Abdullah (PA) – “Folkfest is a wonderful time to acknowledge and recognize the diverse and welcoming community that has been created in Saskatoon, which is home to people from all types of backgrounds, cultures, nationalities, and ethnicities. This community is founded on respect and care for others and a willingness to learn and understand from one another. I am honoured to be a part of something so special!
Anushua (BA) – “I appreciate that Folkfest provides a place for everyone to come together and celebrate each other’s traditions and beliefs. I am grateful to be able to showcase my beautiful culture and for the opportunity to learn about other cultures.”
Tazim (BA) – “Folkfest displays the reasons why Canada is known for its diversity and culture, as it provides exposure to other cultures and allows people to explore the unique characteristics of each one. I always love to share my culture and in turn, I appreciate being able to learn about other cultures, the knowledge they provide, and the similarities they might have to my own.”
Arpa (BA) – “Folkfest is not only a great way to learn about the unique customs, languages, dances, and traditions of different cultures, but it also promotes racial and ethnic harmony between people of all backgrounds. The understanding of multiculturalism will allow us to expand our experiences as well as grow and strengthen our society.”
Éva-Marie (CR) – “Folkfest is beautiful because it allows anyone to share their culture freely without fear. By celebrating multiculturalism, Folkfest has helped people like me share the beauty of African culture and its accomplishments.”
Hilary (CR) – “Folkfest is one of many ways to learn, create unforgettable experiences, and bond. Not only has this experience helped me grow as a person, but it has also led me to appreciate our diversity and similarities, and that learning from one another is the key for our community. I am thankful for this opportunity.”
Gregory (GR) – “During the three-day period of Folkfest, everyone working, performing, and visiting share one thing in common: an appreciation for diverse cultures. Whether it is the performers showing people the unique movements of their culture, the volunteers helping to prepare the food from their homeland, or the people taking the time to experience the customs and traditions of each culture, we are unified in our recognition of, and appreciation for, the multicultural society we live in.“
Kyra (GR) – “In the past few years, the world has experienced many tragedies; that is why it is so important that we take the time to educate ourselves and others about our cultures and the unique perspectives they offer on the world. It is vital that we learn to appreciate the multicultural society we live in. Folkfest gives us all the chance to learn about, experience, and celebrate the beauty of the many diverse cultures that exist in this city.”
Jade (IR) – “Folkfest has always been an exciting way to celebrate all cultures. I enjoy participating in Folkfest because I get to share the traditions and diversity of my culture, while also learning about all the differences in other cultures.”
Santana (IR) – “Folkfest is a place of excitement and joy, where you have the great opportunity to share your culture’s beauty while also learning about other cultures. Being a Youth Ambassador for the last three years has led me to learn more about my own culture and others, and opened my eyes to see how every culture is unique in their own way.”
Kim (PH) – “Despite the diverse range of cultures among Canadian citizens and the various aspects each culture brings to the table, it has always been something that unifies us rather than drives us apart. When we encounter challenging times and our differences threaten to divide us, events like Folkfest remind us of the enchanting beauty of multiculturalism and that we must do everything in our power to treasure, cherish, and protect it.”
Wren (PH) – “The opportunity to showcase an array of cultures is what brings us closer together as people. As a Canadian community, making the effort to invite and educate others along with ourselves is what makes us stronger. Folkfest acknowledges and celebrates everyone’s differences, a joyful event meant to bring people together
Leo (JA) – “I see Folkfest as a great opportunity for many people from across the world to come together and have fun sharing their cultures. The people behind the pavilions go to great lengths to put together something to show everyone in Saskatoon, and it’s amazing to experience all the hard work of the various cultures.”
Misty (JA) – “Folkfest provides an environment that allows everyone to freely celebrate their culture. It broadens people’s perspectives through learning and experiencing other cultures, which enables us to develop as individuals. Slowly but surely, we will be able to better understand one another through the power of Folkfest, which assists us in mending old relationships and fostering new ones.”
Mamata (NE) – “Folkfest to me is not only an opportunity but also the chance to experience the diversity of culture, tradition, and custom of different countries. It is also a great platform which helps us to enjoy the beauty of different cultural backgrounds and interests.”
Manvi (IN) – “I absolutely adore Folkfest. Not only does it help dispel negative stereotypes and misconceptions, but also rejoins a community with inclusivity, empowerment and sustainability by giving people a voice. Folkfest acknowledges, informs and teaches the importance of multiculturalism which brings us closer together despite our vast differences. Folkfest brings many cultures from around the world closer to home, which gives us a feel for their dance, food and traditions.”
Prankul (IN) – “Folkfest reflects Canada’s cultural mosaic – giving light to the commitment to foster a nation where differences are respected, and traditions are honoured. At the same time, Folkfest also highlights one of the most distinctive features of Canadian society: a diverse population. Giving cultural and ethnic groups the opportunity to share their pride in their language, religion, and heritage, Folkfest continues to pave a path toward Multicultural Canada.”
Varada (IN) – “To me, Folkfest is a unique and fun way for connecting with your own heritage. As most youth are people who are born into the diaspora populations of our motherlands’, it can be difficult for us to maintain as close a connection with our cultural ways of life and traditions. One’s culture and heritage are key parts of who they are, and can help shape them as people. Not only this, but Folkfest can provide great opportunities for people of all cultures and backgrounds to learn about each other, different parts of the world and all that the various cultures humans have to offer.”
Sudipa (NE) – “”Folkfest provides an opportunity to unite diverse perspectives, cultures and values which helps to gain a new perspective on the lives of everyone involved. It feels heartening to accept, appreciate and celebrate multiculturalism as a festival in Folkfest and enhance our viewpoint.”
Surma (NE) – “I think that it is very important to celebrate diversity and multiculturalism. Folkfest gives us an excellent opportunity to learn about the differences and to fill in gaps that divide us. I’m so happy to be able to experience all the cultures, dances and food and to share about mine.”
Anna (UK) – “Folkfest is an exciting event to learn more about culture. It helps show the similarities and differences between all cultures involved. It serves as an amazing opportunity to discover new things about many cultures and sometimes your own!”