What is your name, role and where are you based? 

My name is Esther Paraka. I work in Finance and Accounts for Pasifika Medical Association Group, supporting Etu Pasifika Clinics. I am based in Christchurch, New Zealand. 

Where are you from in Papua New Guinea? 

I am from Komkui&Kimininga Village, Mt Hagen, Western Highlands Province, Papua New Guinea. 

How important is your language and culture to you, and why? 

My language and culture are very important to me because they are part of my identity and connect me to my family, my ancestors and my homeland. Living in New Zealand has made me appreciate even more the importance of preserving our traditions and passing them on to our children. I am proud to be Papua New Guinean, and I want the next generation to know where they come from and to value the richness of our language and culture. 

What does this year's language week theme mean to you? 

"Lukautim, strongim na kirapim tokples na pasin blo tubuna" is a meaningful reminder that we all have a responsibility to preserve, strengthen and promote our languages and cultures. To me, it means not only being proud of our heritage, but actively teaching our children, speaking our languages at home, sharing our stories and practising our traditions. Even when we live away from Papua New Guinea, we can keep our culture alive and ensure it continues for future generations. 

What is your favourite proverb in your language? 

My favourite proverb is: “Wamb Numan ngupen, numan mentpi i tianga.” 

One of the traditional teachings I value most from my Western Highlands culture is the importance of unity and respect for our elders. 

The meaning is that we are stronger when we stand together, support one another and listen to the wisdom of those who came before us. Our elders carry knowledge, stories and traditions that help guide the younger generation. 

This is meaningful to me because it reminds me that our culture is not only about where we come from, but also about how we care for one another. By respecting each other, our elders and teaching our children the values they have passed down, we keep our language and culture alive for future generations.