2024 | Spring Term | Monday, April 22 - Friday, April 26
World Fest, a celebration of the cultural diversity on our campus, features in-person events to share cultures and community. World Fest is presented by the Caltech Y and the International Offices and with ASCIT for the Multicultural Fashion & Talent Show + International Food Fair. For assistance with event links, please email caltechy@caltech.edu.
The Nuances and Traditions of Great Britain with Peter Boorman.
Monday, April 22 l 12:00 – 1:00 PM l Hameetman Multipurpose Room - Lunch Provided RSVP Requested.
Postdoc in Astrophysics Peter Boorman will share more about red telephone boxes, the Bake Off, porridge, Peaky Blinders, etc.. These are just some of the things that may come to mind when thinking of Great Britain. In this talk, Peter will explore a series of popular associations and misconceptions about Great Britain, together with his own personal anecdotes and experiences.
Roots Rediscovered: Stories from India's Diaspora with Rajashik Tarfder.
Tuesday, April 23 l 12:00 – 1:00 PM l Hameetman Multipurpose Room - Lunch Provided RSVP Requested.
Grad Student Rajashik Tarfder's worldview was shaped by his Bengali grandmother's stories – of colonial displacement, partition sorrow, and of Indians scattered across the globe. Further exploration led him to discover "slavery of a different name" – over a million peasants shipped around the world as indentured laborers replacing the African slaves who had been emancipated. Today, over a million South Africans come from Indian ancestry, their tragedy compounded by feelings of alienation from the modern Indian population while they are, at the same time, seen as aliens in these countries. Join us to hear stories from Rajashik's journey to South Africa with the Caltech Y - Hastrup Award - where he listened to the stories of the Indian diaspora and their complex ties to their ancestral and adopted homelands.
Africa Paradise in Zimbabwe with Tinashe Handina, Nyasha Makaya and Kim Muchenje.
Wednesday April 24 l 12:00 – 1:00 PM l Hameetman Multipurpose Room - Lunch Provided RSVP Requested.
Known for its dramatic landscape and diverse wildlife, much of it within parks, reserves and safari areas, Zimbabwe is also known for the Great Zimbabwe ruins and the Victoria Falls. Home to hippos, rhinos and birdlife, come explore the rich history, culture, foods, and geography of this African country as shared by students Tinashe Handina, Nyasha Makaya and Kim Muchenje.
Clans and Castles: Exploring Heritage with Caltech's Gabi Twombly and Hope Arnett.
Thursday, April 25 l 12:00 – 1:00 PM l Hameetman Multipurpose Room - Lunch Provided RSVP Requested.
Caltech Seniors Gabi Twombly and Hope Arnett have often encountered those surprised by their last names, given the predominantly Hispanic communities and traditions they grew up in. Neither had even met another Twombly or Arnett. With the Caltech Y - Hastrup Award, they embraced the chance to delve into their Scottish and Irish roots. Through discussions, cuisine, history, and visits to family clans and castles, they discovered and connected with their ancestral homelands. Come hear of their exploration and insights into their hidden heritage.
International Food Fair + Multicultural Fashion & Talent Show
Friday, April 26 l 5:00-7:00 PM l Beckman Mall l $5 for food - Free for the show
For just $5 delight in a taste of the world - with foods representing 15 to 20 different countries and regions - while enjoying performances and fashions, all presented by members of the Caltech community. Plates, utensils, and cups will be provided on entry - however guests are encouraged to bring reusable items in an effort to be environmentally friendly. Come experience and appreciate some of the amazing skill and artistry presented as we celebrate the international diversity that is an important part of our Caltech community. Entry and pay stations will be on the south end of Beckman Mall.
Contact caltechy@caltech.edu if you have questions
Thanks to all who contributed to World Fest 2024!
Visit the World Fest Archives