STORY AND PHOTO BY MATTHEW DENICOLA, STAFF WRITER
Associated Students hosted an event titled “WorldFest” in front of the Student Life and Leadership building on April 22. The event featured eye-catching display boards, flags, and colorful posters showcasing how different countries around the world experience travel and highlighting their respective cuisines.
The atmosphere at the event was peaceful as club members eagerly engaged students, offering insights into their countries. Each club provided students with the opportunity to sample food from their respective nations, and the students enthusiastically embraced the experience.
The following is a selection of clubs that participated in World Fest:
The Film Club represented Ukraine, highlighting the significance of Ukraine’s film history and showcasing various popular directors and actors. They presented sunflower seeds as a representation of one of the earliest foods consumed in the mid-18th century. The Film Club meets on Tuesdays from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. in FASS 123.
The Christian Club represented Mexico, emphasizing the Christian population in Mexico and their support for Mexican culture. Club leader Adira Edmund noted that Mexico has an “…unwavering commitment to preserving and promoting Mexican culture through faith-based initiatives and community outreach.” They showcased chips and salsa as a representation of immigrants who brought their culinary tastes to the United States. The Christian Club meets on Fridays from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Zoom.
The Art Visionary Club represented South Korea, featuring artwork from the country dating back to 3000 BC, including images of votive sculptures and petroglyphs. They showcased rice patties made from ramen, rice cake, and spicy sauce cheese, tracing its origins back to 2000 BC. To join AVC, students could email the Club President, Daisie Llinas, at Michellellinas2468@gmail.com.
The Media Arts and Design Club represented France, highlighting the history of sculptures in ancient France, the invention of the world’s first camera, and advancements in modern technology. They showcased madeleine cake, one of France’s earliest sweets dating back to the 18th century. The club meets on Wednesdays from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Zoom.
WorldFest provided students with a vibrant and enriching experience, fostering cultural understanding and appreciation through engaging displays and culinary delights from around the globe.
Computer Science major Ozvaldo Ramirez “I found the event remarkable due to its celebration of cultural diversity and the availability of complementary cuisine, which added to the overall enjoyment and appreciation of each culture represented. Plus the food was amazing!”