It was a celebration of cultural diversity when the Global Indian Network at Mount Eden Corrections Facility (MECF) in Auckland recently hosted an event to celebrate the Department of Corrections’ multiculturalism and inclusiveness.
“MECF staff members with Indian heritage hail from and represent numerous Indian states, Fiji and other countries, such as Malaysia and South Africa. Hence the 'global' reference in our network's name. In this way, we make room for everyone from the Indian diaspora and other cultures to be included," says Corrections Associations of New Zealand (CANZ) National Executive Sammy Singh while thanking MECF management and staff for their support.
The programme started with a traditional prayer, a devotional song, and a lamp-lighting ceremony by Deputy Prison Director Greg Crum. This was followed by a round of breathing, clapping, and laughter yoga exercises, which Sammy led. Traditional dancing and a staff lunch with delicious traditional Indian dishes on the menu ended the day on a high note.
Thanking the MECF Global Indian Network for organising the festival, Greg acknowledged the network and all staff members' contributions to making the event a success.
“We appreciate your generosity, and it is great to see our site coming together to celebrate the Indian culture and authentic Indian cuisine,” says Greg, adding, “It has not been an easy 12 months for MECF, so we appreciate being able to celebrate our different cultures together. I also want to thank all our staff, who continue to go above and beyond to keep everyone safe and secure. Thank you for your ongoing support, looking out for one another, and being such a fantastic team."
Corrections’ Northern Region Senior Advisor Inclusion and Diversity, Sophie Parker, highlighted the importance of recognising Corrections’ multiculturalism. She said, "Events like this are vital to strengthen our cultural capability and sense of well-being and inclusion and diversity at the Department. The more we get to know one another, the better we can work together. So, let's continue celebrating our multicultural workplace and keep checking in with one another to strengthen our collegial relationships and enjoy some time away from the daily grind."
The Department of Corrections is recruiting at present. If you're keen on a rewarding career with purpose and meaning, visit the Corrections careers website at: https://careers.corrections.govt.nz/
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