Anne Parisianne
Leaders, educators, and youths met in a landmark event in Hume in March to empower Pasefika youth and spark dialogue and connection across diverse sectors.
The Pasefika Youth event, held by EFKS Glenroy Youth, was hailed as a success by participants and organisers and marked a significant step in addressing the unique challenges and opportunities faced by Pacific Islander youths.
During the event, attendees engaged with the panellists and their stories, fulfilling the event’s purpose of inspiring and connecting.
The commitment to fostering a sense of belonging and representation was palpable, with individuals from various backgrounds, including NRL women representatives and Navy personnel, demonstrating their support for Pacific Islander youth.
These efforts underscored the importance of acknowledging and celebrating cultural heritage within contemporary contexts, offering a powerful counter-narrative to the challenges of cultural integration.
Engage Pasefika lead community organiser and founder Anasina Gray-Barberio said, “For young Pacific Islander youth, the struggle of reconciling cultural heritage with the pressures of contemporary Western norms is an all-too-familiar challenge.”
“Yet, amidst this dichotomy, the message echoed loud and clear: pride in one’s cultural identity is not only valid but invaluable,” she added.
“This event served as a powerful reminder that embracing diversity not only enriches our collective experiences but also propels us toward a future where authenticity and inclusivity reign supreme.“
Details: www.engagepasefika.au.
