Young Greeks honour their mother tongue

These confident young Greeks are honest about their choices for studying the language of their heritage. They were encouraged as children to attend Greek school where a love and grasp of the language developed, becoming more than the consequential dialogue necessary in family scenarios. Nikos explains, "They [parents] press you at the start… then you learn to like it and you want to do it."

"In Year 10 I realised how important it was to know my language, because I am Greek. Then it wasn't my parents forcing me, I wanted to do it," says Dimitra. Sophia believes it was a good starting environment to generate a desire for further study: "Greek school is more relaxed, and it's not as strict." Their studies at VCE level were a more difficult prospect, but one they felt equipped for and enjoyed.

"Before the oral [exam] there was a stage - like in the last five days before the exam - when I was just thinking in Greek the whole time. You're brain is overheated. You kind of amaze yourself." Sophia agrees quickly, "Yeah, you start talking really fast!" The development of such independent discipline, the result of parental nurture and inspirational teaching, has provided a deeper understanding of their cultural roots and given the students fresh insight to the experiences of the diaspora.

Demitra explains, "It just makes me proud, that I can go and give a speech in Greek in confidence. This year I feel like I learnt a lot with the history as well. Your eyes open up learning another language, it's not just words- it's everything." And language does encompass so much more than words: it is the tool that rewards both the user and society with the means for empathy with, and celebration of, our Greek community. Communication is at the heart of society's ability to function truthfully. Having intelligent members of the diaspora who are proficient and confident in their mother tongue advantages themselves, their family, friends- Australia and Greece. "Depending on the university I'd like to do ancient Greek," says Sophia.

Nikos smiles and shrugs. He still has Year 12 to conquer before considering a tertiary option. Demitra aspires to become a physiotherapist whilst also continuing Greek. "I want to be a physio, if I have Greek and people are coming in whose English isn't that good, then I can help them," she says. It is this encouraging attitude that highlights the benefits of learning Greek not only as a cultural tool for Greek Australians, but as connection point for community members across all age barriers.

Greek fluency entails - as importantly as the practice of conversation itself - the language of thought, of understanding how it is to think Greek in an Australian setting. It demonstrates respect to Hellenic heritage and the origins of Greek Australian society, and also allows clearer discussion with other Greek speakers- the ability to convey the experiences of our unique Australian community. Sophia, Demitra and Nikos are praiseworthy examples of young people aware of just how vibrant and solidified a community the Greeks in Melbourne are, and represent the importance of learning Greek in Australia.