The sounds of music, the sight of colorful flags waving, and the energy of students celebrating their heritage filled Oak Lawn-Hometown Middle School on a special day dedicated to cultural appreciation.
Held on Friday, March 21, I-Fest, an annual tradition at the school, 5345 W. 99th St., brought students and staff together to honor the diversity that makes their school unique.
“The best part of I-Fest is seeing everyone come together and share their cultures,” said eighth-grader Nathan Galvan, 14, from Oak Lawn. “It’s amazing how so many students can represent so many different backgrounds at once. It really makes you feel like you belong.”
The event kicked off with a Parade of Flags, where students proudly carried banners representing their families’ countries of origin. Throughout the day, students participated in various activities, from cultural dance performances on the cafetorium stage to country presentations in class settings.
Students also played traditional games, introducing different backgrounds to one another, watched films featuring diverse stories of resilience, and even created their own fictional countries as part of an interactive project.
While staff members helped facilitate, students played a leading role in organizing and executing the event. This year, 100 students participated as presenters or performers, showcasing their cultures through storytelling, dance, and research. Seventh-grade English Language Arts teacher and I-Fest sponsor Yusra Maan served as a mentor, guiding students in their preparations.
“The students are the true leaders,” Maan said. “They take the initiative in preparing their country presentations and choreographing their dances. Their dedication is truly inspiring.”
Other faculty members played key roles in bringing the event to life. Encore teacher Mara Patriatis handled scheduling, while Spanish teacher Isabelle Ingle, a dancer herself, provided guidance to students representing Mexico.
Now in its ninth year, I-Fest was originally founded by former Oak Lawn-Hometown Middle School Spanish teacher Nuhie Faheem and current eighth-grade teacher Morgan Miller. Their vision was to create an event that allowed students to share their backgrounds and foster a sense of unity. Since its inception, I-Fest has continued to grow, with more students eagerly participating each year, Maan said.
Beyond the performances and presentations, I-Fest provided an invaluable learning experience. Students who participated as presenters and performers developed leadership skills, public speaking abilities, and confidence. Those who watched and engaged in classroom activities gained a broader understanding of the world around them.
Seventh-grader Zahaira Ventura, 13, said I-Fest provided a platform to express pride in her heritage.
“I wanted to represent my country because my culture isn’t always shown as much,” Zahaira said. “I loved using dance to express my Dominican, Cuban, and Puerto Rican pride.”
The celebration featured presentations on 24 countries, including Poland, Wales, Singapore, Albania, Egypt, Spain, Italy, Ireland, Korea, Fiji, the Philippines, Mexico, Portugal, Greece, Morocco, Honduras, Germany, Cuba, Puerto Rico, South Africa, Russia, Brazil, France, and India.
For eighth-graders Diana Rangel, 13, and Sophia Ortiz-Gomora, 14,the event was a chance to connect with their Mexican heritage through dance.
“One thing I love about I-Fest is that we get to create a dance that represents our Mexican culture,” Diana said. “Being able to do something we love while also celebrating our roots is amazing.”
Sophia could not agree more.
“We create so many great memories that will last a lifetime,” she said. “We’re all proud to celebrate where we come from with our school.”
As Oak Lawn-Hometown Middle School continues to welcome an increasingly diverse student body, I-Fest has become an even more meaningful tradition, according to school officials.
“Our school has seen an increase in diversity over the past 10 years, especially with newcomers,” Maan said. “I-Fest helps all students feel welcomed, seen, and supported. It sets the tone for an inclusive environment where we recognize and appreciate the beauty of different backgrounds.”
For students and staff alike, I-Fest will forever be a testament to the power of unity in diversity, ensuring that every student knows they truly belong.
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