As part of the University of Cologne’s 11th Diversity Week, CECAD hosted a heartfelt and inspiring event: the Diversity Café. Under the motto “You Make the Difference,” we came together on June 3rd to celebrate the many identities, experiences, and backgrounds that enrich our community.
The CECAD Lecture Hall was transformed into a welcoming space for reflection, learning, and meaningful connection. At the heart of the event stood our interactive poster exhibition, a living tapestry of thoughts, stories, and perspectives. These posters weren’t just displays, they invited voices, reflections, and creativity. “When I envisioned the posters,” says Tanio, “I wanted them to feel simple, playful, and inviting, while quietly echoing something deeper. The threads, patterns, and needles in the design hint at an invisible tapestry: each contribution a single stitch, small on its own, but essential to the shared fabric we create together.” From colorful emotion maps and stories of inclusion to childhood memories of science and reflections on identity beyond the lab, each contribution was a reminder of how multifaceted and vibrant our community is. And the final result was a living, growing tapestry shaped by the experiences of everyone who took part.
A special highlight came from the internationality aspect translated to flavors and culinary delicacies, where participants brought homemade cakes from all around: Italian apple cake, Portuguese pastéis de nata, German cherry streuselkuchen, and a variety of cupcakes, including vegan options - to include any dietary restriction! These delicious contributions reflected the same spirit of openness and care that made the entire event so welcoming.
Fabian, member of the organizing team, shares: “The Diversity Café was not only a great place to connect with others, but also a space for learning and meaningful exchange. One particularly insightful conversation about the situation of queer people in other countries truly broadened my perspective.” Paulo, a participant of the event also reflected: “It was easy to start conversations. The posters were a wonderful entry point to share, listen, and feel connected. Everyone brought something of themselves, and that made the space feel alive.”
We’re deeply grateful to everyone who contributed to the Diversity Café and helped create such a warm and inclusive atmosphere. Although the event is over, the posters remain on display in the CECAD foyers, and we warmly invite anyone in the community or visitors of the building, to continue the conversation by adding your voice.
Together, we are building a diverse and welcoming community. One story, one post-it, one connection at a time.
Contact persons:
Fabian Krohm
Organization team
+49 221 478 84040
fabian.krohm@uni-koeln.de
Dr. Tanio Calabrese
Organization team and design
+49 221 478 84044
g.calabrese@uni-koeln.de
Press and Communications Team:
Dr. Tanio Calabrese
+49 221 478 84044
g.calabrese@uni-koeln.de
Further information: