Marissa Julian's Story
Hello, my name is Marissa Julian and I attend Nova Scotia Community College at the Strait Area Campus, this upcoming fall I will be enrolled in my second year of Business Administration.
This past winter I was given the amazing opportunity to attend a Global Skills Opportunity in Aotearoa is known as New Zealand in Māori language. During my time in Aotearoa, I learned many things about the language, culture/history, music and dances. The picture is located the beautiful Ngaruawahia which is located in the north island of New Zealand. It is home to Māori king.
In New Zealand we were given the opportunity the opportunity to watch the Senior Kapa Haka regionals, which was located in Auckland it many groups around Aotearoa that showcased their culture and amazing talents. We also did a lesson on The Declaration of Independence of the United Tribes of New Zealand as well, I felt as a Mi’kmaw woman and my people’s history I felt that I can relate to the trials and tribulations the Māori have faced which made me more invested into the culture and history, the resiliency and determination they showed has inspired me to make more changes for my people and my community.
We also travelled to Rangiriri, which was known as the the battle of Rangiriri which was in November of 1863, in which the British Invasion had taken place which had taken the lives of many Māori people. This was definitely an emotional but impactful experience and learning session.
But overall, this was such an enriching experience and if I was ever granted the opportunity to attend again I will 100% do it again.