Community language school Victorian Mandali is preparing to light up Sunbury with its Diwali celebration next month.
Featuring food, a DJ, and performances, the school will provide the event as part of its expanding language class and events program.
Victorian Mandali delivers classes at Dulap Wilim Hub, a state-funded community centre shared by Sunbury Downs College, Sunbury Heights Primary School, and other organisations.
Victorian Mandali principal Seathu Warrior said the language school is provided the space by Sunbury Heights Primary school and that she and Sunbury Heights principal Laban Toose have worked in collaboration.
“This innovative initiative aimed to promote cultural diversity and language skills among students of Indian ethnicity. We have created a supportive and inclusive learning environment and foster partnerships with local community organisations and cultural groups,” Ms Warrior said.
“Together with our collaborative leadership we deliver language and cultural diversity, inclusivity, and community engagement.”
Ms Warrior said the class size has increased from one student in 2018 to about 35 current students.
“I feel great when parents tell me that kids could connect to grandparents who cannot speak English and the kids only speak English. With … more skills [in] their mother tongue, grandparents can enjoy their time with their grandchildren,” she said.
Ms Warrior said the school teaches students about Indian culture and currently offers classes in Hindi and Punjabi.
Ms Seathu said the school is considering expanding to other languages and creating more language school campuses in Sunbury and surrounds.
Victorian Mandali will host its Diwali event from 6.30pm on Saturday, November 16 at Dulap Wilim Hub, Sunbury.
Oscar Parry
