This Father’s Day White Ribbon Australia is calling on fathers to take time out and talk to their children on what it means to be a father.
The organisation, which aims to end men’s violence against women, says it's an initiative which will address the positive influence male role models and father figures can have in shaping and inspiring future generations.
White Ribbon Chair, Tony Pearson, says the role of a father has an important place in a child’s life.
“Research shows strong positive bonds between fathers and their children has a positive impact on the relationships they will have as adults,” he said.
“That’s why we’re asking all fathers and father-figures to reflect on and understand the important role they play in raising the next generation with values of respect, gender equality and, ultimately, violence prevention.
“The conversations they have today with their children will shape the person they become tomorrow.”
SBS Urdu talked to a number of fathers from Australia's Pakistani community to find out what fatherhood means to them and how they plan to celebrate the day with their kids.
Umer Iqbal, from regional Victoria and father of two, said that becoming a father changes your life.
“The first time when I became a father and saw my daughter, I could not believe it, becoming a father is the best feeling in the world.
“Kids learn from their parents. It is our responsibility to inspire and educate them to be a good person. That is the most important role of a father.” he further added.
We need to act as role models for our kids, only then will our kids reflect similar values
Sydney resident Dr Farhan Shahzad, father of three children told SBS Urdu that he believes that once you have kids your objective of life changes.
“Family plays an important role and everything is focused towards securing your children’s future,” he said.
“My quality of life has changed. There have been changes inside me which cannot be explained. Now that I am a father I can understand the sacrifices our parents made for us and this continues from generation to generation.
“Being a father is an honour and a privilege, it’s not just a responsibility. You learn so much from your kids. They are a true reflection of yourself.” he further added.
Dr Shahzad says he feels that it is very important to express your feelings and emotions with your kids.
“This helps with nurturing their personalities,” said Dr Shahzad.
“We need to act as role models for our kids, only then will our kids reflect similar values.
“Father’s day is a very happening day for me, it is always a surprise. I never know what to expect. My wife and kids always plan something and they give me gifts which I enjoy a lot.
“I also make sure to contact my father back in Pakistan, talk to him, express my feelings and send him a gift.” he further added.
Melbourne resident Faraz Karachiwala is a father of two children.

Faraz Karachiwala & family posing for a photo in-front of Sydney Harbour Bridge. Source: Supplied
“Fathers are a superhero for their kids and they want to mimic you as a role model,” said Mr Karachiwala.
“In our culture people expect the father to be the breadwinner and the mother to take care of the children.
“I believe once we immigrate to Australia, this mentality needs to change. We need to understand the dynamics of the country we are going too.
“For the better future of your kids, both parents need to play an equal part in raising them and working towards a successful work-life balance.” he further added.
Zafar Yasin, father of five daughters migrated to Australia two years ago. He told SBS Urdu that fathers always want the best for their kids.
“It is a very beautiful relationship between a father and their daughters. It is our responsibility to impart good qualities onto our kids,” said Mr Yasin.
“As always my kids tend to surprise me on father’s day. I normally tend to forget when the day is.
“There will be a lot of gifts and we will probably end up going for dinner with the family.” he further added.





