Cultural Conversations is a grassroots organisation that began as a single event at the Nelson Arts Festival and has grown into a vibrant hub for the Global Majority - 85% of the world’s population - people of color, Black, Asian, Brown, Indigenous, and mixed-heritage individuals.  Our organisation is passionately guided by an evolving leadership team that amplifies the voices of those it serves, ensuring that its structures and activities develop on their terms.

Securing sustainable resources remains an ongoing challenge.  We deserve recognition for our unwavering commitment to easing what can be a difficult journey for members of the Global Majority.  By fostering connectivity and inclusivity, our organisation creates opportunities for people to share their stories, learn from one another, heal and grow together.  These efforts ripple outward, encouraging acceptance, tolerance, and unity across the wider community.

Since 2019, Cultural Conversations has provided a safe space for co-created events, including concerts, workshops, social enterprise development, discussions, music, dance, film, podcasts, kai sharing, storytelling, and poetry.  These sessions enhance knowledge, awareness, and appreciation of the cultural diversity that enriches Nelson.  We have grown to operating with a part-time paid team of six.

Cultural Conversations offers a proven, functional template for others seeking similar outcomes in their communities. Its impact has been recognised through accolades such as finalist status in the Nelson Changemaker Eelco Boswijk Awards and a medal in the Women’s Refuge 2024 Inspirational Women Awards. 

Our moemoeā (vision): A more equitable world where everyone feels included and no one feels isolated.  Cultural Conversation is a movement built on collaboration, creativity, and community. 

Our five goals remain evolving.  Your investment will go towards keeping the community glowing by opening for more hours, hosting more events, workshops and opportunities for the social enterprise to expand.