OC part of diverse celebrations in Penticton

It was a milestone celebration of diversity in the South Okanagan, and OC employees and students were there to take part.

Penticton campus International Education Cultural Liaison Kiran Arora brought a team of students from India, Mexico and Croatia to participate in the recent 10th annual  One World event and represent diversity of Okanagan College students.

International Student Gautmi performed Indian Classical dance and wooed the audience! Indian classical dance is characterized by grace and precision of movement and by elaborate formal gestures, steps and poses. 

Students were delighted to talk about their country, culture, cuisine and their involvement in community. Attendees were amazed to discover the wide range of ethnicities and cultural backgrounds represented by students studying at Okanagan College. Many of them were surprised to know that Okanagan College hosts international students from about 65 countries! 

“The event accurately lived up to its name 'One World.' It was a real treat to see number of diverse multicultural groups participating in the event and showcasing their culture through everyone’s joy food and various cultural performances. We all can cohesively live in this world together by bringing our culture and embracing others," Arora explained.

This annual event, sponsored by the South Okanagan Immigrant Community Services, is an opportunity to showcase multiculturalism in the region through performance, food and sharing of cultures.

Over 2,500 visitors attended the event.