Women from diverse cultural backgrounds came together in Schaffhausen, Switzerland, on August 29 for “Peace of Cake: Taste of Peace—Women Connect Cultures,” an event hosted by the International Women’s Peace Group (IWPG) Switzerland Branch.

The gathering aimed to create a welcoming space where refugee and migrant-background women and local residents could learn about one another’s cultures and traditions, share experiences, and build connections through conversation and food.

A total of 15 people took part, including four IWPG staff members and 11 participants from different backgrounds. The program introduced IWPG’s vision and its approach to peace, followed by role-play activities that invited participants to explore the values and traditions important in different cultures.

Food also played a central role in the gathering. Participants sampled cultural dishes and shared the stories and experiences behind them, creating opportunities to discover common ground while learning about their differences. Many stayed longer than expected, continuing their conversations after the planned activities.

For Natalia Khozbai, it was her first time attending an event of this kind. She said the atmosphere was warm and welcoming and that she greatly enjoyed the experience.

Shna Ahmed said the gathering helped participants better understand different cultures through exchanging experiences and perspectives. Nura Salem particularly enjoyed the role-play activity, explaining that it helped her understand other cultures and that she would like to attend again.

Soraya Rashidi expressed a desire to take a more active role in peace activities in Schaffhausen. She also spoke of her hope that women in her home country would have the opportunity to raise their voices and share their stories.

IWPG members Razaw Ibrahim and Moinaecha Moindije also helped organize and host the event. Four new members joined IWPG following the gathering.

The event offered women from different cultural backgrounds an opportunity to meet in a comfortable and welcoming environment, share their experiences, and develop new connections. Through food and conversation, the gathering opened a space for greater cultural understanding and further exchange among women in the local community.