As Australia's cultural mosaic continues to grow, so does the celebration of diversity during Harmony Week, running from March 15 to March 21, 2025. This annual event is a call for inclusivity and respect, urging all Australians to embrace the myriad of cultural backgrounds that make the nation unique. From joyful story sessions to engaging community workshops, various activities highlight the importance of belonging and respect for all.
One of the notable celebrations took place at Carinity, where employees exemplified the rich cultural diversity found across Australia. Carinity’s staff come from over 60 nations and speak nearly 50 different languages. Employees like Riya Prasad, born in New Zealand to Fiji Indian parents, emphasized the joy she finds in exploring cultural diversity. "As someone who has grown up in two very culturally diverse westernised countries, it has always brought me joy to explore the world and its various cultures," she stated.
Riya, who teaches at Carinity Education Southside, passionately incorporates cultural events into her programming, such as teaching Bollywood dance inspired by her heritage. She shared her pride in sharing her culture, stating that Harmony Week allows her "to build understanding and close relationships with other people in the community." This sentiment reflects the shared goals of Carinity—creating communities where individuals feel accepted and supported to reach their full potential.
Another representative, Agapito ‘Jay-ar’ Bac-la-an, hails from Cebu in the Philippines. As a disability Lifestyle Support Worker at Carinity Bunderra, he draws on his cultural traditions, stating, "Cebuano culture influences daily life by fostering a strong sense of identity, faith, hard work, and community spirit." He believes Harmony Week serves as an important reminder to embrace diversity. "It is an opportunity to reflect on how diverse cultural differences can coexist beautifully," he noted.
Also making an impact is Tina Lataipangai, a Lifestyle Carer at Carinity Home Care Bundaberg, who discusses the profound influence of her Tongan upbringing. Tina celebrates the significance of the elderly in her culture, saying, "In the Tongan culture, the elderly are the most important people to be looked after and shown the utmost respect." Her commitment to care shows how individual values can resonate throughout community interactions.
On March 18, the Mooroolbark Library hosted a special story time session in Hookey Park, emphasizing the importance of home languages. Emma Wallis, the library’s children services manager, expressed the library’s mission: “The theme of Harmony Day is always, everyone belongs.” The library's events aimed to represent various cultures through engaging stories shared in both English and other languages, including Hindi and Chin dialects, facilitated by translators.
This event gathered families to celebrate storytelling—an art that transcends cultural boundaries and enriches understanding among diverse communities. Emma described, “We try really hard with our storytime to represent all different cultures, all different people belonging together in harmony.”
The celebration was a great success, with participants enjoying songs, rhymes, and storytelling. Feedback from attendees highlighted a sense of engagement and community spirit. "It seems like people are really engaged... they’re staying around, chatting to everyone, which to me is a really good sign that they’ve enjoyed it," Emma noted, reflecting on the positivity in participation.
Darwin too participated actively in celebrating Harmony Week, inviting families to partake in a special Harmony Day event at the Malak Community Centre. Lord Mayor Kon Vatskalis emphasized the city’s multiculturalism: "We are very proud that people from more than 60 nationalities and 70 different ethnic backgrounds call Darwin home." The event, part of the Fun Bus program, highlighted the city's commitment to fostering multicultural social interactions.
From flower weaving to an African drumming workshop and performances by the Baby Ballerinas, the offerings were varied and engaging. Vatskalis further encouraged attendees to wear orange or traditional clothing to celebrate the community's diverse roots and shared history.
Synchronizing the activities around Harmony Week not only amplifies its importance but also nourishes the community. These events foster dialogue, deepen bonds, and enhance the appreciation of cultural diversity, which is vital for Australia’s future, as it champions unity amid diversity.
The gatherings during Harmony Week exemplify a commitment to inclusivity and shared human experience, encouraging people of all backgrounds to engage, celebrate, and learn from one another. As communities across Australia embrace their unique heritages, events like those held at Carinity, Mooroolbark Library, and Darwin serve not just as celebrations but as necessary platforms for respect and understanding—crucial for harmonious living in an ever-evolving society.
