Recognition for Waitakere Hindi Language and Cultural School

The organisation which operates two branches – one each in Henderson and Papatoetoe – got a $16,100 grant from ‘The Trusts’ West Auckland, a social enterprise with a unique focus on West Auckland.

Founded in 2001, Waitakere Hindi Language and Cultural School, on December 10, was recognised by ‘The Trusts’ West Auckland, for its contribution in promoting and preserving the Hindi language in New Zealand, as it was granted $16,100 in support of its work.

The School is one of the more than 50 charities, which will receive the unexpected windfall. “Many of the 57 charities which had applied for funding for a range of health, education and environmental projects faced shortfalls with no certainty around when their full funding needs could be met. So an online platform was provided to allow more than 300,000 Kiwis to vote for the charities and community groups they felt were most deserving, with a maximum $1million cap. Now the social enterprise will provide an additional $600,000 to ensure most of those groups who didn’t meet their complete funding needs will be able to complete their projects,” informed Amanda Cassidy spokesperson for ‘The Trusts’ West Auckland.

Meanwhile, Saten Sharma from the School, noted, “ We teach children above five-years of age how to read, write and speak Hindi. Additionally, we also teach Indian musical instruments, as well as classical and Bollywood dancing. Our school at both branches operate on Sundays only, from 9am till 1.30pm for 40 weeks each year. Hindi Language is compulsory for children to be part of our school. All other services are optional and students can choose what art classes they want to take up.”

-TIN Bureau

Picture courtesy: Waitakere Hindi Language And Cultural School