Loy Excellentia hosts African students

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This article was published 24/02/2025 (228 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

More than 50 students gathered at the Faculty of Education at Brandon University on Saturday afternoon to celebrate Black History Month at an event organized by Loy Excellentia, a non-profit organization that supports African students in the Brandon area.

The event’s theme, “Black Legacy and Leadership: Celebrating Canadian History and Uplifting Future Generations,” underscored the importance of leadership and mentorship within the Black community.

The occasion was attended by Brandon Mayor Jeff Fawcett, Brandon’s first Black councillor Sunday Frangi, university president David Docherty, provost Kofi Campbell and Faculty of Education dean Alysha Farrell.

Black leadership and mentorship is significant in shaping future generations, Campbell told the Sun.

“There are not a lot of role models or mentors available for Black people entering the workplace,” said Campbell, who was the event’s keynote speaker. “We need to ensure that when we make it into leadership roles, we extend a hand to those coming after us.”

Campbell shared his journey into academic leadership, noting that he initially had no intention of becoming a provost but took on leadership roles out of a sense of duty.

“I realized just how much representation mattered,” he said. “I looked around and didn’t see a single person who looked like me in senior administration. That meant I had no real mentorship or opportunities to learn from someone who understood my journey.”

He added that Black leadership in universities has seen significant progress because of increased support and mentorship within the community. His message to the next generation was clear: find mentors, support each other, and take active steps toward leadership roles.

“Leadership begins now,” he urged. “Find your reason and pursue it relentlessly.”

Loy Excellentia founder Aloy Anyichie reflected on the growth of the event, which is in its second year.

“Compared to last year, we had more students register and the turnout was higher,” said Anyichie. “We also had distinguished guests like the university president and provost, which shows how much this event is gaining recognition.”

Anyichie emphasized that this year’s focus was on encouraging students to step into leadership roles.

“It is important for our students to gain leadership experience,” he said. “Loy Excellentia provides opportunities for students to serve on committees and organize events, which helps them develop the skills they need for the workforce.”

Despite the positive reception, Anyichie acknowledged the challenges of organizing the event, particularly in securing funding and encouraging students to take on leadership roles.

“I wanted students to take the lead while I stepped back, but due to school and other commitments, it was difficult to get them involved,” he said. “Funding was another major challenge, but in the end, we made it work.”

Looking ahead, Anyichie expressed hope that more faculty members, students, and community members would join in supporting African students.

“Loy Excellentia is making an impact at the university and in the community,” he said. “By working together, we can help African students thrive and contribute to society.”

» aodutola@brandonsun.com

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