Vision of hope and harmony celebrated at college event

Walsall College students and staff used a vibrant display of flags, food and fashion for an event showcasing the shared values within their diverse cultural backgrounds and countries of origin.

The Hope and Harmony event held on St George’s Day was attended by around 700 people.  It was co-hosted by ESOL (English for Speakers of other Languages) students and staff and the Students’ Union.

Geetanjali Bhucher, Curriculum Delivery Manager for ESOL and Community Learning: “It was wonderful seeing so many adult and community learning students from across our sites coming together with other learners of all ages at our main, Wisemore Campus.

“Learning and enrichment opportunities like this Hope and Harmony event help us to further understand and appreciate our differences, so that commonality and collaboration shine through.”

The event saw ESOL students from 18 different countries displaying their flags and sharing details of each nation’s history and culture on exhibition stands.

Dance performances from Students’ Union members took place during the event.  These were followed by a catwalk show consisting of students modelling clothing from each country.

The words ‘Hope and Harmony’ were displayed across over 50 posters specially made by students for the occasion.  T-shirts designed and printed by creative arts students were on sale and there were craft-based activities such as keyring making.

The college’s Learning Resource Centre team also created an impressive window display.  Book covers relating to different faiths, cultures and beliefs spelt out ‘Hope and Harmony’.

Gregg Joesbury, Student’s Union Coordinator added: “The Students’ Union was proud to be part of such a colourful, inclusive event where both individuality and commonality were being celebrated and supported.

“Bringing the event to life was a college-wide effort.  We know everyone came away feeling enthused by and proud of our collective college identity and values.”