SolBridge International School of Business celebrated its annual Culture Day on October 15, 2026, bringing together 17 countries through performances that showcased their unique cultures, traditions, and histories under the theme “History Frozen in Time.” Beyond celebrating cultural diversity, the event reflected the values of SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities and SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions, promoting mutual understanding, inclusion, and respect across cultures. But behind the performances was a journey of teamwork, dedication, and unforgettable moments. Let’s look back at Culture Day 2026 through the perspective of Viktoria Petrova, a third-year BBA student from Bulgaria and current President of the 18th SolBridge Student Council.

A PERSONAL REFLECTION BY VIKTORIA PETROVA

Having been part of three Culture Days since joining SolBridge, I can confidently say that each one has been unique. Yet, Culture Day 2026 holds a particularly special place in my heart. As President of the 18th Student Council, I had the opportunity to help organize this large-scale event, making the experience both challenging and unforgettable.

This year’s theme was “History Frozen in Time,” and seeing how all the different countries and performers portrayed this theme through their own lens is what made it so special.

But before we got to the actual event itself, there was a long way to go that not a lot of people are talking about. To get to the smooth execution of the event, all the teams had to practice and master their performances day and night, after their classes and during their weekends, sacrificing their free time and showing up even though it might have been difficult and exhausting. As the President of the Student Council, I was walking around, visiting the teams during their practices. As I observed them, I came to realise that even though people were tired, they had a mission bigger than themselves. It was about showing their culture, their beliefs, and everything that makes them who they are today. They were doing it together as a team because they are stronger that way, despite any misunderstandings that might have occurred within their teams.

Another thing that people seem to miss while watching the performances is how difficult it is to handle so many people within one country’s team, as well as all the people combined. I came to realise that myself when I decided to participate as a performer for Team Bulgaria, and not only as an organiser. I saw how difficult it was to manage the schedule of only three people, and I couldn’t imagine how difficult it must have been for other country representatives whose teams had more than 20 people.

When it comes to the Student Council’s perspective, I would say it was a bit overwhelming and, of course, very stressful to handle so many people, manage schedules, and make sure everyone arrived on time so all the rehearsals could run smoothly. Of course, I want to give huge credit to my team Masha, Bryan, Artyom, Audrey, Jeein, Yera, Hanna, and Navi; for going above and beyond; to the associates for all their support and for staying at school late; to the country representatives for being so dedicated and understanding; and, of course, to the administration for its unconditional support.

On the big day itself, I was looking at all the participants getting ready, and I felt so proud of them for showing up and giving their all. Before the event began, I saw the members of the Student Council and how nervous and excited everyone was. It was one of those little, precious moments that show us we can go way beyond ourselves.

During the event, while all the teams were performing, I could see the crowd on their feet, jumping, singing, and dancing along with the performers on stage, and how genuinely supportive they were. I saw what it means to celebrate diversity and be proud of who you are, of your roots, and of your identity.

It was also wonderful to welcome students from Woosong University’s Kazakhstan campus (WSUK), who travelled to Korea to attend Culture Day and share a performance of their own. Having students from another Woosong campus join us made the celebration feel even more connected, creating another opportunity to meet one another, exchange experiences, and celebrate the diversity that brings our wider university community together.

After the show and all the group pictures, it felt very bittersweet, not only for me but for many of the other participants as well. I saw happy tears in many people’s eyes because they had done it, and they had done it well.

Culture Day is not simply about performances, costumes, or traditions. It is about the connections we build, the understanding we develop, and the respect we learn to show one another. It reminds us that although we come from different countries and backgrounds, we can still find common ground and become part of something greater than ourselves.

At SolBridge, our differences are not what separate us; they are what make our community richer. Every culture brings a new perspective, every student contributes a unique story, and every shared experience helps strengthen the bonds between us.

I will always remember October 15, 2026, not only as the day of Culture Day, but as a reminder of what we can accomplish when we support one another, embrace our differences, and work toward a shared purpose.

Culture Day 2026 was more than an event. It was a celebration of our cultures, our efforts, and, above all, our SolBridge family.

Here are the highlights of Culture Day 2026: 

Full Performance video: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLDCgRnjBUsWc