Hundreds of students and faculty members of American University of Antigua (AUA) College of Medicine raised over EC$10,000 at its fall Taster’s Day event, hosted by the University’s Student Government Association (SGA) at the Anglican Cathedral center.

The money will be split between Tirisa, a ten-year-old resident of the Sunshine Home for Girls, who is currently in Jamaica undergoing eye surgery and the SGA’s new charity, Helping Hearts, which will allow patients in need of cardiovascular surgery to receive treatment in Ecuador. The event was billed as ‘12 performances, two charities and one show’ and a capacity audience took a tour across the globe through dance, music, fashion, and food.

Pre-Med and medical students spent weeks perfecting their traditional dance presentations which included Classical Indian, Nigerian, Haitian, Latin Fusion, Middle Eastern, Bhangra, as well as hip-hop and gospel. Colorful costumes, energetic performances and lots of humor made this according to SGA Vice President, Karishma Patel, “the best Taster’s Day event.” She added that this event was more special because for the first time the event had been sold out.

Marcos Molina, SGA President explained that Taster’s Day is held every semester: “This event is organized, managed and created by the students and we always begin with a taste of food from around the globe, followed by cultural presentations.”

The food prepared by the students and faculty members offered a taste of India, America, Ghana, Nigeria, and the Caribbean. Prizes were given to the best dessert, side dish, and entrée.

A raffle was held with over 15 prizes, including hand made jewelry to ice cream, dinners for two at some of Antigua and Barbuda’s best restaurants, gift vouchers and the top prize, a helicopter ride over Montserrat provided by Caribbean Helicopter Tours.

The SGA thanked all the prize donors and the event’s gold and silver sponsors: Sunsail Clubs – Club Colonna, The Coast Nightclub Bar and Restaurant, The Spa, Rush Nightclub, The Lobster Shack, The Epicurean, Big Banana Holding Company, Hemingways, Johanna’s Birthday Cakes, the Beach, Delightful Bar & Restaurant, C&C Wine House, and Australian Homemade Premium Ice cream and chocolates.