A group of people are seated around a long table, sharing a meal in what appears to be a cafeteria or dining hall. The table is filled with plates of food, cups, and personal items such as bags. The background shows more people and seating areas. This image captures the communal aspect of dining and the diversity of the attendees' attire. The gathering is specifically for an Eid celebration, highlighting the festive and inclusive atmosphere.

Dr Perpetual Eze-Idehen: UoM Parents and Carers Network Hosts – Building Community Through Celebration, Connection & Well-being

by EDI Blog | 12 May 2025 | Religion and Belief, Staff Networks, Wellbeing | 0 comments

Eid Celebration: A Joyous Gathering of Culture and Community

On Friday, 4th April 2025, Tthe University of Manchester’s Parents, Carers and Guardians Network hosted a vibrant and heart-warming Eid Celebration at the Nancy Rothwell Building. The event brought together families, students, and staff colleagues across the university to celebrate the spirit of Eid in a joyful atmosphere of togetherness and cultural appreciation.

A collage of images showing a community gathering. People are seated at tables enjoying food and drinks, while others are standing and serving themselves from a buffet. Children are seen playing and participating in activities, including a child dressed in traditional attire performing or dancing. The setting appears to be indoors with decorations such as balloons visible in the background.

With families dressed in beautiful traditional attire, children buzzing with excitement, and a rich programme of activities, the space was filled with warmth, colour, and laughter. Attendees enjoyed a wide array of activities including cake decorating, bead making, origami workshops, and Eid storytelling, each engaging children in hands-on learning that deepened their understanding of the festival’s meaning.

A dedicated play area created a welcoming space for little ones to relax, while a popular henna stand added a traditional touch enjoyed by all. The celebration continued with games for all ages and a delicious halal meal lovingly shared amongst attendees. The event welcomed a truly diverse mix of guests from undergraduate students to academics, professional services, and technical colleagues highlighting the University’s commitment to inclusion, cultural awareness, and family-friendly engagement.

The celebration extended beyond campus on 9th April, when the Network partnered with the Manchester Museum to bring a public-facing Eid family celebration to the wider community. With origami and storytelling sessions at the heart of the activities, the event fused creativity, culture, and community proving once again that shared experiences can strengthen our bonds and celebrate our collective diversity.

Basketball for Fun: Family Well-being Through Sport

As part of the Easter Holiday Activities, the Network also partnered with Champions Basketball Club to promote family well-being through physical activity. Held at Moss Side Millennium Powerhouse, the event invited children and their parents/carers for a session of light-hearted, high-energy basketball.

The image shows a collage of several photos taken during a basketball game in an indoor gymnasium. The players, who appear to be children, are wearing yellow and red jerseys. Some players are seen dribbling the ball, while others are attempting to shoot or pass. The background includes basketball hoops, gym walls with various posters and logos, and other sports equipment.

Children played with excitement while parents cheered them on and then swapped roles for their own fun-filled session, encouraged by their young ones from the sidelines. This initiative was more than just sport; it was a powerful demonstration that well-being is a shared family journey. With laughter, encouragement, and movement, the event supported our collective goal of building a more connected, active, and inclusive university community.

Lunch & Connect: Sharing Stories, Strengthening Support

On 8th May, the Network hosted another successful Lunch & Connect session. It was a joy to see new faces join the conversation, with colleagues sharing stories, ideas, and support in a warm, informal environment. These peer-led sessions continue to be a valuable space for mutual encouragement and shared learning.

Looking ahead, our next Lunch & Connect will take place on Tuesday, 9th July, from 12:00–14:00 at Nancy Rothwell 3A.057. The focus of the discussion will be:

“Are you a parent/carer of a neurodiverse child?”
Led by Martin Simmons and Matthew Foulkes

We’d like to invite you to come along, bring your lunch, and join an honest, supportive conversation with colleagues who share similar experiences. This session will offer space to explore how we might better support each other, advocate for our children, and improve services across the university.

Together, through celebration, movement, and meaningful conversation, the UoM Parents, Carers & Guardians Network continues to champion inclusion, well-being, and community across our university.

Join the UoM Parents, Carers & Guardians Network to stay engaged with our community, access resources, and receive updates on upcoming events.