BRIDGING CULTURES: THE 2025 KŐRÖSI CSOMA SÁNDOR SCHOLARS HAVE ARRIVED IN AUCKLAND

Dear Readers,

I completed my studies at the University of Public Service in Hungary, where I earned a degree in International Administration. I began my career at the Press and Communications Department of the Ministry of Finance, but I soon realized that office work was not my calling. I’ve always been full of energy, and sport has been a defining part of my life since childhood. I tried many different disciplines, but eventually my heart was captured by acrobatic rock and roll — and I’m glad it was, as it led me to win numerous championship titles.

Movement, community, and dynamism have always been important to me, which is why I returned to sport — this time as a coach. I’ve worked with all age groups, from preschoolers to the national adult team, and it brings me great joy to witness the development and success of my athletes.

As a participant in the Kőrösi Csoma Sándor Program, I came to New Zealand to share my energy and passion for community building with the local Hungarian population. My goal is to inspire both children and adults to fall in love with movement and sport, while also strengthening Hungarian traditions, culture, and the sense of belonging.

I believe that sport not only promotes a healthy lifestyle but is also a powerful tool for building and connecting communities. I hope that during my time here I can become an active part of the Hungarian community in New Zealand and contribute to its vibrancy through a variety of programs and events.

Fanni Csényi

My name is Áron Darvasi.In 2020, I graduated from the University of Theatre and Film Arts in Budapest with a degree in Acting. During my university years, in addition to acting, I had the opportunity to explore the fields of directing, playwriting, and teaching. I completed my acting internship at the Vígszínház, where I performed in productions such as The Paul Street Boys (as Csónakos), The Attic (as Üteg), and The Jungle Book (as the Chief Wolf). Later, I continued my professional journey at the Katona József Theatre in Budapest.

My first university directing project — Amphitryon by Kleist — became one of the most successful performances on the Ódry Stage. Over time, I became increasingly drawn to classical drama literature, which led me to win the "Thank You, Hungary!" grant four times. Thanks to this opportunity, I taught ancient Greek drama analysis in rural high schools across Hungary.

Continuing my literary pursuits, I received the Lajos Kassák Award in 2020 and was granted the István Örkény Playwriting Scholarship in both 2021 and 2024. After graduation, I founded my own independent theatre collective called Klakker Társulás (Klakker Ensemble). Our debut performance, Madárhegy, premiered at Jurányi House on April 8, 2022.

As a freshly graduated actor, I chose to work as a freelancer. In 2021, I ventured into the world of television, where I also had the chance to perform with my band Kultúrkör on a national talent show, finishing as the 5th best band. During this time, I also appeared in several TV series in both major and minor roles (Tóth János, Hotel Margaret, Keresztanyu, Drága örökösök, Brigi és Brúnó, Legyetek szeretettel, Hazatalálsz, Pokoli rokonok).

Sport has always been an essential part of my life.In my youth, I was a competitive tennis player and ranked among the top 15 in Hungary in the under-16 category. Though I now move a bit slower and rustier, I continue to enjoy sports with great enthusiasm.

For me, art and culture are forms of therapy. I am truly excited about this mission to New Zealand and sincerely hope that my skills and experience will enrich the life of the Hungarian community in Auckland to the fullest.

Áron Darvasi