Last week, our head student, Hawwa Niyaz, competed in the Race Unity Speech Competition, which was held at the Christchurch Baha'i Centre.

Hawwa's speech was based around this year's Race Unity theme of "Ngā matimati nõ te ringa kotahi - The fingers of one hand", in which she addressed the questions:

Why does the suffering and oppression of specific groups in society affect the wellbeing and progress of the whole?

How can every member of our society find their own role in the work of eradicating racism and building social cohesion? 

After the event, one of the judges, Police Superintendent John Price offered Hawwa a future speaking opportunity at an event which will include attendees such as our mayor, Lianne Dalziel, and other dignitaries. Hawwa is thrilled that this speaking competition has led to yet another platform to have her voice heard.