When I walked into the Flat Bush Library for Hidden Treasure Trust’s Diwali celebration, the first thing I noticed was the glow — not just from the diyas on the tables, but from the smiles all around. The air smelled of cardamom, laughter echoed through the shelves, and children ran past with sparkly paper lanterns they had just made in the craft corner.

I came to volunteer, but I ended up feeling like part of something much bigger. We helped families decorate the space with rangoli patterns, guided seniors to their seats, and shared stories about how Diwali was celebrated in our homes. One aunty spoke about celebrating Diwali in Punjab during her childhood — how the whole village would light lamps together — and a young girl beside her described making her first diya in New Zealand. That moment made me realise what Hidden Treasure Trust is really about: connection.

Even people who didn’t grow up celebrating Diwali joined in. The librarians helped with setup, a few local kids asked what the festival meant, and soon everyone was part of the same celebration of light and hope.

When the music started and people began to dance — elders clapping, kids spinning in circles — I looked around and thought: this is what community feels like. Not just tradition, but togetherness.

As I left that evening, I carried home a small diya and a big smile. It wasn’t just a festival; it was a reminder that light spreads easiest when shared.