At Onehunga High School, diversity is something we celebrate. With over 60 different nationalities represented within our student and staff community, OHS is proud of its rich cultural diversity.

 While it's not feasible to hold individual celebrations for every culture, our annual Diversity Day provides an opportunity for everyone to honour the many ethnicities that make up our school and wear traditional attire.

Principal, Mrs. Shameen Hayat also took part, dressing in a traditional shalwar kameez — the national dress of Pakistani women — and spoke to the school about the significance of Diversity Day. She reminded students and staff of the importance of acknowledging and respecting differences in ethnicity, culture, gender, ability, and religion.

“Whatever our differences may be,” she shared, “diversity enriches all our lives. It prepares us for life in a global society. When we get to know people who are different from ourselves, we are less likely to believe in stereotypes. Prejudice is reduced, and the bonds within our community are strengthened.”

Diversity Day at OHS was not only a celebration of cultural heritage but also a reminder of the importance of inclusion, mutual respect, and global citizenship.