It was a vibrant celebration for the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation’s (WBCF) Cultural Diversity Week 2024 at the Bowery Theatre and Errington Reserve in St Albans on March 21.
The WBCF joined hands with inTouch, The Youth Junction, and Empowering Communities to host the event. Embracing the state government’s theme, ’Our Shared Stories – Celebrating Together’, the partnership brought together 200 community members for a festival of culture, dialogue, and recognition.
The day kicked off at 10am with an outdoor festival at Errington Reserve, featuring a variety of performances, workshops, and sports activities. Attendees were treated to the joy of Bollywood dancing, the rhythms of African drumming, as well as the grace of Vietnamese dancing, and were encouraged to participate in workshops teaching each of these.
With something for everyone, from hands-on activities to delectable multicultural bites, the festival showcased the diverse tapestry of cultures enriching the local community.
Transitioning to the Bowery Theatre at 12.30pm, a sold-out audience enjoyed a keynote speech and panel discussion exploring the significance of multiculturalism, diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Western Bulldogs chief executive Ameet Bains shared personal insights into the importance of multiculturalism, drawing from his own background as the son of Indian migrants. The panel discussion featured a range of talented guests including Fred Alale, Hamed Allahyari, Sama Morad, and Tarni Jarvis, offering diverse perspectives on the theme.
The event also marked the announcement of the WBCF awards, honouring inspirational advocates for diversity, equity, and inclusion in the west.
Zac Petrevski received the Diversity Advocate of the West award for his impactful work as a physical education teacher at the Western English Language School, while year 10 student Ihaab Ahmad was recognised as the Young Diversity Advocate of the West for his leadership in youth issues within the Braybrook community. The East African Women’s Foundation was celebrated for its impactful contributions to the East African community in Melbourne.
