Aurosokwo Project is a community-led initiative that creates low-pressure cultural and creative spaces for Pacific diaspora communities in Canberra.
The name “Aurosokwo” comes from the Yangoru language of Papua New Guinea and means “blessings overflowing.” The project was established to address feelings of isolation, cultural disconnection, and limited opportunities for Pacific peoples to gather, share stories, and celebrate their identities.
Through storytelling events, weaving workshops, creative gatherings, intergenerational conversations, and community documentation projects, Aurosokwo brings together people from diverse backgrounds to connect through culture, lived experience, and creativity.
Participants are invited to share stories of migration, family, language, service, identity, and belonging. Events are intentionally designed to be low-pressure and inclusive, with sensory supports and creative activities available to encourage participation from people with different needs and comfort levels.
More recently, the project has expanded into documenting stories from both Pacific diaspora communities and Australians whose experiences in the Pacific have shaped their understanding of culture, community, and service. These stories help build stronger connections between communities and preserve important cultural knowledge for future generations.
Aurosokwo contributes to community wellbeing by creating spaces where people feel seen, heard, and connected while celebrating the diversity of Pacific cultures in Australia.
Aurosokwo has created opportunities for community members to connect in meaningful ways through storytelling, cultural practice, and creative expression.
The project has helped participants strengthen their sense of belonging, reconnect with cultural knowledge, and build relationships across generations and cultural backgrounds. Community members have shared stories that may otherwise have been lost, including experiences of migration, language, family traditions, and connections between Australia and the Pacific.
By creating accessible and low-pressure events, Aurosokwo has also encouraged participation from people who may not normally engage in formal community programs. Participants have reported feeling welcomed, valued, and empowered to share their experiences.
The project contributes to social cohesion by fostering understanding between Pacific communities and the broader Canberra community. Through documenting personal stories and cultural experiences, Aurosokwo helps celebrate diversity while strengthening community connections.
The long-term vision is to continue building a living archive of Pacific stories, support emerging community leaders, and create sustainable opportunities for cultural engagement and community wellbeing.