Hi everyone, I’m Doyin, and I’m a student studying Cell and Systems Biology, currently in my Co-op year. As someone passionate about student life and community building, I serve as a Residence Don at St. Mike’s Residence, Education and Outreach Director for the Black Students Association, and Vice President of International Community Outreach for the St. Michael’s College Student Union.
I’m excited to share with you our upcoming Culture Week here at SMC. As an international student at U of T, I’ve been fortunate to experience the diverse student body and multicultural environment, especially since the university is located in the heart of Toronto. This city, with its vibrant cultural scene, has allowed me to make friends with people from different backgrounds and learn about their experiences.
Growing up in Lagos State, Nigeria, which shares similarities with Toronto as a large city, I’ve always been exposed to diverse cultures. Nigeria, with its 36 states and numerous ethnic groups, celebrates the beauty of different cultures, so it’s no surprise that I thrive in such environments. I understood the importance of feeling connected to my background early on. When I joined U of T, I actively participated in the Nigerian Student Association and the Black Student Association to feel a sense of community. However, I didn’t limit myself to just these groups; I also sought opportunities to learn from and immerse myself in different cultural backgrounds from around the globe. Working as an International Student Experience Ambassador for the Centre for International Experience at U of T was an incredible opportunity that taught me a lot about the challenges and triumphs of international students. It also gave me a deeper understanding of the resources available to support students in navigating cultural differences and building a community away from home.
Naturally, when nominations opened for the 2024-2025 term of the SMCSU, this position felt like the most natural fit for me, given my extensive background and knowledge of the international community. As Vice President, I prioritized exposing students to U of T’s resources to make their transition smoother, especially through the Centre for International Experience, and promoting more community among international students. This initiative has been successful so far, with our first Cultural Week last semester featuring a fun cultural trivia night, cultural arts and crafts, and an international student mixer. These events not only brought students together but also provided a platform for cultural exchange and learning.
I approach every experience with an open mind, eager to learn and gather new experiences. This semester, we have Culture Week 2.0, a collaboration with several student groups and clubs. From March 4-7, we have an exciting lineup of events designed to celebrate the rich cultural diversity of our community. Here’s a sneak peek at what we have planned:
- Cultural Arts and Crafts: Explore traditional crafts from around the world and create your own cultural masterpiece.
- Iftar Dinner: Join us for a special dinner to break the fast during Ramadan; open to all students regardless of faith.
- Pierogi Making: Learn the art of making traditional Polish pierogi and enjoy a taste of Eastern European culture.
- Guess the Country Games Night: Test your knowledge of global cultures in a fun and interactive game night.
- St. David’s Day Celebration: Celebrate Welsh culture with music, food, and festivities.
We’re working with various student groups to bring this event to St. Mike’s and celebrate diverse cultures while gaining new experiences. Whether you’re an international student or just curious about different cultures, Culture Week 2.0 is the perfect opportunity to connect with others, learn something new, and have fun. So mark your calendars for March 4-7 and join us for an unforgettable celebration of global cultures!
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