From Auckland to Brazil through the kitchen

As part of the virtual programme, delivered by Campus B and fully funded by the University, our students had the unique opportunity of engaging with indigenous communities and students in Brazil, who generously shared their customs, culture and also their traditional recipes.

Previously run in-person, the programme saw a group of Auckland students travel to Brazil in January 2020, prior to the global pandemic. Now that international travel isn’t a viable option for student groups, Campus B adapted the programme for online learning this year.

The main themes were the social, health and environmental challenges facing Brazil in the context of the Covid-19 outbreak. Students had the chance to have an impact on the conservation of indigenous culture in Brazil by building an initiative to solve a real world problem.

Heloisa Hartuwig De Freitas, who took part in the virtual programme, said, “Throughout the programme we were fortunate to hear from Brazilian indigenous activists who continue to adamantly fight for their lands and culture. One of our guest speakers, Amanda Pankaru, shared her grandfather's saying, which ended up being my biggest takeaway from the programme. He believes, ‘we all have indigenous blood, it’s either in our veins or it’s on our hands.’”

In an activity designed to create connections and give a small taste of life in Brazil, students came together on campus in Auckland to take part in a cooking demonstration led by a Brazilian chef via Zoom.

They cooked arroz carreteiro (a hearty beef and rice dish), followed by a rich chocolate truffle dessert known as brigadeiro. The students shared the traditional food while learning about the origins of the dishes and their significance to indigenous Brazilians.

The culinary workshop was just one of several group activities spread over two weeks in January, including lectures and project work, where participants interacted with Brazilian students and indigenous peoples.

The 360 International team offers a variety of virtual opportunities to ensure our students can still access international education experiences while overseas travel is not possible.

These range from leadership and skills development to virtual internships, service learning and cultural programmes. The programmes are fully funded to enable students to have a unique experience that will enhance their skills, add to their CV and expand their networks.

If you want to join the next round of the ‘Campus B Indigenous Rights and History in Brazil’ virtual programme, or explore how you can make overseas study, a global internship or a virtual learning abroad opportunity part of your degree at the University of Auckland, contact the 360 International team.