Tech Events Sri Lanka

The Korean Cultural Festival 2022 dazzled Sri Lankan crowds with Korean culture and heritage. It aimed to boost cultural exchange between Sri Lanka and South Korea. Visitors enjoyed traditional performances, K-pop music, and authentic Korean food.

Sri Lankans eagerly embraced the vibrant Korean culture at the festival. The Korean wave, or Hallyu, has deeply influenced Sri Lankan youth. This trend has sparked interest in Korean music, dramas, and fashion.

The festival offered a unique chance for Sri Lankans to experience Korean culture up close. It showcased the rich diversity of Korean traditions and modern entertainment.

Key Takeaways

• The Korean Cultural Festival 2022 in Sri Lanka showcased a wide range of Korean cultural offerings
• The event aimed to strengthen diplomatic ties between Sri Lanka and South Korea through cultural exchange
• The growing popularity of the Korean wave has significantly influenced Sri Lankan youth
• The festival featured traditional Korean performances, K-pop music, and authentic Korean cuisine
• Sri Lankan audiences enthusiastically embraced the opportunity to experience Korean culture firsthand

Celebrating the Korean Wave in Sri Lanka

The Korean Cultural Festival 2022 in Sri Lanka was a hit. Over 10,000 people came to enjoy Korean culture. This shows how popular Hallyu is among young Sri Lankans.

Growing Popularity of Korean Culture

The festival’s success proves Korean culture’s rising fame in Sri Lanka. Most visitors loved the event’s diverse activities and performances. Korean food and drink sales jumped 15% during the festival.

After the event, 75% of attendees wanted to learn more about Korea. Interest in K-pop and Korean dramas among Sri Lankan youth grew by 20%.

Hallyu’s Impact on Sri Lankan Youth

The festival was a hit with young people. Most visitors were between 18 and 35 years old. This shows potential for better understanding between Sri Lanka and Korea.

The event boosted the local economy too. Korean businesses saw a 30% sales increase during the festival. Tourism from Korea to Sri Lanka grew 25% in the following months.

This cultural exchange is strengthening ties between the two countries. It’s creating opportunities for cross-cultural appreciation and understanding.

Showcasing Traditional Korean Performances

The Korean Cultural Festival 2022 in Sri Lanka displayed Korea’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors enjoyed captivating traditional performances of dance, music, and martial arts. These showcased Korea’s unique artistic traditions.

Festival highlights included graceful Korean folk dance with colorful costumes. Traditional Korean drums and the gayageum’s haunting melodies transported audiences to another world.

Martial arts demonstrations like taekwondo and hapkido amazed spectators. These performances showed the discipline and skill of Korean warriors.

The festival celebrated arts and entertainment, immersing Sri Lankan audiences in Korean culture. It strengthened bonds between the two nations through shared appreciation of artistic heritage.

Korean Cultural Festival 2022 Enthralls Sri Lankan Audiences

The Korean Cultural Festival 2022 dazzled Sri Lankan attendees with a mix of Korean traditions and modern performances. Visitors enjoyed dance shows, art displays, and hands-on activities. The event offered a taste of South Korea’s rich cultural heritage.

Korean cuisine was a highlight, allowing guests to savor authentic flavors. The festival provided a complete experience of Korean culture. Attendees were able to immerse themselves in various aspects of Korean life.

Enthusiastic Response from Sri Lankan Attendees

Thousands flocked to the festival, eager to explore Korean culture firsthand. Visitors were thrilled to interact with Korean artists and performers. The event’s popularity showed Sri Lankans’ growing interest in Korean traditions.

Strengthening Diplomatic Ties through Cultural Exchange

The festival boosted diplomatic relations between Sri Lanka and South Korea. It highlighted how cultural exchange can foster understanding between nations. The event’s success points to a bright future for Sri Lanka-Korea cultural initiatives.

Mammootty arrived in Sri Lanka on Tuesday for a Netflix anthology series. He’s filming ‘Kadugannawa Oru Yathra’, based on M.T. Vasudevan Nair’s short stories. The superstar will spend three days shooting the final part of the 10-part series.

Fans are excited to see Mammootty in Sri Lanka’s beautiful landscapes. The filming will take place in popular spots like Kandy and Kadugannawa. This promises to be a visual treat for viewers.

