A local teacher is being recognised for preserving language and culture in her community.

She received the NSW Premier’s Community Languages Teacher Medal for her Kiswashili school, which is the first of its kind in the state. 

Monica Njoroge-Eaton, who grew up in Kenya, founded the school after noticing her own children struggling to learn Kiswashili. 

Settling in Australia and raising her family, she realised the challenge of passing on language and culture without a supportive network of speakers. 

“It’s important for them to maintain their culture,” Monica said. 

“They don’t even need to speak fluently or anything, but they can say some things in Swahili.

“I think that gives them a sense of pride.

“It’s such a rewarding thing to do, to teach and to show them this language.

“And, they think that they can’t speak, but they try.

“They try really hard and it’s so nice to see that.

“I just love being with the kids.”

Now, about 40 students aged two-to-18 attend classes across Newcastle and the Central Coast. 

Lessons are designed to be both educational and social, combining classroom learning with excursions and interactive activities. 

Monica received the medal at the NSW Premier’s Harmony Dinner on 26 March, along with 13 other individuals and organisations. 

It also honoured victims of December’s tragic Bondi attack, with Ahmed AI Ahmed receiving a Cummity Hero Award for his bravery during the incident.

Hosted by Premier Chris Minns and Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper, the event brought together more than 1,600 guests to celebrate multicultural contributions in NSW. 

“The Multicultural Medals recognise the individuals and organisations who quietly make an extraordinary difference in our communities,” the latter said. 

“Their dedication really does enrich the lives of people across NSW.

“They are also a reminder that the social capital that makes our state so strong is built every day – through conversations, connection and the coming together of people from many cultures and faiths.

“My heartfelt congratulations to all the winners. 

“You are champions for a harmonious and inclusive NSW.”

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