Celebrating Cultural Harmony: Enjoying our Differences
By: Sebastian Liu (Gr 11 student), Margaret Collibry (Gr 9 student), and Mr. William Beatty (Secondary English Teacher)
The halls of Stella Maris School Gading Serpong buzzed with excitement and vibrant energy during the recent Stema Festival, a testament to the diverse talents and united spirit of its student body.
At the heart of the festival were the captivating competitions designed to foster unity and celebrate cultural diversity. Among these, the “Mr. and Ms. United Nation” competition stood as a vivid display of diplomacy and global harmony. Margaret, a spirited participant whose class showcased a country, reminisced, “Crafting our class’s country-themed costume was more than just a task; it was a thrilling experience. We aimed to captivate the audience and were thrilled to see our creation mesmerize everyone.”
The United Nation Booth decoration contest offered an equally mesmerizing spectacle. Margaret emphasized, “Our booth came to life with vibrant elements representing our country, offering an immersive journey through our nation’s culture and history.”
Sebastian Liu, reflecting on the event, highlighted the significance of competition within the festival. “Competition was a driving force within the beauty and camaraderie found in each booth. The nature of the event was a matter of pride—a showcase of unity among students, aiming for collective success rather than individual triumph.”
Sebastian’s words echoed a sentiment shared by many. The festival wasn’t about winners and losers; it was a celebration of cooperation, mutual appreciation, and acceptance of diverse ideas and traditions.
Mr. William, an enthusiastic festival organizer, beamed with pride as he recalled the event. “Watching our students come together to create incredible works of art was an absolute blast,” he remarked. “The varied cultural representations were inspiring. Plus, the diverse range of delicious foods offered during the event added another layer to the cultural experience.”
Mr. William emphasized the festival’s core purpose, saying, “The main idea behind this competition was to allow students to explore and understand the world around them. It was about fostering appreciation for global diversity and creating an environment where students could learn and embrace different cultures.”
Throughout the festival, the school radiated unity and cultural appreciation, nurturing understanding, tolerance, and a sense of belonging among students. Stella Maris School Gading Serpong’s Stema Festival was not merely an event; it was a celebration of diversity, creativity, and the shared values that bind us as global citizens.
In its essence, the festival encapsulated the school’s commitment to nurturing individuals equipped with the knowledge, empathy, and understanding to thrive in our interconnected world.
