International Breakfast – A celebration of diversity, encounter and community

On Saturday, 07.12.2024, the Catholic parish hall in Leichlingen was transformed into a place full of joie de vivre, cultural encounters and culinary highlights. The International Breakfast of Leichlingen Hilft was a complete success – a day that touched hearts, united cultures and created unforgettable moments.
“It’s unbelievable how much cordiality can be felt here. We feel really welcome,” said a participant from Ukraine.

Variety on the plate and among the guests

With almost 100 participants from over ten countries, including Syria, Mexico, Iran, Ukraine, Turkey, Afghanistan, Poland and Italy, diversity was celebrated and lived. Everyone brought a piece of their homeland with them – be it in the form of food or stories. The buffet was a culinary highlight that impressively reflected the cultural range: From spicy Mexican dishes to traditional Iranian dishes to Syrian and Ukrainian delicacies, there was something for everyone.

“The diversity on the table shows what unites us: joy in togetherness,” says a helper from Leichlingen Hilft.

Music, dance and moving moments

The varied program provided enthusiasm and a good mood: A Mexican band brought South American rhythms, a Ukrainian singer enchanted with her voice, and a belly dancer caused amazed faces and spontaneous joy of dancing.

“The music just carried me away. I couldn’t sit still,” laughed a visitor from Iran, who spontaneously joined the dance.

A particularly emotional moment was the handing over of the gifts to the children. The shining eyes and happy faces showed how small gestures can bring about great joy. “These are moments that give us all strength and show how important our work is,” said a visibly moved volunteer.

The birthday party of one of our dedicated helpers was also duly celebrated: With a serenade, a cake and a small gift, the special occasion was honored by everyone together.

Our thanks to the supporters

A big thank you goes to our great sponsors who made this event possible:

  • Brandt butcher’s shop for high-quality meat and sausage specialities
  • Bergisch farmer’s barn for fresh and regional products
  • Abraham’s trout for the delicious fish specialties
  • Willeke bakery and confectionery for the delicious baked goods and sweet delicacies

Your contribution has been instrumental in making this day memorable for so many people.

Together for a colourful Leichlingen

The atmosphere in the room was warm and exuberant from the beginning. There was singing, dancing and laughing together. “It’s as if we are one big family – people who didn’t know each other before feel connected here,” summed up a guest from Syria.

With the record number of participants and the enthusiasm that the event has triggered, it is clear that diversity is an enrichment that brings people together and opens hearts.

We have captured the most beautiful moments of the day in our gallery.

We would like to thank all guests, helpers and supporters and are already looking forward to welcoming so many wonderful people again at upcoming events. Together we will make Leichlingen even more colorful and cordial!