DiversiTEA and Coffee Hour

The DiversiTEA and Coffee Hours celebrate cultural diversity, foster community engagement, and promote cultural exchange among I-House residents. These weekly events feature food, music, games, and trivia from different cultures, providing a platform for residents to share their heritage and learn about others in a relaxed and enjoyable setting. Each event is organized by residents, showcasing cultural traditions from around the world. DiversiTEa and Coffee Hours aim to create an enriching and enjoyable cultural exchange experience for I-House residents, fostering a vibrant and inclusive community.

Why Attend DiversiTEA and Coffee Hours?

  • Cultural Enrichment: Learn about different cultures and traditions directly from those who live them.
  • Community Building: Strengthen the sense of community within I-House and create lasting bonds with fellow residents and alumni.
  • Relaxation: Take a break from your busy schedule and enjoyt interactive and fun activities.

Event Details:

  • Every Wednesday
  • Time: 8:30 PM -9:30 PM
  • Location: Great Hall, International House, UC Berkeley
  • Open to I-House residents and alumni ONLY

Event Highlights:

Each DiversiTEa and Coffee Hour is unique, with residents or resident groups deciding how they want to celebrate and represent their cultures. Residents share stories, customs, and traditions, music, and more with fellow I-House residents and alumni 

How to Host a DiversiTEA and Coffee Hour?

Hosting a DiversiTEA and Coffee Hour is a fantastic way to share your culture with the I-House community. Whether you’re organizing it solo or with fellow residents, we're here to support you every step of the way.

Steps to Host Your Event:

Sign Up: Fill out the DiversiTEA and Coffee Hour Proposal form to select your preferred dates. Once submitted, we’ll schedule a time for you to meet with our Program Coordinator to plan your event. Plan early because the dates will fill up fast!

Plan Your Event: Think about how you want to showcase your culture. Consider including traditional snacks, music, games, trivia, or other activities that highlight your cultural heritage

Support from Resident Life and Intercultural Development Office

Our Resident Life and Intercultural Development Office is dedicated to ensuring your DiversiTEa and Coffee Hour is a success. We offer comprehensive support throughout the planning and execution of your event, including:

  • Event Planning Assistance: Program Coordinator will help you brainstorm ideas, coordinate logistics, and ensure all details are covered. 
  • Resource Provision: We can assist in sourcing supplies and decorations you may need. You’ll also have access to our existing inventory.
  • Promotion: We'll help you advertise your event to the I-House community through weekly newsletters, social media, and printed flyers.
  • Beverages: Each DiversiTEa and Coffee Hour will feature tea, coffee, and water supplied by our office, so you can focus on other aspects of your event.
  • On-Site Support: On the day of your event, our Program Leads and Marketing Leads will be available to assist with setup, manage any technical needs (such as speakers, microphones, and projectors), and ensure everything runs smoothly.
  • Cross Collaboration with edmonds Cafe: Experience themed trivia sessions at edmonds Cafe each week during happy hour, inspired by the themes of our DiversiTEA and Coffee Hour events. 

Contact us at rio@ihouseberkeley.org if you have any questions or concerns. 

Contact Resident Life and Intercultural Development Office at rio@ihouseberkeley.org

Frequently Asked Questions

What is DiversiTEA & Coffee Hour? 

A weekly community event where residents share customs and traditions from around the world. 

Why should I attend? 

This is a great opportunity to take a break, socialize with your fellow residents in a relaxed atmosphere, and to connect with your fellow residents.

When and where is it?

Every Wednesday evening from 8:30 pm - 9:30 pm. Unless otherwise stated, all events will occur in the Great Hall at I-House. 

Who is eligible to attend?

I-House Residents and alumni only. 

Is there a registration process or sign-up to attend? 

No. Just show up to the Great Hall and enjoy. 

How do I host a DiversiTEA and Coffee Hour?

Sign up to host by completing the DiversiTEA and Coffee Hour Proposal form

What kind of support does I-House offer?  

I-House will provide the following for all DiversiTea & Coffee Hours.  

  • Beverage Service: Coffee, Tea and Water  
  • Happy Hour Theme at Edmonds Café  
  • Venue: The Great Hall  
  • Marketing: Flyers, Newsletter blurb, and social media.  
  • Assistance from 3 Program Leads, and 1 Marketing Lead.  
  • Budget of $300 for sna 

Can I bring my own items or decorations for my event?  

Yes! Feel free to include your items to enhance your event. 

Is there a cost to host?  

I-House will provide a budget of $300 for the event.   

Can I collaborate with other residents?

Of course! Adding a team of residents to your team is recommended.  

How do I make my event a success?

Plan early, utilize the support offered and promote, promote, promote.

Are there opportunities for performances or activities?  

Yes! The host has full creative direction for the program. We encourage interactive activities, and our staff will work to facilitate what's possible. 

Are there any dietary accommodations or restriction for food allergies?  

We recommend not including food at your event to avoid and issues with allergies. Also, food costs take away the majority of the budget. Only pre-packed and shelf stable items are allowed. Any food need to include allergen warnings signs, displayed clearly where its being served. 

How can I stay updated on the upcoming themes? 

There are many ways to keep updated on DiversiTEA & Coffee Hours. The I-House weekly events newsletter will contain a section for upcoming events, posters, flyers and bulletin boards throughout the house, and social media.

Who should I contact if I have questions or concerns?   

You can contact the Resident Life and Intercultural Development Office  at rio@ihouseberkeley.org , and our Programs Coordinator at giselleribeiro@ihouseberkeley.org.