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20 Nov 2025

"A heartwarming experience;" Rathdowney Intercultural Day enjoyed by all

The event featured a variety of workshops, performances and entertainment, and was sponsored by Laois Partnership Company, the Malva Ukrainian Choir and the Ukrainian Laois Support Association (ULSA). 

Malva Ukrainian Choir performing at Rathdowney Intercultural Day.

Malva Ukrainian Choir performing at Rathdowney Intercultural Day.

Rathdowney Intercultural Day took place in the local Community Centre on Saturday May 8th from 12pm-5pm.

The event featured a variety of workshops, performances and entertainment, and was sponsored by Laois Partnership Company, the Malva Ukrainian Choir and the Ukrainian Laois Support Association (ULSA). 

Rathdowney Intercultural Day 2024- Photos courtesy of Cassia O'Neill.

"The community came together to celebrate our diversity, and it was a heartwarming and unforgettable experience," said Community Development Officer at Laois Partnership Cássia O'Neill.

"A huge shoutout to Ukrainian Laois Support Association, who delighted us with delicious Ukrainian food and organized an array of engaging workshops. From soap making and jewelry crafting to the mesmerizing art of coffee painting by artist Oksana Rohovska, there was something for everyone to enjoy and learn from."

The Intercultural Day featured elements of African, Ukrainian and Brazilian cultures. Residents of the Commercial Inn participated in the festivities, accompanied by the Malva Ukrainian Choir.

A music workshop on Brazilian instruments took place from 3:30pm, and well known Ukrainian artist Oksana Rohovska provided a painting workshop for the children in attendance. 

There were a variety of educational activities through arts and crafts for children of all ages to learn more about different cultures. 

"Ukrainian Choir Malva members and children also sang beautiful songs. We were also thrilled to experience the vibrant flavors of Brazilian cuisine, which added an exotic touch to our festivities," said Ms O'Neill.
Malva Ukrainian Choir performing at Rathdowney Intercultural Day.
"A special thanks to the group Ta Tum Tum for their lively musical performance that had the kids playing Brazilian instruments and everyone learning to dance Samba and appreciate the art of Capoeira!".
Face painting was available from 12pm, and an array of refreshments from different cultures were enjoyed by all.

"The people of Rathdowney are so involved, we want to thank them and praise them for their openness," said event organiser Cássia O'Neill. "They're always so willing to engage."

"A truly touching moment was when the residents of the Commercial Inn came together to sing "We Are One," a beautiful song that embodies the unity and spirit of our diverse community. 
We are absolutely delighted with the participation of all our members from various nationalities.
It was a day filled with joy, laughter, and dancing, and we hope everyone had as much fun as we did! 
Thank you to everyone who joined us and made this event so special. Let's continue to celebrate our differences and build an even stronger, more united community," Cássia finished. 
The project was supported by the Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP) and the Communities Integration Fund.

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