Every year, we look forward to Unifiesta, the UAntwerp staff party. This year’s edition – the seventh one – didn’t disappoint. With more than 1800 enthusiastic employees, it was a lively party full of music, socialising and tradition — a true celebration of who we are as a university: connected, open and full of energy.
Rocking and dancing the night away
The atmosphere was great from the very first notes. Het Rockend Geprofte brought a generous helping of musical energy. Anyone who was there will agree: they raised the roof. One of the absolute highlights? The rector himself, who not only celebrated his birthday but also performed an impressive version of Vive ma liberté – a powerful ode to the academic freedom that we stand for as a university.
Lise & De Ronny’s also proved they have a place on stage. It was their first time performing at Unifiësta, but their set of recognisable covers went down a treat. Later in the evening, DJ Captain Thunderlipz took over. He made sure that no one was left standing still.
Friendship and tradition
Anyone who thinks that Unifiesta is just about music and fun is mistaken. For some staff members, it’s also the perfect opportunity to expand their collection of Unifiesta merchandise. Ceder, a PhD student and massive fan of the event, talks about his growing collection with a sparkle in his eye.
‘My Unifiesta merchandise collection started two years ago with a cap I won for cycling on rollers. Since then, it‘s become a competition amongst colleagues: who will score the most new items? This year, I was able to add a magnetic pin and a big foam hand. I can’t wait for next year’s items!’
For Ceder, Unifiesta isn’t just a party, but also an opportunity to get to know people from other campuses and services better. It’s a shared moment of relaxation that leads to new contacts and stories. ‘And the food,’ he adds, ‘is fantastic every year!’
More than just a party
Unifiesta is living proof of the power of connection within our university. It’s a moment when we can let go of our tasks and roles and just meet each other as people – with a drink in hand and a smile on our faces.
There were also quite a few employees who didn’t use all their drink vouchers and were happy to donate them to Students in Need, raising a total of 896 euros. Thank you to the generous donors.
And next year? We’ll be back again. With even more dance moves, even more connections, and undoubtedly new items to collect.
Already reminiscing?
Be sure to check out the photos from this past edition. Who knows, you may spot yourself.