人文及語言學部舉辦文化周展現校園多元文化活力

The student society of Professional Communication and English Studies (PENG), The Hummingbird, organised the Cultural Appreciation Week in February which brought together students from diverse backgrounds to celebrate their rich cultural heritages. The event, held in a lively atmosphere at CIE, featured a variety of booths and activities designed to engage and educate attendees.

The first three days of the event focused on Pakistani culture, where visitors were greeted with the enticing aromas of traditional desserts, barfi (a sweet confectionery made from condensed milk and sugar), gulab jamun (milk solids with dried nuts and cardamom), and jalebi (deep fried pretzel or circular-shaped batter covered in syrup). One of the highlights was the mehndi (or: henna) body art sessions, where participants engaged with our student mehndi artist who skilfully applied intricate designs on the back of their hands, showcasing the cultural significance of this traditional art form. The students also curated a colourful exhibition that provided an informative glimpse into Pakistan's customs and traditions.

The last two days shifted the focus to Nepalese and Chinese culture. One of the features was the popular Chatta Patta from Nepal. This flavourful snack, combining dry ramen, puffed rice, and spices, was a crowd favourite, with many attendees returning for seconds to savour the vibrant flavours. In a unique interactive element, attendees were invited to receive their official Nepali names, complete with explanations of their meanings. This initiative fostered a personal connection to Nepalese culture and encouraged greater appreciation for the significance of names within cultural contexts.

The cosplay booth was another key attraction of the event. With a wardrobe full of Hanfu (traditional Chinese garments) and Nepali national outfits, like the Topi (a cotton cloth hat), participants had the opportunity to experience cultures and histories novel to them.

Overall, Cultural Appreciation Week effectively combined culinary delights, artistic expression, and cultural education, reinforcing the importance of inclusivity within the community. The event served as a powerful reminder of the beauty found in diversity, leaving students inspired to continue exploring and celebrating the various cultures represented in their community.