Culture Day 2025

Since the beginning of the academic year, the Multi-cultural Society has been working hard to orchestrate this immense event. Their collective effort was notable with over 100 roles being allocated in the build-up, including covering setup arrangements, cooking culturally diverse cuisines, face paint and henna, and so much more. This level of organisation contributed to the day’s success as well as ensuring it was a positive experience for all who participated.

The morning began with over 80 students energetically arriving and proudly showcasing their heritage through vibrant clothing. Adding to the sense of pride, the morning included a community event where a variety of internal and external stalls celebrated inclusive communities. Alongside the community event, skilled artists in the group decorated attendees with intricate henna and face paint, creating a sense of celebration for all participants. Additionally, excitement started to build with the vast array of cultural foods, including puff puff, jollof rice, mango lassi and so much more.

As lunchtime approached, the excitement across college spread with the arrival of the local food trucks, adding to the cultural engagement of those not directly involved. Manna Seoul, serving Korean-style corn dogs, and The Grill Plug, dishing out tasty burgers, and GoGoDesrts, with their delicious, sweet treats, were all delighted to join in the celebration and continue the day’s success.

The sense of pride that students expressed when given the opportunity to celebrate their cultures and heritage with others was palpable. It was a testament to the college community that the atmosphere was one of curiosity and joy as differences were explored and discussed. This can only help to create cohesion and a belonging for all students. They felt ‘seen’.

Steve dann, principal

During the thrill of the food trucks, the Culture Day 5-a-side football and basketball tournament kicked off. 42 enthusiastic students formed 8 separate teams for the football tournament and 24 students formed 4 basketball teams. The tournaments quickly built up a group full of supporters from all corners of the college, who came to enjoy the afternoon entertainment.

The grand finale of the day ended with a runway in the LRC, hosted by the charismatic duo Kara Baptise and Modestin McNeil-Snow. 

Before the runway began, the crowd were entertained by five captivating cultural dances which were met with tremendous cheers and support. Then the hosts introduced countries one by one and students, either on their own or in groups, walked, danced, and ran on stage and proudly represented their countries. Impressively, over 50 students from 17 countries graced the stage exhibited the global reach of the event. Finally, the Miss Universe competition saw representatives from the Philippines, Gambia, Nigeria, Türkiye, Bangladesh and India. After a thrilling vote count, the crown was bestowed upon Juvi from the Philippines!