The Hindu Council of New Zealand Inc. has announced the 2nd New Zealand Hindu Elders Conference, scheduled for Saturday, 28th September 2024, at the Hindu Heritage Centre, 225 Malfroy Road, Rotorua. Themed "Old is Gold 2," this event builds on the legacy of the first conference held 15 years ago and celebrates the significant contributions of elders within the community.
Event Details:
- Date: Saturday, 28th September 2024
- Location: Hindu Heritage Centre, 225 Malfroy Road, Rotorua
- Theme: Old is Gold 2
- Coordinator: Dr. Guna Magesan
The Hindu Elders Foundation, a division of the Hindu Council of New Zealand, is organising this event with the help of volunteers from various senior citizen organisations. The inaugural conference, held on 3rd October 2009, also highlighted the theme "Old is Gold," underscoring the enduring importance of elders in the community.
HEF Strategy meeting. Photo: Supplied
Conference Objectives:
The Hindu Elders Foundation is dedicated to fostering a strong and vibrant network of elders based on the principles of Sanatan Dharma (the universal or eternal law). Key focus areas include:
- Positive ageing
- Health and well-being
- Addressing social issues such as acculturation and the stress of settling in a new country
- Bridging the generation gap
- Promoting community cohesion, spiritual growth, and cultural preservation
- Collaborating with government agencies and NGOs
First Ramayan Recital. Photo: Supplied
Dr. Guna Magesan, President of the Hindu Council of New Zealand and conference coordinator, stated, “Our aim is to facilitate and empower the community so that Hindu elders can live with confidence and be active, contributing citizens of New Zealand. We seek to create awareness about opportunities for elders to channel their energy towards social cohesion, family unity, community strength, and economic prosperity.”
Program Highlights:
- Networking opportunities for elders and their families
- Discussions with government agencies and service providers
- Sessions on positive ageing, health, and well-being
- Deliberations on the impact of the past 15 years since the first conference
First Ramayan Recital. Photo: Supplied
Shri Vijay Chand, President of the Hindu Elders Foundation Rotorua, emphasised the importance of diverse participation. “We are inviting senior citizen organisations, community groups, NGOs, and government agencies to participate. We request each senior citizen organisation to bring no more than 15 representatives to ensure broad representation.”
The conference is expected to draw around 120 participants, with community members already showing strong interest. The organisers are collaborating with NGOs, government agencies, local government, and Members of Parliament.
To kick off the event, a Ramayan recital by Shri Hem Chand and team was recently held at the Hindu Heritage Centre, which was well-received by the Rotorua community, particularly the Hindu community.
Join:
The council looks forward to welcoming Hindu elders and their families to the Hindu Heritage Centre, a venue dedicated to preserving, promoting, and celebrating the rich heritage of Hindu Dharma. This conference is a unique opportunity to engage with the community, share wisdom, and contribute to improving New Zealand society.
For more information and to confirm participation, please contact Prof Guna Magesan, conference coordinator President, Hindu Council of New Zealand 021 0345621 hindu.nz@gmail.com
About the Hindu Council of New Zealand:
The Hindu Council of New Zealand Inc. upholds the ideal of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one large family) and is supported by a team of dedicated volunteers. The council aims to foster a harmonious, inclusive, and thriving community dedicated to promoting cultural, spiritual, and social well-being and contributing to the progress and unity of New Zealand.
ISSUE
