The Belfast Mela, which promotes religious and cultural diversity in Northern Ireland, takes place in Botanic Gardens this Sunday (August 28). First held in 2007, the festival provides an opportunity for people from all backgrounds to share food, music, creativity and culture.
Ms Bradshaw said it was important to show the growing diversity of life in Belfast and beyond.
“Belfast is changing and for the better. One of the showcases of this is the annual Mela, which has gone from strength-to-strength over the years. It is both a way to better understand different cultures and also show how welcoming people in Belfast are.
“With the growing number of people from ethnic minority backgrounds living in Northern Ireland, it is clear we are now living in a multi-ethnic, multi-cultural society, with valuable contributions coming from all corners.
“Mela is a perfect event to explore the sights, sounds and smells of the local community and have great fun in doing so.”