I envisioned something bigger—a Cultural Festival that would bring together students from all backgrounds through food, music, art, dance, and traditions, creating a shared experience of celebration and understanding. More than just an event, I envisioned a week that would allow people to step into each other’s worlds, experience traditions beyond their own, and, most importantly, feel at home in a place that often felt far from it.

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One of my biggest "YES! I did that" moments was our first in-person meeting for the festival. The energy in the room was electric—ideas flowing, excitement building. When the festival finally took place, standing on stage in front of a crowd of students celebrating culture together, I knew we had created something truly special. Seeing people laugh, dance, and feel at home was proof that this was more than just an event—it was a movement.

University should be more than just academics—it should be a place where everyone feels seen, valued, and connected. Cultural exchange isn’t just about showcasing traditions; it’s about building friendships, breaking barriers, and creating a sense of home for students who might feel far from theirs.

For international students, this is even more important. Moving to a new country is already daunting, and without a strong community, it’s easy to feel disconnected and isolated. Many students come from large, diverse cities, only to find themselves in a much smaller place where it’s harder to feel that same sense of belonging. Through events like the Culture Festival, we can change that.

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