Citizenship Ceremony October 2024 – Lakmi Hansika
We are proud to introduce Lakmi Hansika, one of our international student ambassadors for 2024. On 28 October 2024, Lakmi shared her journey at our citizenship ceremony, highlighting her experiences from Sri Lanka to Dubai, and finally to Hobart, Tasmania.
Please read Lakmi's speech below:
Good afternoon, everyone.
Congratulations to all the new Australian citizens! Your journey to citizenship has been a significant milestone, and I am honoured to share this special occasion with you.
I stand before you today, as a proud international student, having found a home away from home in the beautiful city of Hobart, Tasmania. My journey here has been one of personal growth, cultural exploration, and a deep appreciation for the natural beauty and welcoming spirit of Australia.
My name is Lakmi Hansika. I am originally from Sri Lanka, and spent seven years living in Dubai, where I worked as a flight attendant for five years. My experiences traveling to over 50 countries, during this time sparked my passion for exploring different cultures and understanding the world around me. Witnessing the varying levels of environmental pollution from the skies, I realized the urgent need to live in a healthier, more sustainable environment. My research led me to Tasmania, a state renowned for its pristine air, vast wilderness, and commitment to conservation. Hobart, with its vibrant city life and proximity to nature, was the perfect choice.
My time in Hobart has been a transformative experience. As an international student ambassador at City of Hobart, I was fortunate to connect with industry professionals and expand my network. The support I received from the international student advisor at TAFE helped me settle into my new life and navigate the challenges of studying abroad.
I am grateful for the opportunity to study hospitality management in Hobart. This field aligns with my passion for travel and my desire to contribute to the tourism industry. I hope to use my knowledge and skills to create memorable experiences for visitors and promote sustainable tourism practices.
Looking back, I would advise my younger self to embrace the unknown, be open to new experiences, and build meaningful connections. Remember that challenges are opportunities for growth, and the journey is as important as the destination.
As I stand here today, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunities I have been given in Tasmania. I am proud to call this land my second home and look forward to contributing to its vibrant community and sustainable future.
Once again, congratulations to all the new Australian citizens. I wish you all a bright and prosperous future.
Thank you.
Citizenship Ceremony July 2024 – Dai Thang Tran
In July 2024, I had the honour of volunteering at the Citizenship Ceremony a significant event that marks the beginning of a new chapter for many families as they officially become Australian citizens. My role involved greeting the candidates and their families, assisting them with registration, guiding them through the ceremony agenda, and sharing their journey from the first day they landed in Tasmania to this momentous day when they became Australian citizens. It was a humbling experience to witness the pride and emotion in the eyes of those who had worked hard to reach this milestone.
Throughout the day, I interacted with Elected Members and VIPs gaining a deeper appreciation for the values and responsibilities of Australian citizenship. Working alongside Council Officers who organised the event to ensure it was a memorable occasion for all, I was struck by the profound sense of diversity and the beauty of coming together as one community. The words from the Australian anthem, "Australians all let us rejoice, for we are one and free" resonated deeply with me, capturing the essence of being Australian – a nation built on the principles of freedom, inclusivity, and a shared love for this land.
Leaving the ceremony, I felt an overwhelming sense of pride in my role as a volunteer as well as being part of a country that celebrates its multicultural heritage. This experience has reinforced my commitment to contributing to the community and supporting others on their journey to becoming Australians. The day was filled with joy and reflection, deepening my understanding of the significance of citizenship in Tasmania, a land enriched by its diverse communities and the enduring heritage of the Traditional Owners and ongoing custodians of lutruwita (Tasmania).
Citizenship Ceremony April 2024 – Rhoda Ahadzie
My name is Rhoda Mawushi Ahadzie and I come from Ghana, West Africa. As one of the City of Hobart International Student Ambassadors for 2024, I had a great privilege to volunteer and participate in the Citizenship Ceremony.
It was an amazing experience to see the arduous work that goes into organising such a beautiful yet emotional event for different people and families. I was delighted to support the work of the entire team in ushering conferees and their guests, helping them locate their seats and setting up for refreshments.
At the ceremony, I had the honour to meet and interact with some amazing people in Hobart such as City of Hobart officers and volunteers, Members of Parliament, Elected Members, and the Lord Mayor, Councillor Anna Reynolds. I consider this a rare opportunity to share in the joy of the many individuals and families participating in the ceremony and to give back to the community that has supported me in special ways upon my arrival to Hobart in 2022. I left the ceremony with an elated spirit and a line from Bruce Woodley's song to ponder on. It reads 'We are one, but we are many and from all the lands on earth we come'…
Together Festival March 2024 – Nishanth Velusamy
Attending the Together Festival 2024 organised by the City of Hobart was truly a remarkable experience. The festival served as a vibrant celebration of diversity, culture, and unity, bringing together individuals from various backgrounds to partake in a rich tapestry of traditions and performances.
A standout moment for me was when the Lord Mayor, Councillor Anna Reynolds, delivered her opening speech. Her words encapsulated the essence of inclusivity and community that defined the event. The Lord Mayor's message, emphasising the importance of embracing diversity and fostering mutual understanding, set a profound tone for a day filled with appreciation for the distinct contributions of each cultural group present.
From the captivating cultural performances to the engaging activities such as yoga for kids, magic show by Indonesian magician, and delectable international cuisines offered by the food trucks, every aspect of the festival exuded energy and excitement. Engaging with attendees, distributing souvenirs that embody the spirit of "Hobart for all," and capturing inclusive photography under the frame that boldly states "Racism, it stops with me" and ensuring that international students felt a sense of belonging in the festive atmosphere were particularly rewarding aspects of my role. As an International Student Ambassador, it was a source of pride to contribute to an event that promoted understanding, friendship, and cultural exchange among all participants.
My participation in the Together Festival 2024 left me not only delighted but also enlightened. It underscored the significance of embracing diversity and creating a welcoming environment for all members of the community. I eagerly anticipate continuing my ambassadorial duties, advocating for unity and celebrating the multicultural vibrancy of Hobart.