Helping shape decisions that impact different communities throughout the city is the reason Allen Hou recently joined the council’s Multicultural Advisory Group.

He’s part of a new cohort in the group which provides independent advice to Council on matters affecting culturally, linguistically, and ethnically diverse communities in Ōtautahi.

Moving from Taiwan to Christchurch with his family when he was 11, Allen is no stranger to adapting to a new city and culture.

“Even though I went to primary school and high school here I wasn’t aware of local government or the impact decisions made by council can have on people.

“I think this is a big issue for migrant communities, especially people from South East Asia who never really had any involvement with local or central government in their home countries.”

Spurred on by friends to apply for the role, Allen’s excited to get stuck in with the group.

Allen wants to get more communities interested in council and what it does.

“I know the council works hard to reach different communities through newsletters and social media, but certain people are missed and that’s where I think the Multicultural Advisory Group can play an important role.

“When people move to a different country, they tend to meet people from their own culture and hang out with them which can create silos.

“We want a beautiful blend of cultures in Christchurch and to see that represented in council.”

After the covid pandemic Allen saw a need for better mental health support for Asian communities so he set up The Asian Community Transformation Trust.

The trust has since moved into helping schools and organisations better understand Asian communities, training teachers and primary healthcare providers to better engage with Asian whanau.

It’s this background and good community connections that will help Allen succeed with the Multicultural Advisory Group.

“Migrants want a sense of belonging, if we increase participation and allow people to contribute through council this will help give people a better sense of belonging.