Shakti Celebrates 30 Years of Empowering Migrant Women in New Zealand

Shakti, a not-for-profit community organisation, is marking three decades of dedicated service to New Zealand’s migrant and refugee communities. This significant anniversary will be celebrated with a series of events starting on October 22, 2023. The celebrations aim to reflect on the organisation’s journey and its impact since its establishment in 1995.

The first event will take place at Parliament, exclusively for invited guests. Following this, a charity dinner is scheduled for October 25, with tickets available through email at [email protected]. On October 24, Shakti’s regional centres will open their doors for public celebrations, offering cake and refreshments to stakeholders and community supporters.

Over the past thirty years, Shakti has evolved into a comprehensive nationwide network. The organisation currently operates five culturally sensitive women’s refuges and a 24/7 crisis line, reachable at 0800 SHAKTI. In addition, Shakti manages over ten drop-in centres and provides various counselling, safety, and life-skills programmes designed to meet the unique needs of migrant and refugee women, young women, and children from Asian, African, and Middle Eastern backgrounds in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Commitment to Quality and Advocacy

As the leading body for domestic violence prevention and intervention within these communities, Shakti is committed to maintaining high standards in its culturally responsive refuge and safehouse services. The organisation prioritises social justice and human rights advocacy, working closely with educational institutions and both government and non-government agencies to enhance research and resource development in the domestic violence sector.

Shakti’s commitment extends beyond immediate service delivery. The organisation ensures that its programmes are environmentally sustainable and inclusive, catering to gender-diverse and disabled women and children. Furthermore, Shakti actively builds strategic partnerships with organisations aligned with its feminist values and perspectives.

Over the years, Shakti has also played a crucial role in advocating for several law reforms that positively impact migrant and refugee communities, significantly enhancing their rights and protections.

Expanding Reach and Sharing Stories

Shakti operates across multiple locations, including Auckland, Hamilton, Tauranga, Wellington, Christchurch, and Dunedin, while also supporting partner agencies in regions lacking local offices.

The anniversary celebrations will culminate in the release of a book chronicling Shakti’s 30-year journey, capturing the stories and achievements that have defined the organisation. Among the notable attendees will be Girijamba Polubothu, CEO of Shakti Aid UK, who is expected to address the gatherings.

As Shakti reflects on its transformative service over the past three decades, the organisation aims to honour the countless women whose contributions have shaped its mission, vision, and purpose throughout New Zealand.