In a powerful and inspiring gathering, the Loy Excellentia Initiative successfully hosted a Black History Month celebration in Brandon for students from Brandon University (BU) and Assiniboine College. This event, which brought together students, faculty, and community leaders, served as a platform for mentorship, empowerment, and celebration of Black excellence.
Under the theme “Black Legacy and Leadership: Celebrating Canadian History and Uplifting Future Generations,” the event inspired attendees to reflect on the contributions of Black and African Canadians, embrace their roles as future leaders, and build a strong, united community through mentorship and empowerment.
The event opened with a land acknowledgment and remarks from Dr. David Docherty, President of Brandon University, followed by an opening prayer led by Dr. Aloy Anyichie, Founder of Loy Excellentia Initiative, and words of welcome from Dr. Alysha Farrell, the Dean of the Faculty of Education at BU.
“We Are Writing the Next Chapter”
In his opening remarks, Dr. Anyichie, an Associate Professor in the Faculty of Education at BU, spoke passionately about the significance of Black History Month as not just a commemoration of the past, but a call to action for the future.
“We are not just here to celebrate history—we are writing the next chapter,” he emphasized. “The legacy we honor today is one of resilience, excellence, and determination. But the real question is: what will our legacy be for the generations to come?”
He further highlighted the impact of mentorship, community engagement, and leadership development in shaping the experiences of Black students. He reflected on the mission of Loy Excellentia Initiative, stating:
“Loy Excellentia was created because I understand the struggles of being an African student in Canada. I know what it means to navigate unfamiliar spaces without guidance. That is why we are here—to make sure that no student walks alone, that every student has the mentorship and support they need to excel.”
“Black Leadership: Be the Future Leader that you Need Right Now”
Delivering a thought-provoking keynote speech, Dr. Kofi Campbell, Provost and Vice-President (Academic) at BU, reflected on his personal journey as a Black academic leader and the importance of representation.
“When I first stepped into leadership, I looked around and realized something troubling—there were no faces like mine in these positions,” Dr. Campbell shared. “For too long, Black leadership has been the exception rather than the norm. That must change, and that change starts with you.”
He urged students to step into leadership roles early, emphasizing that leadership is not about waiting for an opportunity, but about creating one.
“Be the leader that you needed when you were younger,” he said. “Don’t wait for someone to hand you a position—stand up, take space, and make your voice heard.”
Dr. Campbell also highlighted the Scarborough Charter, a national initiative committed to fighting anti-Black racism and promoting Black excellence in Canadian universities. He encouraged students to take advantage of Loy Excellentia Initiative to seek mentorship and build strong networks.
“True progress comes when we work together,” he said. “Find mentors, lift each other up, and ensure that those who come after you have an easier journey than you did. That is the essence of leadership.”
Dr. Campbell lauded Dr. Anyichie for leading this initiative.
Empowering Students Through Mentorship & Engagement
The event featured a variety of interactive sessions designed to empower students, including:
- Focused Group Discussions – students shared their personal experiences of learning in classrooms and discussed solutions to challenges they face in Canadian learning environments.
- Mentorship & Empowerment Sessions – a speed-networking event connected students with professionals and community leaders.
- Cultural Games & Activities – attendees engaged in bingo and jeopardy activities, board games like chess, ludo, snake and ladder, etc., and dance. Participants won different prizes at the event.
Mentorship, Empowerment and Excellence
Speaking on the importance of mentorship as a tool for empowerment and achieving excellence, Dr. Anyichie urged students to take an active role in shaping their own success.
“No one succeeds alone,” he said. “The people you surround yourself with—your mentors, peers, and community—will shape your journey. This is why Loy Excellentia exists: to ensure that no African or Black student walks their path alone.”
He further highlighted the initiative’s achievements over the past year, including the launch of a mentorship program, leadership workshops, advocacy efforts, and social events like the Loy Excellentia summer picnic, which fostered a sense of belonging among African/Black students.
One of the attendees, Odu Chinyere Michelle, a second-year nursing student at BU, shared her experience attending the event.
“My biggest takeaway from the Black History Month celebration was learning that most of the changes we want to see as Blacks for Blacks will come from us being united as one community to go before our leaders and demand the change we want,” she said. “We are stronger as one community when we advocate for ourselves than when one person goes alone.”
She emphasized the importance of events like this for Black students who are looking to find a community in Canada.
“It felt great to be in a space with fellow Black students and professionals. I hope events like this and more keep being held at Brandon University because they are essential for new Black students seeking to find a sense of belonging while studying in Canada,” she said.
Building a Stronger Future Together
The event also addressed the ongoing need for institutional support to improve the experiences of Black students. Dr. Anyichie called on university leadership to fund more research that examines the experiences of African and Black students in Canada.
“Funding this type of research is not just about gathering data,” he stated. “It is about developing tailored solutions that will make our universities more inclusive, equitable, and attractive to African and Black students in the future.”
Dr. Campbell echoed this sentiment, adding that long-term change will require both institutional commitment and student engagement.
Leadership begins now,” he told the students. “The best leaders are those who actively seek to uplift others. So, I ask you today—how will you contribute to shaping the future?”
A Call to Action: Get Involved with Loy Excellentia
As the event ended, students were encouraged to stay engaged by becoming mentors, mentees, volunteers, and community leaders.
Reflecting on the impact of mentorship and volunteering with Loy Excellentia, Odu encouraged other students to get involved.
“We all need mentorship and empowerment as students to excel here in Canada,” she said. “There is so much we can learn from those who have gone before us and from each other. Volunteering with Loy Excellentia also comes with many benefits—from making connections to gaining experience and getting recommendations that will help you stand out in the job market.”
Ways to Get Involved:
Follow @LoyExcellentia on Instagram, Facebook, X, LinkedIn, for updates.
Sign up as a mentor, mentee, or volunteer to help grow the initiative.
Participate in upcoming workshops and networking events.
Join the Movement: www.loyexcellentia.org
Contact
To receive any BU publication in an alternate format please contact Communications@BrandonU.ca
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.