Rimuerena Tiakiwai’s cultural curiosity recently led her from Whakatane to Beijing, to partake in a 12 day global engagement course.
Rimuerena, who is 18 years old, says she wanted to understand the thinking of the Chinese, Mexican, Hawaiian, and American cultures that were also attending the course. She raised funds through her marae, her whānau, and Te Tumu Paeroa - the new Māori trustee.
The highlights of the trip, says Rimuerena, was understanding that cultural background, history and values deeply affect the way that people think. “Understanding culture lets you see why someone might think in a particular way. By sharing our different histories and values, I learnt to see others for who they are, and respect why they think the way they do.”
Rimuerena found similarities between Māori, Hawaiian and Mexican cultures. “They are all laid back, and have a similar sense of humour,” and she says she returned home with “many lasting connections, and a realisation of how free, casual and relaxed the New Zealand lifestyle is.”
Te Tumu Paeroa sponsored Rimuerena’s flights for the trip. Jamie Tuuta, Māori Trustee and head of Te Tumu Paeroa, says, “There is no doubt that we live in a global world, and our relationships around the globe are going to be increasingly important for New Zealand’s success. We are proud to support young Māori like Rimuerena in forming those relationships.”
The course in Beijing, called the 2013 China GPS program, was presented by the Virtual Trade Mission Foundation International, and the School of Foreign Studies of the Central University of Finance and Economics (in Beijing). It included a presentation each day from students, who spoke about their culture, history, hopes and dreams. Also on the itinerary were seminars on China’s culture, economy, and global relationships; and sightseeing around Beijing.
Rimuerena highly recommends the course, saying it would be “really awesome for other students in rural areas because it will open up their eyes to the diversity in the world.”
