Niagara College recently wrapped up a series of inspiring and impactful activities to mark International Education Week (IEW) 2024.
Held from November 18 to 22 under the theme ‘Growing Stronger Together Through International Education,’ the events brought together students, alumni, faculty, staff, and global partners, highlighting the transformative power of global education.
The activities were made possible through college-wide collaborations. The enthusiasm and engagement demonstrated by organizers, participants, and attendees made the week a truly unforgettable celebration of international education.
Alumni Excellence
This year’s IEW placed a strong emphasis on alumni success stories, showcasing how international education at Niagara College has shaped the lives of its students and graduates.
On November 18, the week kicked off with a virtual fireside chat featuring Andrés Coimbra Castedo, this year’s prestigious Premier’s Award winner in the Recent Graduate category. A 2019 graduate of NC’s Game Development Program, Coimbra currently works at a prominent visual effects studio in Toronto, producing films for high-profile Hollywood clients. Originally from Bolivia, Coimbra shared his inspiring journey of professional success and personal growth, emphasizing the pivotal role his NC education played in achieving his dreams.
On campus, President Sean Kennedy marked the beginning of IEW with a lunch reception for students and staff. Reflecting this year’s theme of “Growing Stronger Together Through International Education”, the reception welcomed a delegation of Indonesian educators participating in the Leadership in Technical and Vocational Education and Training program through NC’s Institute for Global Education and Training.
Later in the week, a virtual panel discussion brought together international alumni from the School of Business & Management and the School of Environment & Horticulture. Alumni shared their global experiences, career journeys, and expertise, providing valuable insights into how international education supported their transition into careers in Canada.
The panel featured graduates Channa Ratha (Honours Bachelor of Business Administration – Human Resources), Keisha Rock (Human Resources Management), Lebert Omac (Ecosystem Restoration and Environmental Management & Assessment), MJ Torres (Environmental Technician and Environmental Management & Assessment), Raul Guerrero (Environmental Management & Assessment), and Suleiman Harunany (Business Administration – Accounting).
Global Engagement
Throughout the week, staff from Be World Ready, the Centre for Academic Excellence, the Institute for Global Education & Training, and Sustainability, hosted a United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Wheel Trivia and poster sessions. These activities informed and engaged the college community on NC’s integration of the SDGs. Using BWR and its global projects as some examples, they demonstrated NC’s positive contributions to achieving the SDGs highlighted the College’s global impact.
NC celebrated its commitment to global initiatives with activities like the SDGs Wheel Trivia and Poster Sessions.
For more information on the SGDs, including NC’s SDG training module, click here.
Celebrating Culture and Excellence
During IEW 2024, the International Student Services team fostered a vibrant sense of community and cultural appreciation. Each morning, students enjoyed free hot breakfasts inspired by Asian, African and Indian cuisines, providing a delicious start to the day, and an opportunity to celebrate cultural diversity.
As part of the week’s events, a Winter Intrigue Market was hosted at each campus, offering a diverse array of unique, internationally sourced treasures for purchase. Proceeds from the market directly supported the transformative efforts of the Be World Ready program.
On November 21, the Fall 2024 International Student Awards Ceremony honoured students from around the world for their academic excellence and outstanding contributions to the NC community. Held at The Core at the Welland Campus, the ceremony celebrated these achievements with scholarships and awards, emphasizing the vital role of international education in shaping success.
IEW 2024 concluded on November 22 with a vibrant Latin America and Caribbean Family Dinner, followed by a Latin Fiesta at The Core. These events brought the NC community together to celebrate with food, music, and dance, creating lasting memories for all participants.
IEW 2024 included a Latin America and Caribbean Family Dinner, followed by a Latin Fiesta.
About IEW
Celebrated since 2000 and recognized in 80+ countries, IEW is a global celebration symbolizing the spirit of collaboration and cooperation that unites individuals, educational institutions, associations, businesses, governments, and non-governmental organizations across Canada to highlight the significant importance of international education.
