Blog

From the moment you stepped into the lobby of our flagship location on Tuesday, November 18, you could sense that something special was happening. By 11:55AM, the atmosphere was filled with a rich tapestry of aromas - cardamom, garlic, ginger, and cumin - floating through the air, inviting smiles and pauses of delight. Laughter was heard from table to table, while music wove its way through various languages and rhythms, occasionally punctuated by enthusiastic calls inviting friends to try a new dish.

The space was adorned with strings of flag bunting, each representing different parts of the world, creating a vibrant metaphor for our collective identity. Bright embroidery and traditional attire added to the visual feast, transforming the room into a celebration of color and spirit. This was LabCentral’s annual Cultural Celebration, an event that unites residents, alumni, partners, and staff for more than just a food tour or casual gathering. It’s a moment when our ecosystem pauses to acknowledge that our differences not only define who we are but also serve as the foundation for innovation.

The celebration pays tribute to the rich diversity of backgrounds that characterize the LabCentral community and the unique experiences that shape our lives. When we share culture, we share stories, and in remembering those stories, we strengthen the innovation that emerges from collaboration.

This year’s Cultural Celebration took place on a crisp fall afternoon. Residents, alumni, partners, and staff came together to create tasting tables, each offering a piece of their culture, be it a cherished dish, a family recipe, or a story passed down through generations. Over 20 cultural tables filled the room, each a window into someone’s history.

The spread included everything from spicy stews to delicate pastries, homemade desserts, and beloved comfort foods. From a homemade Flemish stew, to homemade dosas and Goan chicken curry (Suma mentioned she had been up since 4AM prepping!), a refreshing Iranian drink made from saffron, mint, and lemon, which had the whole room talking, to fresh Norwegian waffles being pressed at the table!

Tables displayed artifacts, textiles, and traditional items that ignited discussions and storytelling. As we supported one another, we also celebrated and uplifted diverse, local businesses that enrich our broader community every day of the year. Everyone involved recognized the talent and creativity present in our own backyard, evident through every table, flavor, and narrative shared.

Interactive moments were just as significant. A line formed early and extended into the afternoon, as the soft, earthy tones of an Andean pan flute mingled with the lively notes of “La Bamba,” performed by wonderful Alfredo from Inca Sons. Some attendees captured the moment on their phones, while others stood and absorbed the beauty of the experience. One resident expressed the event's significance:

“It reminds me that even though we’ve all been focused on science, we’re still whole human beings. I never feel like I have to leave pieces of myself at the door in this place.”

This sentiment resonated throughout the celebration. Yes, the food was exceptional, and yes, the music was joyous. But what stood out most was the profound sense of belonging, the warmth of the environment, and the pride everyone took in sharing their unique stories.

So, why does this matter? To me it’s simple - culture is not an accessory at LabCentral; it is fundamental. Innovation does not arise from a single mindset. It flourishes when diverse perspectives converge, when personal lives intersect with differences, and when individuals feel safe enough to bring their whole selves to the table. This celebration embodies that belief. Each cultural display in the room reflects the range of ideas upon which scientific discovery is built. Just as a shared meal can spark a new conversation, intercultural collaboration often leads to fresh ideas, new partnerships, and groundbreaking discoveries.

Curiosity fuels science, and culture invites curiosity. Together, they form a dynamic force that challenges our community to rethink norms and seek solutions for a better world. Now, five years in, this celebration continues to grow in significance as our community evolves. While it is one of the year’s most anticipated events, its impact extends beyond a single afternoon. We hope that residents feel inspired to keep sharing their cultures over coffee in the kitchen, at team lunches, during holidays, or through future gatherings. It is a vital thread in the fabric of the LabCentral community. Every conversation, every connection, and every small moment we share builds our collective energy around innovation.

LabCentral has always been a microcosm of global innovation, an array of cultures woven into one community. This year’s celebration reminded us that honoring the people in science elevates science itself. Here’s to more connections, more discoveries, and more moments that bring us closer together, one culture at a time.