By John Baron
Two Horsforth residents are holding a ‘vibrant celebration’ of Leeds’ languages and cultures.
Sofia Marino and Bettina Hermoso-Gómez both work for the School of Languages, Cultures and Societies at the University of Leeds and are co-founders of the Leeds City of Languages Festival.
They described the festival, taking place from November 10 to 23 November, as a vibrant celebration of the city’s languages, cultures, and communities, highlighting connections with the world. More than 80 events are planned for all kinds of audiences.
Sofia said: “We are both proud Horsforth residents, our children attend St Margaret’s School and Horsforth School. When I arrived in Horsforth 15 years ago I didn’t hear many different languages while walking along Town Street.
“Now I hear Spanish, Italian, Cantonese, Mandarin and others. We run this festival to give back to our community, to remind people of the different languages now spoken along Town Street and the important contributions people with different languages make to the community and economy of Town Street.”
Originally founded as Leeds Languages Week in 2023, the initiative has grown into a regional festival celebrating the rich diversity of languages and cultures across Yorkshire.
The festival offers free activities in schools, community spaces and at the University of Leeds, inspiring people of all ages to embrace multilingualism, explore new languages and celebrate the cultural tapestry that surrounds us.
According to the last census, there are over 170 languages spoken in Leeds. Bettina – who was born in Germany and lived in Spain before coming to England – said her multicultural background made her understand the value of speaking more than one language.
“We are no longer living in a mono-lingual country,” she added.
More than 80 events are being held as part of the languages festival and both Sofia and Bettina are keen to attract more schools and teachers to get included.
Exhibitions, workshops, talks, taster sessions, webinars and activities for young and old all feature at different venues across the city.
More details about Leeds City of Languages Festival and its events can be found here.
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