World Fest Archives

World Fest 2024

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 [email protected].

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 - Lunch Provided RSVP Requested.
Thursday, April 25 l 12:00 – 1:00 PM l Hameetman Multipurpose Room - Lunch Provided
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.

World Fest 2023

International Food Fair + Live Music
Tuesday, April 25 l 4:00 - 5:30 PM l Moore Walk and Avery Courtyard
For $5 enjoy a taste of the world! Food provided by Caltech student clubs, staff, and community volunteers. Water provided, but bring your own refillable water bottle. In an effort to reduce waste, guests are also encouraged to bring a reusable plate. Enter on Moore Walk from Holliston Avenue or from in front of the Bechtel Residence. From 4:30 - 5:30 PM, enjoy a variety of instrumental performances.

Beyond a Vacation: The Past and Present Caribbean
Wednesday, April 26 l 12:00 – 1:00 PM l Hameetman Multipurpose Room
Beneath images of turquoise beaches and serene getaways, the modern Caribbean hides a complex mixture of colonialist histories and modern progress. As the region seeks to assert its place in the contemporary economy, it is also working to adapt to global interconnectedness, newfound freedom, climate change, economic realignment, diaspora and other challenges. Join Caltech Graduate Student Jordan Benjamin as he recounts his journey across the Caribbean to learn a little bit about his own history and life in the islands today.

Malaysia Revealed
Thursday, April 27 l 12:00 – 1:00 PM l Hameetman Multipurpose Room
Known for its beaches, rainforests and mix of Malay, Chinese, Indian and European cultural influences, come explore the rich culture, foods, and geography of Malaysia as shared by graduate students Yu Yu Phua and Tony Yap, and undergraduate Sarah Liaw.

ASCIT Multicultural Fashion Show
Saturday, April 29 l 4:30-7:00 PM l Beckman Lawn
This inaugural event will showcase the cultural attire, food, music, and dance unique to the various cultural groups that constitute the Caltech community. The show has a focus on cultural and traditional fashion, with performances with cultural instruments and dance to highlight the talents and diversity of those involved. Celebrate the rich variety of cultures with performances, grab a bite to eat, and enjoy the show.

World Fest 2022

Snacks of the World
Monday, April 18
A rich variety of student clubs and groups share sweet and savory snacks representative of their cultures, countries, and favorite childhood memories. Take our food quiz to win prizes and scan QR codes to learn more about the history and heritage of snacks around the world.

Ukraine – Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow
Tuesday, April 19 | Zoom Recording
This presentation focuses on the evolving conflict between Russia and Ukraine. We will discuss the hope for the future of Ukraine by examining its past. After the collapse of the Soviet Union, Ukraine and Russia maintained a friendly relationship until Russian's annexation of the Crimea peninsula in 2014. Now, the full-scale Russian invasion marks a change in Russia's strategy. But what's next? Let's analyze and discuss together. Donations for relief efforts can be made to a number of charities, including Nova Ukraine or Razom or through a charity of your choosing. Charity Navigator is a recognized resource for evaluating charities. Presented by Roman Korol, Graduate Student from Ukraine.

Struggle for the Family Farm
Thursday, April 21
The opening up of U.S. agriculture and contract farming brought ruin to small family farms across America. As a result, the median U.S. farm income today is negative $1,800 dollars. Farmers are struggling to feed themselves. Are the 2020 Indian Farm Laws taking Indian agriculture down that same path? We will explore answers to this question after viewing footage of a new documentary, titled "Déjà Vu," featuring recent interviews with U.S. farmers who shed light on the current farm worker protests in India. Presented by Caltech Graduate Student Rajashik Tarafder, and University of Colorado-Boulder Graduate Student Sristy Agrawal, who created the film with renowned Indian scientist-turned filmmaker, Bedabrata Pain.

Culture to Canvas
Friday, April 22
Open to members of the Caltech community only. Priority given to students. Confirmation email and instructions sent to confirmed participants. In-person event.
Learn basic painting techniques through guided instruction, and create an expression of culture through art. Instruction provided by Caltech community member Sonia Tatiana, an art conservator and sculptor originally from Spain. All supplies provided on site. Registration required, space limited. Event will be held on campus with confirmed participants given final instructions and location.

The presentation of speakers should not be considered an endorsement of the speakers' views by the California Institute of Technology, International Student Programs, The Caltech Y, or The Caltech Y Student Activism Speaker Series (SASS) Committee. Views expressed are solely those of the speakers.

World Fest 2021

Reframing U.S.-China Climate Relations: Competition as the Key to Climate Mitigation
Monday, April 19th | 12:00 – 1:00 PM PT
The U.S.- China climate relationship has long been recognized as the most important element of a successful carbon mitigation strategy worldwide. While those in the climate community generally frame the discussion in terms of how to reinvigorate U.S.- China cooperation, it is important to rethink the relationship in terms of competition between two countries committed to Green Industrial Policy and the opportunities that opens for a new approach. The world requires a new paradigm for regulating a competition in carbon reduction. An Earth Week and World Fest conversation with Dr. Deborah Seligsohn, Assistant Professor Political Science Department at Villanova University.

