By EMMA KELLY
A NOBLE Park education centre was abuzz with music, colour and food as part of Refugee Week celebrations last Thursday.
AMES, an organisation that teaches adult migrants English and cultural skills, hosted an event for students to celebrate their cultural backgounds through song, dance, food and dress.
AMES acting education unit manager Anita Mathew said the day was about sharing. “The students are looking for opportunities to celebrate and love wearing their traditional costumes. They feel special,” she said.
Mrs Mathew said the day included group song and dance. “It doesn’t matter what level of English they have. With music and dance there’s no language. That really brings people together.”
Students also put their English skills to the test as part of a shared lunch. “Each student and teacher brought a plate of food. Everyone had to write the name of the food, the country to which that particular dish belongs and what it was made of,” Mrs Mathew said.
Student Regina Duk enjoyed wearing her traditional Sudanese dress and celebrating her culture, including a range of food.
Student Asadullah Sharif wore traditional Afghani dress to the occasion. “We’re all coming to AMES to study countries and celebrate this day,” he said. “I’m very happy.”
