At DigiPen Europe-Bilbao, multiculturality is a core value that enriches our academic environment bringing people together and fostering global understanding. Embracing the diverse backgrounds and perspectives of our students and staff not only enhances learning but also prepares our community to thrive in an interconnected world. This commitment to cultural diversity was brilliantly showcased during our inaugural Multicultural Day, a vibrant celebration organized by the student body with the support of the administration, bringing together the unique traditions and customs of our international student community.
Behind the Scenes: The organizers
Rabi Ghannam, alongside with Pablo Garbizu, Bachelor of Science in Computer Science in Real-Time Interactive Simulation students from Venezuela and Spain respectively, spearheaded this initiative. The aim was to host an event to bring students and staff together to celebrate the diverse cultures represented at DigiPen.
The event began as a dinner plan between friends and evolved into a significant occasion where students and faculty members could share their cultures. Paulina Steponaviciute, one of the organizers and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Digital Art and Animation student from Lithuania, played a key role in this transformation.
The energy of the event was amazing, the students all gave 100% and it really was a fun and informative afternoon.»
Steven Longden
Admissions Outreach Coordinator at DigiPen Europe-Bilbao
FOOD: A Feast for the Senses
Visitors were greeted by layers and layers of aromas wafting from the food stalls, each representing a different country. From spicy Indian dishes to cold Turkish ice-cream, hearty Polish dumplings to sweet Lebanese pastries, there was a culinary delight for every palate. Students and faculty enthusiastically shared their traditional recipes, offering a taste of home to fellow attendees.
MUSIC and DANCES: The Universal Languages
The stage was alive with the rhythm of international dance performances. Spectators were treated to a colorful display of traditional attire and energetic moves, from the graceful sway of Treambura Pamporea dances to the powerful beats of Cumbia performances. Students showed each other the choreographies of their culture, dancing them all together!
GAMES: ¡JUEGOS!
Adding to the fair’s interactive charm were various cultural games. Attendees tried their hand at traditional card games from different countries, such as Cuarenta from Ecuador and Prší from The Czech Republic, learning new strategies and forging new friendships. Additionally, there were country-based trivia games to further enrich the cultural experience.
Given the overwhelming success of the inaugural Multicultural Day, plans are already underway for next year’s event. The organizers aim to make it an annual tradition, expanding the scope and scale to include even more diverse cultural expressions. The positive feedback from participants and attendees alike suggests that Multicultural Day will become a cornerstone event in the DigiPen Europe-Bilbao Summer calendar, celebrating the rich tapestry of cultures that make up its vibrant community. International students: you are what truly makes this campus multicultural.
For those who missed out on participating this year, keep an eye out for announcements and make sure to join in the festivities next time.
It’s nice to see students leading initiatives, and my colleagues supporting them. As a former international student, I understand the additional challenges they face, and these events are very helpful.»
Josu Garai
Lead Project Coordinator at DigiPen Europe-Bilbao
DigiPen International and Multi-cultural Facts:
- Did you know we’re hosting 70 students from our Singapore campus this Summer?
- DigiPen Europe-Bilbao over the years has welcomed students from 34 countries and counting!
- Were you aware that our video games are available on Steam in over 13 languages?
- Did you know DigiPen is a worldwide project, with campuses in the USA, Europe, and Singapore, along with a few global collaborations?