Celebrating RGS's cultural diversity

STUDENTS are organising a vibrant and exciting new event to celebrate cultural diversity in Ripon Grammar School.

Led by school officer Oma Ndukwe, who heads up the 15-strong student equality council, the aim is to celebrate the many backgrounds, languages and traditions which make up our school community.

After weeks of planning and meetings, the team’s vision is about to become a reality on March 6.

Students are being encouraged to dress in their cultural attire or reflect the theme of their country’s flag for the event.

Oma’s team is also organising a fashion show to highlight different modes of dress from around the globe, in addition to form-time quizzes, a poster competition and a food stall, featuring flavours from all over the world.

Oma, who has given presentations about the event at school assemblies, hopes it will be more than just a fun day, but one where we take time to learn about one another’s experiences and traditions, building empathy, respect and a greater sense of belonging.

“It’s important to appreciate people’s various backgrounds, it not only makes individuals feel more comfortable in their own skin but also educates others about different cultures,” says the 17-year-old, who comes from Nigeria.

Oma, taking A-levels in maths, physics and design technology and planning to study civil engineering at university, says it will be the first time such an event has been run across the whole school.

“I hope to highlight minorities and allow people to express themselves without feeling judged. I want people to be encouraged to be themselves,” added Oma, who enjoys creative hobbies like crocheting and drawing alongside swimming and working out in the gym.