Celebrations for Niuean Language week at Ara-Te Pūkenga show PISA in action

_{PISA Cultural Co-ordinator Esther Shadwell}

Esther Shadwell started studying at Ara-Te Pūkenga last year and got involved in PISA this year, taking on a Cultural Co-ordinator role.

“We are not directly aware of Niuean students here on campus, but PISA wanted to ensure this beautiful culture was celebrated during this season of Pacific Language Weeks,” she says.

Samoan herself, a connection to Niue through a close family friend saw Shadwell take the lead on activities for Niuean Language Week, starting with the making of coconut bread to share.

The specialty was prepared by Ara-Te Pūkenga bakery students to a recipe shared by Esther’s Niuean family friend and handed out for free.

“I think people were really grateful to be able to sample something delicious and also take the opportunity to try some language too. People tried some different phrases, and we had some cool conversations,” she says.

Another activity was a chance to get hands-on in the library making kahoa hihi - traditionally beautiful shell necklaces.

Brothers Kobe and Milan Sanft decided to get among the creativity.

“It’s actually very satisfying doing something calming and taking your mind off things,” Kobe says. “It’s quite therapeutic.”

The theme for this year is Fakatūleva e Vagahau Niue mo e Tau Aga Fakamotu ma e Tau Atuhau which translates: Sustain Niue Language and Culture for Future Generations.

Shadwell says it’s great to take any chance to be visible for Pacific students.

“It’s important we celebrate each and every diverse culture of the Pacific and raise awareness about different things people can access here on campus,” she says.

_{Milan (left) and Kobe making necklaces in the library}