Singapore Street Food
Tuesday, April 20 | 12:00 – 1:00 PM PT | Zoom Recording
Guided by award-winning journalist, Rachel Ng, join us as we visit Singapore's ubiquitous hawker centers. Peer through the curtains of hanging poultry or behind columns of bamboo steamers, and you'll see the diverse faces of the cooks and their calluses-harden hands steadfastly preparing affordable meals to feed millions each day. We'll explore how these formerly itinerant food vendors became such a vital part of the growth of a country after it parted ways with its colonial rulers in the 1960s. A beloved institution since before Singapore's founding in 1965, the hawker culture was recently inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Follow Rachel's adventures on Instagram @rachelloveschicken.

Diplomacy, Politics and Power
Thursday, April 22 | 12:00 – 1:00 PM PT
Explore the complex interplay of diplomacy, politics, and power at the highest national and international levels. Get a glimpse into U.S. policy and international relations as insiders share their experiences interacting with different White House administrations and a variety of political players. Presented by Kathleen Doherty, former U.S. Ambassador to Cyprus, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Europe, and current Chief Strategy and Retreats Officer for the Annenberg Foundation Trust and by Michael Nelson, Caltech Alumnus, former principal technology policy strategist in Microsoft's Technology Policy Group, and current Senior Fellow and Director of the Carnegie Endowment's Technology and International Affairs Program.

Welcome to Kazakhstan
Friday, April 23 | 12:00 – 1:00 PM PT | Zoom Recording
Graduate student, Altyn Rymbek, takes us on a journey to her home country of Kazakhstan. Explore the unique culture and topography of the world's largest landlocked country. Don't miss this opportunity to get to know the real Kazakhstan from an insider's point of view.

World Fest 2020

International Food Fair - Virtual World Tour, Part 1
Favorite international recipes from the Caltech community, and enjoy a taste of the world from within your own home!

India Cultural Trip
The Caltech Y, Caltech SURF Program, and IIT Gandhinagar (IITGN) partnered to send Caltech students to Ahmedabad, India where they discovered the many layers that form identity in India and learned of India's ancient traditions of philosophy, science and technology into the present day. Come hear stories from their visit to this historic city steeped in tradition that is also responding rapidly to modernity and globalization.

Culture Show - Virtual World Tour, Part 2
Video and audio files of some of the global talent from the Caltech community, and explore the world from wherever you are.

Journey to the Northern Lights
Ever dream of seeing the elusive aurora borealis? Join Caltech alum and current postdoc, Thibaud Talon, as he tells the tale of his trek to a remote location in Sweden where he witnessed the gorgeous green hues of this natural phenomenon.

Italian Pasta Making Demonstration
Caltech graduate student and former NASA engineer, Lorenzo Minutolo, cooked his way through undergraduate school. In order to save money for his education, Lorenzo worked in restaurants in his home country of Italy. There, he perfected the art of making pasta. Today, he will demonstrate this and teach us to make our own homemade egg pasta. This can be a hands-on session, if you want to try it out from your own home. You will need 1 egg and 2.5 cups (350 g) of all-purpose flour.

World Fest 2019

A World of Cake
Enjoyed by cultures the world over, cakes are as varied and fascinating as the pastry chefs, home bakers, and street vendors who prepare them. Take your literary sweet tooth on a global tour! Whether you're indulging in Australian pavlova, Japanese mochi, or Italian panettone, it's just not a celebration without cake. Author, industrial designer, and faculty at ArtCenter College of Design, Krystina Castella will talk about her book, "A World of Cake," with 150 irresistible recipes accompanied by mouthwatering photographs and insights into unique cultural traditions. There will be a book signing with "A World of Cake," and a collection of other books by the author will be available at a discounted rate. Cash only, please.

Christmas in the Philippines
With festivities starting around September, the Philippines celebrates the longest Christmas season in the world! Come to hear two different perspectives on Filipino Christmas traditions from members of the Caltech and JPL International Offices staff, Joan Cerera and Iran Carranza.

International Food Fair and Culture Show
For $5 (cash), enjoy a taste of the world! Food provided by Caltech student clubs, staff, and community volunteers. From 5:30 - 6:00 PM, enjoy a variety of instrumental, vocal, dance and other cultural performances.

