Regina’s Mosaic in full swing, all about ‘shared experiences’

WATCH: Jacob Carr tells us what you can expect as Mosaic: A Festival of Cultures returns for another year.

Volunteers were busy preparing for the festivities of Mosaic on Thursday, as they put together last-minute preparations for the annual event.

The multicultural festival opened to the public at 5 p.m. on Thursday, and the Hispanic Pavilion, located inside of the Queensbury Centre, is encouraging festival goers to take part in the Hispanic culture this year.

“You’re going to be a part of it too, we’re also honouring our ancestors because this what we are,” said Hispanos En Regina president Cynthia Kalina. “We want to show our culture, our heritage. So, we are encouraging everybody to bring a picture or dress up with your favourite soccer team. If you have ancestors who passed away and were fans of soccer, just come and bring their picture. We’re going to post them on special displays around our pavilion.”

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Also inside the Queensbury is the Spirit of China Pavilion, where Frieda Levasseur has been volunteering for multiple years.

“I got into it because of Barb Dedi, who was a firm believer in multiculturalism, and promoting it, and trying to get people more aware of multiculturalism. So, I worked with her over the years at a few events and ended up here with Nelson.”

Nelson Eng is the chairman of the Chinese Freemasons of Regina Chapter and started the Spirit of China pavilion. He says without the work of volunteers like Levasseur, keeping the pavilion open would be impossible.

“I’ve got lots of people helping me. Before having friends, I couldn’t have success. My friends and family, before them I couldn’t do this all by myself. These ladies do a really good job.”

In Levasseur’s eyes, Mosaic comes down to sharing experiences and learning about new cultures and the diversity housed within Regina.

“I think the sharing of the cultures for everybody in Regina and all the visitors that come. I think that’s an important thing. I think it’s a step forward for everybody to share what they know from their culture. And how else do you get the word out if you don’t meet these people, right?”

The cultural festival is open through Saturday and has 15 pavilions spread throughout the city.