Part of the shooting happened during Mammootty’s flight from Kochi to Colombo. The crew and passengers worked together smoothly for the in-flight scenes. Some Sri Lankan crew members even made cameo appearances.

Mammootty joked with the pilot, asking for an extra 10-minute round. This showed his calm and witty nature during the tight filming schedule.

This project is important for Sri Lanka’s struggling tourism sector. Nearly 30 lakh people rely on tourism for their jobs. High-profile projects like this offer hope for the industry’s recovery.

Sri Lanka is working hard to bring back tourists. They’re offering longer visa stays and special fuel permits. Hotels and restaurants are getting beer-wine licenses to attract more visitors.

Key Takeaways

• Mollywood superstar Mammootty arrives in Sri Lanka for a three-day location shooting of ‘Kadugannawa Oru Yathra’, part of a Netflix anthology series.
• The shooting will take place in scenic locations like Kandy and Kadugannawa, showcasing the beauty of Sri Lankan landscapes.
• A portion of the filming occurred during Mammootty’s flight from Kochi to Colombo, with the actor’s wit and composure shining through.
• The location shooting holds significance for Sri Lanka’s tourism sector, which has been adversely affected by the pandemic and economic challenges.
• Sri Lanka is implementing various measures to revive its tourism industry and attract visitors from around the world.

Mollywood Superstar Mammootty’s Sri Lankan Adventure

Mollywood superstar Mammootty has landed in Sri Lanka for a Netflix anthology series. He’s filming his part in ‘Kadugannawa Oru Yathra’. This cross-border production has sparked excitement among fans and the film industry.

Mammootty Arrives in Sri Lanka for Netflix Anthology Shoot

Mammootty surprised everyone on a Colombo-bound flight by shooting two scenes. The team finished filming before landing, despite the short travel time. His calm approach helped them wrap up quickly.

Three-Day Filming Schedule in Scenic Locations

The shoot for Mammootty’s part will last three days in Sri Lanka. They’re bringing M.T. Vasudevan Nair’s short story to life against stunning backdrops. This project will showcase Sri Lanka’s natural beauty and rich culture.

Mammootty Meets Lankan Cricket Legend Sanath Jayasuriya

Mammootty also met Sri Lankan cricket star Sanath Jayasuriya during his visit. Jayasuriya is now Sri Lanka’s tourism ambassador amid the economic crisis. This meeting shows the power of cultural exchange in promoting tourism.

Sri Lanka aims to revive its tourism industry after the pandemic. Before COVID-19, tourism brought in nearly $4.5 billion yearly to the country.

‘Kadugannawa Oru Yathra’: Bringing M.T. Vasudevan Nair’s Vision to Life

The new anthology series ‘Manorathangal’ adapts M.T. Vasudevan Nair’s short stories. ‘Kadugannawa Oru Yathra’ is a standout segment in this series. Director Renjith teams up with superstar Mammootty for this compelling adaptation.

‘Kadugannawa Oru Yathra’: Last Story in 10-Part Anthology Series

‘Kadugannawa Oru Yathra’ is based on Nair’s memoir about his Sri Lanka journey. It explores events during an international conference he attended as a sub-editor. The series delves into themes of longing, loneliness, and complex human behavior.

‘Manorathangal’ features nine segments directed by talented filmmakers. The lineup includes Priyadarshan, Santhosh Sivan, Mahesh Narayanan, and others. The anthology has received a rating of 3/5.

Director Renjith Helms Mammootty’s Segment

Renjith’s collaboration with M.T. Vasudevan Nair promises a cinematic treat. Mammootty leads a strong cast including Anumol, Vineeth, and Savithri Sreedharan. Critics praise the cinematography by Sujith Vassudev and Prasanth Raveendran.

‘Manorathangal’ boasts a talented team of music directors and cinematographers. It’s set to spark discussions on the complexities of human relationships. Viewers can expect a lasting impact from this anthology series.

Capturing the Essence of M.T. Vasudevan Nair’s Short Story

Netflix’s “Kadugannawa Oru Yathra” brings M.T. Vasudevan Nair’s literary genius to the screen. Directed by Renjith, Mammootty stars in this segment. It portrays Nair’s short story about P.K. Venugopal’s search for a childhood friend in Sri Lanka.

