Issue July 2012
Contents
Message from the Chair
Words from Len…Mayoral message
Sounds of friendship
Culturally appropriate rest home
Ramadan- the Islamic holy month
Trade mission to China
National days
Quiz for July
Ethnic conversations – Forum invite
Contact us
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Message from the Chair...........
Kia ora ethnic communities and welcome once again to what has
become a regular newsletter from the EPAP. I would like to thank our
Communications and Engagement sub-committee who is responsible for
the newsletters.
Many of you may be aware of the Auckland Plan, the strategic plan for
Auckland for the next 30 years and Mayor Len Brown’s vision for making
Auckland the most liveable city in the world. Mayor Brown calls us all to
share in this vision and as ethnic peoples we have to make sure that it is
the most liveable city for us. The Auckland Plan was launched by the
Mayor on May 29 at the Auckland Museum. Even though the Auckland
Plan has been written, we cannot be complacent in our own ethnic
communities. We cannot let Auckland city continue to grow and develop
without our ideas, our contributions, our presence and our perspectives.
As the voice of all our ethnic communities we’re standing together with
you to make our voices heard and our ideas a reality.
To this end, EPAP is holding a public meeting to which all of you are
invited to tell us and the Mayor what your concerns, interests and hopes
are for how Auckland will work for you and how you can make Auckland
work for all of us. It is an opportunity for many of you to find out what the
role of EPAP is in the Auckland Council’s structure and what happens to
the feedback you give us during our consultations with you.
As a legislated body, EPAP will soon participate in an external review
which will help all of us to understand the best way in which the panel
can work with council to more effectively represent the voice of ethnic
peoples in its policies and plans. We wish our Muslim communities a
safe and blessed fasting during their Ramadan and best wishes to our
hard working ethnic students as they prepare for exams.
See you all at the Public Meeting – Ethnic Conversations on Saturday 25
August at the Fickling Centre.
Dr Camille Nakhid,
Chairperson, Ethnic Peoples Advisory Panel
Visit www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz for more information
The Ethnic Panel
would like to invite
you to an
interactive
meeting “Ethnic
Conversations.”
This is your
opportunity to
engage with the
Ethnic Panel and
tell us how we
can work for you,
how you can work
with us and what
your expectations
of us are.
Come and join us
for a cup of tea, a
light meal and a
half day of active
discussions.
Keep the date
free on Saturday
25 August at the
Fickling Centre in
Three Kings. See
page 6 for more
details.
Words from Len……… The Mayoral message
It has been just over a year since the Ethnic People’s Advisory Panel first met, and
a lot has happened in that time.
The panel has found its feet working within Auckland Council systems, and is now
celebrating one year on. The Auckland Plan, the Long-term Plan (the council
budget for the next 10 years, which starts to put the Auckland Plan into action) and
the Economic Development Strategy have all been considered and debated by the
panel. The resulting feedback has provided extensive and useful advice to me and
my councillors at every stage of the process.
It is important to me that Auckland is an inclusive city, where all our people feel
they belong. I would like to commend the panel for their ongoing dialogue with our
ethnic communities, so that they can be fully informed of your views on all sorts of
topics.
I am keen that the panel looks closely at such matters as the isolation of some of
our smaller and newer ethnic groups. I want to know how we can work together, to
build bridges between different cultures and make this a truly welcoming and
inclusive city. I am confident we will make this happen.
We have reached a halfway mark now in the first term of this new Auckland
Council. The Auckland Plan is in place and now we can all roll up our sleeves and
get on with making it happen, for all Aucklanders.
Len Brown, Mayor of Auckland
Sounds of Friendship
– Korean New Zealanders celebration in 2012
2012 is a very meaningful year for Asians in NZ. The year of the dragon
provides us with many opportunities to experience an enriched cultural heritage
of friendship between NZ and Asian countries. This year Aotearoa NZ
celebrates the 60th anniversary of its diplomatic relationship with Japan, the
50th with Korea and the 40th with China. Government agencies and community
organisations are organising many fantastic cultural events for celebrating this
remarkable year.
Korean New Zealanders or Kowi (Korean + Kiwi) had the “2012 Korea Day” on
28 April to celebrate the 50th Jubilee year of the relationship between the two
countries.
