An international group of women – and a few men – gathered at the Peace Lab. in Ħal Far to unite in celebration of diversity and humanity.

The event, named Women From One World, was organised by MSF (Medecins Sans Frontières) and Peace Lab. director, Fr Dionysius Mintoff.

A Peace Lab. spokesman said the event provided an opportunity for the Somali women from the Ħal Far open centre to share their culture with women from Malta and other countries. They prepared a selection of dishes, including samosa and cous-cous. “Soon the party was in full swing. Our hands were hennaed with beautiful, intricate patterns and we were led by the Somali women to dance with them to the beat of music from their homeland. Those of us who were initially a little shy, were gently coaxed by these women as they stretched out their hands in friendship. Before long, all women were dancing together in one big circle,” one of those who attended said later.

“It was more than amazing to see the women living in Ħal Far, who face such huge difficulties, laughing and enjoying themselves. In fact, when organising the event, MSF did not impose anything on them and everything was done in accordance with the women’s suggestions and wishes,” the Peace Lab. spokesman noted.

The Prime Minister’s wife, Kate Gonzi, warmly embraced and chatted with the women, her genuine affection and openness a lesson to all, the spokesman added

The event also served to thank MSF for their work in Malta over a two-year period.