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Fusion of cultures on show at DIA international day

DUBAI - Students from the Dubai International Academy (DIA) and their parents came together recently to showcase their culture and traditions at the fifth annual ‘International Day’.

With over 43 different countries represented at the Dubai International Academy’s International Day, gastronomic delights and colourful decorations set the mood for an extravagant showcase.

Maha Guimei, a student from Egypt, was showcasing traditional hieroglyphic alphabets and bookmarks made of papyrus as part of the International Day at the school.

“It’s the first time I have participated in the cultural display and it is exciting to see so many kids willing to learn about world cultures. I certainly want my kids to grow up understanding the different cultures that shaped human history and understand what makes their identity,” said Maha.

Dressed in brightly coloured flowing dresses with castanets, Jaqueline Rafia and her friends were proud to showcase tortillas and croquettes at their Spanish stall.

“The croquettes are usually served as appetizers or afternoon snacks,” explained an excited Jaqueline.

Jacqueline pointed that the international day was unique to Dubai’s cosmopolitan setting and couldn’t be held anywhere else.

“It’s only in Dubai you get to see people of so many different cultures and learn from them while explaining your own identity and traditions,” expressed Jacqueline.

From a distance, Mona Sayed from Lebanon was explaining what makes the Lebanese cuisine special in the crowd of gastronomic delights from around the world.

“There is the ever-popular Shawarma and traditional Mezzeh and grills that bring out the true taste of Lebanese food,” said Mona Sayed who was present at the Lebanese stall with her family.

Dressed in a Pink Sari, Candee Yong from Malaysia was explaining visitors about the different ethnicities in Malaysia.

“Malaysia is made up of people from different ethnicities. There are the Malays, Indians and Chinese who come together to create a unique fusion that shows in our food, dressing and customs,” said Candee.

“We are showing each ethnicity with a variation of its cuisine. The steam layered cake, dim sum and chicken satay are some of our popular delicacies,” pointed Candee.

While the endless rows of colourful flags and excited parents formed the backdrop for a perfect example of UAE’s multiculturalism, the school director noted the need to raise the manifesto to include a spirit of community building and charity.

“The international day is a way to celebrate our unity in diversity. The parents are very involved in supporting their children and it is a reflection of the growing importance of multiculturalism,” said Poonam Bhojani, director, Dubai International Academy.

Students from the school put together 20 different performances as the curtains came down on yet another successful international day at DIA.

–muaz@khaleejtimes.com