The Korean Society of Auckland has been hosting this annual event at the North
Shore Events Centre. Majority of Korean migrants have settled down on the
North Shore and approx 13,000 people attended this event. The formal
ceremony opened with a Karakia, Mihi and performance which is a very
significant consideration in respect of integration of NZ protocols and cultural
heritage for Kowi in Auckland.
The Korean Embassy, General Consulate office and members of the Korean
University students’ association and many others passionately supported this
event. The very popular K-pop contest, Mc YoYo and many other ethnic
performances also motivated 1.5 generation and community members’ active
participation. Many Government officials and MPs as well as Korean War
veterans attended as VIPs.
The NZ Korea Veterans Association always has priority for any Korean events
as our diplomatic relationship was impossible without their devotion during the
harsh history of Korea. From the ashes of the battlefields after the war, Korea
has achieved significant success in modern technology, economic, medical
skills, trade and construction.
The strong resilience of Koreans’ historic journey and “Han” (which refers to
Unity with we-ness: not “I” but “We”) encourages many Koreans to work hard to
achieve a better future. We hope this blessed year of jubilee empowers all
Koreans in Auckland to gain a strong sense of belonging in our community.
The “Sounds of friendship” event, prepared by the Korean Government,
provided quality music and dance performances in Auckland, Christchurch and
Wellington in June 2012 for those who are friends or prospective friends of
Kowis.
Grace Ryu
Visit www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz for more information
Culturally Appropriate Rest Homes for Ethnic
Communities
At present New Zealand has several hundred rest homes in operation, even with
such a high number there appears to be some gaps in their ability to provide for
the elderly population of the nation. The major gap that has been identified is the
lack of culturally appropriate rest homes in and around New Zealand.
Research comparing culturally appropriate rest homes with traditional rest homes
shows that, those that were culturally appropriate had high levels of satisfaction
by resident’s family and staff, reduced rates of decline in late loss activities of
daily living, lower prevalence of depression, fewer residents classified as bedfast
and fewer residents having little or no activity.
Jeet Suchdev speaking about culturally
appropriate rest homes at the recent Hindu
Conference
According to previous studies conducted in Australia, older adults and their
families indicated that the elderly participants preferred to live in a facility that
caters to their own cultural background and they were highly satisfied with that
facility.
The Director of Nursing (DON) favours ethnic clustering on the following grounds:
•Ethnic patients would feel more at home and adjust better in a cluster home
•They would enjoy the company of residents from similar backgrounds
•Would be able to communicate in their own language with other residents
•They would be able to interact with other residents visitors (of particular benefit if
they had few visitors of their own)
•Relatives would perceive the environment of a cluster home as more familiar and
would feel positive when leaving the resident
•Easier to select staff to match residents backgrounds and staff to understand
residents preferences
•Easier to provide residents with appropriate food and meet their religious needs. .
Jeet Suchdev
Ramadan – the Muslim Holy Month
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. The Islamic Calendar is
a lunar calendar.
The beginning and end of Ramadan may vary from country to country,
depending on whether the moon has been sighted.
It has been predicted that the first day of Ramadan in New Zealand this year
will be on the 21st of July 2012. However, this will be determined by the
sighting of the new moon. Many New Zealand cities depend on Auckland for
confirmation of the sighting of the new moon. Auckland is the home of a large
proportion of NZ Muslims, with 66% of Muslims residing in the City of Sails.
The month of Ramadan has been mentioned in the Holy Quran as a period
in which fasting is mandatory for the able-bodied. Fasting commences from
sunrise to sunset, and this is done for one month. Ramadan is considered to
be a holy and a spiritual month in which Muslims cleanse themselves
spiritually, physically and emotionally.
It is not just the giving-up of food and water during the day. It is also about
good citizenship, acts of generosity, charity and submission to God (Allah).
Acts that are encouraged to be conducted during this period continues well
after Ramadan. During this month, family members, friends and the
community congregate and break their fast together; and come together in
Islamic Centres and Mosques to carryout their prayers and acts of worship.
The conclusion of Ramadan marks the first of Shawwal, the next month of the
Islamic calendar. The first three days of Shawwal signal the beginning of the
celebrations of Eid ul Fitr. The entire community gets together and celebrates
the end of Ramadan with sweets, gifts of money and picnics around the city.
Sadiqa Hajee
Visit www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz for more information
The best drummer out of Burundi?
