How an Arabic women's group is helping isolated women to find community
Sometimes connection begins with something small.
A shared cup of tea. A conversation in your own language. A room where you feel welcome.
For Arabic-speaking women in Adelaide’s west, the Community Access and Services SA (CAASSA) Arabic Women’s Group has become that room.
The group was created after women told Community Access and Services SA, known as CAASSA, that they wanted more chances to meet, make friends and feel part of their community.
Some women faced language barriers. Others had few opportunities to spend time with people outside their homes. Many wanted a safe, women-only space where they could talk openly and be themselves.
CAASSA listened.
Through the Community Connections Program, it created a group where women could come together, build confidence and support one another.
Connecting and growing
The group now shares activities such as cooking, exercise, arts and crafts, community outings and health information sessions. But its real success is not measured by the number of activities. It is found in the friendships that continue after the sessions end.
Women have become more confident, learned about local services and built stronger links with their community. They have found people to talk to, laugh with and turn to for support.
The group has grown quickly since it began in 2024. Strong attendance and a waiting list showed just how important this kind of connection was. CAASSA now welcomes new participants every three to six months so more women can take part.
Trust and belonging
The group is led by Salam Alwani, a bilingual Arabic-speaking woman who understands the language, culture and experiences of participants. The women also help choose the activities and shape the group’s direction.
This helps create trust and a strong sense of belonging.
The impact can also be seen at larger community events. More than 120 women attended a recent Arabic Women’s Night, where they shared food, dancing, laughter and friendship.
For some, simply stepping into the room was a brave first step.
The theme for Loneliness Awareness Week 2026 is Make room to connect. This group shows what that can look like.
It means listening to what people need. It means creating spaces where everyone feels safe and included. Most of all, it means making sure no one has to face loneliness alone.
Watch a video where members share why they joined and how their lives have changed (3.51 mins)
The CAASSA Arabic Women’s Group is supported and funded through the Department of Human Services’ Community Connections Program. Read more about the program on the website at Community Connections | DHS or connect with CAASSA to hear about this and other programs they have to offer.