The Qatar Cultural Club commemorated Qatar National Day with a community event celebrating the nation’s cultural heritage. The student-run club organized a series of cultural activities aimed at connecting community members, offering a platform for cultural exchange and appreciation.
The event featured a variety of cultural activations, including Arabic coffee cup painting, where participants had the chance to learn about the significance of this traditional craft. Members also experienced carrying haunting falcon, highlighting the bird’s important role in Qatari heritage, along with a performance of traditional sword dancing, which offered insight into the symbolic customs tied to the dance.
In addition to these activities, the event presented a selection of traditional Qatari foods, allowing participants to engage with the nation’s culinary practices and their cultural importance. The celebration aimed to foster understanding of Qatari traditions and offer an immersive experience for both students and faculty.
Through this event, the Qatar Cultural Club worked to build connections and bridge cultural divides, encouraging community members to learn about the traditions and heritage of Qatar while interacting with members of the broader community.
Club president Al Reem Al Kuwari emphasized the significance of the event in bringing the community together. "Qatar National Day provides a chance to reflect on our nation's history and values," she said. "This event is a way for us to share those traditions with others and create opportunities for learning and understanding between different communities.”
Fred Silva, director for the student experience, highlighted the student-led nature of the event and its contribution to the University’s commitment to campus inclusion. “We are fortunate to have a vibrant, active, and diverse community of students who thrive and celebrate cross-cultural understanding and connections” he said. “Events such as Qatar National Day Celebration are a platform for the community to embrace the nation’s rich heritage, while providing students an avenue for holistic development outside of the classroom.”
Cultural clubs and associations at Northwestern Qatar, such as the Qatar Cultural Club, reflect the diversity and dynamics of the community. These student organizations—ranging from the African Student Association to Kaibigan: Philippine-American Student Association—serve as platforms for students to celebrate their heritage, share their cultural narratives, and strengthen connections across the University's vibrant and global campus. Their activities contribute to a deeper appreciation of cultural diversity while reinforcing the shared values of community and collaboration.
