On June 22, 2023, we hosted our annual International Day to celebrate and honor the diverse community of students and staff. This event was a wonderful display of cultural pride, promoting learning, appreciation, and inclusivity.
The day featured a packed schedule of interactive presentations, cultural performances, vibrant displays, and delicious cuisine. International Day highlighted over 56 countries, proudly represented by Columbia College’s English as an Additional Language (EAL) and Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) students.
Each country contributed to the diverse and lively atmosphere of the event. To ensure a well-rounded representation, the countries were thoughtfully grouped into different classrooms. These groups were based on the students in our EAL and LINC programs this year.
As a result, the classrooms transformed into cultural pavilions, offering attendees an immersive experience. Visitors explored a wide range of cultural traditions, tasted authentic cuisine, and learned about different languages and customs from around the world.
This year’s International Day featured an incredible variety of countries, each adding a unique flavor to the event. The countries featured at this year’s International Day included:
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- Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, El Salvador, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Venezuela
- Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Yemen, UAE
- Ukraine
- Bangladesh, India
- Canada
- Ethiopia, Somalia
- Eritrea
- Moldova, Poland, Russia, Turkey
- Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, Iran
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- Syria, Palestine
- Pakistan
- Algeria, Libya, Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt
- Japan, Korea/South Korea, Vietnam
- China, Hong Kong
- Sudan / North Sudan, South Sudan
- Cameroon, Guinea, West Africa (Ghana & Liberia), Congo, Kenya, Senegal
A Festive Schedule
International Day at Columbia College kicked off with a spirited start at 10:00 AM with the national anthem, “O Canada,” and land acknowledgments.
During the opening remarks, we announced the launch of the Columbia Immigrant Centre for Foundational Skills Training (CICFST), an exciting initiative that signifies a major milestone in the college’s unwavering dedication to empowering immigrant students and providing comprehensive support for their educational and career aspirations.
The opening ceremony set the tone for the day, reinforcing the importance of unity and celebration within our diverse community.
Cultural Fashion Show and Entertainment
One of the most exciting highlights of International Day was the vibrant Cultural Fashion Show and Entertainment segment.
The stage came alive with a captivating display of traditional attire from around the world. Each outfit showcased the exquisite craftsmanship and unique styles that define different cultures. Models walked with confidence, proudly representing their heritage. Their stunning ensembles captivated the audience and created an atmosphere of admiration and respect.
In addition to the fashion show, the entertainment segment featured incredible performances that highlighted the rich cultural traditions within our college community. The event featured energetic dance routines and soul-stirring musical performances.
Attendees enjoyed a diverse array of artistic expressions that transcended language barriers. More importantly, the performances brought everyone together in a joyous celebration of culture and unity.
Visiting Cultural Pavilions
The afternoon session provided a unique opportunity for attendees to experience the rich diversity of cultures at the event. During this time, the venue transformed into a vibrant cultural hub. Each pavilion represented a different country, offering visitors a chance to explore and engage with various traditions.
Participants enjoyed displays that highlighted the history, cuisine, and customs of different nations. The atmosphere was filled with excitement as attendees moved from one pavilion to another, discovering new cultures along the way.
At the cultural pavilions, interactive presentations provided an enriching experience for everyone. EAL and LINC students served as cultural ambassadors, sharing their knowledge and personal stories to foster cross-cultural understanding.
Visitors had the chance to ask questions, learn new traditions, and sample delicacies. These interactions allowed them to appreciate the beauty and diversity of each culture in a meaningful way.
A Feast for the Senses
No cultural celebration is complete without experiencing its unique flavors. International Day at Columbia College featured a wide variety of international cuisine, offering something for everyone to enjoy.
Food stalls lined the venue, each presenting an array of mouth-watering dishes from different countries. Attendees indulged in a culinary journey filled with aromatic spices and exotic flavors from around the world.
The event provided a unique opportunity to savor and appreciate the diverse gastronomic traditions within the college community. Every bite offered a taste of culture, bringing people together through the universal language of food.
International Day at Columbia College was an extraordinary celebration of diversity and inclusivity. Attendees experienced the richness of over 56 countries through interactive presentations, cultural performances, engaging displays, and a delightful feast.
The event provided a unique opportunity to celebrate the diverse cultures that make up the college community. It successfully fostered learning, appreciation, and connection among students and staff. Moreover, it highlighted the importance of inclusivity and cultural exchange.
Furthermore, International Day exemplified the college’s commitment to creating a vibrant and welcoming environment. At Columbia College, individuals from diverse backgrounds come together to celebrate their heritage and contribute to a harmonious community.
