On the 19 November, Shama celebrated its 20th Anniversary since it became a charitable trust. Since its humble beginnings as conversations among ethnic women in their homes and garages in 2001, Shama has grown into a community organization reputed for its advocacy on behalf of migrant and ethnic women. The 20th Anniversary celebrations was attended by past and current members of the Shama whānau, the community who we work with and for, and supporters and well-wishers. We were also honoured with the presence of local Kaumatuas and Tangata Whenua representatives, Kirikiriroa Mayor Paula Southgate, Human Rights Commissioner Meng Foon, MPs Melissa Lee and Jan Logie and many Regional and Local City Councillors.
Among the keynote speakers at the event were Professor Priya Kurian, a co-founder and current trustee of Shama, and Kesh Naidoo-Rauf, Hamilton City Councilor. The event was also the occasion for the screening of the documentary film ‘Shama‘, directed by Associate Professor Arezou Zalipour. This was also an opportunity to showcase the artistic talents of our communities. The 13-year old Jazz Vidamo, a Filipino opera singer from Matamata, and choreographer and performers from the Hamilton Chinese Ethnic Song and Dance Group.
