Thousands of young Ismaili Muslims from more than 50 countries gathered in Dubai from 20–27 July for the Global Encounters Festival (GE 2025), a global celebration of culture, creativity, and sport.
Among the 4,000 athletes and artists, 3,000 volunteers, and 25,000 attendees, New Zealand’s Ismaili Muslim youth proudly carried the spirit of Aotearoa to the world stage, sharing their stories of heritage, faith, and Kiwi identity.
In his message conveying good wishes for the success of the festival, His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan V, 50th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims, said, “to fulfil our potential as creatives or athletes is to realise a blessing…. Sport and arts are not only beautiful, but they also have the unique power to build bridges. Let us cherish this unity which has brought us so far and seen us through every challenge with courage and conviction.”
A moment to remember
One of the most powerful scenes came during the opening ceremony, when Amreen Manjiyani, a young New Zealand delegate, stepped forward wearing a korowai, a traditional Māori cloak symbolising honour, leadership, and connection to heritage.
The sight of the korowai on a global stage spoke volumes about who we are as a nation that respects culture, honours tangata whenua (the people of the land), and celebrates diversity as a strength.
“Representing Aotearoa during the opening ceremony is something I’ll always treasure,” says Amreen. “Wearing the korowai was humbling. It carried the mana of my whānau (family), community, and country. As a young Kiwi Ismaili Muslim, I felt proud to represent both my faith and my culture.”
Amreen Manjiyani stepped forward wearing a korowai.
Creativity, competition, and connection
Across art, performance, and film, New Zealand participants shared works inspired by migration, wellbeing, and identity, telling powerful stories of belonging in two worlds.
On the sports field, Kiwi athletes impressed with skill and determination, bringing home two gold, three silver, and one bronze medal.
“Being part of GE 2025 was life-changing,” says Aliza Jivani, one of New Zealand’s medal winners. “I got to compete internationally, connect with inspiring young women from around the world, and represent both my faith and New Zealand. Standing with our flag during the medal ceremony was a moment I’ll never forget.”
Image on the left: Aliza Jivani and the other two winners.
Image on the right: Numa and Nuha Wadhwania, Badminton Winners.
Young women leading the way
A standout feature of the New Zealand delegation was the strong presence of young women, leading in both the arts and sports.
“GE 2025 showed how our young people can stay true to their roots while thriving as proud New Zealanders,” says one parent. “Seeing so many young women take the lead was inspiring for families like ours.”
Their leadership reflected not only their individual talent but also the values of the wider Ismaili community, empowering women and girls to contribute fully to society and share their stories with the world.
The spirit of service
Behind every performance and match were volunteers who helped bring the festival to life.
“It was an honour to volunteer at Global Encounters 2025,” says Sameer Hirani, a New Zealand volunteer. “It gave me the chance to serve people from every corner of the world while sharing the warmth and stories of Aotearoa.”
Sameer Hirani volunteering at GE 2025.
A community that connects and contributes
GE 2025 was a platform for friendship, understanding, and shared values. Kiwi youth joined storytelling circles, workshops, and shared meals, building bonds that crossed languages and cultures.
“The success of our youth at GE 2025 reflects the spirit of Aotearoa; diverse, talented, and united,” says Jasmine Lalani, Member Communications and Publications, The Aga Khan Shia Imami Ismaili Council for Australia and New Zealand. “Their achievements are not just a win for the Ismaili Muslim community, but for New Zealand as a whole.”
A shared vision
The Ministry for Ethnic Communities is proud to celebrate and partner with the New Zealand Ismaili community, recognising their ongoing contributions to New Zealand’s social and cultural life.
The Ismaili community’s focus on service, education, and inclusion reflects the Ministry’s priorities that focus on strengthening communities, promoting unity, and celebrating the diversity that enriches Aotearoa.