests.
Hosted by the Australian International Multicultural Association (AIM), the event celebrated the richness of Australia’s multicultural community through a diverse program of performances, ranging from powerful vocal acts and contemporary entertainment to traditional music and dance.
Media personality Carol Ferrone hosted the evening, welcoming guests with warmth and enthusiasm. In her opening remarks, she highlighted the importance of providing a platform for multicultural voices and acknowledged the dedication, courage and creativity of the performers.
The significance of the occasion was reflected in the attendance of representatives from government, business and multicultural and community organisations. Guests included Mr Ahmed Abdellatif, Chargé d’Affaires of the Republic of Sudan; Kylie Wilkinson MP; Cr Rachelle Harika, Deputy Mayor of the City of Canterbury-Bankstown; Cr Chris Cahill; Cr Immanuel Selvaraj; Dr Abraham Constantin, President of the World Lebanese Cultural Union, Badawi El Hage, Continental President of the ALCU; Wally Mehanna, CEO of CBCC; and Simon Chan, Chair of the Board of Multicultural NSW.
The World Observer Media, represented by its Editor-in-Chief, Dr Mamdouh Sukkarieh, attended and covered the event as part of its ongoing media, community and cultural mission.
In his address, AIM President Dr Charbel Tadros JP emphasised that the purpose of the Talent Awards goes far beyond recognising the three performers who ultimately reach the podium.
“The AIM Talent Awards are about creating opportunities. Winning is wonderful, but having the courage to walk onto that stage, share your talent and allow hundreds of people to see what you can do is already an achievement.”
The highlight of the evening came with the announcement of the dancer Ishaan Aaryan as the AIM Talent Awards 2026 winner. His energetic performance impressed both the audience and the judging panel, earning him first place in the competition.
Alexis Rose Vella secured second place, demonstrating the skills developed through years of training in singing, dancing and acting.
Sydney-based Turkish-Australian singer-songwriter BÜ ARAS was awarded third place, showcasing his distinctive musical style and a fusion of cultural influences.
The AIM Talent Awards 2026 concluded as a memorable celebration of talent, diversity, culture and creativity, bringing together performers, families, community leaders and supporters from many different backgrounds for an inspiring evening in the heart of Bankstown.
The World Observer Media produces a daily online newspaper, a daily Arabic online newspaper and a monthly printed Arabic/English magazine and a weekly printed Arabic/English newspaper.
The World Observer Media’s mission is to entertain and educate all generation from the Ethnic Communities in Australia, who are interested in local, national and foreign information. 
