CDU international student-run festival lights up Darwin

The highly anticipated Kindness Festival, the largest student-led event in the Top End, returned for its third consecutive year in 2023, bringing to light the diverse and welcoming multicultural community of the Territory.

Organised by local not-for-profit organisation Kindness Shake, a CDU student-led initiative that started during the COVID-19 pandemic, the festival featured performances, stalls, food, games, and social activities at the Darwin Waterfront.

Kindness Shake Co-Founder and Chair Ben Poveda-Alfonso, who is also a former CDU student and staff member, said the festival is an opportunity to celebrate the talents and experiences of international students in the NT.

“The Kindness Festival showcases the immense value and social contributions of our multicultural communities in the Territory,” Mr Poveda-Alfonso said.

“Kindness Shake exemplifies the resilience and compassion of our international student community. They enrich our community, making Darwin a more diverse and exciting place for everyone to enjoy.”

Over the past two years, the festival has garnered significant attention, attracting more than 8,000 attendees.

International students and multicultural community groups representing countries such as Nepal, Bangladesh, Thailand, the Philippines, and Colombia also performed dances, cultural music, and showcase artwork.

A highlight was the multicultural parade, themed "Where Cultures Meet," showcasing the vibrant traditions and customs of multicultural groups and individuals from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds.

This year, Kindness Shake partnered with the CDU Bangladeshi Student Association to honour Sifat’s life. Candles were lit at the lagoon, followed by a minute of silence and fireworks at 9 pm.

"The Kindness Festival creates a platform for people from all cultures to share their stories, abilities, and friendships made here in the Territory,” he said.

Launched in 2020, Kindness Shake regularly organises free programs aimed at supporting the well-being of international students, fostering connections with the local community, and enhancing their employability skills.

CDU provides ongoing support to Kindness Shake for its sustainability including a professional development of committee members and volunteers, day-to-day operations and employment of a casual staff member.