“We’re all Diplomats.” That was the message from Mr. Victor Hurtado, Deputy Chief of Mission/Charge D’Affaires of the UAE American Embassy, addressing hundreds of students and parents on Thursday at GEMS American Academy Khalifa City campus inaugural International Day Celebration.

Mr. Hurtado was treated to a creative cultural expose of the 42 different nationalities represented in the school, and spoke to the students about the need to work together peacefully and without judgment of people who are different. Student Ambassador, Lauren Moos described how the international classroom enriches her understanding of the world, and explained how diverse perspectives give her new ways of learning and thinking.
The final message from Elementary Principal, Belinda Holland highlighted the value of the International Baccalaureate curriculum, which stresses that there is always more than one way and that others can be right too.

The celebrations continued throughout the school day, culminating with an opportunity for the whole community to learn together, and what better way to unite people than through food? The GAA International Food Festival, organized by the GAA Parents Association, was prepared to welcome 700 family and friends. All was made possible due to strong support of parents, and help from Occidental Petroleum Corporation, Etihad, Carrefour Hypermarkets Baniyas and Abela’s Supermarket, among many other appreciated sponsors.