Volunteering at the Kodomo no Hi Japan Festival
Image: Courtesy of Intern Ada Wing Yi Wong
National Volunteer Week - Australia's largest annual celebration of volunteering on the 15 - 21 May 2023 is fast approaching. Consequently our SAcommunity Team members who usually share their passion projects in print, shared their volunteering experiences. Highlighting how and why they volunteer in community organisations across the South Australian community, what their interests are, and why they chose to volunteer to inspire others to participate in their own communities.
Find out more from Intern Ada Wing Yi Wong about her volunteering experience with the Japan Australia Friendship Association and their annual multicultural festival.
Volunteering at the Kodomo no Hi Japan Festival
Being a volunteer at the Kodomo no Hi Japan Festival in Adelaide was an incredible experience, allowing me to both immerse myself in Japanese culture while contributing to this vibrant community celebration. As Adelaide's largest Japanese Festival, the event has been held annually since 1995, serving as a bridge between the people of Japan and Australia, and I am so glad I had the opportunity to take part in this cultural adventure.
Here, I will share my personal journey as a volunteer, the festival's activities, and my fascination with Japan.
An appreciation for Japanese culture
My interest in Japanese culture began during my primary school years when I discovered anime - a type of film and television animation originating from Japan. I was intrigued by the captivating stories and unique art style, prompting me to explore my interest further and delve into J-pop music and Japanese dramas, expanding my understanding of the country's culture.
As an international student, arriving in Adelaide and looking for new connections and experiences, I discovered this annual Japanese festival. I immediately knew I wanted to volunteer to be part of this celebration of Japanese culture, and by taking the opportunity to become more involved, I could enjoy the festival vibe at a whole new level.
Japanese Festival Day
On May 7, 2023, I enthusiastically joined the Kodomo no Hi Japan Festival as a member of the crowd control team. It was a great opportunity for me to engage with a diverse group of individuals who, like me, shared a passion for Japanese culture. The festival itself is named after the Japanese national holiday known as Children's Day, aimed to honor children's personalities and celebrate their happiness, and this certantly matched the energy and atmosphere of the day.
Among the festival's many offerings, my favorite part was indulging in the delicious food, such as takoyaki and yakisoba as their aroma and flavors transported me back to Japan, filling me with nostalgia. Additionally, the Ikebana exhibition left me captivated, as the skill and artistry displayed in the arrangement of flowers were breathtaking.
Behind the scenes
Organising a successful not-for-profit community festival doesn't just happen overnight. Such events require in-depth planning, programming and implementation, with the most critical aspects involving the creation, building, and upskilling of the volunteer teams who work together to bring these activities to life.
Before the festival commenced, the Japan Australia Friendship Association (JAFA) organized a volunteer information meeting. This gathering served as an introduction to the festival and provided us with a clear understanding of our roles and responsibilities. My duties involved venue setup, ensuring the safety of attendees, assisting those in need, and post-festival clean-up.
We quickly gained a sense of confidence from knowing the importance of our roles and how they each contributed to this community event. A common experience reported by volunteers is a natural feeling of both responsibility and accomplishment and we certainly shared this in our experience, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the festival.
One of the other most rewarding aspects of volunteering at the festival was the opportunity to meet individuals from various cultural backgrounds and form new connections. Working alongside volunteers from Japan, India, Vietnam, Australia, and China allowed me to experience the rich tapestry of cultures within the team. It was heartwarming to see everyone come together, united by a shared love for Japanese culture. Together our volunteer team formed strong bonds, and their friendly and helpful nature made the entire experience even more enjoyable.
Reflections
Volunteering at the Kodomo no Hi Japan Festival was an enriching and unforgettable experience. It allowed me to celebrate the cultural exchange between Japan and Australia while fostering new friendships with individuals from diverse backgrounds. The festival's activities, delicious food, and captivating exhibitions, provided a glimpse into the vibrant Japanese culture. As I reflect on my journey, I am grateful for the opportunities that have deepened my passion for Japanese culture and continue to inspire me.
