The Mayor of Guildford’s Diversity Show Is a Triumph

Published on: 16 Apr, 2025
Updated on: 17 Apr, 2025

The Mayor of Guildford (right) with Meeta Joshi promoting the Diversity Show

An audience of nearly 200 people attended The Mayor of Guildford’s celebration of inclusion and diversity. The Diversity Show, held at Holy Trinity Church in Guildford, highlighted the richness of cultures, talents and voices in our community.

Nineteen exceptional performers and groups, from different cultures, took the audience on a rollercoaster journey of emotions. The performances showed when people from different backgrounds come together in an environment where they feel valued and heard, we create opportunities for everyone to thrive.

The Mayor of Guildford, Cllr Sallie Barker MBE, in her welcome speech paid tribute to last year’s Mayor, Cllr Masuk Miah, who had the original idea for organising the show:

“This event brings to life Guildford Borough Council’s corporate strategy and one of the key priorities within it – for Guildford to become a more inclusive borough. One where we share a vision of a community where everyone belongs and can thrive, and in which we create an environment where every resident feels valued, respected, and heard.”

She went on to say: “I hope this show will be a living testament as to what we can achieve when we celebrate our differences, rather than allow them to divide us, and it will be a powerful reminder of how diversity enriches us all.”

There were various acts at the show.

A shadow puppet performance, set to original music and song by young asylum seekers, was particularly moving and received a standing ovation. Surrey Arts and Big Leaf Foundation had spent the day working on the project, called Music Connects. This brings young unaccompanied asylum seekers together with the community.

Surrey Arts, Inclusion Manager, Jim Pinchen, said: “It’s been really joyful to work with the young people today, breaking down barriers through the medium of music and art.”

Kayte, The Programme Manager at Big Leaf Foundation, added: “The courage of these young people in sharing their story so honestly and with such craft, was truly rewarded in the compassion, acknowledgement and warmth that was shown to them on the night.”

Big Leaf Foundation will receive around £4,000 raised by the show.

The evening was supported by The Rotary Clubs of Guildford Wey & Chantries and Guildford Inner Wheel.

Guildford Borough Council is committed to creating an inclusive borough and an environment where everyone has a voice. Sentiments echoed by MC, Nick Wyschna, as he closed the evening, saying: “Let’s continue to champion diversity and make a meaningful impact together!”