Luca Ninzigamiye (3.5 years old) part
of the legendary Burundian drummers
at the Auckland International Cultural
Festival
Ethnic Women ~ Leadership
There are many myths about leaders: ‘leaders are born and not made
being a prime example. Leadership depends on a combination of elements.
Ones leadership style is the means by which one communicates with
others. The more self-aware one becomes, the more effectively it will work
for them. Especially for women leaders self awareness means
understanding and knowing what you like, what are your preferences or
what goals you wish to reach, what motivates you and how other people
perceive you and your goal?
Personal qualities of a leader are always vital, as are the needs of those
being led. Although there is no doubt that some personality types thrive
better in leadership roles than others, the good news is that leadership
skills can be learned. Leadership skill can be learned similar to skills like
team management techniques personal qualities that are essential for
leaders like assertiveness and self-confidence can also be taught.
Leadership is never a finished product; it is an ongoing process that needs
continuous nurturing and refinement.
Diversity reflected by ethnic women
leaders on the Ethnic Peoples Advisory
Panel who are keen to work towards an
inclusive Auckland.
Pictured from left.. Ann Pala (Indian),
Asoka Basnayake (Sri Lankan) and Grace
Ryu (Korean).
A lack of assertiveness can hold many women back from developing their
true potential, particularly in leadership roles. It is one of the keys to
successful leadership, together with sensitivity, and a thorough knowledge of
the available approaches.
Looking at my own journey, I think I became naturally assertive as a typical
older sister in a family with younger siblings. My leadership skills were
developed as a school prefect during my student life and I had to manage my
development as a leader.
Although small numbers of ethnic women leaders emerge in business, not
for profits, public sector such as education, there still remains huge gaps in
Auckland. The benefit of diversity in local government is yet to be achieved.
The appointment of seven women to the Ethnic Peoples Advisory Panel by
Mayor Len Brown is a great achievement for ethnic women. A couple of us
have moved forward to representing the voices of the ethnic diversity in local
Government elections. There is small progress within some local boards
with the election of a few ethnic people. For a progressive and inclusive
Auckland, local government must continue to shape its future and be
represented by the populations that contribute to the economic, social,
cultural and environment of Auckland.”
Ann Pala QSM
Auckland Council Trade Mission to China
To celebrate 40 years of diplomatic relations between New Zealand and
China, the first trade mission to China by the newly amalgamated
Auckland Council led by Mayor Len Brown was launched 10-20 April,
2012. The delegates on the mission represented some of the most
prominent businesses in Auckland, selected across the key sectors of
biotechnology, education, film/animation, infrastructure, investment and
tourism. Among five cities visited, Auckland Council re-signed Sister City
Agreements with three cities - Guangzhou, Ningbo and Qingdao. The
mission was an outstanding success and an excellent platform from which
to develop and further strengthen economic and political ties with China.
As one of the delegates, I was proud to be part of this mission. As a direct
outcome of this trade mission, ATEED signed a Statement of Co-operation
with the Beijing Investment Promotion Bureau 12th of May 2012 in
ATEED’s Office in Auckland.
(article continued on next page)
Visit www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz for more information
Tuwe Kudakwashe was one of the
speakers at the recent National Refugee
Settlement Conference in Wellington. He
spoke on “Employment challenges faced
by the New Zealand-based African
community members”
Continued from page 4.
Auckland, as a hub of Asia Pacific, is becoming increasingly important in the
role it plays in the region. It is the Pad for World top companies to land in New
Zealand and the platform for New Zealand Companies to go worldwide.
Auckland is the hub of tourism, ICT, science and innovation. The Auckland
Plan released last month takes one step forward for Auckland to become the
world’s most livable city. With the release of Open Door to China in February
2012, New Zealand is looking at engaging with Asia and signs a series of
agreement with Asian Countries and regions such as China, India, Indonesia
and Hong Kong. ASEAN, the 10 Southeast Asian Countries are very important
emerging new markets for New Zealand Inc. Chindia (China and India) holds
one third of world’s population and is a huge potential market for New Zealand.
Hopefully, New Zealand will drive the elephant and ride the dragon to lead the
Asia Pacific Region in the years to come.
John Hong, Member - EPAP
and Team Leader, Economic Sub Committee of the Panel)
National days celebrated in July
July marks two significant National Days, the Independence Day and the Bastille
Day.
