One World Week 2009

If you happened to be in the University grounds this week, you'll be wondering what on earth is going on. I bet outsiders who are travelling in the bus into campus will definitely think a carnival is taking place. Well, its the One World Week (OWW).

OWW is an annual extravanga that showcases the pinnacle of international experience in the University. Taking place on one of the UK's most diverse campuses, it brings together students (and staff) from various backgrounds and cultural heritage to celebrate, share, discover and understand the nuances and traditions that are part of our intrinsic cultures.

It's entirely a student-run and not-for-profit event led by volunteers. There are forums, sporting events, artistic mediums, exhibitions, nightly entertainments and regional cultural showcases during the day. A treat not to be missed.

I've chosen a few. On Monday, Babe and I attended a performance by ZUM at the Arts Centre. The entrance by the violinist was a great opener. They entered one by one and suddenly there was a stunning explosion inspired by hot-blooded Argentinean tango, Hungarian salsa and the fiery brilliance of gypsy fiddle music.

All 5 brilliant musicians have delved into their roots to produce a passionate amalgamation of folk music traditions from around the world. I never knew that playing the violin, accordion, cello, double bass and piano together has the ability to create a passionate fusion of symphony and sound. It was truly a fantastic night.

I also managed to to check out the Student Union which was transformed into a souk.   If I can't  go to the Middle East, I guess I could indulge my senses here. It was hilarious to see the male students eyes glued to the pulsating hips of the belly dancers :-)

With Arabic music playing and a range of stalls, including one where you could have your name written in Arabic calligraphy, and also henna painting. But the queue was too long. I treated myself to some dates and figs and browsed Moroccan handicrafts and beautiful West African inspired silver jewellery (Not cheap!!!). I was also given a translation of the Qur'an for free. Syukran.

Outside on the Piazza, I spotted birds of prey from the West Midlands Falconry. Just couldn't resist taking a few shots. This handsome eagle kept on looking up and everytime a bird flew past, he was about to take off. His handler had a hard time calming him.

Today CC and I took part in a sushi workshop. We loved sushi and I could eat them everyday. There were 10 of us per table and the instructor made it look soo easy. We'd fun trying the different ingredients and it turned out ok. Enjoyed our fruits of labour very much. And I forgot my camera :-(

Apart from that, I had my 'ice breaking' session with SH. Its the pre-appraisal briefing before the formal meeting. Since it was quite a daunting process, my colleagues and I have decided to meet next week to discuss and exchange ideas on what to put in our forms.

I also attended my first professional meet for 2009. It was the CILIP West Midlands Members' Day at Coventry University. CC, A and I took the bus into town. We bought a sandwich at Subway (my first) and had a brisk 20 mins. walk to the Uni.

Our meeting was held at the Lanchester Library, an award winning library which created interest due to its highly energy efficient design. We also had a guided tour of the library.

It ran on a tight schedule with a full-house audience. There were representatives from all libraries, a perfect opportunity for me to network. 2 talks by the CILIP president and the Head of Libraries of Warwickshire City Council were well received and debated.

I had to rush cos I'm taking the bus home.  There was another football match at the Ricoh and I don't want to be caught in the stampede with the supporters. Unfortunately, the Cardiff City boyos thumped the Sky Blues 2:0. Oh dear...

Hundred of energy workers started the 3rd day walkout at the Lindsey Oil Refinery in North Lincolnshire to protest over the hire of workers from other EU countries. The dispute has rapidly assumed a political dimension because it appears to fly in the face of Brown's stated aim from 2007 to create "British jobs for British workers".

I didn't like the photographs of the Italian workers showing their fingers and other rude gestures. That is totally wrong. Workers at a number of other plants are also holding walkouts and demonstrations in support. And there were long queues at the garages. I hope they are not panic buying...

I'm showing my support to the Warwick Solidarity Sit-In. I've e-mailed them but have not had the time to drop in. I'm hoping to do it soon. Keep up the good work.

And while I was busy working (?), Babe sneaked to Brandon Marsh and took this lovely photo. These blue and great tits were taking turns to feed.