The Belfast Asian Women's Academy (BAWA) and St Malachy's Youth Centre recently organised a cross community cohesion event in South Belfast.
Fusion Day was supported by the Housing Executive and attended by hundreds of people living around the Markets and surrounding area, including newcomers to Belfast.
The aim of this event was to bring people from all backgrounds together in a shared and safe space to have fun and enjoy the day.
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"I am delighted that we achieved our aim. Fusion Day is just not about celebrating our culture but also embracing the local culture, thus this day was named Fusion Day," Ana Chandran, founder and chair of the Belfast Asian Women's Academy (BAWA) said.
The event was well received by families of all ages, with local and international food samples distributed, and the large crowds also enjoyed local and international performances.
A local coach from the St Malachy's Gaelic Club talked about the history of the club and children got the opportunity to try Gaelic football.
The local ladies were amused and enthralled by the saree modelling as the models draped saree in different styles.
“Our saree modelling is an innovative performance created by us to raise awareness of our cultural costume and this has been a hit. We have been asked to include this saree modelling in all our future events,” said Ana.
Eddie Burns, youth worker at St Malachy's Youth Club was pleased the event went well and has received great feedback.
Housing Executive staff also attended and enjoyed the day. Race Relations Officer, Sylwia McAvoy, said: “This initiative has been a great success and has inspired the local community to have more Fusion Days.
“We are delighted to fund an event that has far reaching cross community benefits, and look forward to the next one!”
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