Delicious Discoveries: How Multicultural Week Inspires Students through Global Cuisine

The wonderful smells drifting through the Hangar were not imagined. On April 3, ULM’s Office of Global and Multicultural Affairs hosted the Multicultural Food Festival. Students showcased their heritage by sharing delicious dishes from countries like Nepal, Nigeria, and Egypt.

Gina White, the director of the Office of Global and Multicultural Affairs, emphasized why this week matters. “Celebrating Multicultural Week promotes understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures,” she said. It’s a chance to honor the unique traditions and contributions of people from various backgrounds.

During the festival, attendees bought one-dollar tickets to enjoy different foods. Students eagerly lined up at various tables, each offering a taste of their culture.

At the Nigerian table, visitors could sample appealing dishes like chicken, fried rice, meat pies, and gizdodo, a mix of gizzards and plantains. They also featured jollof rice, a common dish at West African celebrations. Senior nursing student Adedolapo Omodara explained its significance. “If jollof rice isn’t at a party, is it really a party?” she joked. She even mentioned the ongoing “jollof war” between Nigeria and Ghana, where both countries compete over whose version is best, adding a fun rivalry to the event.

One table featured a twist on the famous Dubai chocolate bar made by Fix Dessert Chocolatier. This dessert included chocolate strawberries, pistachio cream, and crispy phyllo dough. An attendee praised it, saying, “It was a nice surprise; it had a crunch and just the right amount of sweetness.”

Another highlight came from senior computer science major Supriya Pudasainy, who represented Nepal. She served nostalgic favorites like sausage, fried potatoes, and lassi, along with a refreshing spice-laden drink called masala soda. “These dishes remind me of the good times I had with friends back home,” she shared, noting how flavors can bring memories rushing back.

The Multicultural Food Festival creates a valuable opportunity for students to connect through food. By celebrating different cultures, ULM reinforces its commitment to inclusivity and personal growth in education.

As the world becomes more globalized, events like this are essential. They not only share food but also stories, traditions, and friendships. Festivals like these are critical for fostering empathy and understanding among diverse communities, a sentiment echoed by experts in cultural studies. According to a recent survey, over 70% of participants in multicultural events reported feeling more connected to others and enriched by the experiences.

Bringing people together through the joys of food, the Multicultural Food Festival is a cherished tradition at ULM, and it continues to make a positive impact on campus life.



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