Recently, I had the opportunity to lead the diversity group during ICW 2024 at TU Ilmenau. A week where cultures blend, ideas flourish, friendships blossom, and the memory of our beloved campus cat, Milo, warms our hearts. We celebrated Intercultural Week 2024: A Journey of Diversity, Unity, and Learning. And wow, what an experience it was!
Intercultural Week (ICW) was created to fill the gap during the off-year of the International Student Week in Ilmenau (ISWI), a biennial conference. Basically ISWI is Germany’s largest international student conference, active since 1993. It unites students, professors, experts, and guests worldwide, featuring themes, collaborative sessions, debates, presentations, and artistic performances, creating an energetic atmosphere.
During Intercultural Week, the event became a melting pot of ideas, cultures, and friendships. Witnessing students from Ilmenau and other Thuringian universities come together with a common goal of learning from each other and addressing shared challenges was heartening.
Additionally, one of the most interesting parts was the tagline for the week. Cat(ch) the World with cultural diversity, which truly resonated with everyone. This slogan was a heartfelt tribute to our beloved campus cat, Milo, who went missing earlier.
Leading the Diversity Group
Although taking on the role of group leader for diversity was challenging but it was rewarding. Certainly our discussions centered on key issues. Such as housing allocation, balancing work and study, following fostering integration among international communities.
Markedly one of the most memorable moments was our group work session on Mensa food diversity. We explored various cuisines from Iran, Sudan, India, Pakistan, and Vietnam. Moreover, everyone shared their culinary experiences and discussed how to diversify the food options in our cafeteria.
Afterwards energizing activities were incorporated. Utilized games such as community circle to keep participants active and engaged throughout the sessions, which resulted in a warm gathering and heartfelt discussions.
Enjoying the Events Together
After spending long days working in groups undeniably students were eager to join the events created by ICW. There were around 10 to 11 events, but the most popular ones among the students were Game Night, Chill Night, Intercultural Carnival, and Brunch. Indeed these events were filled with laughter, and opportunities to bond with others. Personally, my favorite events were the Carnival and Dance Night.
Identically in both event students showcased traditional dances workshops from their home countries and invited others to join in. Likewise the atmosphere was electric, filled with a shared love for music and movement on the dance floor.
Eventually, whether it was the Dance Night, Movie Night, Brunch, or Carnival. Every event provided a space for relaxation, fun, and deeper connection. Moments of joy and camaraderie like these were essential in balancing the intensity of our discussions and work.
Unquestionably, ICW in Ilmenau has shown us that, together, we can create a more inclusive and vibrant community. Let’s continue to catch the world with cultural diversity, just as our beloved Milo would have wanted.
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The best.. Proud to have shared the event with you. It was a great experience!
It was equally a great experience for me too!