by Michelle Tan (G12)
On Saturday, the 8th of February 2014, students and adults alike, of all cultures and languages gathered together, showcasing over 70 different nationalities at Raha International School, to celebrate the much-awaited International Day. Jam-packed with a variety of different events ranged from the Parade of Nations to the traditional dances, Raha found itself emerged in a diverse and culturally educational environment.
With the arrival of students, the big pitch was soon abuzz with excitement, in anticipation for the assembly to begin, as little kids hurriedly found their places, excited parents busily snapped photos and the flag bearers eagerly held up their signs. The assembly began with a speech from the newly appointed CEO of Taaleem, Rosamund Marshall, followed by a constant stream of acts, which included, “Wonderful singing and shows, such as the Egyptian and Korean dances.” as stated by Scottish teacher, Miss Kirsten Baillie. The Egyptian dance ended in a whirlwind of color, due to the dancers’ vibrant costume, leading onto the main event, The Parade of Nations, where, “We were able to learn facts from different countries and see for ourselves how diverse Raha is.” Lorenzo Mapeso, Gr 10, Filipino. This was coupled with the expressive and colorful costumes that the flag bearing kids wore with pride. “The assembly was special to me, because I was the one holding the Malaysian sign.” Adrina Bang, Gr 3, Malaysian.
Soon, the children were free to explore the many different stalls and activities that the Global Village had to offer. Roaming around in search of traditional activities and cultural cuisines, everyone was able to, “take pride in their culture and learn about each other’s traditions.” Tala Barham, Gr 11, Jordanian and Palestinian. Not only were the children in awe of this event, but so were the teachers, who believe that, “the students enter the spirit of the day and the outcome shows the amount of effort the parents have put in.” Mr. Ben Rehana, English. “I also love the free stuff.” This is courtesy to the multiple stalls that represent their countries, with delicious foods and riveting activities to help others understand why they take pride in their country.
Overall, the day was, “fun because of the variety of food offered” Mrs. Muge Okur, Turkish. “This presented an excellent opportunity for families to experience the cultural diversity of Raha.” Mrs. Daniela Parkinson, New Zealander and Australian, with the entire Raha community contributing towards the event, whether it was helping out at a stall, participating in the parade or simply turning up to support their country and join in the festivities, this International Day has us anxious for the next one.
On Saturday, the 8th of February 2014, students and adults alike, of all cultures and languages gathered together, showcasing over 70 different nationalities at Raha International School, to celebrate the much-awaited International Day. Jam-packed with a variety of different events ranged from the Parade of Nations to the traditional dances, Raha found itself emerged in a diverse and culturally educational environment.
With the arrival of students, the big pitch was soon abuzz with excitement, in anticipation for the assembly to begin, as little kids hurriedly found their places, excited parents busily snapped photos and the flag bearers eagerly held up their signs. The assembly began with a speech from the newly appointed CEO of Taaleem, Rosamund Marshall, followed by a constant stream of acts, which included, “Wonderful singing and shows, such as the Egyptian and Korean dances.” as stated by Scottish teacher, Miss Kirsten Baillie. The Egyptian dance ended in a whirlwind of color, due to the dancers’ vibrant costume, leading onto the main event, The Parade of Nations, where, “We were able to learn facts from different countries and see for ourselves how diverse Raha is.” Lorenzo Mapeso, Gr 10, Filipino. This was coupled with the expressive and colorful costumes that the flag bearing kids wore with pride. “The assembly was special to me, because I was the one holding the Malaysian sign.” Adrina Bang, Gr 3, Malaysian.
Soon, the children were free to explore the many different stalls and activities that the Global Village had to offer. Roaming around in search of traditional activities and cultural cuisines, everyone was able to, “take pride in their culture and learn about each other’s traditions.” Tala Barham, Gr 11, Jordanian and Palestinian. Not only were the children in awe of this event, but so were the teachers, who believe that, “the students enter the spirit of the day and the outcome shows the amount of effort the parents have put in.” Mr. Ben Rehana, English. “I also love the free stuff.” This is courtesy to the multiple stalls that represent their countries, with delicious foods and riveting activities to help others understand why they take pride in their country.
Overall, the day was, “fun because of the variety of food offered” Mrs. Muge Okur, Turkish. “This presented an excellent opportunity for families to experience the cultural diversity of Raha.” Mrs. Daniela Parkinson, New Zealander and Australian, with the entire Raha community contributing towards the event, whether it was helping out at a stall, participating in the parade or simply turning up to support their country and join in the festivities, this International Day has us anxious for the next one.