United States Independence Day, commonly known as the Fourth of July, is a
national day that commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of
Independence on 4 July 1776, declaring independence from the Kingdom of
United Britain. Year 2012 mark the 236th Independence Day of the United
States of America, which will be celebrated in Auckland with bands from the US.
The French community will be celebrating their National Day, commonly known
as the Bastille Day in English-speaking countries, on 14th of July. It marks the
capture of the Bastille, which the power of kingdom was over thrown and a
symbol of the French Revolution.
French people celebrate their identity on the day with a massive parade on the
“Champs-Elysées”, take part in the many “bals populaires” (partying and
dancing to French music) in small villages and big cities alike and enjoy the
huge fireworks lit everywhere in France.
Alliance Française d'Auckland brings France to Auckland through celebrations
every year. This year “Auckland Accueil”, “Alliance Francaise Auckland” and
“Frogs in NZ” will present a stunning French-flavoured show on the 13th July,
including a piece of Pineapple Production’s French Cancan dancers, a slice of
the French Islands with Tahitian dances and a taste of the traditional music and
dances with “A bout d’bretelle” and “La bourée”. Of course the mouth-watering
sample of French food and drinks is very important.
Did you know that there are over 28 countries who speak French as an official
language, including countries such as Burundi, Cameroon, Republic of Congo,
and Vanuatu? Alliance Française d'Auckland regularly organise language
classes and events for the French-speaking community and everyone else who
is interested in everything Française! Bevan Chuang
Elisabeth Degrémont Producer
and Presenter of Amuse Guele
French radio programme on
104.6 Planet FM, interviewing
Mayor Len Brown.
Elisabeth was one of the group
who started this programme over
8 years ago and it is still a
popular show that airs weekly.
Visit www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz for more information
Newsletter Quiz for July
Here is the quiz for
July. Please email us
the correct answer
and you will go into a
draw to win two
movie tickets.
Question:
Name three
ministers who have
held the portfolio of
the Minister of Ethnic
Affairs in NZ?
Email your answer to
asoka.basnayake@
aucklandcouncil
.govt.nz with the
subject line “July
newsletter quiz”
before 15 August
2012.
ETHNIC CONVERSATIONS – Forthcoming Community Meeting in August
The Ethnic Peoples Advisory Panel’s main mission is “to identify and
communicate to the council the interests and preferences of the ethnic
peoples of Auckland…”.
With that purpose in mind, EPAP is organizing a public meeting for all
ethnic peoples to collect the views, opinions and expectations of ethnic
communities on EPAP.
Keep this
date free…
This is a unique opportunity for all ethnic peoples of Auckland to voice
their valuable opinions so don’t forget to add the date to your dairies:
What: Ethnic Conversations - Public Meeting
When: 25 August 2012
10am to 2pm
Where: Flicking Centre, next to the Three Kings Library
Cnr of Mt Albert and Mt Eden Roads, Three Kings
This is also an opportunity for our communities to meet the very first
Mayor of the Super city, Len Brown and councilors Richard Northey and
Cathy Casey. These four members of the council will briefly address the
audience on the work of the council touching on areas of interest to
ethnic peoples and the importance of the EPAP to the Council.
The Chairperson of EPAP, Dr Camille Nakhid will report on the progress
of the Panel to-date. All the speakers will set the scene for the
discussion that will follow.
India celebrates
Independence
Day
Look forward to meeting you on the day.
Kafeba Alvis Mundele (On Behalf of EPAP)
CONTACT US
Auckland Council
www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
09 301 0101
[email protected]
www.facebook.com/aklcouncil
www.twitter.com/aklcouncil
Ethnic Peoples Advisory Panel
www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz and search “Ethnic
Peoples Advisory Panel”
[email protected]
On the 15 August, Indians
around the world will
commemorate India’s
independence from British
rule in 1947. In Auckland,
India Independence Day is
being celebrated on
Saturday 12 August in
Aotea Square.
Congratulations and all the
very best to our Indian
brothers and sisters in New
Zealand on the 65th
anniversary of
Independence.
www.facebook.com/ethnicpanel
www.twitter.com/ethnicpanel
www.weibo.com/ethnicpanel
Write to us: Auckland Council, Private Bag 92300,
Auckland 1142
Visit www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz for more information
We will bring you more on
how it was celebrated in
our next issue….