Students celebrate the diversity of EKC Dover College during the Celebration of Culture event  

Recently, students from EKC Dover College came together to celebrate different cultures from around the world. The Student Hub was filled with vibrant stalls, delicious aromas and breath-taking performances.  

Organised by the SU president Rowven, and Student Experience Officer Summer, the event was a marvellous success. A huge sense of community filled the Hub as students came together to celebrate their nationalities whilst also learning about other cultures too.  

Speaking about the event Rowven shared: “We started planning this event when I became the SU president, this was one of the main events I wanted to organise.  

“It has been a successful day. I’m really loving seeing students come together. It’s good to learn about different cultures and see how people live in different places. 

“I think it is amazing that everyone has different ways of doing things and it is interesting to learn from different people. You do not realise that there are people in the world who live a completely different life to you, seeing and understanding this is important.” 

There was a wide range of activities for both staff and students to enjoy throughout the event. Various subject areas from across the College took part by setting up stalls that allowed attendees to experience different cultures, try new foods, and celebrate their home nations. 

Some stalls included: Early Years students presenting a colourful platter of fruit featuring selections from around the world, offering a delicious and healthy way to try new flavours. Art and Design students encouraged participants to decorate a handprint or badge with the flag of their home country.  

ESOL students worked together to prepare a traditional dish ‘Wal Wal’ which originates from Sudan, giving attendees a taste of authentic international cuisine. Hairdressing students invited visitors to choose a national flag, place it on a large world map, and enjoy a mocktail inspired by the colours of the chosen flag. 

Hairdressing students, Esmerelda and Megan, enjoyed the afternoons festivities. Esmerelda commented: “It has been great day for us to explore other people’s cultures. I have learnt about the flags and locations of different countries when creating our stall for the event.” 

 
Megan added: “This event has brought the College together and there is a real sense of community here [at EKC Dover College] which is why I love it here.” 

The event also gave students the opportunity to enjoy a variety of delicious foods from around the world. One of the dishes was fried chicken, a popular favourite in both America and West Africa. This crowd pleaser was provided by Favorite Chicken & Ribs, who served their signature chicken and chips box meal.  

In addition to this, students were treated to a taste of Mexico with a serving of nachos. This dish was specially prepared by none other than the College’s own Principal, Eleanor, and Deputy Principal, Nicola.  

A highlight of the event came from the performances by Siemy, a Brazilian drummer, and Richa, a Bollywood dancer. Maryam, a henna artist also created beautiful designs on the students’ hands.  

Siemy played a few variations of the drum whilst sharing a story of his life. He explained how he had moved to many different countries and experiencing new music and cultures. Richa performed an incredible Bollywood dance before teaching the students a few of her moves.  

After his fantastic Bollywood performance, we caught up with Dennis who is a drummer himself, as well as being a Plumbing student at EKC Dover College. Dennis explained: “I enjoyed the dancing, I am used to performing when drumming, but this was something different. It was really energising. 

“Today gave everyone the ability to express themselves and explore different cultures. It has been really interesting to see how other people live, I have seen what I am missing out on!”  

There is always a strong sense of community here at EKC Dover College, and events like the Celebration of Culture contribute towards the inclusive and welcoming atmosphere we’re proud of. Celebrating the diverse backgrounds of our students and staff brings everyone together in a meaningful way. 

Find out more about upcoming events hosted by the Student Union or to explore our wide range of courses.