Grand River Friendship Society (GRFS) is proud to announce that we have received funding from the Government of Canada’s Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Program (MARP) – Events Component to present the United in Voices: Intercultural Dialogue Festival.

This exciting community event will take place on:

Saturday, July 11, 2026
Victoria Park Pavilion, Kitchener, Ontario
Free and Open to the Public

About the Festival

United in Voices is a one-day intercultural festival designed to bring people together through:

•  Live multicultural music and performances
•  Youth-led dialogue sessions
• Art and storytelling activities
• Community organization booths
• Cultural exchange and celebration

The festival aims to strengthen intercultural understanding, promote inclusion, and create meaningful opportunities for residents of all backgrounds to connect, learn, and celebrate together.

Live Performance by Duende Kings

We are delighted to welcome the internationally acclaimed music group Duende Kings, who will perform a free two-hour live concert as part of the festival.

Known for their vibrant blend of flamenco, Latin, and world music influences, Duende Kings will bring an unforgettable musical experience that reflects the spirit of cultural diversity and unity.

Our Vision

At Grand River Friendship Society, we believe that dialogue, art, and shared experiences have the power to build stronger and more inclusive communities.

United in Voices is more than a festival. It is an opportunity to:

Foster mutual understanding across cultures and faiths
Address racism and discrimination through community dialogue
Empower youth as leaders and bridge-builders
Create a stronger sense of belonging for everyone

We are excited to offer an event that we hope will become a meaningful and lasting tradition in the Waterloo Region.

Funding Acknowledgement

This project is funded by the Government of Canada through the Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Program.

The post United in Voices: Intercultural Dialogue Festival appeared first on GRFS.

At GRFS, we believe that love is best expressed through action — and today, it was felt in every welcome, every shared story, and every moment of togetherness. Love is a Verb.

The post Anatolia’s Grand Finale! appeared first on GRFS.

? Mouthwatering food
? Live performances
?‍?‍? A vibrant, welcoming community

Come celebrate the last day with us — where every flavour tells a story, and every smile is shared with love.

At GRFS, we believe that love is something you do. And today, it’s in every bite, every laugh, and every connection made. Love is a Verb.

The post Flavours Heat Up! appeared first on GRFS.

We are honoured to welcome MP Tim Louis!

The excitement continues, and we’re still welcoming everyone to join us!

? Great food
? Live music
?‍?‍? Warm community

At GRFS, we believe love is something we do — and today, it’s being shared through every flavour, every smile, and every moment of connection. Love is a Verb.

The post Anatolia Alive appeared first on GRFS.

A traditional Turkish breakfast in a warm, welcoming space filled with conversation, laughter, and cultural exchange. It was a chance for our volunteers, board members, and friends to share stories, build friendships, and introduce our foundation’s new home and ongoing community efforts.

This gathering wasn’t just about food—it was about showing up for one another. Every smile, every plate shared, and every kind word was a reflection of love in action. Because at GRFS, we believe love isn’t just something we feel—it’s something we do.

The post Karen Redman Joins Us for Breakfast appeared first on GRFS.

The evening was filled with inspiring talks, vibrant cultural dances, and delicious Turkish snacks that brought comfort, joy, and connection to everyone in the room.

We were especially honoured to be joined by Loreena McKennitt, whose presence added even more meaning to the evening. Her support and grace were deeply appreciated by all who attended.

What made the night special?

Heartfelt speeches on the impact of women supporting women

Beautiful music and cultural performances that lit up the room

A warm and welcoming community celebrating diversity and sisterhood

Moments of laughter, reflection, and shared strength

Thank you to every single person who joined us. You didn’t just attend an event—you created a memory, built community, and helped empower one another.

Because Love is a Verb—it’s not just what we feel, but what we do. Every smile, every hand held, every word of encouragement was a reflection of that love in action. And we are so proud to have shared this with you.

The post Time To Shine Event Highlights appeared first on GRFS.

What to Expect:
? Uplifting music and cultural dances
? Inspiring talks on the power of women supporting women
? Delicious Turkish snacks to enjoy

This warm and inspiring event is all about celebrating women and creating a joyful, supportive community. Don’t miss out!

Admission Fee: $10

? Register now at: https://www.zeffy.com/ticketing/time-to-shine-an-inspirational-night-for-women

Love is a Verb: This event embraces the philosophy that love is more than a feeling—it’s an action. By coming together, supporting one another, and celebrating our diverse cultures and strengths, we demonstrate that love is something we do to uplift and empower those around us.

The post Celebrate Women’s Strength Together appeared first on GRFS.

What to Expect:
? Uplifting music and cultural dances
? Inspiring talks on the power of women supporting women
? Delicious Turkish snacks to enjoy

This warm and inspiring event is all about celebrating women and creating a joyful, supportive community. Don’t miss out!

Admission Fee: $10

? Register now at: https://www.zeffy.com/ticketing/time-to-shine-an-inspirational-night-for-women

Love is a Verb: This event embraces the philosophy that love is more than a feeling—it’s an action. By coming together, supporting one another, and celebrating our diverse cultures and strengths, we demonstrate that love is something we do to uplift and empower those around us.

The post Time to Shine: Celebrate Women’s Strength Together appeared first on GRFS.