NW Valley Times

A recent cultural celebration at Grand Canyon University, Culture Fest, highlighted the diverse backgrounds of the student body through various displays and presentations. Organized by the university's Multicultural Office, the event showcased nearly 30 tables of different cultures.

Raihana Asadullah, an elementary education junior at GCU, spoke about her Afghan heritage. Despite being born in Russia and living in Arizona since she was two, the Afghan culture remains significant in her life. “I don’t speak any English at home,” she noted while standing beside her all-about-Afghanistan poster featuring images of regions such as Bamiyan and Nuristan.

Emphasizing the cultural diversity at GCU, Multicultural Office manager Zach Broussely stated, “We want students to be aware there’s so much cultural diversity here on our campus.” Freshmen Janalina Noriega and Brianna Estrada also participated, representing Mexico alongside junior Isaura Martinez.

Asadullah expressed gratitude for her educational opportunities in the U.S., “Girls in Afghanistan aren’t allowed to go to school... I’m thankful to be in this country and continue my education.” She emphasized the value of education: “Education is our most powerful weapon.”

Next to Asadullah's display, Jennalyn Cachin offered Filipino delicacies such as puto and bibingka. Cachin spoke about her mother's influence on her cultural ties, saying, “My mom is an anchor for the Filipino culture. She makes the food.”

Business management senior Tehya Thome engaged students in making ti leaf leis representing Hawaiian culture. Thome shared her excitement about connecting with students through the event.

Additionally, Thi Nguyen introduced attendees to Vietnamese coffee, known for its strong, bold flavor due to robusta beans. “Coffee is a staple in our culture,” she said. Nguyen explained that in Vietnam, social gatherings often revolve around coffee.

Broussely emphasized that Culture Fest aims to acquaint students with the university’s cultural diversity and the Multicultural Office. The office hosts other events such as Taste of the World and the upcoming Pasifika Fest.

Food plays a pivotal role in cultural bonding, as Nguyen highlighted during her recent Lunar New Year celebration and Asadullah in anticipation of nowruz, or Persian New Year. Asadullah's family, despite their distance from Afghanistan, cherishes their cultural heritage.