On March 25th, the students of Montgomery College gathered to showcase the diverse culture of their native communities. On display was a tapestry of richly textured beauty, with each student forming a unique thread.

Key to the vibrant experience was the food, a vast array of flavors from the islands of the Caribbean and South America to the West and East of Africa to South Asia.

Below is a selection of some participants and their favorite dishes:

“Salteñas are baked empanada from Bolivia, they represent south American culture. I’m from Ecuador and we have the same thing in my country.” -Suanethe Zambrano

“Bint al sahn is a layered filo pastry in Yemen that’s baked, topped with black sesame seeds and drizzled with Yemeni honey. I love this dish because it reminds me of family gatherings every Friday. And it’s so sweet crispy yet chew and warm.” -Rayyana Alkebsi

“The beef patties were good.” -Niya Burrows

“My favorite cuisine from Uganda is maritime because that’s the main dish that represents the country’s pride…It’s basically green plantain. Its prepared by steaming and mashing.” -Nasser Katamba

“Salteñas because they were juicy.” -Josue Castillo

“Beef tibs and injera.” -Rashod Sibert

“Beef patty.” -Abraham Lumbku

“Beef patty.” -Rashani Williams

Ann Weisgerber, whose family is from Ireland, chose her favorite food: samosas.