To see culture coming alive, unfettered by politics, religion or race, was the true gift of the Rainforest Fringe Festival. It captured dignity. Scheduled to return next year, the Festival should continue to take people – and their pride – to the next level.

Even if Pia was hurried, she would take her time to prepare the space. Always mindful of the rituals: thumb-to-forefinger, whispered invocations and warm hands to prepare the body and soul.

“I didn’t even know what basil and lemongrass looked like,” exclaims Apple Kitaphanich, aghast at her initial ignorance. “Or what to do with them.”

“Because I’m fearless, I don’t worry about not being successful. I don’t worry about not being the best. A lot of people don’t do things because they are afraid of being judged. I just want to do things.”

“Where’s the party?” A young man addressed us, his long curly hair tumbling into his eyes. His thick glasses slid low onto his nose. He could not have been older…

My grandmother was not a good cook. Her curry contained everything necessary: salt, spices, freshly ground masala and chillies. Plenty of vegetables swam in it, usually accompanied by fish. However,…