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.
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'…