New Zealand to host fifth Hindu Conference in May

NewsBharati    22-Mar-2019
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Organisers of the 2nd New Zealand National Hindu Conference pictured with the Maori King Tuheitia in 2008, at the Hindu Heritage Centre, Auckland.

New Zealand, Mar 22: New Zealand will host the fifth New Zealand National Hindu Conference in May this year and the theme of the conference is “Stronger Communities, Stronger New Zealand”.

The organizers are trying to get the heads of multiple Hindu institutions, temples and organizations together in this conference to discuss the ways to work collectively in the future. The organizers have started the preparatory work to achieve their goal.

Hosted by the Hindu Council of New Zealand, the aim of the 5th New Zealand National Hindu Conference is to “showcase the achievements and contribution of Hindus to New Zealand in all spheres”. The conference aims to provide an opportunity and a platform to all, said a statement released by the Hindu Council of New Zealand.

The Hindu community in New Zealand has made significant contribution in economy, education, health, agriculture, media, technology, entertainment and charitable sectors, the statement said.

"This conference will have panel discussions and presentations to share the achievements of Hindus in New Zealand; showcase the dynamic spirit of Hindu Youth organizations; provide a platform to forge pathways of constructive engagement with government agencies", the statement added further.

Nikita Sharma, conference coordinator, said the Hindu Council of New Zealand had played a key role in representing a united voice in New Zealand by strengthening the Hindu identity, positioning and organizing the Hindu society, and proving that they were a contributing community.

"The Hindus have been model contributors to countries they have adopted as their home globally. The picture in New Zealand is not very different. These inputs need to be showcased and exhibited for everyone to truly recognize and appreciate the strength of the Hindu community in New Zealand," Sharma said.

The 1st National Hindu Conference was inaugurated by the then Prime Minister Helen Clark in 2007 and the 2nd conference was inaugurated by the Maori King, King Tuheitia, who also known to appreciate the Hindu community.

Sharma said one of the highlights of this conference was youth leadership programs. Many Hindu organizations run youth programs in order to develop leadership skills in young people and enable them to showcase their capabilities.

These programs will help in developing them as good citizens and leaders. Murali Magesan, joint conference coordinator, will liaise with youth leaders of these organizations.

Said Sharma: “Young people have developed through this platform and have gone on to represent New Zealand on international platforms and conferences including the World Parliament of Peace and Justice at The Hague.

“I am pleased to see many youths have volunteered to be part of the organizing committee for this conference.”

Sharma said the conference aimed to build on the successes of the previous conferences and also continue to provide the platform for Hindus to connect and inspire each other to embrace the proud Hindu identity and contribute to make a stronger New Zealand.

Those interested in participating, volunteering on the organizing committee of the conference, presenting, or chairing sessions should contact Nitika Sharma on hinduconference@gmail.com or Murali Magesan on hindu.nz@gmail.com to express interest.