Inclusion and community-building key themes at upcoming International Student Symposium

On March 5, international students in Kingston will gather for the International Student Symposium hosted by the City of Kingston, KEYS Employment and Newcomer Services and Kingston Immigration Partnership. This year’s programming was developed around the theme, Building Community and Navigating Life After Graduation.

The full-day event, hosted at Portsmouth Olympic Harbour, includes a panel discussion featuring international alumni, a keynote address, a community resource fair and a presentation on immigration pathways for international students. The symposium is made possible thanks to the generous support of the event sponsors, Agnew Foods and RBC Foundation.

"Kingston Immigration Partnership is thrilled to collaborate with our community partners, including KEYS, the City of Kingston, and our post-secondary institutions, to support and celebrate international students," says Wendy Vuyk, Director of Community Health at Kingston Community Health Centres. "In a changing landscape, it is more important than ever to build a community that values and elevates the experiences of newcomers, ensuring they feel welcomed, supported and empowered. By working together, we are strengthening our collective commitment to fostering a more inclusive and vibrant Kingston."

Building on the success of last year’s inaugural symposium, the event aims to connect students with essential community services, introduce them to volunteer opportunities, create space for meaningful discussion with international alumni and make them feel welcome in Kingston.

"As an international student, I am excited to be part of this event, which recognizes the experiences and contributions of students like me," says Raj Vyas, international student at St. Lawrence College. "Moving to a new country comes with many challenges, but events like the International Student Symposium create opportunities to connect, share our stories, and feel truly welcomed in the community. It is inspiring to see so many organizations come together to support international students, and I look forward to meaningful discussions that help shape a more inclusive future for all of us."

"International students bring energy, innovation and diversity to Kingston—they are our classmates, coworkers and neighbours," adds Madeleine Nerenberg, Executive Director of KEYS Employment and Newcomer Services. "With recent shifts in immigration policies, high costs and an uncertain future, KEYS, along with our many community partners, is committed to supporting all in our community to thrive. The aim of this symposium is to ensure international students, graduates and their families are valued, supported and empowered to succeed as an integral part of an inclusive and welcoming Kingston community."

“We are thrilled to support this event for a second year,” concludes Craig Desjardins, Director of Strategy, Innovation and Partnerships at the City of Kingston. “The International Student Symposium would not be possible without the contributions of countless community partners and individuals. Bringing all these resources together in one place is no small feat — and it’s an important step in connecting international students with the services and communities to build a life in Kingston.”