Prevention of Violence Education in the Burundian Community in Auckland
In 2024, the Burundian Association in Auckland took the Shama prevention workshop and adapted its content to start conversations about sexual violence prevention within their own community. Their first step was to introduce the new prevention programme during a Boxing Day gathering. On that occasion, they reflected with community members on the importance of discussing this issue together.
After Boxing Day, the group worked on tailoring the workshop content, planning it as a three-hour session with the broader community. They collaborated with Shama to ensure the material was appropriate and culturally relevant. The workshop was then delivered to both male and female participants, in Kirundi -their own language- to guarantee accessibility and cultural connection.
Following the workshop, the Association used the annual International Women’s Day celebration as another platform to reflect on what had been covered. While the event was full of dance, laughter, and joy, it also created space to pause and consider the importance of respect, consent, and healthy relationships. Leaders and community members took the opportunity to encourage both activism and practical action.
By bringing these conversations into culturally significant spaces, the Burundian Association created a powerful way to engage their community and spark ongoing dialogue. The group remains motivated to continue working on family and sexual violence prevention, and they are still actively involved in different initiatives to support this kaupapa.
