Tuesday 30-01-2024 - 09:21

Christmas came alive with warmth and community spirit at Undeb Bangor as they, in collaboration with Bangor Cathedral Church, the International Student Support Office, and the University Chaplain from St Deiniol’s, hosted a special community Christmas meal. This event was designed to provide a festive celebration free of charge for international students who remained in Bangor over the holiday season.

Nida Ambreen, Vice President for Education at Undeb Bangor and an international student herself, organised this festive occasion. Nida shared her enthusiasm, stating, “Leading this heartwarming gathering of around 100 students on Christmas day was truly an honour. The collaborative efforts with Undeb Bangor, Bangor Cathedral Church, and the International Student Support Office created a festive and inclusive atmosphere, providing much-needed support to those away from home. A big thank you to everyone involved for making this celebration a success. It truly showcases the strength of our community bonds.”

The event, held at Undeb Bangor’s Activities Hub, offered attendees not only a delicious free meal but also gifts, entertainment, and a warm, safe space. Most importantly, it provided a sense of community and companionship on a day that can often be lonely for students away from their families.
Over 95 students attended the Christmas meal, transforming Undeb Bangor’s Activities Hub into a lively and festive space. The event even received a special visit from Saint Nick himself, adding an extra touch of holiday magic.

Lauren Beckett, Director of the Students’ Union, expressed the significance of the event, saying, “It’s the first time as a Students’ Union we have offered an event on Christmas Day, but we are always striving to provide an accessible and inclusive programme of events, and it was important to us that students who were in Bangor over the Christmas period had the opportunity to celebrate and get together with other students.”

Lauren extended her gratitude, saying, “I want to offer thanks to all the people involved in helping us to make this happen, and sincerely hope that all the students who attended on the day enjoyed the event. We loved being just a small piece of their Christmas Day and hope that the success of this event will lead to similar things in the future.”