Student Spotlights - Equity Diversity and Inclusion

Western launches mentorship program for Black nursing students

Western News: A new mentorship initiative at Western’s Arthur Labatt Family School of Nursing aims to strengthen belonging and representation in nursing. The Black Nurses and Students Allied for Success (BNSAS) program is an initiative of the Canadian Black Nurses Alliance (CBNA) recently implemented at Western. The program pairs Black nursing students with nurses and other health professionals in the community, cultivating mentorship that is grounded in shared lived experiences.

Black student leaders gain health care experience through hospital placement

From cancer screening to pressure injuries to education for health-care providers, Western students are learning and leaving an impact at London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC) as part of a leadership program. The Western Black Leadership University Experience, or B.L.U.E., program is designed to provide Black students with hands-on experience and mentorship as they work on a chosen project with a dedicated mentor during a five-month placement at a local organization.

Graduate students are digitizing Black history as Canadian history

Graduate students at Western are reshaping how we understand Canada’s past by preserving and digitizing Black history that has too often been overlooked. This spotlight highlights their work to make Black narratives visible, accessible and recognized as central to Canadian history. Discover how their research and dedication are advancing knowledge, representation and Black excellence on campus and beyond.

Vanessa Memeh

Vanessa Memeh is a third-year computer science major at Western University and one of the 36 recipients of the 2023 Loran Scholarship. Originally from Nigeria, Memeh emigrated to Canada in 2018 with her family. In high school, she was involved in student council, anti-racism committees and community service. Memeh aims to merge her passion for equity and social justice with healthcare, aspiring to run a hospital in the future.

Aidan Cowell-Miller’s marathon from varsity rookie to EDI captain

From rookie strides to leadership impact, Aidan Cowell-Miller’s journey embodies perseverance, purpose and advocacy. This article highlights how he grew into a varsity captain while championing equity, diversity and inclusion within Western’s athletics community. Read how his commitment on and off the track reflects the power of Black excellence in action.

Ivey Osei

Ivy Osei is a graduate student in Western University’s Sport Management program, who is focusing her studies on the traditional games played in villages throughout Africa that are of indigenous origin – meaning they weren’t introduced to Africa through colonial occupation, like soccer and basketball. Osei has decided to start SportDrive, a non-governmental organization (NGO) focused on developing traditional games into standardized sports.

BSA fashion show is rooted in legacy

Rooted in tradition and creative expression, the BSA Fashion Show celebrates Black culture, history and community at Western. This feature explores how the show honors legacy while empowering students to showcase identity, talent and storytelling through fashion. Read how this powerful event continues to uplift Black excellence and inspire future generations.

ASA Culture show brings the energy

Bold, dynamic, and full of life, the ASA Culture Show brings African heritage to the forefront through powerful performances and vibrant storytelling. This spotlight explores how the event creates space for joy, connection, and cultural pride across campus. Discover how the show energizes the Western community while celebrating creativity, identity, and Black excellence.

All About Black Hair - Video

Western Gazette: Box braids, sew-ins and French curls ... We asked the girlies on campus to share their go-to hairstyles for the school year — and how they feel about them.