International students share music, food, and celebrations of their home countries
What: Global Fest, a celebration of culture at UBC’s Okanagan campus
Who: International students, campus community
When: Tuesday, November 17, Cultural Showcase 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Dancing and music, 6 to 8 p.m.
Where: Fipke building, UBC’s Okanagan campus, Kelowna
The diverse student population at UBC Okanagan is being celebrated next week at Global Fest.
“International students are an important part of our community, both on and off campus,” says Philipp Reichert, advisor with UBC’s International Programs and Services. “Our international students contribute to the fabric of the local community and are widely involved through volunteering activities, as well as through work and school.”
Reichert says international students represent more than 80 countries and make up more than 12 per cent of the student population at UBC’s Okanagan campus. Each year, the diversity of culture, homeland customs, food, and entertainment are highlighted as the campus community celebrates Global Fest.
International engagement and intercultural understanding are important aspects of UBC’s strategic plan and this event helps to advance both of these goals, says Ian Cull, associate vice-president of students.
“We are most fortunate that we have so many excellent students; wonderful people who have joined us from around the world,” says Cull. “They make a valued and valuable contribution to campus life.”
Global Fest takes place Tuesday, November 17 and begins with a Cultural Showcase from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Fipke Foyer. Students will share what makes their country special — food, music, traditions, and the arts. Global Fest wraps up later that day with a night of dancing and music from around the world. The evening event begins at 6 p.m. and takes place in the lower Fipke Foyer.
Carrie Karsgaard, advisor with UBC’s International Programs and Services, encourages the community to come to campus and participate in the Global Fest activities — both events are free of charge and open to the public.
“While diverse cultures are part of the fabric of UBC’s Okanagan campus, Global Fest is one way to truly celebrate this diversity,” says Kargaard. “I love seeing our very own UBC students generously share their cultures, personalities, and interests through creative displays and performances for our campus community.”
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