The National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) was the stage for a vibrant display of cultural diversity on Sunday as the International Festival of Language and Culture (IFLC) presented its Colours of the World showcase.

Now in its 23rd year, the IFLC continues to bring together young performers from across the globe, fostering understanding and friendship through music, dance, and the arts. This year’s event was hosted by Amity College and the Australian Universal Federation, in partnership with Affinity Intercultural Foundation and Galaxy Foundation.

Coinciding with Father’s Day in Australia, the celebration carried an added sense of warmth and togetherness, with many families marking the occasion by attending the festival.

This year’s showcase, titled “The Four Seasons”, featured over 70 exceptional young performers representing 16 countries, including Australia, Tanzania, Indonesia, Japan, Kazakhstan, and the USA. Through music, dance, and storytelling, they celebrated the richness of their cultures and expressed a universal message of peace, unity, and shared humanity. At a time when the world faces many challenges, these young talents served as powerful ambassadors of peace and understanding. Their performances offered hope – a reminder that the values of harmony and compassion can flourish across borders and generations.

In the week leading up to the event, students from across the globe rehearsed their performances at Amity College, mingled with local students, and forged new memories and lifelong friendships. As part of their visit, the international performers also enjoyed a VIP meeting with the Australian Human Rights Children’s Commissioner, Anne Hollonds, where they wowed with their cultural performances and shared the stories behind their art.

The afternoon commenced with a moving Aboriginal Welcome to Country, acknowledging the world’s oldest living culture. This was followed by an embracing welcome from the school captains of Amity College Prestons, setting a warm and inclusive tone for the program.

Master of Ceremonies Nick Rheinberger and Malika Reese guided the audience through the performances with professionalism and warmth. Adding to the sense of occasion, NSW Shadow Minister for Multiculturalism Mark Coure and NSW Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper delivered video messages praising the festival’s mission and the dedication of its young participants. Federal MP for Werriwa Anne Stanley attended in person, offering a vote of thanks to the organisers, volunteers, and performers.

With representatives from 16 countries, including Australia, the event offered a rich tapestry of languages, costumes, and traditions. From Bosnian folk songs to Kurdish and Persian melodies, and from Broadway classics to Australian anthems, the program reflected the IFLC’s enduring mission to promote peace and unity through cultural exchange.

As the final notes of Universal Peace filled the theatre, the audience rose in a standing ovation – a fitting tribute to the hundreds of young performers, educators, and organisers who made the day possible.

The IFLC acknowledged the contributions of its hosts and partners – Amity College, the Australian Universal Federation, Affinity Intercultural Foundation, and Galaxy Foundation – whose collaboration ensured the continued success of this long‑running celebration of cultural harmony.