The Loy Excellentia 2025 Summer Picnic in Brandon brought together students of African descent, mentors, volunteers, faculty, Rotary Club members, the mayor of Brandon, the president of the African Diaspora Network, and community members for an afternoon of games, food, Afrobeat karaoke and cultural celebration.
The event is one of the largest Brandon University (BU) student events of the year, especially for African diaspora students in Canada.
Filled with music, sports, and laughter, the picnic was more than just a gathering—it demonstrated community, belonging, and mentorship for students navigating life far from home.
Students Share Their Experiences
Through interactive games and conversations, students experienced firsthand the value of mentorship programs for African students in Canada.
Stella Akomolafe, a Year 2 graduate student in the Faculty of Education and MC of the event, shared:
“My inspiration came from my passion to help people, especially international students. Being an international student, even for one week, opened my eyes to the challenges students face. Knowing about Loy Excellentia, I knew it aligned with my values. Loy Excellentia is strategically positioned to help students own their journey and experience the power of mentorship, empowerment, and connection.”
She encouraged students with this takeaway:
“Don’t be an island. Ask questions, connect with your teachers, and reach out to Loy Excellentia for support.”
Ruky Emarievbe, Nursing student, reflected:
“The picnic made me feel truly welcome and at home, surrounded by people who share similar backgrounds and experiences. Sharing food, laughter, and conversations gave me a strong sense of belonging. Loy Excellentia creates a safe space for African students to network, build friendships, and celebrate our culture. Being far from home can feel isolating, but programs like this remind us that we have a family here too.”
Kamsiyochukwu Justin, a first-year Nursing student, shared her volunteer experience:
“This picnic gave me a sense of belonging and brought me back to my roots. The opportunity to volunteer was the best part. Loy Excellentia reminds us of our heritage and provides opportunities to develop skills and engage in the community.”
Community Partners Highlight Support
Rotary Club members praised the picnic as a prime example of community engagement for students in Manitoba and one of the most meaningful networking events for African students this year.
Cheryl Winger, Youth Director and Rotary Club Youth Coordinator, said:
“As an organization, Rotary wants everyone to have the supports they need to thrive. The Rotary Club of Brandon is grateful for the opportunity to support these BU students. The students’ energy was wonderful to see. They came knowing only a few people and left with many more connections. I could feel the sense of community growing during the event.”
Leadership Endorsements
Mayor of Brandon, Jeff Fawcett, expressed:
“Brandon is proud to be home to such a vibrant and diverse student community. Events like the Loy Excellentia Summer Picnic 2025 Brandon not only celebrate culture and unity but also strengthen the bonds that make our city welcoming for all. I commend Dr. Aloysius Anyichie, founder of Loy Excellentia Initiative and the first person in Brandon to receive the Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Award, the organizers, volunteers, and students for creating such a joyful and meaningful gathering.”
Strengthening the African Diaspora in Canada
Cornel Wasonga, President/CEO of Global African Diaspora Network
Cornel Wasonga, President/CEO of Global African Diaspora Network, said:
“An event like this picnic is far more than a recreational activity—it is a powerful community-building tool. It brings African students and community members together to forge friendships, mentorships, and professional networks, while also celebrating our food, music, and traditions. Such moments nurture cultural pride, reduce isolation, and strengthen our visibility within Canadian society.”
He further emphasized Loy Excellentia’s national impact:
“Loy Excellentia Initiative is uniquely positioned to amplify this impact, serving as a national hub for mentorship, leadership development, and advocacy. Together, we can ensure that our young people not only succeed academically but also thrive as proud contributors to Canada’s multicultural landscape.”
Founder’s Reflections
Dr. Aloysius Anyichie, founder of the Loy Excellentia Initiative, said:
“Connection is at the heart of student success. Never walk alone—network, volunteer, and reach out for help. My office is always open, and Loy Excellentia is here for you. We encourage students to join our events, participate actively, and look out for the call for our 2025–2026 Academic Year Mentorship Program. Together, we can create a community of support and empowerment.”
He added:
“Events like this picnic remind us that culture and community are powerful resources. We are stronger when we connect. Follow our social media handles to stay updated on future events.”
Special thanks were extended to organizing committee members: Sixtus Emedosi, Collins Uzoh, and Stella Akomolafe.
Games and Highlights
The day featured a scavenger hunt, soccer, board games, Afrobeat karaoke, and dance competitions, creating moments of joy and connection across generations. Returning and new students left with lasting memories, new friendships, and a renewed sense of belonging.
About Loy Excellentia Initiative
The Loy Excellentia Initiative is dedicated to mentoring, empowering, and connecting students of African descent in Canada. Through events like the Loy Excellentia Summer Picnic 2025 Brandon, mentorship programs, and leadership workshops, it fosters academic success, cultural pride, and student leadership.
For media inquiries, partnerships, or sponsorship opportunities: contact@loyexcellentia.org
www.loyexcellentia.org
Social Media:
Contact
- Brandon University
- communications@brandonu.ca
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.