Project TALK’s ‘We are the World’ event broadens understanding and appreciation

In mid-February, about 100 Durham Tech students and employees came to Project TALK’s “We are the World” event to broaden their understanding and appreciation of each other.  

“We are the World” had students create a "Museum of Culture” by sharing items meaningful to them through clothing, food, handicrafts, or other representations of their traditions. Students immersed themselves in different cultures through interactive activities, food samples and tabletop presentations.

Parts of Africa, Europe, Asia, South America and the Middle East were represented.

“The event’s intention was to celebrate the College’s students and provide them with quality time where they could learn about each other, relax, and have fun,” said Farwa Shah, director of English for Academic Purpose and Director of Project TALK (Teamwork, Acceptance, Language, Knowledge). “It is a space where students can enjoy themselves, build connections, celebrate diversity, and engage in meaningful conversations on a wide range of topics.”

Project TALK is an extracurricular program that was started in 2016 by Paula Wilder, then director of English for Academic Purposes and Continuing Education for nonnative English speakers. The program’s mission has always been to bring together the diverse College community, both native and nonnative speakers of English, in a welcoming, non-threatening, and informal environment.  

Project TALK typically offers four to five events in the spring semester and three to four in the fall. Full-time instructors assume primary responsibility in planning and facilitating events and in engaging students. The program regularly collaborates with International Student Services, Service Learning, the Food Pantry, and the Gamers Club.

Shah said she believes that those attending “We are the World” took away from the event the joy of being celebrated and a sense of communal harmony, while simply having fun and relaxing together.  

“Students who are usually shy and rarely speak in class were dancing and being appreciated, and that feeling of accomplishment was very meaningful,” Shah said. “Some students shared their artistic talents by painting for others. The admiration they received will stay with them, as well”.

In its early years, Project TALK focused on themed discussions where students and faculty gathered to explore specific topics. Sessions included light refreshments, creating a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

“I took over the responsibility for Project TALK in fall 2019 and worked to redesign and expand the program with implementation in the spring of 2020. The program went virtual when the pandemic occurred, ensuring students could still connect, practice English and feel a sense of community,” Shah said. “We introduced several new signature events that continue to thrive today.”

Throughout spring 2021, Project TALK not only provided opportunities for connection and language practice but also offered timely information sessions. “Experts Talk: COVID-19 Vaccination” featured a guest speaker from Pfizer who discussed the science and safety of vaccines, while “Experts Talk: Emotional Well-being and Coping during COVID-19” addressed mental health, stress, and strategies for resilience during uncertain times.

In fall 2021, in-person Project TALK resumed with events such as a “Film Show,” “Poetry Hour: Voices of Compassion,” and “Experts Talk: Keep Calm — It’s the New Normal,” which focused on navigating the transition back to in-person learning and work. Health and fitness sessions with guest experts were added in 2022.  

“In 2023 and 2024, the program continued through the collaborative efforts of our full-time faculty. Project TALK remains lively and evolving,” Shah said. “The team continues to offer engaging, informative, and community-building events each semester. We sustain the original spirit of the program while adapting to the needs of Durham Tech’s students and community.”