Taste of Cultures

By Bev Jordan

A special event to celebrate The World Day for Cultural Diversity was held at the Pioneer Theatre at Castle Hill last week with a focus on communities from China, India, Korea, Iran and Afghanistan.

Organised by Community Migrant Resource Centre (CMRC) and Hills Community Aid it was a chance to enjoy the dance, music and craft from the different cultures.

Cultures of the Hills was an opportunity to talk to the migrant groups and hear about their culture and experiences moving to the Hills as well as taste food from different cultures and try crafts. Frank Zhenqian from China, Fariha Haidar from Afghanistan, Kumud Merani from India and Kerry Jung from Korea answered questions about family life in their own country and their love for Australia and the Hills.

When asked what the challenges are for new migrants, they said: trying to get overseas qualifications recognised, finding a job, language barriers, raising children in a bicultural community and difficulties in getting parents’ visas.

They all said they would like more Cultural Diversity events.

Mici Beer said: “Hills Community Aid is proud to have been able to partner to offer Cultures of The Hills, showcasing local Multicultral communities through sharing stories, handcrafts and great performances. Feedback suggests the event was a great success and we plan to host an event again next year.”

Thank you to The Hills Multicultral Network, CMRC and Multicultral NSW. “