Phoenix Energy is demonstrating its support for promoting cultural diversity across Northern Ireland once again as a Friend of the Belfast Mela.
The 15th Belfast Mela, sponsored by Senasta Technologies, returns to the city with a fresh look and a week long programme of world music, dance, food, theatre and arts events starting on Monday 23rd August and running until Sunday 29th August 2021.
Highlights of this year’s Belfast Mela include a spectacular free ‘Mini Mela’ celebration on Saturday 28th August from 11am – 5pm across the city centre. UTV’s Paul Reilly and U105’s Carolyn Stewart will host a spectacular line up of world music, dance and food live from Writer’s Square, while Cathedral Gardens will also be transformed into Culture Land, a journey around the world for young children. There will also be a World of Wellbeing at St Anne’s Square with free wellness activities throughout the day and St George’s Market will host pop up taste experiences including a fiery curry eating competition.
Nisha Tandon, OBE, Founder of Belfast Mela and Director of ArtsEkta said: “This year’s Mela will see a brand new format created especially to respond to the ongoing challenges of the Covid 19 pandemic. We have extended the festival over a full week providing opportunities for everyone across the city to take part and celebrate the magic of Mela in a safe and enjoyable way.
“Mela will continue to reflect the vibrant, enriched, intercultural and ambitious city Belfast is growing to become and unite all communities to feel a sense of identity, belonging and pride. “
Commenting on the continued partnership with Mela, Jonathan Martindale, Director of Business Development at Phoenix Energy said: “The Belfast Mela celebrates cultural diversity, expression and inclusion, reflecting the vibrancy of our increasingly diverse society.
“As an inclusive employer and business, Phoenix Energy is delighted to be a Friend of Mela and we look forward to being part of a fantastic week of cultural celebration, where Belfast takes the world to its heart.”
Full details of this year’s Belfast Mela programme is available at: www.belfastmela.org.uk