Cultural day at Epsom celebrates diversity
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There’s nothing like fine spring weather to bring students into the quad at the Faculty of Education for food, entertainment and a good cause.
Students from a wide range of cultural backgrounds and programmes came together to perform Māori waiata, the Samoan Sasa, and the Tongan Tau’olunga to enthusiastic participation and applause.
The event was organised and compered by Amelia Makalio, a second year student in the Bachelor of Education (Teaching) and the Epsom Tai Tokerau Students’ Association (ETTSA) Pasifika representative. Not only was the event a way for students to come together, but it also raised an estimated $480 from donations and the sale of traditional food for fellow student Janet Wolfgramm whose son urgently needs a $12,000 kidney operation.
“Janet is a final year teaching student who has supported many students with their studies,” says Amelia, “so we wanted to do something to help her too.”
Amelia, who is of Tongan descent, was moved to organise the event to promote cultural diversity on campus and bring students from the ECE, Primary, Secondary, Māori medium teaching and Social Work/Human Services programmes together.
“We also felt more is needed to support Pacific students and to make our culture visible around the faculty,” says Amelia, “but our aim was also to involve everyone and all cultures, including our international students.
“We’d like to ensure students feel comfortable about their culture on the campus and get to know each other. It’s a shame to walk past each other and not get to know fellow students and this was a great opportunity to connect with everyone.”
The event was supported by ETTSA and the Faculty Manager, Stuart Windross. ETTSA organisers have further events planned including a buffet Pasifika feast later in the year for the graduating BEd Pasifika students. This will again be held in the quad and be open to all students.
