Racism & Discrimination

Anti Racism Workshop at Kitchen Culture

This year, the racism and discrimination working group has developed a new play to run with young people. This year the play is performed at Kitchen Culture – a program that brings diverse young people together around the theme of food.

At the program, participants get to act and perform the play and embody some of the characters. They then split up in small groups whilst cooking and discuss questions around the play. At the end everyone sits together to enjoy the delicious dinner that they have prepared and then talk about the play. Having an open discussion allows people to learn and share their experiences of racism and discrimination and explore non-violent ways of tackling this problem.

So far, WYPIN has performed at 6 of these programs, with more scheduled in September.

Building on this challenging issue, WYPIN has met with Xris from the ‘Theatre of the Oppressed’ to explore different theatre techniques to explore the issue. WYPIN members are very enthusiastic about this new form of art and are in the process of writing a funding submission which will allow Xris to deliver the comprehensive workshop at a camp.

By Toruna Ujoodah

Workshop with National Australia Bank

Seven WYPIN young people delivered a cultural awareness training workshop to the executive and staff of National Australia Bank (NAB) in collaboration with the Benevolent Society at Phoenix Youth Centre in Footscray.

The purpose of this workshop was to educate bankers about the cultural values and diversity of different communities living in Melbourne’s West and some of the challenges faced by migrants when they arrive in Australia. It was specially designed to explain the cultural differences within African countries as some people consider Africa as one, but there are different cultural and religious practices in each country within Africa.

It was a really nice experience for both sides. We received very positive feedback from them which always encourages us to do our best each time. One of the bank executives particularly appreciated the presentation style of Nasro Yussf and was surprised and inspired by her personality.

WYPIN young people often get opportunities to deliver workshops, training /information sessions such as public transport information. It builds strong communication and leadership skills and this cultural awareness training also gives young people the opportunity to build on these skills.

I strongly believe that WYPIN has made the biggest contribution to my achievements and success in Australia as an international student. I had never imagined that I would get to be friends with young people from all over the world and I have learnt a lot from each and every one of them.

By Rajinder Kumar