Festivals Celebrating Global Cultures Continue at BelSU

This event was organized by the International Information Centre, the Latin American Community, and the Spanish Conversation Club of the International Student Office, bringing together students from diverse backgrounds, including Russia, Angola, Brazil, Venezuela, Haiti, Guatemala, the Dominican Republic, Egypt, Indonesia, Iraq, Colombia, Lebanon, Nigeria, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Ecuador.

BelSU Vice-Rector for International Cooperation Vladislav Kuchmisty welcomed participants with an inspiring speech.

“The Latin American Community is one of the largest at our university, comprising students from 11 countries with rich and unique cultures. It is wonderful that you, our esteemed students, are open to sharing information about your countries, languages, and traditions. The more we learn about each other, the easier it becomes to find common ground and foster dialogue, ultimately leading to fruitful cooperation in the name of peace and universal prosperity,” said Kuchmisty.

The La Gozadera Festival featured an educational segment where students explored the geography, history, and culture of Latin American countries. They also participated in an engaging quiz conducted in three languages: Russian, Spanish, and Portuguese.

The festival included a lively music concert program presented by the multinational student community. Traditional songs and dances from Latin America were performed alongside musical pieces featuring popular instruments from the region. A highlight of the event was a surprise performance by guests from South-West State University, the Belgorod State Institute of Arts and Culture, and the cover band “Romeros.”

At the conclusion of the festival, Olga Lyutova, curator of the Latin American community and director of the International Information Centre of the Department of International Cooperation, expressed her gratitude to all participants.

“Latin America is a region synonymous with eternal summer, festive carnival spirit, and a blend of ancient indigenous traditions and European influences. Today, we witnessed the diversity and richness of Latin America through your contributions. Thank you for sharing a part of your soul with us, breaking down stereotypes, and showcasing your talents,” said Lyutova.

Karla Mariana Salada Argueta, a student from Ecuador attending South-West State University, shared her enthusiasm for participating in the festival.

“Belgorod and Kursk are facing difficult times; it can be hard not to feel despair or fall into depression. I am grateful to your university for organizing this event where we proudly showcased our culture and felt a sense of closeness to home,” she remarked.

The La Gozadera Festival is part of a series of cultural celebrations that began in December 2024 with the Festival of Arabic Language and Culture, held in honour of the International Day of the Arabic Language. In February, the spotlight turned to the Festival of Chinese Culture in celebration of the Lunar New Year.