Water World: Water, Energy and Education in Africa
For many years, Caltech alum, Dr. Adrian Hightower (BS '95, PhD '01) applied his passion for renewable energy by leading student trips to Africa to install solar panels. In addition to overseeing all water-related education outreach programs, events and curriculum at the Metropolitan District of Southern California, he conducts international research and facilitates entrepreneurial activities addressing Sustainability, Renewable Energy and the Water-Energy Nexus. Join us as Dr. Hightower discusses how he uses his expertise to help rebuild sustainable communities in West and East Africa.

Exploring Chilean Patagonia
The Chilean Patagonia region is a wild, untamed landscape famed for towering mountain peaks, elusive wildlife and captivating scenery that switches between deserted grasslands, groaning glaciers and silent, shimmering lakes. Learn about the unique offerings of Chile's new Pumalin National Park and Patagonia National Park, the largest donation of private land to a government in history, as well as the beautiful Torres Del Paine National Park. Presented by Caltech alum and postdoc, Cristian Peña Herrera (PhD '16), and Camila Fernandez, Caltech Y Student Program Coordinator.

World Fest 2018

New Zealand Revealed
Journey to the Land of the Long White Cloud, where you will encounter breathtaking natural wonders: rainforests, volcanoes, deserts, alpine terrain and an extensive coastline. Learn about the unique offerings of both New Zealand's main islands, and the people and cultures that enliven them. Presented by graduate students and New Zealanders Akshay Sridhar and Joel Lawson.

Intersectionality Explored
In honor of Gaypril and World Fest, the Caltech Center for Diversity's STEMinar speaker will lead us in a discussion of the intersectionality of identities, sexual orientation, and nationality. Presented by Fred Farina, Chief Innovation and Corporate Partnerships Officer at Caltech.

Redefining Women in Saudi Arabia
Hear first-hand about how changes in Saudi Arabia are creating opportunities for women in the Kingdom. Graduate student Zainab Al Saihati will share her personal story while dispelling stereotypes and misconceptions.

Striving for Sustainability in China
Learn about green initiatives and innovations taking place in China's rural provinces to improve the quality of life while preserving cultural heritage. Presented by graduate students, Yu Su and Jinglin Huang, whose project was funded by the Caltech Y's ACT Award (Advocating Change Together), which challenges students to grow into responsible citizens of the world.

World Fest 2017

Tea Culture
Known for its health benefits and wide variety of flavors, tea has been a favorite drink across cultures around the world. Which teas do you like best? Stop by for a taste test, and take the Tea Culture Quiz for a chance to win a prize. Teas generously provided by Tea Rose Garden of Pasadena.

My Iran
See Iran for the first time through the eyes of Caltech students and postdocs who will share stories and images of their homeland. Presented by Ben A. Haghi, Dr. Azadeh Ansari, Dr. Shahrzad Roshankhah, Dr. Amir Safaripour, and Dr. Faramarz Vafaee.

In Focus: International Photography Exhibit + Opening Reception
Photographer Christophe Marcade knows what it's like to travel across the world for the sake of a spouse's career. A passionate storyteller, Christophe turned his camera to spouses of Caltech postdocs capturing beautiful portraits and stories of the lives they lead in the U.S. and of the lives they left behind in their home countries. Join us for this special artist's reception, with guest speakers Christophe Marcade and Monika Koenig, president of the Caltech International Spouses Club.

World Feast: an International Food Fair and Culture Show
For just $5 a plate, enjoy a taste of the world! Food provided by Caltech student clubs, staff, and community volunteers. Enjoy a variety of instrumental, vocal, dance and other cultural performances from 5:30 - 6:00 PM. There is no fee to enjoy the Culture Show.

Humanitarian Landscapes
Protracted international crises result in temporary refugee camps that often become permanent urban environments. Learn about a development project to support creating green spaces in a refugee camp in southern Lebanon. Presented by Claudia Martinez Mansell, humanitarian worker, independent researcher and visiting lecturer at Caltech.

World Fest 2016

Coffee Culture
People around the world have embraced coffee, and the culture of coffee, for centuries. What fuels coffee's global popularity? How does coffee impact local and global economies? Which coffees do you like best? Stop by for a coffee taste test, and take the Coffee Culture Quiz for a chance to win a prize. Featuring Jones Coffee Roasters of Pasadena.

Born on a Kibbutz
Ever wonder what it's like to grow up on a kibbutz? Come learn some of the history and evolution of this communal child rearing system in Israeli society, and find out what it was like to be raised on a kibbutz in the 1980s. Presented by Matan Banaji-Gal.

International Food Fair
Enjoy a taste of the world. Food provided by over 20 Caltech student clubs.

Beyond Cinco de Mayo: A Journey Through Mexico's Rich Cultural Heritage
Experience Mexico's millennial history, vibrant culture and exquisite foods in ways that reveal a diverse and dynamic country. Presented by Palas Atenea Policroniades Borraz, Corporate Partnerships Officer with the Office of Technology Transfer and Corporate Partnerships.

