As part of the World in Westminster series the University of Westminster has hosted a Global Diversity Celebration event. Organised by the Women of Westminster (WOW) Colleagues’ Network, the event brought the University’s cultural diversity to life through a vibrant lineup of performances.
Co-chaired by Dr Kumari Juddoo, Senior Lecturer in Finance and Accounting, and Sobia Razzaq, Senior Lecturer in Law, the event was designed to spotlight the multicultural makeup of Westminster’s students and colleagues and offered a rich tapestry of global traditions and contemporary styles.
Participants included students from an array of societies, such as the Bhangra and Tibet societies, along with other dance groups who brought energetic and colourful performances to the stage. Law students also joined the celebration and presented traditional Kathak and Bollywood dances, blending classical Indian styles with contemporary flair. In addition, the Dance society showcased a variety of styles. Their performances included an Irish dance solo, which displayed traditional Irish rhythm and footwork, along with energetic Afrobeat and hip-hop routines that brought a modern, urban flair to the event.
The World in Westminster series concluded its Global Diversity Celebration on a high note with a lively dance performance by the Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) team. This final act brought together the spirit of the entire event, symbolising the unity and commitment to inclusivity that the EDI team champions within the University. Their dance was a joyful expression of community, embracing the rich cultural diversity that the event aimed to celebrate.
Sobia Razzaq said: “This event not only celebrated the diversity of performers but also created a powerful sense of belonging for everyone in our University community. Diversity challenges bias and creates environments where everyone feels valued and respected for sharing a part of their culture, inspiring collaboration and enriching our collective experience.”
Kumari Juddoo added: “At the University of Westminster we celebrate diversity, and I am proud to bring my true self to work!”
These performances not only highlighted the diversity of backgrounds represented at Westminster but also fostered a spirit of inclusivity and celebration. This gathering served as a reminder of the unique cultural perspectives that enrich the University, offering attendees a chance to experience and appreciate the many traditions within the community.
Dr Deborah Husbands, Co-chair of the EDI committee, said: “This event brought together a kaleidoscope of cultures, shedding a lens on life at Westminster. This was such a joyful occasion, filled with appreciation for the display of diverse talents as each performer showcased their dance, poetry or song. The performances were a testament to the freedom colleagues and students feel to be able to express themselves with authenticity, and it was a privilege to witness this as part of the audience.”
The World in Westminster series is part of the Quintin Hogg Trust EDI project Westminster for All - Equity, Inclusion and Belonging. It is led by Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Global Engagement and Employability Professor Dibyesh Anand in collaboration with International Student Champions and the University of Westminster Students’ Union. Upcoming events include a QHT Live Performance as part of the University’s Organ + Festival, and World in Westminster’s Chanukah and Christmas celebrations.
This event directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 10: Reduced Inequalities. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.
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