The 55th UNWG International Festival and Charity Bazaar: A Cultural Extravaganza for a Cause

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On 30 November 2024, the Austria Center Vienna became a vibrant hub of cultural exchange, philanthropy, and festivity as it hosted the 55th United Nations Women’s Guild (UNWG) International Festival and Charity Bazaar. With over 40 participating countries, the event showcased the diversity of global traditions through food, performances, and artisanal goods while raising funds to support women and children in need worldwide.

A Warm Welcome to Diversity

Bazaar Chairwoman Kavita Verma and UNWG President Cathy Kieffer inaugurated the festival with a message of gratitude to the international community. The event celebrated the unity of nations in working towards a shared goal: empowering the underprivileged. Volunteers from diverse backgrounds managed stalls, logistics, and entertainment, underscoring the spirit of collaboration that defines the UNWG.

Culinary Delights and Handcrafted Treasures

Visitors were treated to an array of gastronomic delights at the restaurant stalls, ranging from the spicy curries of India to the savory empanadas of Argentina. National goods stalls offered unique items, including intricate Moroccan pottery, colorful Peruvian textiles, and delicate Vietnamese silk products.

Enchanting Performances

The entertainment program, moderated by Natasha Eggough, featured a spectacular lineup of cultural performances. Highlights included:

The Costumes of the World Parade: a visual feast of traditional attire representing the rich heritage of participating countries.
Morning Performances: Live music, dance, and martial arts, such as Indian Kathak footwork, Shaolin swordsmanship from China, and the joyous rhythms of Brazilian samba.
Afternoon Entertainment: Youth talent took center stage with captivating performances, including Bharatanatyam dances, Serbian folklore, and Paraguayan ensemble numbers.

The performances enthralled the audience and emphasized the importance of preserving and sharing cultural heritage.

Supporting a Noble Cause

The UNWG has long been committed to aiding children and women in need. Funds raised through the bazaar are allocated to various projects worldwide, ensuring access to education, healthcare, and basic amenities. The organization has raised over €6 million for charitable initiatives.

This year’s proceeds will support initiatives across Asia, Africa, and Latin America. The much-anticipated tombola draw added excitement to the day, offering attractive prizes donated by generous sponsors.

Community Spirit and Global Impact

The bazaar highlighted the UNWG’s mission of fostering understanding and unity among nations. It brought together expatriates, diplomats, and locals, creating a melting pot of cultures in the heart of Vienna.

Looking Ahead

As the day concluded, the message was clear: the UNWG Charity Bazaar is more than just an event; it’s a movement that brings hope and opportunity to those in need. Plans for next year’s festival are underway, promising an even grander celebration of global unity and compassion.

For more information on the UNWG and its charitable projects, visit UNWG Vienna

Photos: ctto Michael Petri, Sarah Jozelle Rojas

About the Author

Maria Zelda “Marizel” ROJAS is a board member of the United Nations Correspondents Association Vienna (UNCAV), the Alternate Bazaar Chairperson 2024 of the United Nations Women’s Guild (UNWG), and the 1st Vice President-Elect for the UNWG Board 2025. She is also the Chairperson of the European Network of Filipino Diaspora Austria (ENFiD-Austria), Board Member of ENFiD, President of Bikol Society Austria (BSA), Founder and former president of the Philippine Austrian Cultural and Educational Society (PACES), Adviser and Former President of the Vienna International Centre Club Filipino (VIC CF), Councillor and Liaison for the Philippines of the European Police Association (EPA) and Auditor of the Vienna International Centre Gastronomy Club (VIC GC). She is a member of the Filipina Women’s Network (FWN) and received the Most Influential Filipina Women in the WorldTM (Global FWN100™) “Behind the Scenes” award in 2019.