Karen

“I was born in a third world country, PNG.

One big thing that defines who I am is my family. My brothers and Mum and Dad are a big part of who I am. My dad taught me that blood is thicker than water.

I was born in Papa New Guinea, we moved to NZ when I was three. Every two to three years we go back to PNG which I am very grateful for. My Mum comes from PNG and Dad is from NZ so I am half half. The duality that exists in my life enriches who I am as a person.

Once I was called a “coconut”. White on the inside, black on the outside. I have experienced lots of racial comments, which gives me the thick skin I have today. Coming from another culture means I am a lot more open and don’t have certain prejudices. I am training to be a nurse and I think these experiences will help me to be a good nurse.

Being born into a third world country I look forward to being able to contribute when I go back to PNG. As a family we help to support the whole island. We live off the land. I feel like I am really living when I am there and it helps me to appreciate my life here in NZ. It’s like “reality rehab”.

-Karen


Charity registration number: CC57701
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