Loy Excellentia Hosts Summer Picnic for Students of African descent in Brandon- Building Belonging and Empowerment

Loy Excellentia’s 2025 Summer Picnic – Students 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 at Brandon University, who was also the MC of the event shared why she volunteers for Loy Excellentia:
“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, expressed:
“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. The Loy Excellentia Initiative is important because it 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, reflected on her volunteer role:
“This picnic gave me a sense of belonging. It brought me back to my roots, and I got to connect with other individuals of my descent. The opportunity to volunteer was the best part. I believe the Loy Excellentia Initiative is important because it reminds us of our heritage, and also gives us opportunities to develop our skills and be more involved in the community.”

Community Partners Highlight Support

Rotary Club members praised the picnic as a prime example of community engagement for students in Brandon, Manitoba, providing one of the most meaningful networking events for African students in the region this year.

Cheryl Winger, Youth Director and Rotary Club Youth Coordinator, shared the Rotary’s commitment: 

“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

The Mayor of Brandon, Jeff Fawcett  expressed the city’s support for multicultural initiatives:

“Brandon is proud to be home to such a vibrant and diverse student community. Events like the Loy Excellentia Summer Picnic not only celebrate culture and unity but also strengthen the bonds that make our city welcoming for all. I commend Dr. Aloysius Anyichie, the fonder 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

Events like this picnic strengthen ties across generations and serve as a major cultural celebration for the African diaspora in Canada, while also creating key networking events for African students to connect with mentors and peers.

Speaking at the event, Cornel  Wasonga, highlighted how the picnic served as more than just a social gathering:
“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 the transformative role Loy Excellentia can play in supporting students of African descent across Canada:
“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

In his remarks, Dr. Aloysius Anyichie, the founder of the Loy Excellentia Initiative, highlighted how Loy Excellentia student programs provide ongoing opportunities for student mentorship, empowerment, excellence and leadership in Brandon, encouraging students to volunteer, network, and participate actively in community events.

“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, and we invite everyone to follow our social media handles to stay updated on future events.”

Dr. Anyichie also extended special thanks to the organizing committee members Sixtus Emedosi, Collins Uzoh, and Stella Akomolafe, whose leadership made the event a success.

From left to right: Stella Akomolafe, Dr. Aloysius Anyichie (Founder, Loy Excellentia Initiative), Sixtus Emedosi, and Collins Chilaka.

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. It made the summer community picnic in Brandon 2025 a memorable experience for all African students including returning and new students. They left not only with memories, but also with new friendships and a renewed sense of belonging.