Phoenix Energy is the latest organisation to sign up as a Friend of the Belfast Mela, a new initiative which enables organisations to positively demonstrate support for promoting cultural diversity across Northern Ireland.
A bold, vibrant and colourful cultural celebration of music, dance, food and arts for all the family to enjoy together, the 2019 Belfast Mela will take place on Sunday 25th August from 12.00pm – 6.00pm at Botanic Gardens.
Organised by ArtsEtka, an award-winning cultural charity which also runs workshops, seminars and creative projects throughout the year to develop intercultural relationships, the Belfast Mela is the largest celebration of cultural diversity on the island of Ireland attracting up to 30,000 people each year.
Commenting on becoming a Friend of the Belfast Mela, Jonathan Martindale, Executive Director at Phoenix Energy says: “The Belfast Mela has become a flagship event that celebrates cultural diversity, expression and inclusion that truly reflects the vibrancy of our increasingly diverse society.
As an inclusive employer and business, Phoenix Energy is delighted to become a Friend of Mela in 2019 and we look forward to being part of a fantastic day where Belfast takes the world to its heart.”
Nisha Tandon, OBE, Executive Director of ArtsEkta says: “Our Friends are forward thinking organisations who understand the benefits of a diverse society in driving success for their business objectives and enriching the lives of their employees who live and work here.
“We are so proud that Mela has grown to become one of the city’s signature cultural events promoting Belfast as an open, inclusive and welcoming place to live and do business. It has never been more important that we embrace the individuality and cultural heritage of each citizen and find strength in our diversity.”
Current Friends of Belfast Mela include: Sensata Technologies; AllState, Belfast Harbour, Belfast International Airport, Business Eye, Co-ownership, Danske Bank, Department of Finance & Personnel, Department of Justice, Equality Commission, First Trust, Hannon Travel, Olenick, Phoenix Energy, Pinsent Masons LLP and U105. To show support for cultural diversity in Northern Ireland and assist the valuable work carried out by ArtsEkta go to http://www.belfastmela.org.uk/friends-of-mela
Caption: Friends of Belfast Mela gathered in Botanic Gardens to launch ArtsEkta's new diversity initiative. Pictured (L to R - back row) are Gillian Orr, Phoenix Energy; Claire McBride, Olenick; Caroline van der Feltz, Danske Bank; Mexican dancer Mayte Segura; John Boyd, Hannon Travel; Kelly Clifford, First Trust and Ciara Smyth, Belfast Harbour with Nisha Tandon, ArtsEkta and Annapurna Nallaka, AllState seated on the 'Friends' sofa.