Food is more than just sustenance for Rachit Kapoor; it’s a connection to his culture and a source of pride.

Originally from India, the Brock Physics master’s student and International Student Ambassador misses two things most while abroad: family and the flavours of home. Sharing his favourite foods at Brock is one way he can connect with his roots and his community on campus.

Next week, Kapoor will lead the Food First Community Cook Along as part of International Education Week (IEW), inviting Brock students to experience authentic Indian cuisine.

“Indian cuisine has so much to offer,” he says. “One of the most valuable things I’ve learned from my culture is the importance of cooking and eating fresh, healthy food.”

At the event, Kapoor will teach participants to make dal chawal, a protein-rich dish of lentils and rice that’s a staple in his family’s meals back home. Fresh and unprocessed, this comforting dish reflects the essence of daily life in India, he says.

“Food is a universal love that bridges cultural differences, making it a great way to introduce someone to your heritage,” he says. “I’m thrilled to share a real, everyday taste of my culture with other Brock students.”

The cook-along is just one of many events planned for IEW at Brock, a celebration aimed at fostering global awareness and intercultural exchange across campus which will run from Monday, Nov. 18 to Friday, Nov. 22.

In addition to leading the cook-along, Kapoor will team up with his fellow International Student Ambassadors to host a series of events geared towards global awareness including:

• Taste the World, Test the World — an interactive trivia game featuring snacks from around the world with a special focus on human rights education.
• Crafting Around the World — a number of stations offering craft experiences from India, the Middle East, Japan and Mexico.
• International Show and Tell — a initiative where students can share personal stories, artifacts and photos from their home countries or Canada and express themselves through painting.
• Learn. Explore! Games from All Around the World — a chance to gather to play popular games from East Asia, Africa, India and more.
• Lime and Learn from Trinidad and Tobago — an opportunity to delve into the colourful Carnival culture of the Caribbean twin-island Trinidad and Tobago by decorating a masquerade mask.

“These events give students the chance to connect with diverse cultures and perspectives right here on campus,” says Christina Bosilo, Director of International. “We encourage the entire Brock community to take part in International Education Week and explore what it means to be a global citizen.”

This year’s lineup features popular events from previous years, including Brock International’s Study Abroad Fair on Monday, Nov. 18; Your Name in Calligraphy on Tuesday, Nov. 19, hosted by Professional and Continuing Studies; the Brock University Students’ Union (BUSU) Night Market on Wednesday, Nov. 20; and a panel discussion on Friday, Nov. 22 on immigration and the international student journey.

Anticipated highlights of the week include the International Strategic Plan Launch on Tuesday, Nov. 19, and the Human Library on Thursday, Nov. 21, which will bring together student, staff and faculty representatives from more than 15 countries to share their personal stories and cultural backgrounds. Among them is Brock’s Provost and Vice-President, Academic Arja Vainio-Mattila, who will proudly represent her Finnish heritage. The event will provide a unique opportunity for the Brock community to engage in one-on-one conversations, gaining firsthand insights into diverse cultures and experiences from around the world.

IEW is held annually in the third week of November to highlight the importance of global learning experiences and reflects Brock’s commitment to inclusivity and equity by celebrating its diverse community. Visit the International Education Week page on ExperienceBU for a full listing of events.