Celebration of Culture returns to EKC Ashford College with music, dance and flavours from around the world

Vibrant music, dancing and flavours filled the walls of our College as students and staff came together for our annual Celebration of Culture event.

Building on the success of previous years, the day showcased the rich diversity within the College community with interactive workshops, live performances and food from around the world.

Throughout the day, students immersed themselves in a range of cultural experiences. The popular Henna station returned, with queues forming throughout the event as students enjoyed traditional body art designs. They also enjoyed African and Samba drumming workshops in the sun, whilst the atmosphere in the College atrium was electric as students joined in with a variety of dance performances including Latin, Chinese fan dances, Nepalese and Belly dancing.

After last year’s success, the colourful Holi Festival also returned, with students gathering outside to take part in the vibrant celebration. Clouds of colourful paint powder filled the air as students celebrated together, creating one of the most memorable moments of the day. Traditionally known as a festival celebrating unity, positivity and the arrival of spring, Holi was the perfect way to end such an inclusive and diverse day.

Speaking with the Student Experience Officer and event organiser, Megan, she commented: “I’ve been working with the Students’ Union to plan our fifth annual celebration of culture, which was started by our president Chandrika five years ago. It’s been really lovely to see her return, and to watch all the students come together to celebrate cultures from around the world. They might be a bit shy at first, but by the end everyone is dancing, singing and joining in. 

“This event really brings the whole college together. Events like this are so important because they expose students to cultures they may not have encountered before, helping to build understanding, respect and a greater appreciation of different traditions.” 

Celebration of Culture also offers students the chance to enjoy a variety of free cuisines provided by local businesses. A huge thank you goes to The Old School House Indian, Flavourz of Ashford, Kokoro and Stanhope Pizza for serving delicious dishes and helping students explore flavours from different cultures. 

Sienna, a Health and Social Care student told us: “I’m really enjoying the celebration of culture event, it’s been so much fun. I love seeing all the different cultures, learning about different countries, and trying new foods. I’ve tried jollof rice, sweet and sour chicken, pizza and sushi, and my favourite was definitely the chicken. 

 ”I think days like this are really important because there are so many different cultures in the UK now, and it’s nice to learn about them and understand them better.”

Students’ Union Vice President, Brendan, also shared his thoughts on the importance of events like Celebration of Culture and how they help bring the College community together. He said: “This is always one of my favourite days of the year. With everything in the news and the hatred across the world today, but it’s always important to remember that underneath our skin we’re all the exact same. So, days like today are so important, it celebrate our differences and our diverse College community.”

Celebration of Culture continues to be one of the highlights of the College calendar, giving students the opportunity to celebrate their heritage, learn about different traditions and experience cultures from around the world in a fun and inclusive environment.