As Carinity celebrates Harmony Day today, we reflect on the richness that diversity brings to our communities. With staff hailing from more than 60 nations, Carinity embodies this cultural diversity.
This year's Harmony Day theme, "Everyone Belongs", resonates deeply with Carinity's commitment to inclusivity. Our differences - cultural, linguistic and personal - strengthen us and foster an environment where everyone feels valued, included, and respected.
From the Cook Islands to New Zealand and now living in north Queensland, Peru Tetupu's cultural heritage remains very important to her.
She was born and raised on Rarotonga, the main island in the Cook Islands, located in Polynesia.
Religion is a big part of the Cook Islander culture and Peru's faith drives her to align herself with Carinity's values in her role as a Carinity Home Care Lifestyle Carer.
"In church, the children are given a verse to learn. They have a congregation and all the children recite their memorised scripture. This event is followed by a large coming together celebration," Peru said.
"Milestone events such as weddings and birthdays are announced in church and all are welcome to attend."
Held over four days, Easter holds special significance for those of faith. Depending on the day, people wear either white or black clothing and everybody takes communion on Sunday.
"Monday sees the family and community come together and is a huge celebration, usually with a picnic, performances, dancing and food," Peru said.
Peru is very much a part of her local Cook Islander community in Townsville, which meets regularly for celebrations of craft, dance and food.
"Harmony Day is about love and inclusion. I love my culture and would love to see more of other cultures. Harmony Day is a great resource to learn about others," Peru said.
Stephanie Fuentes, a youth worker at Carinity Education Southside, was born in Australia with Chilean heritage and is "proud to carry these traditions with me".
Food and dance help to form Chile's rich and vibrant culture and are ways that people "express love and connection".
"It's never a celebration without a feast, and the role food plays in our gatherings is truly special. Chileans are renowned for their delicious empanadas," Stephanie said.
"Equally important are the cultural dances that define our celebrations. The cueca, a lively and flirtatious traditional dance, is a joy to watch and participate in. It's full of energy and storytelling, a beautiful reflection of Chilean tradition."
Chilean culture has "deeply influenced" the way Stephanie approaches her personal life and "truly enriched" her role as a youth worker.
"One of the most significant lessons I've learned is the importance of caring for others and being considerate in every interaction. This sense of empathy and generosity is deeply ingrained in me," Stephanie said.
"By embodying the values of compassion and love that are central to my Chilean heritage, I am able to build genuine relationships and offer emotional support to those who need it most … allowing me to create an atmosphere where students feel valued and cared for."
Harmony Week holds a special meaning for Stephanie "as it serves as a celebration of diversity and unity".
"It's a day where we come together to teach, learn, and grow from one another's cultures, enriching our lives with new perspectives and experiences," she said.
"It's not just about accepting others, but also about embracing and celebrating who we are as individuals, creating a more inclusive and compassionate community."
Carinity's Community Services Policy and Clinical Risk Manager, Christine Chen, hails from the island nation of Taiwan.
She explains that Taiwan's history as "a crossroads of cultures" has had a profound impact on the nation's "multifaceted cultural identity".
"Over the centuries, the island has been a convergence point of various cultural influences, from a culture which a blend of Chinese, indigenous, Japanese influences and Western interactions," Christine said.
"Taiwan is known for its rich traditions and delicious street food, including bubble tea, night market snacks and embracing various dishes which reflect the blend of cultures.
"Besides the food culture, harmony and family are highly valued, with respect for the elders and family considered paramount. Tea culture also is a significant part of Taiwanese culture."
Christine says something about Taiwanese culture that few people know about is their respect for a particular number.
"Taiwanese avoid using the number 4 in certain places, especially hospitals, as it sounds similar to 'death' in Mandarin and Taiwanese."
For Christine, Harmony Week is about "people with various ethnic backgrounds gathering, sharing and embrace each unique cultures" and "upholding humility, friendliness and respect for others".
Harmony Day is part of Harmony Week (March 17-23), which celebrates Australia's amazing cultural diversity.
