Aotearoa is a country rich with diversity. This multiculturalism can be felt from the top of the North Island all the way down to Rakiura. Nearly 30% of our population is made up of immigrants, making us a “super diverse nation,” as we welcome those from all around the world.

However, as culturally rich as we are, schools, libraries and other educational centres need support in reflecting this diversity in children’s literature. Inclusivity and representation in the media are crucial for children of all ages. If a child recognises themselves in the media, it fosters a sense of belonging, while exposing different cultures promotes empathy and understanding. 

Pearl D’Silva is an early childhood educator with over 20 years of experience working with young children and lecturing ECE tertiary students. For the last 17 years Pearl worked for New Zealand Tertiary College, first as an Academic Manager in India, then as the Programme Leader for the Bachelor of Education programme and finally as a lecturer. 

Pearl moved to New Zealand 12 years ago with her husband and young daughter to further her career in ECE and with NZTC. Quickly upon moving the Aotearoa Pearl noticed lack of Indian representation in books available in libraries and early childhood education centres. The lack of diversity unsettled Pearl and she set out to make a change. An avid reader with a passion for children’s books and a love for her culture, Pearl created Tijori.

Tijori is an online bookshop dedicated to bringing diversity and representation to learning centres, libraries and homes by providing Indian children's books and other cultural resources. 

“The name Tijori comes from the Hindi word for treasury," Pearl tells us. “I’d like to think of this bookstore as a ‘treasury’ of children's books and resources from India.”

According to the 2023 Census, the Indian community has become the third-largest ethnic group in NZ, after New Zealand European and Māori. Children from immigrant backgrounds can often struggle to see themselves reflected in mainstream media, and Pearl’s foresight is allowing children from these and other immigrant families feel accepted. Tijori has become a platform where culturally relevant board and picture books, puzzles and even children's-sized saris can be brought into New Zealand’s classrooms, libraries and homes.

Pearl personally collaborates with Indian publishers, authors and suppliers to ensure that children can see their culture represented and celebrated.

“Children’s literature has often been regarded as being windows and mirrors,” explains Pearl. “Books reflect children’s own lives, and I wanted to create a space where children know they have a place.”

Because of her dedication to promoting the Indian culture Pearl has been invited to host Diwali and Holi story time sessions at local libraries for the last eight years. This year there was so much interest that she was invited to share her enthusiasm and knowledge at four different libraries, conveying stories, traditions and cultural insights with eager audiences.

Pearl D’Silva is helping to bridge cultural gaps and create a sense of belonging for children of Indian heritage in Aotearoa. Through Tijori, she is ensuring that stories from India are more accessible in classrooms, libraries and homes. She is not only celebrating her own culture but also fostering understanding and inclusivity for future generations. Pearl’s work is a reminder that representation matters, and that stories have the power to shape a more connected, diverse world.

Explore the rich world of Indian children’s literature and cultural treasures and visit Tijori’s website today.

What to read more about Tijori? Check out The Sapling’s article.