How I Organized an Event With Almost All Bengali Students From Across Russia

Organizing a cultural event is never only about schedules and planning. It's about people, emotions, memories, and the feeling of belonging that grows quietly in a room full of strangers. On November 15, I experienced this feeling in its most powerful form at the event that I organized myself. CrossCulture — Bangladesh Edition brought together Bengali students from across Russia and it still lives in my mind. Today, I am sharing the story behind the event.

Photo courtesy of the author

What happened was far beyond anything I expected. Students from seven cities and 21 universities across Russia travelled to St. Petersburg to be part of the program. More than one hundred and sixty people filled the hall until there was barely any empty seat left. And the most beautiful part was that the event was not limited to Bangladeshis. Students from other countries joined too and their presence created a colorful energy that shaped the entire evening.

This event was made possible by the support of ITMO University’s International Office and the collaboration with the Buddy System club. Their involvement helped us create an environment that felt professional and warm at the same time. The Buddy System club members worked closely with us, helped arrange logistics and made sure the hall welcomed students from both Bangladesh and other countries with equal warmth.

The honorable guests added pride and inspiration to the night. We had the privilege of hosting Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Computer Engineering and Computer Systems Nina Rushchenko, Head of the Russian Language Office Natalia Kondrashova, lecturers Oksana Kolegova, Svetlana Dorofeeva and Natalia Obukhova, along with Aleksandra Zavalina from the International Admission Office and Yuta Vasilyeva from the International Students Learning and Support Center. Their attendance showed that the university genuinely values cultural diversity and student initiatives.

From the first day of planning, the journey was filled with excitement, nervousness, teamwork, and countless messages exchanged among volunteers. Even though I took most of the responsibility, it never felt like a one-person mission. Friends supported me, especially Asiful Islam, Arafat Rahman Jibon, Afifur Rahman, while performers dedicated time to practice, volunteers worked late hours, and the hosts rehearsed again and again. Each person contributed something special. The program was beautifully carried by our two hosts, Asif and Rubaiyat, who managed the entire evening with calmness, soft humor, and gentle transitions.

I began the evening with a short speech from the heart because I wanted every person in the hall to feel comfortable, seen, and appreciated. The lights were warm, the environment felt cozy, and soft Bangla music played in the background. This created an atmosphere that felt like home.

The presentation session came next. Afifur Rahman took the audience on a short journey across Bangladesh. The visuals displayed our festivals, history, foods, traditional clothing, beautiful landmarks, and the natural wonders that define our country. The Bengali students watched with nostalgia, while foreign students watched with curiosity and interest. Many later said the presentation made them feel like they had travelled to Bangladesh for a moment. This reaction meant a lot because that was ourpurpose.

The energy shifted quickly when we moved to the Cross Culture Quiz Competition. This segment brought friendly competition and excitement into the room. With seven main questions and a bonus one, the hall became lively as people raised hands, shouted guesses and laughed together. Small prizes made the moment even more rewarding. The best part was that both Bangladeshi students and those from other countries participated equally. This created a fun spirit of learning and bonding.

After the quiz, came fun games. This part brought the whole room to life. The games were light, engaging and full of cheerful energy. Everyone took part because the atmosphere encouraged participation. People seemed to have forgotten their stress and simply enjoyed the moment. This was one of the most heartwarming parts of the program.

Next, came the cultural performances. This was the soul of the event, as they carried emotion, pride and a deep sense of belonging. Rubaiyat E Meghdut and Asiful Islam performed several songs that brought warmth and softness to the hall. Then, Ramia Fazia Mim sang another song and delivered a graceful dance performance. Next came a performance by a band from Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University that made the audience cheer loudly. Finally, Shamin Yasir Ovi and Noman Brother recited poems. Each performance was personal and heartfelt. Together, they created a cultural sequence that represented the diversity and richness of Bangladesh.

Meanwhile, our photographers Afif and Papel captured every single moment with dedication. Their work became the visual memory of the night. Afif even made a Telegram bot so that people can easily get their pictures.

During the break, our guests explored the souvenir and clothing stalls and photo zone. The photo corner quickly became one of the busiest spots of the evening. Groups of friends posed together, teachers took pictures with students, and international participants captured their first Bangladeshi cultural experience.

Dinner was served next, and it became an unforgettable part of the event. The menu included Khichuri, Jorda, Semai, Fuchka, Halee, and Tea. The aroma filled the room and drew everyone toward the tables. Many international students tasted Bengali dishes for the first time and their enthusiasm was delightful, some of them even refilled their plates. The Bengalis felt a deep comfort because the food reminded them of home. The meal created a warm moment where cultures mixed while eating at the same table.

After dinner, winners of the quiz and games received their prizes amid applause. Volunteers were also recognized for their hard work, especially Oludotun Fawole from Nigeria, who made every single flyer for our program. These acknowledgements added warmth to the evening and made people feel appreciated.

Near the end, Asif Hossain from Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University delivered a short but meaningful speech. He spoke about unity, collaboration, and student friendship. Then he presented souvenirs from his university to ITMO University as a sign of respect and connection. This gesture added a touching finish to the program.

The night ended with a final group photo. As I looked at the huge crowd, I felt deeply emotional. Organizing this event required patience, long nights, stress, and constant decisions. But at that moment, seeing students from different cities, cultures and backgrounds standing together, I realized that every effort was worth it. I felt grateful, proud and peaceful. This event became more than a cultural night. It became a symbol of unity, diversity, and the power of community. It brought people together, created memories and strengthened friendships. For me, it will always remain one of the most meaningful and unforgettable experiences of my life in Russia.