Nair’s Sri Lankan visit inspired this tale of rich history and scenic beauty. The story’s cultural depth provides ample material for a captivating cinematic adaptation. Mammootty’s performance and Renjith’s direction promise to make this segment a series highlight.

Viewers will journey through picturesque locations like the Kadugannawa tunnel. This tunnel connects the Kegalle and Kandy valleys. The film will bring Nair’s storytelling to life, exploring nostalgia, friendship, and time.

“Kadugannawa Oru Yathra” pays tribute to one of India’s celebrated literary figures. It introduces Nair’s work to a global audience through cinema. The adaptation promises a poignant exploration of human connections and memories.

Colombo Fashion Week spotlights Sri Lanka’s rising fashion talent. It’s a key event in Sri Lankan fashion, showcasing innovative designs. CFW gives local designers a stage for their creativity and sustainable practices.

Now in its 21st year, CFW has shaped Sri Lanka’s fashion industry. It draws fashion entrepreneurs from across the country. The event also brings international attention to Sri Lankan fashion.

This year’s CFW featured several emerging designers. Darshi Keerthisena De Livera, Charini Suriyage, and Asanka de Mel were among them. Amilani Perera and Kamil for Limak also showcased their work.

These designers brought unique visions to the runway. They used sustainable materials and ethical production methods. Their collections reflected distinct styles and cultural influences.

International designers also joined the event. They came from Italy, England, Bangladesh, and India. This mix strengthened CFW’s role as a South Asian fashion hub.

Key partners supported the event’s growth. These included Mastercard, Cinnamon Grand Colombo, and Taj Samudra Colombo. CFW boosts Colombo’s economy by attracting visitors and tourism revenue.

Key Takeaways

• Colombo Fashion Week celebrated its 21st year, showcasing Sri Lanka’s emerging fashion talent
• The event provides a platform for local designers to display their craftsmanship and commitment to sustainable fashion
• International designers from Italy, England, Bangladesh, and India participated in the event
• Key partners such as Mastercard, Cinnamon Grand Colombo, and Taj Samudra Colombo supported the event
• Colombo Fashion Week contributes to the city’s economy by attracting visitors and generating tourism revenue

Sri Lanka’s Fashion Industry Gains Global Recognition

Sri Lanka’s fashion scene is experiencing a rebirth. Designers blend traditional art with modern styles to create innovative looks. The country’s ethical practices and cultural representation have caught the world’s eye.

Colombo Fashion Week: A Platform for Growth and Innovation

Colombo Fashion Week has nurtured Sri Lanka’s fashion talent for 21 years. It gives new designers a chance to show their work alongside big brands. This event has become a major platform in South Asia.

DIMO supports Colombo Fashion Week as a key patron. The event draws international buyers and investors to Sri Lanka’s fashion scene.

Sustainable Practices and Ethical Fashion Take Center Stage

Sri Lankan designers lead the way in sustainable fashion. They focus on ethical practices and eco-friendly materials. Colombo Fashion Week ensures all participants meet strict sustainability standards.

This commitment to responsible fashion has made Sri Lanka a leader in sustainable design. The country is now known for its ethical approach to fashion.

Connecting Local Designers to the International Fashion Community

Colombo Fashion Week celebrates local talent and connects designers to the global fashion world. It has shown the work of over 100 artisans working with more than 30 designers.

The event promotes cross-cultural exchanges and creative teamwork. This helps make Sri Lanka a growing fashion hub, attracting worldwide attention for its talented designers.

Colombo Fashion Week: Celebrating 21 Years of Fashion Excellence

Colombo Fashion Week (CFW) has led Sri Lanka’s fashion design industry for over 20 years. Ajai Vir Singh founded CFW with a focus on responsible fashion. The event promotes sustainability and ethical practices over fast fashion trends.

CFW has brought fresh ideas to the local market. It has built a strong community around sustainable fashion. This approach has changed how people think about fashion in Sri Lanka.

Ajai Vir Singh’s Vision for Responsible Fashion

Ajai Vir Singh is a key figure in fashion with 21 years of experience. He graduated from Lasalle College of the Arts in Singapore. His vision for CFW goes beyond showing new trends.

Singh uses fashion to address social issues like gender inequality. He works with groups like UNFPA to promote change. Through these efforts, he challenges norms and empowers communities.

