Pan-Asian Music Showcase Night: Celebrating Identity, Community, and Belonging

Supported by NZ On Air, these well-established artists in the local music scene promise a night of top-tier performances. But Pan-Asian Music Showcase Night is more than just a concert—it’s a platform for social connection, cultural expression, and the celebration of diversity, creating a sense of belonging for Asian youth in New Zealand.

Kaupapa: Addressing Isolation Through Music

Asian youth in New Zealand often experience isolation and loneliness due to language barriers, cultural differences, and the pressure to adapt to local society. These challenges can contribute to depression and anxiety, limiting their connection to both their native culture and their ability to engage in community life. While New Zealand’s healthcare system has developed various policies, much of the focus has been reactive, aiming to solve problems rather than prevent them. There is a growing need for preventive policies and initiatives such as Migrant Settlement Strategy that support Asian youth in maintaining social well-being and achieving their full potential. 

Pan-Asian Music Showcase Night seeks to address these challenges by using music as a bridge to connect young people from diverse backgrounds. Through music performances, the event creates a relaxed and welcoming environment where audiences, artists, and community members can interact naturally. It also provides a space to discuss Asian music and culture, highlighting the presence of Asian artists in New Zealand’s music scene—a presence often overlooked in mainstream popular culture. By amplifying Asian narratives, the event gives young people an opportunity to see themselves represented and take pride in their cultural identity. The showcase also aims to encourage intercultural exchange, inviting both Kiwi and Asian artists and music fans to foster greater understanding and collaboration. This shared cultural experience strengthens connections between communities, reinforcing the idea that diversity is a source of enrichment rather than division.

Beyond the performances, Pan-Asian Music Showcase Night is about creating a space where Asian youth can feel seen, valued, and empowered. The venue itself—The Tuning Fork—plays a crucial role in this. As part of Spark Arena, one of Auckland’s most reputable concert venues, it provides a high-profile platform that elevates Asian cultural performances and showcases them with the prestige they deserve. By holding this event in a major venue, the showcase reinforces the idea that Asian music belongs in New Zealand’s mainstream cultural spaces, not just in niche or community settings. 

More than a one-night event, Pan-Asian Music Showcase serves as a catalyst for future collaborations. It fosters ongoing partnerships between artists, community organisations, and initiatives supporting Asian and migrant youth. With the backing of Whau Ethnic Collective, Asian Family Services, and The Asian Network Inc., this event is designed to leave a lasting impact, paving the way for long-term support and engagement for Asian communities in Aotearoa.

This project is led by an informal group of migration experts and students at the University of Auckland. Since its formation in 2022 with support from the Creating Connection Grant, the group has been actively involved in organising World Refugee Day events, supporting research students, and leading community development projects. The event is organised by Han Lee, an artist-academic doctoral candidate in Community Psychology at the University of Auckland and a passionate advocate for Asian communities. As a singer-songwriter, Han seeks to bridge cultural gaps through the universal language of music.

Join Them at Pan-Asian Music Showcase Night

Pan-Asian Music Showcase Night is a step towards a more inclusive and culturally enriched New Zealand, where the contributions of Asian youth are celebrated and recognised. By amplifying diverse voices, this event not only highlights incredible musical talent but also fosters a sense of unity and belonging. Through music, storytelling, and collaboration, the showcase envisions a future where cultural diversity is embraced as a strength and a source of inspiration. Join us on 28 June at The Tuning Fork for an evening of vibrant music, cultural celebration, and meaningful connections. Experience the power of Pan-Asian artists, engage with the community, and be part of a movement that champions diversity and inclusion.

Tickets available at https://moshtix.co.nz/v2/event/pan-asian-music-showcase-night/177061

Use the Promo Code for $10 off: PanAsian15Pass

Craccum would like to extend our gratitude to Han Lee for his generous invitation and discount codes for the Pan-Asian Music Showcase Night. We appreciate the opportunity to experience a diverse lineup of musicians and artists and look forward to sharing the experience with our readers.

Credit: This article is contributed by Han Lee.