The Great Barrier Reef, Australia

In the lead up to Commonwealth Day 2021, we are proud to share several personal connections that CPA UK staff members have with the Commonwealth.

Emma Hansen is a Project Assistant in the Multilateral Projects Team. She works in CPA UK's thematic area of Security.

Where was your family born/ what is your family heritage?  

My family are all from the South Island of New Zealand. I am the only North Islander, being born in Wellington. When I was in primary school, we immigrated to Australia so I am proud to also have Australian Citizenship.  

What brought your family to the UK?  

It was the arts and culture that brought me to the UK.  I moved across the globe to Wales for my post graduate studies at the Royal College of Music and Drama in Cardiff. Living in the UK has provided me with amazing opportunities as a freelance opera singer across Europe and within the UK. 

What difficulties did your family face and/or overcome integrating into the UK?   

For me the challenges lay in the some everyday tasks; navigating grocery stores where so much fresh produce is covered in plastic, professional cross qualifying for many of my family members, navigating a different tax system as well as understanding British communication techniques which are not as direct as I am used to in Australia and New Zealand.  

What contributions can we celebrate that your community has made to British culture?   

There are many talented musicians from Australia and New Zealand who are currently enriching the brilliantly diverse music scene here in the UK. I would also argue that the summer BBQ culture has only improved with all of the antipodean influences!  

What does an inclusive, multi-cultural Britain mean to you? 

A multi-cultural Britain should foster a sense of belonging for all. To me the notion of an inclusive Britain is one where all immigrants, residents and citizens feel welcome and free to enjoy their cultures while embracing the British values. It means shared knowledge, increased capacity for empathy and kindness in our communities, broader cultural, economic and social experiences. 

Why is a representative parliament important to you?

The importance of a representative parliament has tangible effects on civil engagement and the greater health and function of a democracy. 

Recommendations for further reading, watching, listening etc which relate to your Commonwealth connection: 

To listen: 'Voices of Aotearoa' are a collection of London based New Zealand Opera singers who have had much of their work taken away due to the COVID pandemic. Please listen, support and enjoy these artists: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nZYYtUtrE6w  

To eat: the Edmonds Cookbook is an absolute staple in most NZ homes (everyone should give the Afghans a try!). For Australian birthday inspiration, almost every Aussie kid had a childhood cake made from the Australian Woman's Weekly. Here are the top 10 for some inspiration!