Mrs Nishi Puri is a well-known community leader in Canberra’s multicultural community, who has been providing active service to the community in her role as the president of the ACT Chapter of the Global Organisations of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO), past president of the India Australia Association of Canberra (IAAC), and Founder and Chair of the Multicultural Association of Canberra (MAC).
She organises regular events and useful workshops, providing valuable services to elderly and vulnerable members of the community. Her commitment and achievements have been recognised through several awards, including, most recently, as the Multicultural Ambassador for the ACT for a three-year period from 2022.
As a prominent community leader, how has your role evolved in promoting respect and reducing gender-based violence within multicultural communities in Canberra?
Over the years, my role has shifted from organising community events to becoming an advocate for meaningful change. When you’re at the forefront of multicultural communities like Canberra’s, you realise the importance of fostering respect, especially in diverse groups. The work isn’t just about raising awareness but about empowering individuals to recognise and challenge harmful behaviours—whether subtle or overt—within their circles.
Can you share how your experience with GOPIO, IAAC, and MAC has shaped your perspective on fostering respect and reducing violence?
Each organisation taught me something unique. At GOPIO, the focus on connecting Indian-origin communities worldwide opened my eyes to the importance of shared values like respect and dignity. IAAC helped me understand how celebrating our cultural roots can bring communities together, fostering dialogue and understanding. And MAC has been instrumental in allowing me to work on-ground with diverse groups, where I’ve witnessed first-hand how inclusivity and education can reduce disrespectful behaviours and violence.
What does the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence mean to you personally and as a community leader?
The 16 Days of Activism is a time of reflection and action. Personally, it reminds me that every effort—no matter how small—can contribute to a larger movement. As a community leader, it’s an opportunity to unite people, amplify messages of respect, and encourage conversations that challenge harmful attitudes. The aim is to turn awareness into sustained action.
Stop it at the Start Campaign
The Stop it at the Start campaign emphasises the importance of adult influencers. Why do you believe parents and family members play a crucial role in reducing violence against women?
Parents and family members are children’s first role models. Children observe and internalising behaviours they see at home. If adults set examples of respect and empathy, those values naturally influence children. It’s not just about what we say but how we act—every small moment can shape a child’s understanding of respect and relationships.
From your experience, what are some common challenges parents face when addressing disrespectful attitudes in children?
One major challenge is recognising these behaviours early on—many parents dismiss them as ‘phases’ or harmless jokes. Another challenge is knowing how to respond constructively without escalating conflict. Parents often struggle to balance traditional values with the realities of modern influences, particularly those found online.
How do you think multicultural communities can benefit from the campaign’s resources and messaging?
The campaign provides a universal framework for respect that transcends cultural boundaries. It equips families with tools that resonate regardless of their background, fostering understanding in inclusive and relevant ways.
Online Influences and Social Trends
Online influences have a significant impact on young minds today. What advice would you give to parents on recognising and addressing these influences?
Stay engaged and curious about your children’s online world. Ask questions about the content they consume, the influencers they admire, and the conversations they have online. By showing genuine interest, you create a safe space for dialogue, making it easier to address harmful trends when they arise.
The campaign highlights hidden trends of disrespect online. What are some signs that parents should watch out for?
Watch for changes in language or attitudes, such as dismissive comments about others or the normalisation of harmful stereotypes. Subtle behaviours like being secretive about online activity or parroting disrespectful memes can also indicate exposure to negative influences.
How can parents effectively manage the balance between monitoring their children’s online activity and respecting their privacy?
It’s about building trust rather than enforcing control. Set clear boundaries together, explaining why certain behaviours or sites are unacceptable. Encourage open conversations where children feel safe sharing their online experiences without fear of judgment.
Empowering Families
What strategies can parents use to initiate open and honest conversations about respect and violence with their children?
Start with everyday scenarios—movies, books, or even news stories can serve as prompts. Use these moments to ask questions and discuss why respect is important. Avoid lecturing; instead, make it a two-way conversation where children feel heard.
Social trends evolve quickly, especially online. How can families stay informed about the latest trends impacting young people?
Stay curious and connected. Follow credible sources, talk to teachers or community leaders, and, most importantly, listen to your children. They’re often the best resource for understanding the trends influencing their peers.
Do you have any personal experiences or examples of families successfully addressing these issues that you can share?
I once worked with a family where the parents started a weekly ‘conversation night.’ They’d discuss everything from respect to online trends with their teenage kids. Over time, the children began opening up about things they’d encountered online, and together, they unpacked those experiences. It was inspiring to witness how this approach strengthened their family bond.
Community-Focused Responses
How can multicultural communities come together to address the root causes of disrespect and violence against women?
It starts with education and dialogue. Communities must create safe spaces where these issues can be discussed openly, without fear of judgment or stigma. By working together, we can challenge harmful norms and build a collective commitment to respect.
What role do community organisations play in supporting parents and families in these conversations?
Community organisations act as bridges. They provide resources, host workshops, and create platforms where families can learn from one another. They’re vital in normalising these conversations and showing families that they’re not alone in addressing these challenges.
Are there specific challenges faced by multicultural communities when addressing gender-based violence and disrespectful behaviours?
Yes, cultural stigma and a reluctance to discuss sensitive topics often hinder progress. Additionally, some communities may lack access to resources in their preferred languages, making meaningful engagement harder.
Using Campaign Resources
The campaign provides resources like the Hidden Trends of Disrespect guide. How do you suggest families use these tools to foster respect at home?
Treat them as conversation starters. Go through the guides together, discussing examples and asking children for their thoughts. These resources aren’t just informative—they’re designed to empower families to take actionable steps.
How can community leaders like yourself encourage families to engage with resources available at respect.gov.au?
By leading by example. I often share these resources at workshops or community events, demonstrating how they can be used effectively. Simple steps like this help demystify the tools and make them more accessible.
What are some practical next steps that community members can take to educate themselves and support conversations about respect?
Start small—visit respect.gov.au, explore the resources, and share them within your networks. Attend local workshops or organise one within your community. Education is a powerful first step toward change.
Closing and Reflections
In your opinion, what is the most important takeaway for parents and community members from the Stop it at the Start campaign?
Respect begins at home. By modelling respectful behaviours and addressing harmful attitudes early, we can create a ripple effect that transforms not just families but entire communities.
Finally, as someone deeply involved in community work, what message would you like to share during the 16 Days of Activism to inspire others to take action?
Each of us has a role to play. Don’t underestimate the power of small actions—whether it’s having a conversation, challenging a stereotype, or sharing a resource. Together, we can create a future where respect and equality are the norm, not the exception.
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