Ridge Hill in Stalybridge was transformed into a vibrant hub of culture, connection, and community as The Power of Resilience CIC hosted its first ‘Day of Culture’.
The community cultural celebration event was held at the Big Local, 4 and 6 Ambleside, and saw a wonderful turnout, with people from all walks of life, spanning newborns to neighbours in their 90s, coming together to celebrate diversity and unity through food, music, and the arts.
The event, supported by key partners including Tameside Council Community Safety, Royal Exchange Theatre, Ridge Hill Local, Ingeus, Diversity Matters, The Shimmy Shakers and Instep, truly embodied the spirit of inclusivity.
The Power of Resilience’s Julie Mallinson said: “It was a day of shared experiences and impactful moments.”
Local food demonstrators cooked food grown in the community wellbeing garden and allotments, enabling attendees to sample cuisine from around the world.
Everyone enjoyed traditional dishes, from rich Italian Cacciatora, Romanian mushroom and potato stew, Syrian Kunafa with cream and Indian dahl, chickpea and rice.
Families, friends, and strangers sat side by side for a shared meal, fostering conversations and connections that extended beyond the events.
There were opportunities to engage in interactive arts and performances, and form meaningful connections that bridged generations and backgrounds with the Royal Exchange Theatre Arts Department involving audiences with interactive performances, encouraging creative expression and dialogue.
The community also engaged in conversations about hate crime and shared their experiences and the importance of reporting crimes.
The Day of Culture served as a powerful statement against hatred and division, bringing communities together and raising awareness within the area.
This included promoting key messages on what hate crime is and how to report a crime, explaining the police take hate crime seriously and will listen to and support victims.
The day was funded through a small community grant via GMCA grant for Greater Manchester Hate Crime Awareness Week 2025.
You can find out more information at the Let’s End Hate Crime website. You can also contact GMP 101 (non emergency) or 999 (Emergency) to report hate or report on-line at report-it.com
In contrast, and highlighting the diverse nature of the day, belly dancing group The Shimmy Shakers concluded a joy-filled event bringing movement and energy to the proceedings.
“Through the universal languages of food, art, and shared experiences, the event proved that diversity is not just something to be acknowledged, but actively celebrated,” said Julie.
“The turnout and engagement demonstrated the community’s commitment to inclusivity, resilience, and mutual respect.
“It showcased the strength of community collaboration and the importance of cultural celebration in breaking down barriers.”
Julie added: “The response has been overwhelmingly positive, with many attendees already looking forward to the next opportunity to come together in the same spirit.
“A huge thank you to our partners, volunteers, and everyone who made this day such an incredible success. Ridge Hill proved that when a community comes together, resilience, joy, and understanding flourish.”
For more information about The Power of Resilience CIC and their future events visit www.facebook.com/ResiliencywithGod/ or www.thepowerofresilience.co.uk
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