“The Southland Nepalese Society: A Journey of Cultural Pride and Community Unity”

In the serene setting of Dolemore Park at Gore, amidst the verdant landscapes of Southland, the seeds of the Southland Nepalese Society were sown in 2019. As we gathered on that auspicious day, our hearts were filled with hope and anticipation, envisioning a future where our society would stand as a testament to the strength and resilience of the Nepali community in Southland.
Before the inception of our society, the stories of Nepalese individuals around Southland were as diverse as the landscapes of our homeland. While festivals such as Dashain and Nepalese New Year brought us together in joyful celebration, there was a palpable absence of a unified voice representing the Nepali diaspora in the region. Yet, amidst this diversity, one thing remained constant – the spirit of harmony, respect, and love that bound us together as a community.
With the establishment of the Southland Nepalese Society, we took a monumental step forward in preserving and promoting our cultural heritage, national identity, and traditions. Our society became a beacon of Nepali pride, offering a platform for our community to come together, share our stories, and celebrate our festivals with unparalleled zeal.
Nepalese in Southland have made significant inroads into professions such as dairy farming, education, healthcare, business, information technology, hospitality, manufacturing, business and more. Their entrepreneurial spirit and dedication have not only enriched the cultural fabric of the region but have also contributed to its economic vitality. Moreover, the society has played a pivotal role in facilitating networking opportunities, promoting cultural exchange, and providing support services to its members.
Together with nurturing our cultural heritage through celebration of various cultural programme our society is committed to including sports tournaments like the Southland Cup football and commemorative events such as Everest Day, paying homage to Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa. We also prioritize the education of Nepalese children in our community and the well-being of Nepalese women, ensuring that every member feels valued and supported.
As we reflect on our journey thus far, we are filled with gratitude for the unwavering support and involvement of our members and the wider community. Together, we have embarked on an incredible journey of cultural preservation, community building, and collective empowerment. The story of the Southland Nepalese Society is a testament to the strength of unity, the power of diversity, and the enduring spirit of Nepali pride. Thank you to everyone who has been a part of this remarkable journey – our society stands tall because of you. And I also appeal that the Nepalese living in Southland who have left should join the society from today. If all of you participate, we will definitely be able to introduce our society as a model in New Zealand.