By Michela Gritti
Following the Parade of Flags, the UC Annex was transformed into a global marketplace for the Cultural Bazaar on Monday, offering students, faculty, and staff a taste of world cultures and international cuisine.
Held from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., the bazaar attracted more than 100 people eager to sample the diverse food provided by the university’s food providers. The menu featured international favorites like spring rolls, shrimp, hummus, bruschetta, beef spiedini, and a variety of other options.
“International Education Week reflects UNCP’s commitment to preparing students to thrive in a global society,” said Rosa Ball, Assistant Director of International Student Engagement and the event manager for the week. “It’s an opportunity to celebrate our welcoming campus community and the many cultures represented within BraveNation.”
Beyond the food, the bazaar featured information boards on study abroad opportunities, painting stations, and international board games. A highlight of the event was the cultural presentation by the Muslim Student Association (MSA), which boasts 60 members.
The MSA, led by President Ayoub Abudaya and Vice President Sara Elmachiadi, displayed cultural heritage outfits, and performed the Palestinian Dabka. The Dabka is a traditional Arab folk dance, often performed at celebrations, that is characterized by dancers forming a line or circle and moving with rhythmic, synchronized stomping and jumps. The performance also served as a unique way to celebrate the birthday of one of the performers.
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he Cultural Bazaar also served as the first opportunity for attendees to receive the initial “red” stamp for the Global Passport Challenge. If you’re a student who still wants to complete the passport, but missed the first event…don’t worry, you still have 14 other opportunities to participate and complete the challenge!
🔗 For a full list of IEW events, visit: https://braveweb.uncp.edu and get access to MyUNCP or Brave Connect and follow the Instagram page @uncpglobal !