On 1 April 2026, Saba Hazara Group and Settlement Services International (SSI) came together to bring 25 young people to the Sydney Opera House for a live theatre performance , one of Australia's most iconic cultural venues.
The initiative, planned by event coordinator Elaha Arefi, was designed to strengthen English language skills in a way that felt genuinely meaningful. By experiencing live theatre in a major cultural setting, participants had the opportunity to build listening, comprehension, and confidence in English , not in a classroom, but in the real world.
Purpose and Goals
This event was more than a cultural outing. It was a carefully considered educational experience , using live performance as a bridge between language learning and community connection.
- Create an engaging environment where young people could improve their English through live theatre and shared discussion.
- Build confidence in listening to and understanding English in a real-world setting.
- Promote connection among participants from Syrian, Tajik, Hazara, and Rohingya backgrounds.
- Use the event as a practical and enjoyable way to strengthen communication and community participation.
On the Day
A total of 25 participants attended the performance at the Sydney Opera House, representing a diverse mix of backgrounds , Syrian, Tajik, Hazara, and Rohingya youth. The collaboration between Saba Hazara Group and SSI helped create a welcoming and inclusive experience, where participants could focus on enjoying and understanding the performance together.
For many, it was their first time attending a live theatre performance at such a renowned venue. The setting gave participants an opportunity to engage with English outside the classroom in a memorable and culturally enriching way, while also connecting socially with peers from different communities.
“Some attendees expressed interest in participating in more plays in the future , showing that the event supported English development while also making theatre feel more accessible and enjoyable.”
, Participant feedback, Theatre Event April 2026
Outcomes and Impact
What It Showed Us
This event demonstrated that language learning does not have to be confined to textbooks and classrooms. When young people from diverse backgrounds sit together in a world-class venue and experience something live, the learning that follows is richer, more lasting, and deeply personal.
Saba Hazara Group will continue offering educational and cultural activities that support English language development, confidence building, and community connection for young people from diverse backgrounds.