In 2023 we imagined an event where culture could be shared in a way that would bring families together through the power of story. Thanks to the generous funding of the City of Kelowna we were able to run two Stories Around The World events showcasing stories, music, and crafts from 10 cultures in 2024.
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Afghanistan
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Caribbean
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China
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Ghana
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Japan
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Kurdish
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Metis
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Nigeria
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Uganda
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Ukraine
Please enjoy the photos and a few quotes from storytellers and participants below.
“It was a truly special moment for both of us, especially for my daughter. This was her first time presenting in public, and it is an experience she will cherish for a lifetime. Your encouragement and the warm atmosphere you created made her feel confident and valued, leaving a lasting positive impression on her.” (Parent & Storyteller)
“Your dedication to bringing stories to life and connecting people from diverse backgrounds through the Niteo organization is deeply inspiring. The event was not only beautifully organized but also profoundly impactful.” (Stories Around The World Participant)
“It felt heartwarming to be able to share my traditional stories with people from very diverse backgrounds. I’ve often feel that in order to fit into any Canadian or Western Society in general, I had to shed pieces of my cultural heritage. However, seeing such a diverse group willing to listen validated my identity in ways I did not know I needed or was lacking. It truly broke some pre-conceived ideas I had. I’m glad I got to share a piece of myself and my culture.” (Storyteller)
“Presenting at the storytelling festival was a milestone for our group, filled with excitement and a sense of achievement. The audience’s engagement and positive feedback brought immense joy and validated our efforts. Overall, it was an enriching experience that strengthened our bond and deepened our commitment to storytelling.” (Cultural Group)
“It felt incredibly rewarding to lead the session, knowing that we were able to showcase our heritage and contribute to the cultural exchange at the event. It was a privilege to guide the discussion and engage with participants, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for our unique narrative.” (Storyteller)
“It was emotional and touching and being so much proudfull to share the values of our home country with our new home (Canada) community.” (Storyteller)
“Your stories remind me of home. I used to hear those stories.” (Stories Around The World Participant)
“Stories make us more alive, more human, more courageous, more loving. Our truest response to the irrationality of the world is to paint or sing or write, for only in such response do we find truth.”
Madeleine L’Engle
Thank you to our partners in making this event a success!
Okanagan Regional Libraries
Kelowna Japanese Language Society
Mandarin Mondays
Dolyna Ukrainian Cultural Society
Arlette Alcock
Andrew Jackson Obol
Kassia Agboka
Toluwanimi Okuknola
Okanagan 4 Ukraine
Najeeba Baqi
Alodene Lewis
Kurdistan Cultural Group
Thank you to the City of Kelowna cultural grant for the seed funding to make this dream a reality!
