IFLC Sydney 2025

Sydney, 7 September 2025 — The National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) came alive on Sunday with a vibrant celebration of cultural diversity, as the International Festival of Language and Culture (IFLC) staged its Colours of the World showcase.

Now in its 23rd year, the IFLC continues to unite young talents from around the world, building bridges of understanding and friendship through music, dance, and the arts. This year’s program was presented by Amity College and the Australian Universal Federation, with the support of Affinity Intercultural Foundation and Galaxy Foundation.

Coinciding with Father’s Day in Australia, the festival carried an extra spirit of warmth and family togetherness, drawing many households to join in the festivities.

The 2025 showcase, themed The Four Seasons, brought together more than 70 remarkable young performers representing 17 nations — including Australia, Tanzania, Indonesia, Japan, Kazakhstan, and the United States. Through storytelling, dance, and song, the participants highlighted the beauty of their cultures while conveying a universal message of peace, unity, and shared humanity. In today’s challenging global climate, their performances stood as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that compassion and harmony can transcend borders and generations.

In the lead-up to the event, international students rehearsed at Amity College, connected with their Australian peers, and formed lasting friendships. They also had the opportunity to meet with Australian Human Rights Children’s Commissioner Anne Hollonds, where they performed and shared the inspirations behind their cultural expressions.

The afternoon opened with a heartfelt Aboriginal Welcome to Country, honouring the world’s oldest continuing culture. Amity College Prestons’ school captains then extended a warm welcome to the audience, setting an inclusive tone for the showcase.

Hosts Nick Rheinberger and Malika Reese guided the audience through the performances with charm and professionalism. NSW Shadow Minister for Multiculturalism Mark Coure and NSW Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper sent video tributes praising the festival’s purpose and the commitment of its youth participants, while Federal MP for Werriwa Anne Stanley attended in person to thank organisers, volunteers, and performers.

Featuring contributions from 17 countries, the program was a kaleidoscope of traditions — from Bosnian folk songs and Kurdish and Persian ballads to Broadway showpieces and beloved Australian anthems. Each performance reflected the IFLC’s ongoing mission to promote harmony and cultural exchange.

The evening closed with a rousing rendition of Universal Peace, earning a standing ovation from the audience — a powerful recognition of the young performers, educators, and organisers who made the celebration possible.

The IFLC also expressed gratitude to its hosts and partners — Amity College, the Australian Universal Federation, Affinity Intercultural Foundation, and Galaxy Foundation — whose collaboration ensured the continued success of this long-standing festival of cultural harmony.