Humber Polytechnic’s clubs fair attracted hundreds of students at North campus with vibrant displays on Nov. 7 as about a dozen student-run clubs attracted students eager to explore extracurricular activities.
The event, organized by the IGNITE Student Union, provided a chance for students to connect with peers, embrace shared interests, and step outside the academic grind.
“We had a great turnout,” said Naisha Suthaharan, IGNITE’s student advocate, who represents University of Guelph-Humber students.
“There was a lot of positive feedback from the clubs, and it’s great to see students excited to be involved,” she said.
Suthaharan said the role of clubs in fostering a sense of belonging
“Clubs play a big part in making students feel included and fostering leadership. It’s all about giving students a chance to feel heard,” she said.
The fair featured clubs such as the Filipino club, the Anime club, and Caribbean Isle, each dedicated to creating a community for students to relax, connect, and share their cultures.
Kaori Sembrano, the membership head of the Filipino club, said her club’s intention is to build connections through culture and food.
“Our club aims to foster a sense of community for all Filipinos and share Filipino culture with non-Filipino students as well,” she said.
The club holds monthly gatherings, celebrating events like Christmas and traditional Filipino holidays.
“We do this to help students form connections with others from different programs,” she said.
Jeasica Luu, president of the Anime club, said her club provides a space for students to enjoy anime, gaming and Japanese culture.
“Every week, we have two events like game nights and watch parties, and at the end of the semester we hold a big event like a maid cafe or a potluck,” Luu said.
Caribbean Isle, represented by Stephaun Clarke and Isaac Rowe, brings Caribbean culture to Humber, with plans for an on-campus carnival next year.
“The carnival will showcase the vibes, music, and food we know from home. It’s all about expressing our culture and welcoming everyone to join us,” Clarke said.
His advice to students who feel hesitant to join is simple.
“Just come and join. It's one love and not only about having Caribbean descent, but you can also still be a part of it. Just enjoy the culture,” Clarke said.
The fair also underscored the challenges of balancing club participation with academics.
“For students, it’s hard to fit everything in,” Suthaharan said.
Clubs like Caribbean Isle are mindful of this, holding meetings at times that work for most members.
“Even if you can only come by for 10 minutes, you’re still a part of the club,” Rowe said.
Second-year business marketing student Gabriela Rincon was excited about joining a club because it offered opportunities to meet people.
“I’m interested in the women’s leadership club. It’s tough to make friends, but clubs help you find people who like the same things as you. It’s important for your mental health, too,” she said.
Rincon said joining clubs not only eases the challenge of making friends but also supports mental well-being, emphasizing the significance of events that promote these opportunities.
“This event is great because it’s also nice to have other activities besides doing schoolwork. I didn't even know about the clubs of Humber until now,” she said.
IGNITE remains dedicated to expanding club offerings based on student interests, encouraging students to launch new clubs.
“If someone has an idea, they just need to reach out. Clubs are available to everyone, regardless of background, and they’re a wonderful way to make connections at Humber,” Suthaharan said.