Building a Vibrant Community Around Sustainable Fashion

CFW supports both new and established designers. It helps them reach international platforms. The CFW Fashion Design Fund, started in 2014, gives money to promising new designers.

This program has created a thriving group of fashion innovators. They focus on sustainability and ethical practices. As a result, they are changing fashion in Sri Lanka.

Showcasing Sri Lanka’s Cultural Richness and Diversity

Colombo Fashion Week displays Sri Lanka’s cultural wealth. It highlights the country’s diversity and creativity. These elements are key to Sri Lanka’s unique fashion identity.

CFW features collections inspired by traditional Sri Lankan elements. It also works with local artisans. This mix of old and new has become CFW’s trademark.

The event has captured audiences worldwide. It has strengthened Sri Lanka’s place in global fashion. CFW continues to celebrate heritage while embracing modern trends.

Colombo Fashion Week Showcases Emerging Designers in 2023

The 2023 Colombo Fashion Week (CFW) spotlighted emerging designers from Sri Lanka and beyond. These rising stars showcased innovation, sustainability, and craftsmanship. They pushed boundaries with unique perspectives in contemporary fashion.

Darshi Keerthisena De Livera’s collection celebrated the ancient art of batik. She incorporated modern techniques and eco-friendly practices. Her designs blended heritage and innovation with intricate patterns and vibrant colors.

Charini Suriyage: Championing Sustainable and Ethical Fashion

Charini Suriyage committed to sustainable design and ethical production practices. Her collection featured organic fabrics, natural dyes, and artisanal techniques. Suriyage’s contemporary silhouettes and attention to detail earned praise from experts and enthusiasts.

Asanka de Mel: Transforming Sri Lanka’s Fashion Industry with LOVI

Asanka de Mel’s LOVI brand celebrated Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage. He incorporated traditional motifs and handwoven textiles into modern designs. De Mel’s innovative approach and sustainability focus drive Sri Lanka’s fashion industry transformation.

Amilani Perera: Distinct Designer Pieces for Women

Amilani Perera’s collection blended femininity and edge. Her designs featured bold colors, clean lines, and unexpected details. Perera’s dedication to quality and craftsmanship was evident in every garment.

Kamil for Limak: Bridging Heritage and Modernity in Luxury Fashion

Kamil for Limak bridged heritage and modernity in luxury fashion. The brand incorporated traditional Sri Lankan motifs into contemporary silhouettes. Luxurious fabrics and impeccable tailoring elevated the collection’s status.

International Designers Shine at Colombo Fashion Week 2023

Colombo Fashion Week 2023 featured diverse international designers, bringing global fashion perspectives. They showcased unique artistic visions, blending artisanal craftsmanship with contemporary design. Their collections emphasized sustainable practices and eco-friendly materials, appealing to a worldwide audience.

Payal Pratap Singh’s designs celebrated modern, independent women who love handcrafted garments. Her collection highlighted intricate details and exquisite fabrics, merging Indian heritage with international appeal.

Manoviraj Khosla’s couture and prêt-à-porter collections displayed impeccable tailoring and meticulous attention to detail. The brand creates timeless pieces that transcend geographical boundaries.

Bangladeshi designer Afsana Ferdousi wowed the audience with innovative designs. She combined traditional Bangladeshi artistry with modern silhouettes, emphasizing sustainable and eco-friendly practices.

These designers showcased their talents and contributed to the event’s diverse perspectives. Colombo Fashion Week proved to be a platform for cross-cultural exchanges in fashion.

The Sri Lankan indie film scene is making waves globally. ‘The Newspaper’, directed by Sarath Kothalawala and Kumara Thirimadura, has earned high praise worldwide. This South Asian masterpiece is winning awards at prestigious international film festivals.

‘The Newspaper’ has snagged eight awards since its 2020 debut. This success highlights the skill of its cast and crew. They’ve brought a compelling story to life on screen.

Kothalawala and Thirimadura shared the Best Actors Award at Russia’s Kazan International Film Awards. Their performances have wowed critics and audiences alike. This showcases the deep talent pool in Sri Lankan cinema.

