On February 25, the University of Toronto Mississauga (UTM) came alive with Caribbean culture as the International Education Centre (IEC) hosted Dinner and Dialogues. This event, part of a series aimed at engaging students with diverse traditions, transformed the Student Centre’s Presentation Room into a colourful celebration of food, music, and community.
Each Dinner and Dialogues event highlights a unique culture, enriching participants through immersive experiences that engage all senses. The IEC has previously showcased various festivals, including Lunar New Year and Diwali, fostering a sense of cultural exchange and understanding among students.
Originating in Trinidad and Tobago, Carnival is a pivotal event steeped in history, blending African, Indigenous, and European influences. Celebrated globally, it represents the resilience and vibrancy of Caribbean heritage, filled with music, dance, and elaborate costumes that signify freedom and community spirit.
This celebration brought the essence of Carnival directly to UTM, allowing students to partake in the festivities without needing to travel. The Presentation Room was alive with the sounds of soca and calypso; attendees were welcomed with traditional dishes like jerk chicken and rice and peas, immersing them in the culture.
As the night concluded, attendees not only enjoyed a sumptuous feast but also forged new friendships and gained deeper insights into Trinidad and Tobago’s rich heritage. The next Dinner and Dialogues event on April 3 will shift focus to Eid and Nowruz, continuing the celebration of global traditions and fostering connections through shared experiences. The IEC remains pivotal at UTM, consistently enriching student life with diverse cultural programming.
The IEC’s Dinner and Dialogues at UTM on February 25 celebrated Caribbean culture with a lively ambience, food, and music. The event showcased Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival, highlighting its cultural significance. Attendees enjoyed traditional dishes and formed connections, while the IEC continues to offer diverse cultural experiences, with an upcoming event on April 3 celebrating Eid and Nowruz.
The Dinner and Dialogues event at UTM, hosted by the IEC, offered a vibrant glimpse into Caribbean culture, encapsulating the spirit of Carnival through music, food, and community. Attendees left enriched with cultural understanding and new connections, exemplifying the IEC’s commitment to fostering inclusivity. With upcoming events like the Eid and Nowruz celebration, the IEC promises ongoing engagement with global traditions on campus.
Original Source: themedium.ca
