REFLECTION

Throughout my years studying occupational Therapy, I have always felt that I was culturally aware and culturally competent, but it was not something that I had truly reflected on. When getting asked on Hui what I had done to ensure my cultural competence I will be honest to say that I struggled to answer the question. Through this blog I have gained the chance to demonstrate and develop my cultural awareness.

It has become much clearer to me how hugely diverse culture is, especially in New Zealand. I now see culture as something that we continue to gain knowledge in and develop throughout the course of our life-span. I have learnt skills that I will take with me into the future as an Occupational Therapist such as literature, a deeper understanding and a new frame of mind. I see now the importance of continueing to learn off others through getting to know them for who they are on a deeper cultural level.

I challenge Occupational Therapists and my fellow Occupational Therapy students, to not dread the word cultural competency, but to think of it as something inspiring, exciting, challenging and motivating. I feel that we can learn a lot about ourselves through seeking to understand someone else’s culture.