As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, it has become common for young British people to uproot their lives and move to far-flung countries such as Australia and New Zealand. These countries offer a wealth of opportunities for young people, from career growth to adventure and new experiences. However, as more and more young Brits make the move, another phenomenon is emerging – the reverse migration of indigenous communities from these countries back to their homelands.
For many indigenous communities, living abroad can be a challenging experience. Not only are they physically removed from their homelands, but they also face the challenge of maintaining their cultural practices and traditions in a foreign land. This is where organizations like Ngāti Rānana come in – a London-based Māori cultural group that aims to preserve and promote the Māori culture while living abroad.
Founded in 1958, Ngāti Rānana has been a pillar of support for Māori living in the UK. The group organizes cultural events, performances, and workshops to keep the Māori culture alive and thriving in a foreign land. I had the opportunity to speak with some members of the group and learn more about how they maintain their cultural practices while living abroad.
One of the key ways in which Ngāti Rānana helps Māori living in the UK is by providing a sense of community and belonging. As member Hana Pera explains, “Being part of Ngāti Rānana is like having a second family. It’s a place where we can come together, share our culture, and feel connected to our roots.” This sense of community is crucial for many indigenous people living abroad, as it helps them stay connected to their cultural identity and heritage.
In addition to providing a sense of community, Ngāti Rānana also plays a vital role in educating the wider community about Māori culture. The group regularly performs at events and festivals, showcasing traditional dances, songs, and customs. Through these performances, they not only celebrate their culture but also educate others about it. As member Tahu Mackenzie explains, “We want to share our culture with the world and show them that Māori culture is alive and thriving, even in a place like London.”
Another important aspect of Ngāti Rānana’s work is the passing down of cultural knowledge and traditions to future generations. The group hosts workshops and classes for children and young adults to learn traditional songs, dances, and customs. This ensures that the Māori culture will continue to thrive and be passed down to future generations, even in a foreign land.
But it’s not just about preserving their culture – Ngāti Rānana also aims to create a sense of home away from home for Māori living in the UK. As member Rangi Ruru explains, “Being part of Ngāti Rānana has helped me feel connected to my culture and my homeland, even though I am thousands of miles away. It’s a sense of familiarity and comfort that I wouldn’t have found otherwise.”
Ngāti Rānana’s work is not limited to just Māori living in the UK – they also collaborate with other indigenous groups and organizations to promote cultural diversity and understanding. Through their partnerships, they hope to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all indigenous people living in the UK.
As more and more young British people move to Australia and New Zealand for a few years, it’s heartening to see the reverse migration of indigenous communities back to their homelands. And organizations like Ngāti Rānana play a crucial role in ensuring that these communities continue to thrive and maintain their cultural practices, even in a foreign land.
So, to all the young British people considering a move to Australia or New Zealand – go ahead and embrace the adventure and opportunities that await you. But also remember to stay connected to your roots and culture, and if you ever feel homesick, just know that there is a community waiting for you in London, ready to welcome you with open arms.
