A celebration of newcomers, diversity, and tradition through food will take place this Friday, February 7, from 12:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. At the event, ten refugees from around the world who are now living in Halifax will prepare dishes from their home countries as part of a community meal.
‘Taste of the World’ aims to break down barriers and build understanding through something that is universally shared: food. For the cooks, it is an opportunity to showcase their traditions and cultures to a broader audience. For the public, it’s a chance to connect with newcomers and sample delicious dishes. The event is free and takes place at the Halifax North Memorial Public Library, 2285 Gottingen St. in Halifax.
“As an immigrant, I have firsthand experience of how difficult it can be to start a new life in a different country,” said Leena Roy Chowdhury, co-president of Enactus Saint Mary’s and this event’s co-organizer. “We are working with newcomers to Canada, and helping to inspire them as entrepreneurs so that they can build a career using their incredible cooking skills. This event is the perfect occasion to celebrate diversity and entrepreneurship with food that will captivate your taste buds!”
‘Taste of the World’ is being held as part of International Development Week (IDW). IDW celebrates Canadian community and international development efforts by showcasing work being done across the country. 2020 marks the 30th anniversary of IDW, which will run from February 2nd-8th. As the signature event for the Atlantic, ‘Taste of the World’ will be live-streamed to a national audience.
This year’s theme for IDW is ‘Go for the Goals’, referencing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The SDGs are 17 universal, aspirational, and interconnected goals introduced by the United Nations in 2015. The ‘Taste of the World’ event seeks to address goal no.2: Zero Hunger, no. 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, no. 10: Reduced Inequalities, and no.17: Partnerships for the Goals.
To learn more about the SDGs, click here: https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/?menu=1300
Funding for this event is provided by the Atlantic Council for International Cooperation (ACIC), on behalf of Global Affairs Canada (GAC). The event is being hosted by the Global Shapers – Halifax Hub, Enactus Saint Mary’s, and Hope Blooms.