Exploring Modern Day South Africa: Social Inequality & Consequences
Since the end of Apartheid 20 years ago, access to housing, education, and healthcare has become more disparate between socioeconomic classes in South Africa. Hear lessons learned about cultural awareness and sensitivity from a Caltech student's two-week study abroad opportunity in Cape Town. Presented by Halston Lim, recipient of a Mellon Mays Undergraduate Fellowship. Introduction by Eva M. Graham, Ed.D., Director, Underrepresented and Underserved Student Programs and Services, Caltech Center for Diversity.

World Fest 2015

What the World Eats
Interactive opportunity to learn about what we eat around the world. How does culture impact food choice, and how does food impact culture? Be sure to take the "What the World Eats" quiz for your chance to win a special prize.

Entrepreneurship in Guatemala
Undergraduates Aashrita Mangu, Amy Hu, and Sharon Wang joined over 300 participants from 18 countries at MIT's Global Startup Workshop in Guatemala City for three days of discussions, competitions, and innovation. Join these next-generation entrepreneurs as they discuss their experiences and insights.

Top Ten Things I Learned in India
Undergraduates Boyu Fan, Emil Khabiboulline, and Zofii Kaczmarek share memories and insights from their 10-day trip to India. The group explored India's emerging identity as a nation through a partnership between Caltech Y, SURF and the Indian Institute of Technology, Gandhinagar (IITGn).

International Food Fair & Culture Show
Enjoy a taste of the world. Cultural entertainment will be held on multiple stages throughout the event.

The French Connection
Bet you didn't know Caltech Recruiting Coordinator, Anastascia Terrell, lived in France and taught English for two years. Come hear her stories of living in a new culture, travel experiences around Europe, and expert tips on budget travel.

World Fest 2014

International Games
Enjoy festive music and games from around the world.

Iberian Passage to Africa
SanPietro Travel Prize winners Sam Szuflita and Stanford Schor share tales of adventure from their 21 day sojourn from Spain to Morocco.

I've Been Everywhere, Man
Bet you didn't know that Caltech Security Training Officer, Jesus Luna, traveled the world as a Delta Airlines flight attendant! Come hear his top ten globetrotting tips. Lunch provided

International Food Fair & Culture Show
Sample foods from around the world. After eating, stay to see traditional dances, hear exotic instruments, and view colorful fashions from around the world.

Cooking Demonstrations
Learn how to cook home-style food from around the world. There will be cooking demonstrations in three different kitchens across campus. Enjoy preparing a French, Korean, or Vietnamese dish together in a small, causal setting.

World Fest 2013

Calligraphy and Tea
Enjoy festive music, tea tasting, and the art of calligraphy.

Adventures in Arabia
Take a journey to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia with Jarrid Whitney, Executive Director of Undergraduate Admissions and Financial Aid.

Students in the South Korean Army
Caltech undergraduate students from South Korea share stories from their required two-year service in the military.

French Movie Night
Join the Caltech French Club as they show "Moliere," a clever period comedy about a brilliant playwright. In French with English subtitles.

International Food Fair & Culture Show
Sample foods from around the world. After eating, stay to see traditional dances, hear exotic instruments, and view colorful fashions from around the world.

In Their Own Words, International Student GAYPRIL Panel
Caltech international students share their experiences and thoughts about culture and sexual orientation. Moderated by Portia Harris, Center for Diversity.

World Fest 2012

Godong Korean Drumming
Godong is a traditional Korean percussion club at Caltech. "Godong" translates to "drum dance" and the group performs traditional folk music originating from rural areas of Korea. Enjoy their festive rhythms while learning about the history of the music and instruments.

Tea Tuesday
A member of the Caltech community takes you on an historical journey about tea, through India, Sri Lanka, China, Pakistan and England. Stay and enjoy a tasting of teas from around the world. Presented by Vikas Trivedi.

Journey to India
This past December, the Caltech Y partnered with SURF and the Indian Institute of Technology, Gandhinagar (IITGn) in a wonderful new program called India-ki-Khoj, or "In Search of India." Ten undergraduate students participated in a 12-day trip to India, joined by IITGn students. The group explored India's emerging identity as a nation in all of its complexities – particularly in the context of its history, traditions, culture, and vision for the future.

International Food Fair & Culture Show
Sample foods from around the world. After eating, stay to see traditional dances, hear exotic instruments, and view colorful fashions from around the world.

Escape from Leipzig: Iron Curtain Adventure & Science Policy
Visiting professor, author and internationally known physicist Harald Fritzsch recounts his non-violent protests as a college student in 1960's East Germany and eventual escape to the West across the Black Sea in a canoe. Professor Fritzsch describes how communist authorities attempted to turn students and scientists into spies and informants to the secret police. After the reunification of Germany, professor Fritzsch helped then Chancellor of Germany, Helmut Kohl, to reform the universities and research institutes in East Germany.