The 5th Annual Festival MOSAIC, held on November 20, 2014, received rave reviews from staff, volunteers, guests, and sponsors alike. Ninu Kang, Director of Communications and Development and Chair of the event, said “We went with a new concept this year that allowed for more interaction, showed off more exhibits and allowed guests to mingle and socialize. It was a very successful event as everyone indicated they had a great time, and we were able to raise funds which will go towards our programs for kids, families and seniors.”.Approximately 300 people turned out at the Roundhouse Arts and Recreation Community Centre in Yaletown for the fundraising gala, which celebrated diversity with multicultural entertainment, global cuisine and interactive exhibits. MOSAIC showcased some of its programs by having guests interact with displays showcasing: youth from the NuYu program who performed popular theatre techniques and invited guests to record their reactions; a new Settlement project which brought attention to issues facing LGBTQ newcomers by engaging guests through art.There was also a photography exhibit featuring the fine work of MOSAIC Seniors, which was a collection culled from a few photography workshops that were provided throughout the year; and a display of fine calligraphy work from seniors. Other popular attractions were the map which allowed guests to use a string showing their journeys from their home countries to Vancouver; the henna table; and the brilliantly colourful MOSAIC Rangoli which was created throughout the evening.Performances by half a dozen CircusWest artists, renowned Sitar player Mohamed Assani and his Tabla accompanist, Michael Rosen’s dance workshop, and world fusion group Tanga rounded out the fabulous entertainment for the night.The food was another star of the evening. Chef Dave Ryan and his crew created beautiful salmon dishes, courtesy of BC Salmon Farmers Association, and there was also Thai inspired Chicken Satay; Middle-eastern inspired vegetarian pitas; beautiful skewers of Boconcini Salad; Samosa;, and authentic Baklava that had guests raving. Wine and beer were available at the bar but chai and Turkish coffee were also available to all.The Silent Auction was another success with dozens of coveted items which included gift baskets, hotel stays and artwork.The many exhibits and attractions had guests wandering to explore the space throughout most of the evening but Michael Rosen, and later, Tanga, had almost everyone up and dancing to the lively music.Thanks to our sponsors for making this event a success! We gratefully acknowledge the following:Gold Level Sponsors:BC Salmon Farmers AssociationResource WorksShaw MultiCultural ChannelSpice RadioSilver Level Sponsors:Automation One Business Systems Inc.Morneau ShepellRBCSafewayBronze Level SponsorsAJ Graphics PrintingBDO CanadaBouygues Building CanadaChopra Addiction and Wellness CentreFortinetGBL ArchitectsMing Pao Daily NewsXenon Pharmaceuticals Inc.
