FRISCO, TEXAS — For one night, the whole world fit within the walls of the Centennial High School cafeteria, and a few steps could take attendees across continents, immersing them in cultures that might have otherwise felt distant. Centennial High School’s National Honors Society has hosted an annual diversity fair since 2023, designed to highlight and celebrate the diverse cultures and abilities of the Frisco community through performances, food, games, and other presentations. The third annual Diversity Fair was held on Feb. 20th, drawing students, teachers, and community members alike.
Tables were organized into four categories: diversity tables, immersion tables, food tables, and game tables. Diversity tables presented information about their culture or diverse ability, while immersion tables offered hands-on activities such as henna stations. Food tables served samples of traditional dishes, allowing attendees to experience global flavors, and game tables introduced visitors to cultural recreation.
Students represented a variety of cultures, from those derived from specific countries or regions to those focusing on unique experiences such as those of deaf, blind, and intellectually or developmentally disabled individuals.
Students Isha Rajagopal, Shradha Sharma, Ananya Purkyasta, and Aaheli Patel represented the Bollywood Dance Club, performing a prepared medley of traditional and modern Bollywood dance and presenting information about history at their table. “We were really excited for this opportunity because we want everyone to know more about Bollywood dance and… the history behind it,” shared Purkayasta.
The event featured more than 30 tables, each offering a unique perspective. Across the cafeteria, students Milo Lundberg and Aidan Farish represented Sweden, serving traditional meatballs at their table. Lundberg stated, “We… want to spread the Swedish culture throughout more of the world.”
The cafeteria buzzed with music and conversation throughout the evening, as visitors made their rounds. “I’m really enjoying the food and activities and games here,” said Centennial High School math teacher Yingying Lu.
The Centennial High School Diversity Fair was a resounding success, and this opportunity promises to continue celebrating cultural diversity for years.
