In memory of Arash Yari
It is with deep sadness that Spectrum honors the passing of young client, Arash Yari, drowned off South Australia’s Fleurieu Peninsula, while on summer holiday on 15th January 2019.
Arash, with his family, arrived in Australia from Afghanistan 18 months ago, and has launched himself into Australian life with gusto. The team at Spectrum has been supporting Arash and his family as they begin to create a new life in Australia, and are devastated by the loss of Arash.
One of the ways that Arash has been developing a new life in Australia has been to get involved in the Spectrum football program. It was not that long ago that we were celebrating the success of not just one but two Spectrum soccer teams, of which Arash was a treasured member.
Spectrum Youth Worker, Emmanuel Saakai remembers Arash fondly, “He was such a happy boy, always smiling and friendly. He loved to tell a joke and to have a laugh, and had lots of friends.”
The boys have come together from all over the world to ostensibly become better football players; however, they also grow as people, by practicing important values such as respect, team work and commitment. They are encouraged to be proud of their cultural heritage and, at the same time, supported in adapting to the Australian way of life.
Bernie Nott, Spectrum CEO, said , “A young man, who has already made one of the hardest of journey’s to a new life in Australia, has been tragically lost while enjoying the freedom for which he and his family have travelled so far to achieve. Our mission at Spectrum is to help people feel at home, and we hope that Arash’s family have felt the support of community during this time.”
This afternoon, before kickoff of this afternoon’s matches, a group of young men will come together to honor one of their own in a special memorial service.
Memorial Time: 5:00-5.15pm
Where: Errington Reserve, St Albans
Games to follow – black armbands to be worn.
Donation Box available.
BBQ to follow.
You can assist the family with expenses via contributing to A GoFund Me page: https://www.gofundme.com/chaman-sha-yari
All contact:
Natalie Dillon
Marketing and Communications Manager
0409 865 531e.natalied@spectrumvic.org.au