As the fall semester unfolds, the members of the Wofford Asian and Pacific Islander Club —better known around campus as WAAPI—are already busy planning one of their biggest events of the year: Diwali, the festival of lights. For the members of this club, this event isn’t just a celebration, it’s a statement about visibility, connection and pride.
“The purpose of WAAPI is to educate the college about Asian culture– not just the popular ones, but the lesser-known ones as well,” Dilasha Bhatta ‘27 said.
The Asian population on campus is a smaller one, with people from a variety of different countries around the world. This includes cultures that some may not be known about, and students are eager to share their own traditions. This club provides a vital space for minority students.
“As someone from a small country, sometimes it feels like your identity is almost disregarded because it’s being shadowed by the more well-known one,” Bhatta said.
Bhatta is from Nepal, and another club member is from Pakistan. The members of this club come together often to celebrate each other and their individual customs as a community. To them, this organization is a very special part of their college experience; it makes them feel seen.
“I like how we have a place for all of us here on campus,” Bhatta said.
During October, they are celebrating Filipino Heritage Month, one of several events that will occur throughout the school year. Their biggest event of the fall semester, Diwali, will occur on Oct. 22. The event at Wofford will feature henna tattoos, food, a Rangoli station (sand art), and a photo booth where students can capture the joy of the evening.
Filipino Heritage Month is observed every October in the United States. By celebrating, the club is expanding its horizons past the more well-known cultures and traditions in Asia. In past years, the club has tended to focus on bigger cultures, and celebrating Filipino culture and traditions is a meaningful way to include more voices.
“My favorite part about Filipino culture is the food. I have a friend who is Filipina and her mom makes the best food,” Bhatta said.
Food in Filipino culture includes chicken adobo, lumpia, and more foods with a variety of savory flavors. These foods are known for their comforting warmth.
Diwali is a festival of lights celebrated in South Asia, specifically in regions that follow Hindu culture. This event symbolizes light over darkness and good over evil.
“The turnout was great last year, and this year we want to make it more interactive for everyone,” Bhatta said.
For many students at Wofford, Diwali is not just an event. It is a celebration and a reminder of family and tradition.
The fun does not end after Diwali. On Nov. 5, the club will have their cooking night. They are planning to coordinate with the Arabic department and Dr. Bastani from the physics department. The cuisine of the night will feature homemade Iranian food. Food has become a key staple in this club because it brings people from a variety of different backgrounds together through something that everyone can enjoy.
“We are all very excited about the upcoming events,” Bhatta said.
Anyone can join Wofford’s Asian and Pacific Islanders Club to learn more about different cultures and have new experiences. For many, this is a home away from home in a place that can be unfamiliar. This organization fosters a sense of belonging, community and inclusion.
“We want everyone to come, have fun, and feel welcome,” Bhatta said.
WAAPI’s presence on campus has grown and is continuing to grow, bringing a light to campus and a positive impact on everyone.
