'How We Belong' documentary screening

You’re invited to the first screening of ‘How We Belong’, a 3-part documentary series sharing powerful stories of older Chinese migrants living in Merri-bek.

Part 1: “The gesture that speaks” - Mr Zhang & Mrs Gao
When Mr Zhang and Mrs Gao move to Merri-bek to care for their granddaughters, they step into a world full of challenges and opportunities. Unable to speak English, they struggle to connect and feel at home in their new community.

Through the warmth of strangers, the love of family, and the support of their Chinese-language church, they begin to find their place. As they learn English and engage with those around them, a story of resilience, connection, and belonging unfolds.

Part 2: “The Bloom that Heals” - June
June came to Australia later in life through marriage, bringing with her a rich cultural heritage and a desire to build a meaningful life. She found joy in gardening and cooking, devoted herself to community service, and worked to promote Chinese culture, activities that helped her feel connected and rooted in her new home. But during the Covid-19 pandemic, experiences of racism shook her sense of safety and belonging. Drawing on the calm and control she found in gardening and support from friends in other minority communities, she reconnected with her community, her surroundings, and herself.

Part 3: “The Difference that Bridges” - Hua Cao
Hua arrived in Australia as a PhD student, eager to pursue her academic dreams. Hua faced cultural differences and sometimes misunderstood experiences as discrimination. Over time, she adapted, gained trust in Australian society, and turned that trust into social and civic responsibility, ultimately finding a strong sense of belonging. This film explores Hua’s journey from feeling confused by cultural differences to becoming an active, confident member of her community.

What makes this docu-series unique?

  • This project is one of the first community-based documentaries exploring Chinese seniors' lived experiences of belonging in Australia.  
  • The project invites young people to respond, creating a bridge across cultures and generations.

Come along to the launch of How We Belong and celebrate stories of community and resilience. 

This documentary series is directed by Yan Xu (Dan), a Master of Social Work student at the University of Melbourne. This project has been supported by Merri-bek City Council (Youth Services and Ageing Well Units).

Contact

Merri-bek Youth
Liam Walsh
Phone: 0417 056 587
Email: lwalsh@merri-bek.vic.gov.au