Recent tragic events across the motu have shown the growing impacts of climate change. Extreme weather is becoming more frequent and severe, affecting communities in Aotearoa and around the world. These events remind us that caring for the planet and strengthening our preparedness at home go hand in hand, recognising that global forces shape local impacts, and that what we do here also matters globally.

As we enter 2026, an election year in Aotearoa, our CEO, Angela Wilton reflects on the challenges ahead, from global instability affecting our communities abroad to the continued scapegoating of migrants at home. Despite the frustration and division tactics we're seeing, this year offers an opportunity to keep equity, manaakitanga, and Te Tiriti-centred futures front and centre. Plus updates on poll data showing overwhelming support to curb migrant exploitation, events, and essential resources for our communities.

As we reflect on a year marked by grief, political tension, and deepening division, the idea of “strategic amnesia” has become hard to ignore, the convenient forgetting of history, context, and responsibility. This kind of forgetting enables the normalisation of racism and the dismissal of hard truths, even when evidence, such as the UN CERD report, clearly shows our race relations are deteriorating. As we move toward 2026, the question we must ask is not only what our leaders want us to know, but what they hope we will forget.

This season has been filled with opportunities to gather, learn, and intentionally unlearn. From powerful kōrero on imposter syndrome at our Connect & Thrive event to national hui advocating for refugee voice, family reunification, and equitable services, a clear message emerged: meaningful change begins when we challenge bias, centre lived expertise, and listen deeply.

In this issue of our fortnightly sector update, Angela shares how intergenerational connections anchor us, and we farewelled Tsehainesh Hibtit, a Safari whānau member since the beginning, as she joins her daughters in Australia. You'll also find a volunteer treasurer role, interpreter research project, new seasonal work visas, upcoming events including Refugee Alliance Hui, and the latest migration and asylum news.

Over the past few years, we’ve seen an incredible rise in participants joining our Food Control Plan (FCP) training, and it has been so inspiring to watch! 

What’s even more exciting is the growing interest in starting food businesses and markets, especially those celebrating international and culturally diverse cuisines. People are eager to share authentic flavours from around the world and communities are responding with open arms….and hungry stomachs! 

In this issue, Angela shares on equity, leadership and the current global challenges including the US decision to slash refugee admissions to 7,500 while prioritising white communities.

This month, Belong Aotearoa celebrated 20 years of connection, courage, and community. Our anniversary event brought together friends and partners from across Aotearoa for an afternoon of reflection and joy with inspiring speakers, MC Sam Low, and plenty of kai and laughter. As CEO Angela Wilton shared, this milestone is both a celebration and a call to keep working toward a fairer, more inclusive future. Alongside the festivities, Belong continues its advocacy work, meeting with political leaders to ensure migrant and refugee voices are heard as we look ahead with hope to the next 20 years.