Kia Ora, Namaste, and Bula

My name is Nidhi and I am proud to say that I built the Our Identity website. This website is specially designed for Hornby High School and its diverse students. The aim is to showcase the diverse experiences of immigrants to New Zealand. I originally got the idea to create this platform when I completed the GirlBoss Edge programme in 2020 - which I highly recommend! This programme was an amazing opportunity for me and definitely fueled my love for social justice. During my time there, I was challenged to create a solution for refugee and migrant students. Therefore, I came up with the idea to create a website in school where students are able to write about their experiences as newcomers to New Zealand. For this idea, I was selected as a finalist; among 500 other girls in high school and university. With this achievement, I decided to approach the ESOL department and Mr Sutton to integrate this website within Hornby High School.

Ultimately, the purpose of this website is to make students feel comfortable in expressing their culture. Hornby High School is such a diverse school and this website makes sure that we are showcasing the diversity. With the creation of this website, I am excited to see the positive change it will bring to school. Whether you're a recent migrant or have lived in New Zealand for years - it doesn’t matter - I encourage you to take up this opportunity to share your story because I am certain it will bring change!

Thank You,

Nidhi Prasad (Head Girl For Tieke)