Colour, culture, and connection came alive at Canterbury College’s United Nations Day, as around 2,000 students and families from 60 nations transformed the campus into Logan’s largest celebration of multiculturalism.
Canterbury College is an Anglican K–12 campus set on 33 hectares in Waterford. With 1,600 students representing 60 nationalities and 80 languages, it’s one of the most multicultural and dynamic school communities in Queensland.
Now in its fifth year, the United Nations Day event has grown from a small school assembly into a full-scale cultural festival, underscoring Logan’s status as Queensland’s most diverse city and showcasing the power of schools in building connected, compassionate communities.
The day opened with a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony from Mununjali and Logan Elders, followed by a vibrant Parade of Nations as students carried flags representing their heritage.
From Vietnamese bánh mì and Samoan dance to South Korean K-pop, the celebration offered powerful stories of family journeys, refugee experiences, and cultural pride through a vibrant program of student-led performances. A cultural fashion parade and hands-on activities like Indigenous weaving and henna art added to the rich learning.
“The event is a testament to the incredible leadership and creativity of Canterbury’s students, who plan and run the day alongside Director of Student Development Amanda von Kanel, ensuring each performance, parade, and activity reflects the rich stories and cultures within the College community,” the school said.
Logan Mayor Mr Jon Raven and Mayoress Ms Alison Raven joined the celebration, recognising the community’s deep commitment to inclusivity.
“United Nations Day is more than a festival; it’s a living reflection of who we are as a community,” said Deputy Principal Ms Meagan King. “It’s about learning from each other and growing together.”
Principal Mr Dan Walker said the event reflects the College’s mission to prepare students to be ‘world ready’.
“It’s not just a showcase of culture. It teaches empathy, leadership, and pride in identity. It’s about shaping confident, globally engaged young Australians.”
The event’s success highlights how schools can foster unity and understanding in diverse communities, while equipping students with the values and confidence to thrive in a global society.