Key Takeaways:

• ‘The Newspaper’ has won eight awards since its 2020 release, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, and Best Supporting Actor at the Ceylon International Film Festival.
• Sarath Kothalawala and Kumara Thirimadura won the joint Best Actors Award at the 18th Kazan International Film Awards in Russia.
• The film received the second best film in Asia award at the Bangalore International Film Festival and the best director award at the 23rd Rainbow Film Award Festival in the UK.
• Gayathri Khemadasa made history as the first female music director in Sri Lanka to win an international award for cinema music.
• ‘The Newspaper’ is the fourth Sri Lankan film to enter the Kazan Film Festival since its inception in 2005, highlighting the growing recognition of Sri Lankan cinema on the global stage.

Award-Winning Performances by Sarath Kothalawala and Kumara Thirimadura

Sri Lankan film ‘The Newspaper’ has gained international recognition. Sarath Kothalawala and Kumara Thirimadura’s performances as Guna and Luiyya have earned them accolades. They won the joint Best Actors Award at the 18th Kazan International Film Awards in Russia.

Best Actors Award at the 18th Kazan International Film Awards

The Kazan International Film Awards honored Sarath Kothalawala and Kumara Thirimadura’s talent. Minister Dr. Bandula Gunawardena accepted the Best Actors Award for them at the closing ceremony. This win highlights the actors’ skills and Sri Lankan cinema’s global impact.

Portraying the Characters of Guna and Luiyya

Kothalawala and Thirimadura’s performances in ‘The Newspaper’ have received praise for their authenticity. Thirimadura, with over 100 stage plays, brought expertise to Guna’s role. Kothalawala’s nuanced portrayal of Luiyya showed his versatility as an actor.

Their on-screen chemistry and ability to convey complex emotions boosted the film’s success. The international recognition at the Kazan International Film Awards showcases the cast and crew’s skill. ‘The Newspaper’ has put Sri Lankan cinema in the global spotlight.

Powerful Storyline and Deep Symbolism

‘The Newspaper’ grips viewers with its story about media’s impact on society. A shocking headline accuses Guna’s brother of terrorism. This sets up a thrilling tale that keeps audiences hooked.

Guna, who is differently-abled, and Luiyya, a cattle herder, seek justice. They aim to clear Guna’s brother’s name. Their quest unfolds through various stories, each rich with symbolism.

Guna and Luiyya’s Search for Justice

Guna and Luiyya face many challenges in their quest for truth. They meet diverse characters along the way. These encounters reveal different aspects of Sri Lankan society.

Profound Meaning in Every Scene

‘The Newspaper’ rewards multiple viewings with its deep symbolism. Each scene carries important messages about truth and justice. The film’s powerful story has earned international praise and awards.

Sri Lankan Film ‘The Newspaper’ Wins International Acclaim

Sri Lankan cinema is making a global impact with “The Newspaper.” Released in 2020, the film has won eight awards worldwide. It showcases the talent of Sri Lanka’s film community and has earned critical acclaim.

Eight Awards Since its Release in 2020

“The Newspaper” has received recognition for its outstanding performances. Sarath Kotalawala and Kumara Thirimadura won Best Actor at Russia’s Kazan International Muslim Film Festival. The film also earned second-best Asian film at the Bangalore International Film Festival.

Additionally, it won best director at the UK’s Rainbow Film Award Festival. These accolades highlight the film’s international appeal and quality.

Recognition at Prestigious Film Festivals Worldwide

“The Newspaper” has screened at major film festivals globally. It was among 15 selected movies at the 18th Kazan International Film Awards. This festival featured films from Saudi Arabia, India, USA, Australia, and Mexico.

It’s the fourth Sri Lankan film to enter Kazan since 2005. This achievement shows the growing recognition of Sri Lankan cinema worldwide.

Nominated for Eight Awards at the Ceylon International Film Festival

“The Newspaper” received eight nominations at the Ceylon International Film Festival. It won five awards, including Best Feature Film, Best Director, and Best Music Director.

The film’s success reflects the actors’ hard work and dedication. It also highlights the support from various individuals, including Sri Lanka’s former President and citizens.

Sri Lanka recently hosted the Korean Cultural Festival 2022. The event showcased South Korea’s rich heritage and promoted cultural exchange. Sri Lankans flocked to experience vibrant Korean traditions and contemporary culture.

The festival featured traditional dance, Taekwondo demos, and Korean cuisine. It aimed to boost South Asian appreciation for Korean culture. This event strengthened bonds between the two nations.

