“Hello.” “Bonjour.” “Ola.” “Kamusta.” “Salaam.” “Marhaban.” “Nǐ hǎo” 

These were just some of the greetings heard at the fourth annual Mother Language Day Festival, which took place on March 24 at Durham College (DC). The event, presented jointly by DC’s International office, office of Student Diversity, Inclusion and Transitions and the University of Ontario Institute of Technology’s (UOIT) International student services department, provided a forum for 17 cultural and linguistic groups to educate students and staff about their native languages and the unique characteristics of their home countries.

Festival attendees were given passports, which were stamped as they visited various booths.  When completely filled, the passports were entered into a draw to win prizes, such as movie tickets and gift certificates. Along the way, participants were treated to a wide range of cultural displays that featured dance, food and the opportunity to learn and practice phrases in a foreign language. International students at each display were encouraged to share cultural and language-related facts about their native countries and showcase what makes their home nations unique in the global community.

“The turnout was phenomenal,” said Sarah Edwards, international student support officer, DC. “Despite the ice storm, more than 500 students stopped by to engage with festival participants, sample some of the food on display and collect the stamps on their passports. It’s a great way for the college to engage students and showcase our commitment to diversity and inclusiveness.”

With 580 international students representing 49 countries already a part of the DC family, the college is expanding its global presence and encourages students from all disciplines to consider learning a new language to enhance their competitiveness in the job market.

“The international students participating in this year’s festival really enjoyed meeting Canadian students, including the opportunity to share experiences and, in some cases, dispel a few myths about their home countries,” said Edwards. “In addition, the festival provides a great opportunity to help their Canadian counterparts gain a better understanding of what life is like beyond our borders.’”

All of the displays were judged on creativity and the hospitality of their international student hosts. This year, the winning displays were from Saudi Arabia, the Arab world and India.

The festival commemorates International Mother Language Day, which was established by the United Nations in 1999 as a day to “promote linguistic and cultural diversity and multilingualism,” particularly in education. This festival and other events throughout the year are all part of DC’s efforts to create a dynamic and supportive learning environment that helps students develop successful and productive careers and make a difference in the world.