International students to share taste of home during Culture Fest

By Jordan Beach 

For the sixth year in a row, Reinhardt University’s African Descendents Student Association will host the International Culture Festival. 

On April 11, from 11 a.m.-1 p.m., in the Gordy Center, the Festival will not only teach other students about the many cultures from which Eagles originate but allow international students the opportunity to educate their peers about where they were born and raised. Reinhardt’s enrollment includes students from 32 countries.

Marianna Herrera dancing at the 2018 International Culture Festival.

“The International Culture Festival is a chance for people of all significant cultural backgrounds to display where they came from, where their familial roots lie and why it is important to remember ancestors who have come before us,” said theatre major Malu Omeonga. 

This year’s theme is Inclusive Diversity. Tunji Adesesan, director of the Academic Support Office, believes it is important to share cultural heritage and celebrate them as an “integral part of the Reinhardt community.” 

International student Glauka Carvajal, of Spain, enjoys “sharing and watching other people have a taste of what it’s like back home.” 

“I hope students learn a little bit of each of the cultures exposed in the festival and get to understand how different some things are on the other side of the world,” said Carvajal. 

The countries to be included in the Festival include Germany, the United Kingdom, Canada, Venezuela, France, Nigeria, Kenya, Togo, Libya, Mexico, Cuba, Ecuador, Spain, Italy, Colombia, Ukraine, Russia, Gambia, Egypt, Turkey, Austria, Australia, Congo, China, Panama, Puerto Rico, Ghana, the Philippines, Laos and more.

Students will showcase the food, fashion and language found in their country’s culture, engaging students in an interactive, educational experience.