A social and networking opportunity for African students in Brandon, the brainchild of a Brandon University professor, continues to thrive, with a recent picnic helping to kick off the fall academic term.
“We aim to foster meaningful connections, nurture a sense of belonging, and emphasize the importance of African cultural identity among students who are far from home” said Dr. Aloysius Anyichie, Assistant Professor in Education at BU and the founder of the project, called the Loy Excellentia Initiative.
Last month, Loy Excellentia hosted its inaugural summer picnic for African students at Stanley Park in Brandon. This picnic is just one of the social events being organized by Loy Exellentia Initiative to offer networking opportunities for African students.
“A picnic is a perfect way to promote unity, mentorship, and networking among students and community members,” Dr. Anyichie said. “It’s also an opportunity for incoming students to feel welcomed as they prepare for the Fall academic session.”
He opened the event with a land acknowledgment, an opening prayer, and warm words of welcome. Then, throughout the day, picnic-goers engaged in a variety of activities, including social networking, interactive games, and outdoor sports such as soccer, volleyball, relay races, and tug of war. Other engaging activities included scavenger hunts, a bottle-flip contest, an egg-and-spoon race, and a dance challenge. The atmosphere was lively and filled with energy as students, mentors, and volunteers connected in a relaxed and fun environment.
Many students and community members also volunteered at the picnic, he said, including different planning and organizing aspects, such as welcoming and registration, photographing, DJ, serving of food, and more.
Volunteering as part of the registration team, Uzodinma Collins Chilaka, is a second year Masters student in Geography and Environment at the Brandon University.
“I was impressed with the coordination, the warmth, and how welcoming the event was,” he said. “My experience was one of having a safe space to freely interact with people like myself, providing an opportunity to share our stories while carrying the torch of hope.”
Another student volunteer was Excel Oni, a first year Student in Maths and Computer Science at BU, who volunteered as a videographer for the event because of his personal interest in creating memories.
“Because I love making videos and I love making memories … videography is kinda my thing,” he said. “I met a few people from different countries in Africa and it was so fun.”
Community volunteers also welcomed the opportunity to meet and get to know students.
“It was inspiring to see students having fun while mentors provided guidance and motivation,” said Sixtus Emedosi, who helped organize the picnic, along with Chioma Ofole. “The atmosphere was filled with enthusiasm and unity, and it was great to witness Loy Excellentia’s impact on the community.”
As part of its commitment to supporting African students, Loy Excellentia Initiative is currently accepting applications for the 2024 Free Peer Mentoring Program for African students across Canada. This program connects students with mentors who offer guidance on both academic and personal development. In extending its reach, Loy Excellentia invites African students from all over Canada to join the mentorship community and benefit from this invaluable support system, designed to assist them in achieving academic and personal success. Uzodinma expressed his desire to be part of the Peer Mentoring program saying:” …we are stronger when we share our knowledge with others.”
About LoY Excellentia Initiative
The Loy Excellentia Initiative is a non-profit organization dedicated to the personal, professional, and academic development of African students. Through mentorship programs, peer networking, and community engagement, the organization empowers the next generation of leaders to succeed.
For more information, visit www.loyexcellentia.org or follow on social media at:
- https://www.facebook.com/LoyExcellentia/
- https://x.com/LoyExcellentia
- https://www.linkedin.com/company/loy-excellentia-initiative/
- https://www.instagram.com/loyexcellentia
- https://www.youtube.com/@LoyExcellentia
Contact
- Brandon University
- communications@brandonu.ca
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About BU
Success is built at Brandon University. Our growing, progressive campus welcomes a diverse and inclusive community that combines proud tradition with shared ambition. Through our excellence in teaching, research, and scholarship, we educate students to make a meaningful difference as engaged citizens and leaders. Join us at BrandonU.ca.