Telling a story through design and colour

University of Otago student Atis (Shane) Suksingha wears a re-imagined graduation gown created in...
University of Otago student Atis (Shane) Suksingha wears a re-imagined graduation gown created in collaboration with Maori fashion designer Kiri Nathan. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Weaving together the threads of experience in Thailand and Aotearoa New Zealand is University of Otago student Atis (Shane) Suksingha.

He is one of the faces of a campaign by Education New Zealand Manapou ki te Ao called "I am new", which aims to emphasise New Zealand’s unique attributes for international students now borders are fully open.

With the help of Maori fashion designer Kiri Nathan, Mr Suksingha has designed a graduation gown he intends towear when he completes hisbachelor of commerce degree.

He added three colours to the gown that represented major aspects he learned while studying in New Zealand.

Red signified changes in character after coming to New Zealand.

"Back then I was quite introverted."

After flying to New Zealand in 2015 to take part in a language school he become more confident.

"It kind of showed me that most of the people here are really friendly and there's nothing to be afraid of to get out there and talk to other people."

Mr Suksingha chose white to represent peace and quiet in New Zealand compared to life in the busy city of Bangkok.

And he chose black to represent integrity and staying true to what he believed in.

Mr Suksingha hoped his family could visit for his graduation, which would be some time at the end of 2023 or the beginning of 2024.