At Service Stream, our strength lies in our people and in the diversity of backgrounds, beliefs, and cultures they bring with them. Following the recent period of Ramadan and the joyful conclusion marked by Eid al-Fitr, we caught up with one of our talented team members, Shahnaz Akter, an IT graduate to learn more.
Shahnaz joined Service Stream in February 2025, stepping into the business as an IT graduate. Since day one, Shahnaz’s passion, dedication, and perspective is already helping to shape our future.
“The most rewarding aspect of working at Service Stream is knowing the impact our work has on communities across Australia,” says Shahnaz.
“Whether it’s telecommunications, water, power, or transport, our role in keeping people connected, safe, and supported motivates me every day.”
Shahnaz speaks highly of the collaborative culture she’s found at Service Stream, where values like safety, people, delivery and accountability are more than just words, they’re embedded in how we operate.
“There’s a genuine respect for one another here. I’ve felt supported from the beginning, which has encouraged me to develop my skills and grow both personally and professionally.”
As a young professional, Shahnaz brings a unique perspective to the workplace, especially during culturally significant times like Ramadan. For Shahnaz, the holy month is about more than fasting, it’s a period of reflection, compassion, and community.
“Ramadan is a time to reconnect with faith, with family, and with the values that matter most. Fasting each day is a physical reminder of patience and empathy. It helps me better understand the struggles of others and inspires me to give back with gratitude and humility.”
Despite the demands of full-time work, Shahnaz finds balance in observing Ramadan, thanks in part to the inclusive environment at Service Stream.
“My colleagues have been incredibly supportive. Whether it’s adjusting workloads, being thoughtful around mealtimes, or simply checking in. I’m also able to take time off to celebrate Eid with my family, which means a lot.”
Eid al-Fitr, the festival that marks the end of Ramadan, is a time of joy and connection. For Shahnaz, it’s one of the most cherished days of the year.
“Eid begins with a special prayer and continues with food, laughter, and being surrounded by loved ones. It’s a celebration of everything we’ve reflected on during Ramadan and a reminder of the importance of gratitude and community.”
Shahnaz also shared the rich historical and spiritual significance of Ramadan and Eid. The month of Ramadan, she explained, commemorates the time when the Qur’an was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). It’s a time for recitation, reflection, and renewal of faith. Eid, which originated in 624 CE, is a joyful culmination of the month’s devotion and sacrifice.
At Service Stream, we are proud to support our people in bringing their whole selves to work. Shahnaz’s story is a reminder of how embracing diversity enriches our culture, fosters mutual respect, and makes us stronger as an organisation.
A heartfelt thanks to Shahnaz for sharing her story with us and we look forward to watching you thrive as you continue through Service Stream’s Ignite Graduate Program.
