At Moncton Cares, we firmly believe that fostering connections across diverse cultures strengthens the fabric of our community. Our commitment to staying connected with ethnocultural associations has led us to build an alliance of 30 such organizations across New Brunswick. This network serves as a dynamic platform where ideas, experiences, and opportunities are shared to promote mutual growth and understanding.
Last Saturday, we were honored to participate in the Jamaican Association of New Brunswick’s annual cultural festival. Held at the Hampton Inn, this event was organized by Michael Grant, the association’s dedicated President, and showcased the vibrant traditions and infectious energy of Jamaica. The festival was an incredible opportunity for us to immerse ourselves in another culture and strengthen the bonds of community and collaboration.
Representing Moncton Cares, our Executive Director, Ketan Raval, and his wife, Binita Raval, attended the celebration, bringing with them a spirit of camaraderie and cultural exchange. The atmosphere was electric, filled with the aroma of authentic Jamaican dishes, the beats of traditional music, and the laughter of people coming together to celebrate. The event was a feast for the senses, offering a rich tapestry of flavors, sounds, and colors that captured the heart of Jamaican culture.
Ketan and Binita wholeheartedly joined in the festivities. Ketan, in particular, embraced the opportunity to participate in some fun and games, including playing dominoes and card games, which are cherished pastimes in Jamaican culture. These simple yet meaningful interactions created a sense of connection and mutual respect, reminding us of the universal joy that comes from sharing in each other’s traditions.
The event also provided an excellent opportunity for meaningful dialogue. Ketan had an engaging conversation with Sherryl, the Communication Director of the Jamaican Association, about how our communities can work together to foster integration and collaboration. Ideas flowed freely, and both organizations expressed a shared commitment to building a stronger, more inclusive New Brunswick.
In a gesture of goodwill and cultural exchange, Moncton Cares gifted 25 free passes for dance sessions hosted by our Harmony Dance Academy. These sessions are designed to celebrate diversity through the art of dance, offering participants a chance to experience different styles, connect with others, and embrace movement as a form of cultural expression. This token of appreciation was our way of extending the joy of cultural celebration beyond the festival.
We also took the opportunity to invite everyone at the event to Moncton Cares’ upcoming Christmas Party. Our annual celebration promises to be a warm and welcoming gathering, particularly for newcomers and those experiencing their first Christmas in Canada. It’s a time to come together, share traditions, and create lasting memories as one community.
The Jamaican Cultural Festival was more than just an event—it was a vibrant celebration of unity, heritage, and the shared joy of living in a multicultural society. It reminded us of the importance of celebrating our differences while cherishing the common threads that bind us together as human beings.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Michael Grant and the Jamaican Association for their hospitality and for organizing such a wonderful event. It was an honor to be part of a gathering that so beautifully showcased the richness of Jamaican culture while fostering connections that transcend cultural boundaries.
As Moncton Cares continues its mission of community integration and support, events like these inspire us to keep building bridges across cultures. Together, we can create a more inclusive, welcoming, and vibrant community for everyone.
Stay connected with us for more updates, events, and opportunities to celebrate diversity and togetherness. Let’s keep building a stronger, united New Brunswick, one cultural exchange at a time!
