Sometimes I just can't believe how fulfilling it is to work with PEP to help preserve language and culture for future generations of Pacific people. Earlier this year, we conducted a Digital Marketing Pilot with the Ministry of Education for Pacific early learning services in the best place on Earth, West Auckland. 😃
As someone who hails from a predominantly monolingual culture, this experience has opened my eyes to the profound work that goes into preserving language and culture within these vibrant communities. It has been both an honor and a learning journey to be part of a project that touches so many lives and carries forward such an important legacy.
A journey of discovery
I've always considered myself someone who values diversity and multiculturalism. However, nothing prepared me for the depth of commitment I witnessed in the Pacific early learning centres we worked with. These centres are not just places where children are cared for during the day—they are hubs of cultural preservation, community strength, and familial love.
Walking into these centres, I was immediately struck by the warmth and vibrancy of the environments. Each one radiated a sense of belonging, where the stories of past generations were not only told but lived. It became clear to me that these centres were doing much more than simply offering childcare—they were safeguarding languages, traditions, and cultural identities that might otherwise be at risk of fading away.
Coming from a background where language is often taken for granted—where English is the only language most people know and use—I was both humbled and inspired by the dedication I saw. These communities are working tirelessly to ensure that their children grow up not only bilingual but bicultural, deeply rooted in the values and practices of their ancestors. This is no small feat, and it’s one that filled me with awe as I began to appreciate the enormity of what these centres are accomplishing.
Empowerment Through Digital Tools
One of the most rewarding aspects of this project was seeing the centre managers and teachers embrace the digital tools we introduced. Many of them had limited experience with technology, and the prospect of building and maintaining a website felt daunting at first. But what I witnessed was nothing short of remarkable—a true testament to the resilience and resourcefulness of these leaders.
For example, one centre manager, who had previously described herself as "not very tech-savvy," took on the challenge of creating a website that not only showcased the centre’s offerings but also told the multigenerational story of its founding and growth. The pride in her voice as she walked me through the site’s features was palpable. It was clear that this was more than just a website to her; it was a digital embodiment of her centre’s history and values.
Another centre, which had long relied on word of mouth within their tight-knit community, saw a surge in new enrolments after claiming their Google listing and launching their website. The excitement in their voices as they shared the news of these new connections was infectious. It was a reminder that sometimes all it takes is a little nudge in the right direction to unlock a world of possibilities.
The Joy of Collaboration
One of the things that has struck me most about this project is the collaborative spirit that has underpinned everything we’ve done. From the beginning, our goal at PEP was not just to create an online presence for these centres but to empower them to take control of their own digital destinies. This meant listening to their needs, respecting their unique cultural contexts, and working together to create solutions that truly reflected who they are.
The journey wasn’t without its challenges, of course. Technology can be intimidating, especially when it’s unfamiliar. But what amazed me was the willingness of every participant to dive in, to learn, and to grow. There was a shared understanding that this was about more than just websites or social media profiles—it was about ensuring that the stories, languages, and traditions of their communities could thrive in a digital world.
I remember one particular moment during a workshop when a centre manager, who had been hesitant about the whole process, suddenly had an “aha” moment. She realized that by sharing the history of her centre online, she could connect with new families who shared her values and wanted to be part of her community. Seeing that lightbulb go off was incredibly rewarding—it was a perfect example of the empowerment we hoped to achieve.
Reflections on Language and Culture
Reflecting on this experience, I am filled with gratitude. As someone who grew up in a culture where there was little emphasis on preserving language beyond English, this project has given me a newfound appreciation for the work these centres are doing. It’s one thing to talk about the importance of cultural preservation; it’s another to see it in action, to witness the love and care that goes into every aspect of these centres' operations.
The dedication I’ve seen extends far beyond the classroom. It’s in the way these leaders mentor younger generations, ensuring that they not only speak the language but understand the values and history that come with it. It’s in the pride they take in sharing their stories with the world, knowing that by doing so, they are securing their culture’s place in the future.
For me, this project has been a journey of discovery—a chance to learn from communities that are deeply committed to their heritage and eager to share it with the next generation. It has been an absolute joy to be part of this work, and I am excited to continue supporting these centres as they navigate the digital landscape and beyond.
Looking Ahead
As we move forward, I am more committed than ever to the mission of PEP. We will continue to partner with these incredible communities, providing the tools and support they need to tell their stories and preserve their languages and cultures. The work is far from over, but with each step we take, I am confident that we are helping to build a brighter, more connected future for all.
To anyone considering embarking on a similar journey, I can only say this: the rewards are immeasurable. There is nothing quite like the feeling of seeing a community empowered to share its story, to see its culture celebrated and its language preserved for generations to come. It’s work that matters, and I am proud to be part of it.
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