Residents try new cultures
With a large influx of international carers to Dannevirke’s Eileen Mary rest home, manager Darlene Amboy wanted to find a way to break through the barriers.
“The majority of our residents are locals and for them, with the sudden influx of carers from overseas, there are a lot of faces they don’t know,” she said. “A cultural day is one way they can relate to the staff and their different cultures.”
The cultural day wasn’t just about entertainment, Eileen Mary residents had an opportunity to taste food from other cultures.
And with representatives from Tonga, Fiji and the Philippines, there was plenty of diversity for residents.
The afternoon began with a set by members of the Dannevirke Highland Pipe Band, and throughout the afternoon local entertainers Tom and Peter kept the music flowing, with a trip down memory lane through a selection of Ma¯ori songs and their hilarious version of the haka.
“It’s wonderful to see the different cultures performing,” Tom said.
The cultural group, led by Sela Byrne, a staff member at Eileen Mary, is likely to become a regular event, celebrating cultural diversity.
“We only came together this week,” she said. “We have sacrificed our breaks to practise.”
And the residents loved the afternoon’s entertainment, Darlene said.
“This makes sure we showcase our diversity,” she said.
Resident Betty McKenzie said she loved the performances, before leaving her seat to tackle zumba.
“I’m a bit exhausted. But the whole thing has been very good,” she said.
Shirley Calman lives in a villa on the Eileen Mary grounds and teaches Tai Chi each Monday to residents.
“This has been great,” she said.
And eight-year-old St Joseph’s School student, Hannah Asuncion was a hit with her vocal presentation, wowing Eileen Mary residents.