The Iranian-born shopkeeper founded Armidale’s Harmony Group to celebrate multiculturalism and will mark Harmony Day next Friday.

Every year the event, in which food, music and dancing are shared, attracts up to 400 people, Mr Amini said.

“Any organisation which is inclusive and holistic has no choice but to be successful,” he said.

“We help the Muslims celebrate Eid al-Fitr, the last day of Ramadan and we help the churches to feed people on Christmas Day. The event is free and will run from 5.30pm to 8.30pm on March 13, with  

University of New England vice-chancellor Annabelle Duncan  will be speaking.