Tairāwhiti Multicultural Council (TMC) began in 2012, when a group of like-minded people banded together to support Gisborne's diverse communities. Since their inception, TMC has proudly led flagship events that celebrate culture, unity, and belonging: the Colour Run for Diversity and Inclusion, the Festival of Lights, and the International Food Festival. These events have become signs of shared joy and mutual respect for all who call Tairāwhiti home.
(L-R) Daljeet Kaur, Manjit Singh, Oliver Holland, Meredith Stewart, Aakshi Kalra and Arish Naresh (TMC founder and President).
Their work extends beyond events. Through the Opportunities without Discrimination movement (#owdsocks), they have spoken openly about the beauty of difference and the permission to be yourself. This message has inspired many to embrace their identities with pride and courage, and to stand up for inclusion in everyday life.
As time has passed, the tapestry of ethnic and multicultural groups in our region has grown richer and more diverse. TMC do not claim to be the singular voice for all communities, but rather, has embraced a collaborative approach by actively supporting groups to become self-sufficient and by helping new groups establish themselves with confidence.
"Our goal is timeless: to nurture a region where every culture is valued, every voice is heard, and every community has the resources to flourish," Arish Naresh, TMC President.
Looking to the future, a key strategic and long-term legacy for TMC was the establishment of an endowment fund through Sunrise Foundation. This fund will provide ongoing support to emerging multicultural groups, ethnic-led religious groups, and other community organisations.
Diwali Festival of Lights is one of the events organised by TMC to celebrate culture, unity, and belonging.
This endowment fund complements the free multicultural hub TMC provide, reinforcing long-term structures that empower communities to thrive with dignity and independence. Their committee believes it is a small but significant step toward lasting equity, opportunity and belonging for all residents of Tairāwhiti.
TMC welcome donations of any size to help grow their endowment fund, meaning more multicultural communities in Tairāwhiti will have access to dedicated, enduring funding.
Donate to this fund
Use our donation form to make an instant donation by credit card - there are options to do this as a one off, weekly or monthly amount.
If you would rather pay by direct bank deposit, or a regular bank automatic payment, please go the to the donate now page for instructions.