Yuki Lin and Ngan Dang were invited to participate in the Christchurch Emerging Ethnic Leaders’ Breakfast, organised by the Ministry of Education.

The event took place before school on May 18, at Tūranga Library. Two ethnic student leaders from 22 schools around Christchurch were selected to attend the event.

Lianne Dalziel, Mayor of Christchurch, Carolanne Child, Director of Education for Christchurch, and the special guest, Abbas Nazari, an author who talked about his new book ‘After the Tampa’ were all invited to attend and speak. This was a great opportunity to celebrate the growing diversity and leadership qualities these students from diverse backgrounds have demonstrated.

“It was really interesting and engaging meeting student leaders of other schools. We learnt about important cultural and diversity concepts, as well as the opportunity to listen to Abbas Nazari’s speak about his experience.” - Yuki

“I think this is an important celebration for emerging leaders of the community, and to see people who have similar goals and passion for our own community is really awesome. I enjoyed the speeches at the event, especially Abbas Nazari - it was eye-opening and it taught me a lot about the importance and relevance of diversity and culture in the world.” - Ngan