Learning Activity 3.5, Task 2: What has influenced me?

We all experience culture in one way or another. Culture comes in various forms through food, entertainment, fashion, architecture, and leisure activities. These elements not only shape our daily routines but also influence how we see the world and connect with others. Whether it's enjoying a meal inspired by a distant country, watching a foreign film, wearing clothes with global roots, or spending time in a culturally inspired space, culture surrounds us and enriches our lives. Culture comes in various forms through food, entertainment, fashion, architecture, and leisure activities. Embracing these diverse experiences helps us understand different perspectives, fosters empathy, and highlights the shared humanity that connects us all. 

Through food I experience culture as I get to enjoy different types of cuisines. For example, I get to enjoy Italian cuisine when I eat pasta or pizza, Canadian cuisine when I eat poutine or maple syrup on pancakes, and Mexican food when I eat tacos or nachos. Each dish offers more than just flavor—it gives me a taste of another culture’s traditions and way of life. Through these foods, I experience a small part of the world right from my own kitchen or local restaurants, making every meal an opportunity to connect with global cultures.

Another less evident but equally significant cultural impact in my life is architecture. My city is home to a variety of architectural types, ranging from temples and community centers based on traditional Chinese and South Asian designs to futuristic glass towers influenced by Western urbanism. The way that East Asian philosophy continues to create spaces for balance and harmony is seen by the application of Feng Shui principles in the design of nearby parks and residences. Mediterranean features like arched windows and terracotta tiles are also used in my own house, quietly introducing Southern European ideas into daily life. Additionally, our unique architectural style in Canada is influenced by both European and Indigenous traditions. While contemporary buildings frequently prioritize sustainability, integrating natural materials and energy-efficient elements that mimic our strong connection to the environment, many public buildings exhibit a blend of colonial British and French architecture. Canada's architectural identity is also greatly influenced by indigenous architecture, including teepees, longhouses, and the use of natural settings in design. These many elements come together to form a landscape that reflects history, cultural fusion, and a mutual appreciation of both innovation and tradition.

In terms of entertainment, I can explore a variety of cultures as I can read or watch content from other countries. For example, I love listening to Kpop, which is Korean music, I watch British films such as Dowton Abby or The Crown, I watch Hollywood movies and I listen to music from artists across the globe. Having countless streaming platforms allows for me to experience various cultures. 

Multicultural influences are also reflected in my dress choices. For example, a big component of my daily wardrobe is streetwear, which has its roots in the United States and was greatly impacted by skateboarding and hip-hop cultures. However, I also value and occasionally don traditional designs from other cultures, like Indian block prints or African wax prints. A Paris runway may include designs influenced by West African textiles or Japanese kimonos, demonstrating the diversity of styles seen in the worldwide fashion business. This combination gives my own wardrobe a distinctive look that honors several cultural sensibilities.

Cultures all over the world also influence how I spend my leisure time. While watching soccer, a sport with rich roots in Europe and South America, connects me to a global community of aficionados, yoga, on the other hand, connects me with the ancient spiritual traditions of India. These pursuits are more than just pastimes; they serve as windows into many cultures, eras, and moral systems. I also like hockey and skating, two activities that have strong Canadian roots.

My life has been influenced by cultures from many nations and customs, creating a colorful quilt that captures the interconnectedness of the modern world. I may connect with people, histories, and values that are different from my own through food, clothes, architecture, entertainment, and leisure activities. Accepting these influences enhances my life and helps me to appreciate diversity's beauty on a deeper level. I am constantly reminded that we are all a part of a greater, common human story in a world where cross-cultural interaction is easier than ever. It's highly important to me to be cross-cultural and to promote diversity.