People from near and far welcomed to attend the Myanmar Multicultural Festival in Werribee on Saturday 8 November.
The event will be a diverse showcase of the art, embroidery and culinary gems found across the ethnic minorities of Myanmar – which include the Karen, Karenni, Arakanese and Chin, Kachin, communities.
Starting at 9.30am and running until 5pm, the free event includes displays of traditional music, dance, basket weaving and a volleyball competition for young refugees who have fled persecution in Myanmar.
People will have the chance to view and purchase traditional art.
Alison Mynard, a psychologist who works closely with many refugees from the Southeast Asian country, said it is a community as strong as it is kind.
“This community of combined ethnic minorities from Myanmar have been through exceptional hardship and traumas that are unimaginable,” Ms Mynard said.
“However, despite these difficulties these communities continue to show kindness and compassion to one another, coming together to support their communities who are in refugee camps along the Borders of Myanmar.
Ms Mynard also commended the diverse community’s spirit and strength in giving their support for internally displaced people around Myanmar who continue to live among the ongoing conflict.
Running alongside the day, there will be a launch of suicide awareness and positive mental health messages campaign through Black Dog Ride and Next Door Artisans.
This will be delivered in the three different languages of the ethnic minorities.
The festival will be held at 10-12 Bridge Street in Werribee, so come along and get to know a tapestry of cultures.