Attendees marveled at graceful Korean dance performances. Dancers in colorful hanbok attire moved with precision and expression. Their storytelling through movement captivated the audience.

Taekwondo displays added thrills to the festival. Skilled martial artists showed off impressive kicks and acrobatic moves. These demonstrations highlighted the discipline of this iconic Korean art.

Key Takeaways

• The Korean Cultural Festival 2022 showcased traditional Korean dance, Taekwondo, and cuisine to Sri Lankan audiences.
• The event promoted cultural exchange and strengthened ties between South Korea and Sri Lanka.
• Traditional Korean dance performances captivated attendees with their grace and elegance.
• Taekwondo demonstrations highlighted the discipline and athleticism of this iconic Korean martial art.
• The festival served as a platform for cultural crossover and enhanced South Asian representation of Korean culture.

Festival Highlights: Showcasing Korean Culture and Traditions

The Korean Cultural Festival 2022 in Sri Lanka celebrated Korea’s rich cultural heritage. It offered a diverse array of events and experiences. The festival attracted visitors from local and regional areas.

This event encompassed cultural, political, arts, business, educational, sport, and recreational aspects. It provided a comprehensive showcase of Korean traditions and modern innovations.

Traditional Korean Dance Performances

Mesmerizing traditional Korean dance performances were a main attraction. These showcased the grace and elegance of Korea’s dance heritage. Colorful costumes and enchanting music captivated audiences.

Dancers’ precise movements brought ancient Korean tales to life. Their expressions conveyed deep emotions and stories. This offered a glimpse into Korea’s rich cultural tapestry.

Taekwondo Demonstrations

Awe-inspiring Taekwondo demonstrations were another highlight. Skilled practitioners displayed strength, agility, and discipline in this Korean martial art. These performances entertained and showcased the dedication required to master Taekwondo.

Korean Culinary Delights

The festival offered a taste of authentic Korean dishes. Visitors savored kimchi, bibimbap, and Korean barbecue prepared by skilled chefs. Aromatic flavors and vibrant colors enhanced the overall sensory experience.

The Korean Cultural Festival 2022 in Sri Lanka was a success. It showcased the best of Korean culture and traditions. The event engaged visitors with diverse experiences and immersive technology.

Yohani’s Debut Album ‘Kella’ Submitted for Grammy Consideration

Yohani, Sri Lanka’s music star, has made history. Her debut album ‘Kella’ is up for the 67th Annual Grammy Awards. It’s the first Sinhala album in the Best Global Music Album category.

‘Kella’ dropped on December 8, 2023. It shows off Yohani’s talent and Sri Lankan musical heritage. The album has 14 tracks: 11 in Sinhalese and 3 in English.

Dilanjan Seneviratne led the creative process. He produced and wrote lyrics for seven tracks. This ensured top-notch quality and heartfelt words.

Sound engineer Misjah mastered ‘Kella’ in the Netherlands. This move helped the album meet global standards. It shows Yohani’s aim to deliver world-class Sri Lankan music.

Yohani’s future looks bright. She’s teaming up with Moroccan artist 7aliwa. Her second album is set for early 2025. Fans can catch her live soon.

The Ballad of Warriors Show is on November 7, 2024. Her first solo concert in Sri Lanka happens on January 18, 2025.

Yohani’s success has put Sri Lankan music on the map. She’s opened doors for other talented artists. Her achievements inspire upcoming musicians in the country.

Strengthening Cultural Ties Between South Korea and Sri Lanka

The Korean Cultural Festival 2022 in Sri Lanka boosted cultural exchange between the two nations. It showcased Korean dance, Taekwondo, and cuisine. This event helped Sri Lankans appreciate South Korean traditions and arts better.

Yohani’s debut album ‘Kella’ was submitted for Grammy consideration. Her success inspires Sri Lankan artists and shows potential for global recognition. This opens doors for more cultural partnerships between South Korea and Sri Lanka.

The cultural bond goes beyond entertainment. Sri Lanka’s record-breaking paddy harvest in 2024 Yala ensures food security. This progress in farming creates opportunities for knowledge sharing with South Korea.

Stronger ties between South Korea and Sri Lanka lead to cooperation in various sectors. These include tourism, education, and technology. Exchanging ideas and resources will foster mutual growth and deeper cultural understanding.