Queen Elizabeth Court residents celebrate South Asian Heritage Month

Above: (Left) Staff member Sanji in a beautiful traditional Bengali abaya at Queen Elizabeth Court, in Llandudno. (Right) Sanji with resident Phyllis.

To celebrate South Asian Heritage Month within the Welsh community, residents at Queen Elizabeth Court, in Llandudno have enjoyed a Bengali culture day, thanks to staff member Sanji.

Residents were delighted to learn more about some Bengali traditions from Sanji. Dressed in a beautiful maroon embroidered abaya (lose-fitting garment) with silver embellishments, Sanji talked about her home country and explained some of the different aspects of her culture, such as the language and the cuisine.

She explained to the residents about the birth of her young country, Bangladesh, especially about the sacrifices made by students and working people as they fought hard for independence in 1971. The residents were even treated to some delicious homemade desserts by Sanji, including coconut pithas, made from rice flour, grated coconut and sesame seeds.

Taking part in the activities, resident Janette said:

I did not know much about Bangladesh and we are so lucky to have Sanji here to teach us. I was very interested to learn about the country’s war for independence and recent history.

Sanji mentioned:

I enjoyed talking to our residents and sharing more about my heritage and culture. I feel it helped the residents get to know me better.

I feel we understand each other better if we can learn about each other’s history and culture,

she adds.

Richard, one of the Activities Co-ordinators said:

Some of our staff that have moved from abroad have given us a little insight into their childhoods and culture. Celebrating our differences is really important at our Home and these sessions provide an open and welcoming space where people can share stories, ask questions, learn something new and have fun. Both residents and staff have really benefitted from these experiences.

[Summary: Residents at  Queen Elizabeth Court, in Llandudno have enjoyed a Bengali culture day to celebrate South Asian Heritage Month.]