During a poignant moment at an awards ceremony on Australia Day, Ahmed addressed the audience, revealing he still harbors a “big hurt” within him. Even after more than a month since the devastating terror attack that rocked the nation, two bullets remain lodged in his arm.

Standing outside the event, Ahmed expressed his gratitude, admitting, “I didn’t expect to receive it, but it’s something very nice. Thank you for everything.”

Mayor Bilal El-Hayek lauded Ahmed as a “true blue local hero,” underscoring the appropriateness of the award in light of Ahmed’s bravery. “This is the highest honor a city can bestow, and it marks the first time the City of Canterbury Bankstown has presented it,” he stated.

The mayor concluded with heartfelt congratulations, saying, “Congratulations and thank you, Ahmed.”

“Congratulations and thank you Ahmed.”

At an Australia Day ceremony in another part of the city, Premier Chris Minns also praised the Syrian-Australian’s actions.

“I think what Ahmed’s story shows us, and this is often the case … is that some of our most patriotic Australians are the newly arrived,” he said. 

“Those who’ve decided to become Australian.”

Following the Bondi terror attack, Ahmed spent two weeks in St George Hospital in Sydney’s south and underwent surgery for gunshot wounds.