Hands in harmony: Students learn a dance. Photos: Youssef Saudie
Photo by
Youssef Saudie
At Sirius College Shepparton, Harmony Week was a chance for students to understand and celebrate other cultures through traditional dance, food and clothing.
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Students from a diverse range of nationalities proudly shared their culture with others.
Dressed for class: Retaj Majid and Rayyan Mohammed are keen to learn.
Photo by
Youssef Saudie
Primary school co-ordinator Amninder Malhi said the week was an opportunity for students to learn how to respect other students’ backgrounds, regardless of the traditions and cultures they practised.
Learning in style: Iqra Yari, Serena Chkaydem and Meerab Murad enjoy class.
“It is a way to stay together and learn how to live in peace and harmony with each other; diversity is the strength of Australian culture,” she said.
“It is nice to see when students come in their traditional clothes in different colours and they all look different.”
Laughing and dancing: One of several dances performed for Harmony Day.
Photo by
Youssef Saudie
Student Aleena Chkhayden said harmony meant friendship, no matter what culture someone was connected to.
“Sometimes when you get into fights with friends we should just see each other like family, whatever culture you are,” she said.
All smiles and all colours: Maryam Sheriff, Sirat Yari, Umrah Hussain and Hamna Bari enjoy dressing in their traditional clothing.
Photo by
Youssef Saudie
“When you stick together it feels like family; when you have a big generous family, I feel like I’m safe.”
Grade 3 teacher Stacey Koktas said it was “beautiful” to see students celebrate their culture together.
Flags in the air: The Iraqi students perform a traditional dance.
Photo by
Youssef Saudie
“They’re so happy and so proud to bring their culture to school and dance, and just reflect on their traditions and culture,” she said.
Student Sirat Yari said Harmony Week was important to help build peace around the world.
“There are lots of wars in our world, so we’re saying that we need peace,” she said.
Busting a move: The girls cheer each other on as they all dance.
Photo by
Youssef Saudie
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