Nanaimo’s university has students from all around the globe and it will celebrate that cultural blend this week at World VIU Days.
The week-long celebration Nov. 5-9 “explores cultures from around the world, and how those influences shape our world view,” noted a Vancouver Island University press release.
There are events planned all week at the university, culminating in the World VIU Festival on Friday, Nov. 9.
“World VIU Days will be vibrant with art and entertainment, flavourful foods and meaningful conversations to celebrate the beautiful diversity of the university,” the press release noted.
Returning this year will be the Intercultural Hip Hop Forum with workshops, performances and panel discussions.
Hip-hop artist the Northwest Kid will take the stage, performing music that expresses indigenous identity and cultural resurgence and resistance.
Monday, Nov. 5, features the World VIU Days kickoff event from noon-1 p.m. at the upper cafeteria, with hip hop dance, cake and photo ops.
On Tuesday there will be an event from 11:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m. at the upper caf featuring Dr. Oop and student performances.
Wednesday, also from 11:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m. in the upper cafeteria, there’s a Diwali celebration with live music, treats and more.
On Thursday, Mob Bounce performs from 11:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m. at the upper caf. There’s a hip hop forum panel with Dr. Oop, Meryem Saci and Mob Bounce from 2:30-4 p.m. in Building 210, Room 275, and those same MCs will perform at 9 p.m. at the VIU Students’ Union Pub, followed by an open mike.
The World VIU Festival finale is Friday from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., with cultural exhibits, performances and a world fashion showcase.
For more information, click here.