Gathering for the Student Leaders Iftar at Amity College was more than just an opportunity to break our fast together—it was a reminder of the values that define true leadership. Surrounded by student leaders from across Sydney, the evening was a space for reflection, conversation, and the shared understanding that leadership is as much about empathy and humility as it is about responsibility.

The theme, "Leading with Compassion: The Spirit of Ramadan," resonated throughout the night. Ramadan itself is a time of self-discipline and personal growth, but beyond fasting, it teaches us to be more conscious of others—to listen, to uplift, and to lead with kindness. These are qualities that extend far beyond our personal faiths or school communities; they are what make leadership meaningful in any space.

One of the most striking moments of the night was hearing from Nasreen Hanifi, whose words on compassion and leadership challenged us to think deeply about the way we lead in our own schools. Leadership isn’t about authority—it’s about responsibility. The way we treat people, the way we listen, and the way we respond to challenges shape not just ourselves, but the communities we serve.

The roundtable discussions that followed reinforced this idea. Listening to the perspectives of other student leaders, it became clear that while our schools and experiences may differ, the challenges we face as young leaders are often the same. How do we lead in a way that brings people together? How do we ensure our leadership is not just effective, but meaningful? These are questions that don’t have simple answers, but ones we all left the night thinking about.

As the night came to a close, the reflections shared by student leaders were a testament to the impact of the evening. Leadership is often spoken about in terms of ambition, but perhaps its greatest measure is how we show up for others—with understanding, with patience, and with a willingness to listen.

Thank you to all who made this night possible, and to the student leaders who continue to inspire with their words and actions. May we all continue to lead with compassion, in every aspect of our lives. Ramadan Mubarak. 

Aya Kammoun, GHS Vice Captain