Eastern High School came alive with vibrant colors, tantalizing aromas and the sounds of celebration as it hosted the 2024 Cultural Expo on May 21.
The annual event showcased the diverse cultures represented by the student body and featured multiple expos to highlight other countries and their cultural significance. Attendees took part in games, were fed by a sumptuous food buffet and saw performances of culture.
The expo was also a celebration of unity, learning and rich cultures among the school community, whose students shared their heritage with peers.
“I am thrilled to see everyone having fun and to witness the community coming together,” said Hayley Yuen, an 11th-grade Asian American student and subleader of the high school’s American Asian Pacific Islander (AAPI) Club. “This event brings all the cultures at Eastern together.”
Mariana Fuentes, a ninth grader, shared her Egyptian heritage and her efforts in organizing the event.
“We started planning in September,” she recalled, “creating posters, preparing food and arranging performances. I hope everyone enjoys the night and has fun.”
Karen Nasralla is also a ninth grader who wants to educate attendees about Egyptian culture.
“I … hope everyone learns more than just about the flag,” she noted, “and gains a deeper understanding of our culture.”
Rehan Rahman, an 11th-grader of Asian Indian heritage, reflected on the impact Bollywood (India’s film community) has had on his life.
“As an Indian kid watching Hollywood movies, I never felt represented,” he remembered. “My first Bollywood movie made me feel seen and showed me that I could be a leader.”
“Bollywood actors often come from poor backgrounds, proving that with determination, you can achieve great success,” said 11th-grader Sudin Kundu.
The Eastern expo was also a charitable effort: 70% of its proceeds were donated to the World Central Kitchen, an international nonprofit that provides food relief in disaster-stricken areas. Founded in 2010 by Spanish American chef José Andrés, the nonprofit has faced significant challenges recently, including the loss of volunteers in the Israel-Gaza conflict.
Andres began World Central Kitchen after an earthquake in Haiti; it has also provided help in Texas after Hurricane Harvey in 2017; in Turkey and Syria after 2023 earthquakes; and in the ongoing Gaza humanitarian crisis.
As for the expo, Eastern Principal Robert Tull said he looks forward to continuing the yearly tradition to promot cultural awareness, support worthy causes and foster meaningful connections and conversations in the school community.
For more information on World Central Kitchen, visit World Central Kitchen.
