A Look Inside the International Student Organization Cultural Show
The 2023 ISO Cultural Show performers. Photo by Jonathan Asiedu ’24
The upcoming International Student Organization (ISO) Cultural Show on November 24th promises more than a night of vibrant performances. It represents a testament to Bard’s interconnected community and an act of unity amid a polarized world. From its humble beginnings in the Campus Center’s MPR to its current home on the grand stage of the Fisher Center’s Sosnoff Theater, this annual event has evolved alongside the college community, growing in scope, participation, and impact.
For Mujtaba Naqib ‘26, president of ISO, joining the organization was a personal mission to foster Bard’s multicultural landscape and offer a platform for international voices on campus. “Being a student leader in the ISO means ensuring that the voices of international students are heard,” he shares. For him, the Cultural Show is an opportunity to create a "safe space where students from diverse backgrounds can celebrate their cultures."
Farman Hossain Sayem ‘25, ISO vice president, echoes this sentiment, noting that the show is a unique space for international students to find “a second home” at Bard. Reflecting on the show’s deeper impact, he explains, “It’s about creating a home away from home for international students,” a place that emphasizes unity, curiosity, and mutual appreciation. His drive to promote inclusion and understanding inspired him to step into a leadership role within ISO, aiming to cultivate an invaluable sense of belonging, especially for those far from home.
This year’s Cultural Show will feature twelve performances, with students showcasing everything from music and dance to traditional attire. Behind the scenes, the show demands rigorous preparation. ISO leaders like Naqib and Hossain, alongside other dedicated committee members, started planning early in the semester, coordinating with Fisher Center staff, conducting auditions, and ensuring every performer’s voice is heard. As Naqib describes, “Preparation for the Cultural Show begins in late September, with auditions starting in early October. Everything from performer contracts to stage lighting for each performance is part of the process.”
Hossain highlights that this year’s show also marks a new level of inclusivity, with student representatives participating in leadership roles for the first time. “Over time, we’ve included student reps and training sessions to prepare them for leadership,” he says, adding a layer of collaboration and shared responsibility that strengthens the entire process. For ISO leaders, balancing diverse perspectives within the organization is a big part of this deeply memorable event.
At a time when social and political divisions run high, the ISO Cultural Show carries a message of resilience, solidarity, and acceptance. Naqib and Hossain both emphasize that the show is more than just a celebration, it’s a statement. “We hope the show sends a message of unity, understanding, and the importance of cultural exchange,” says Hossain. For Naqib, it is crucial that “Bard will always be a safe space where people from diverse backgrounds are welcomed and celebrated.”
Farman offers simple yet powerful advice for students who feel inspired, “Get involved, be curious, and listen. Cross-cultural engagement starts with an open mind and a willingness to learn from others.” The ISO Cultural Show exemplifies these principles, offering a tangible space where curiosity and openness lead to connection and growth.
Email [email protected] for more information and join the ISO Cultural Show on November 24th @7pm.
Post Date: 11-15-2024