People pull together at an earlier Shama community event. Photo / Supplied
People pull together at an earlier Shama community event. Photo / Supplied
The Hamilton Women's Ethnic Centre, known as Shama, is hosting a series of neighbourhood-based events with the aim of building stronger connections within communities.
The Coming Together on Common Ground community events are held in four corners of Hamilton and welcome neighbours of all ethnicities and ages to comealong to share food and stories while getting to know their community.
The first of four events took place last month at the Western Community Centre, catering for those in the Dinsdale and Nawton neighbourhoods.
Shama worker Samantha Rose said those who attended enjoyed getting to know their neighbours better and encouraged them to want to engage within the community more.
"The diversity of those who attended and the energy in the room showed me that this was a successful event," Ms Rose said.
The event attracted people from all walks of life.
A 10-year-old boy concerned about the increase of truant youth voiced his opinions, an Afghani family shared how grateful they were to be living in New Zealand and a Chinese family attended to meet other parents.
The second event is set to take place on Saturday night at the Glenview Community Centre for all those who live in the southern area of Hamilton.
Shama invites those in Glenview, Deanwell and Melville to bring a plate, a friend and an optimistic attitude to the 6pm event.
The night will include conversations about important things that need to happen within the community, as well as games, activities and sharing culturally inspired meals.
"A series of interesting discussions and activities will leave guests feeling more connected with their neighbours and inspired about where they live and with the tools and vision to make new things happen," Ms Rose said.
The next event will be on September 8 at the Pukete Neighbourhood House at 6pm for all those in the northern part of the city.
The final event will take place on September 22, at Waimarie Community House for those living in the east of the city.
