Lara Zijl 
Hamilton, New Zealand – March 1, 2025
In a remarkable display of community engagement and collaboration, The Asian Network Incorporated (TANI) successfully hosted an enlightening event, “Digital Safety & Family Wellness: A Guide for Parents in Refugee & Migrant Background Communities,” at The Link in Claudelands, Hamilton. The event garnered an impressive attendance of about 50 participants representing various ethnicities and languages, including Kinyarwanda, Dari, Urdu, Chinese, Korean, and Spanish.
The event addressed pressing issues such as online crimes targeting youth, cyberbullying, practical internet safety for parents, fostering digital citizenship, and overall family wellbeing. Attendees benefited immensely from the insightful talks and practical advice shared by experts and community leaders.
Notable Attendees and Contributors:
- Ravinder Powar, President of the Waikato Multicultural Council, graced the event, adding significant value to the discussions with his esteemed presence.
- Wendy and Cindy from TANI were instrumental in arranging the event, ensuring a seamless and impactful experience for all attendees.
- Representatives from the New Zealand Red Cross (NZRC), including Ladi, Eli, Farishta, and Saadia, played a crucial role in the event’s success, offering their expertise and support.
- NZ Police Constables from Hamilton East Police were present, providing valuable insights into online safety.
- Dr. Vinay Karanam, Co-Founder & CTO of Matakite Online, delivered an engaging and informative talk, supported by volunteers Hari and Supun from the Matakite Trust.
The necessity of stopping cyberbullying cannot be overstated. Cyberbullying has become a pervasive issue in the digital age, with significant repercussions for the mental and psychological health of individuals, especially young people. The relentless nature of online harassment can lead to severe anxiety, depression, and, in extreme cases, tragic outcomes such as self-harm or suicide. Addressing this critical issue through community education and awareness is essential to creating a safer and more supportive digital environment for everyone.
Events like the one hosted by TANI and NZRC are crucial in combating cyberbullying. They provide a platform for sharing valuable information and practical strategies that parents, educators, and community members can implement to protect young people from online harm. These seminars also foster a sense of community and solidarity, reminding attendees that they are not alone in facing these challenges and that there are resources and support systems available to help them.
Moreover, the emphasis on family wellness and digital citizenship highlighted the importance of holistic approaches to online safety. By promoting positive digital behavior and encouraging open communication within families, these events contribute to the overall wellbeing of individuals and communities. The collaboration between various organizations, including WEL Energy Trust, New Zealand Police, New Zealand Red Cross, and Trust Waikato, underscores the collective effort required to address these issues effectively.
Overall, the event was a resounding success, bringing together diverse voices and fostering a sense of unity and support within the community. It showcased the power of education, collaboration, and community engagement in tackling pressing social issues and promoting a safer and healthier digital world.
