Asian Community Transformation Trust
Our vision is for all Asian communities of Aotearoa New Zealand to be embraced as integral members of society and be equipped to contribute back to their local communities, collaboratively enriching our nation's tapestry.
Belong. Contribute. Thrive.
Who are we?
The Asian Community Transformation Trust (ACTT), is a charitable trust based out of Christchurch New Zealand. We aim to act as a link between the Asian Communities of this country, with New Zealand’s wider society, and public services.
New Zealand possesses a distinctive cultural landscape characterised by its bi-cultural and multicultural heritage, a development that commenced in 1840. In recent years, there has been a significant rise in the presence of Asian communities establishing roots within the country. While New Zealand is revered for its amiable and welcoming environment, the needs of certain communities are at times inadequately addressed. A poignant reminder of this was evidenced by the tragic suicides of two young individuals within a local Chinese church, which highlighted the underlying struggles faced by many Asians in Aotearoa.
The difficulties encountered by migrants and minority cultures are intricate and multifaceted. They often experience feelings of isolation and loneliness stemming from separation from their families, contend with cultural and linguistic barriers, and navigate the complexities of raising children who embody a third culture. Additionally, these communities face the pervasive fear associated with stereotypes surrounding Asians. Compounding these issues is a lack of understanding regarding mental health and social challenges, as well as uncertainty about accessing appropriate support services.
It is evident that there exists a pressing need for increased awareness and enhanced support mechanisms to address these challenges effectively.
Over coffee, a group of Asian Christian youth workers began networking in relationship, and from this, ideas began to spring forth on how collaboration can serve the needs of Asian communities in NZ. In May 2020, we decided to peel back a few layers and deal with what we could. We operated under Te Raranga Support Trust and partnered with HeartSpace to deliver mental health coaching courses to over 100 students. In September 2021, we registered as a charitable trust and employed a manager from June 2022 to develop and grow the influence and activities of the Trust.
“We’re not just Asians trying to be Asian here, we’re people that want to be a part of New Zealand, contributing and thriving with our unique and beautiful cultural expressions.”
Allen Hou
Trust Founder and Manager
Our Focus
Bridging cultures and communities by: recognising, serving, and supporting local needs, and collaborating with people who are already a force for good within their given contexts.
Integrated Mental Health
Breaking Asian stigmas surrounding Mental Health and enabling appropriate support with an integrated approach that considers the whole person and their community.
Research and Education
Leadership Development Training
Continuous learning ourselves while we transfer knowledge both to NZ wide services AND local Asian communities.
Creating positive community spaces that are in alignment with our mission and values.
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