Saint Mary’s Enactus team to represent Canada at the World Cup Exposition in Thailand

Enactus Saint Mary’s won the National Championship in 2025

Saint Mary’s students head to Bangkok, Thailand, to represent Canada for the second year in a row at the Enactus World Cup Exposition

Last May, Enactus Saint Mary’s competed against 50 Canadian schools to win the Enactus Canadian National championship and the honour of being the only university to represent Canada at the Enactus World Cup Exposition from September 25-28 in Bangkok, Thailand. It is the second year in a row that the Saint Mary’s team has been named national champions and represented Canada on the world stage.   

Enactus, the world's largest student leadership organization, empowers its members to use entrepreneurial action to solve environmental, social and economic issues. Teams from around the world tackle global problems and showcase their successes in regional, national and worldwide competitions.  

“Enactus Saint Mary’s University is a model for innovation and social entrepreneurship, and we are proud to have them represent Canada at the Enactus World Cup,” says Catherine Fowler, President and CEO, Enactus Canada. “From their leadership on Square Roots to their innovation on alternatives to single-use plastics with Alaagi, we are confident the team will be a top competitor amongst the 32 countries represented at the World Cup.” 

Enactus Saint Mary’s entrepreneurial actions enabled them to create social, environmental and economic impact. This year, their success comes from a passionate commitment to fostering positive change through two key ground-breaking projects: 

Alaagi 

Launched in July 2024, Alaagi is redefining the future of packaging. This student-led initiative has created a durable, fully compostable bioplastic made from seaweed. This innovative material can be used to make items like sandwich bags and grocery bags.  

Now, Alaagi is pioneering the world’s first industry-standard 10K Oxygen Transmission Rate bioplastic film suitable for meat and seafood packaging—an innovation with enormous commercial potential.  

Most recently, Alaagi has secured over $155,000 in non-diluted funding and was one of the top 24 teams in the world competing for the Hult Prize of $1 million in start-up funding.  

Square Roots 

Square Roots is a standout Enactus Saint Mary’s initiative and one of the longest-running projects in the Enactus Canada network. Founded in 2016, this Community Interest Corporation tackles two major issues—food waste and food insecurity—by rescuing surplus produce and providing it to customers in need at reduced prices.  
The project sources “seconds”—fresh produce that’s often discarded due to slight imperfections in appearance—directly from local farmers. Square Roots Community Managers then distribute it affordably across Nova Scotia.   

Starting with two locations in Halifax, Square Roots has expanded to 27 locations across Nova Scotia and has provided over 1 million pounds of fresh produce to community members. 

The team, led by Co-Presidents and accounting students Courtney Dingle and Sarah Wheeler, along with Gabe Martin BA’25, features 62 students from the Sobey School of Business, Faculty of Arts and Faculty of Science. Twenty-one students will make the trip to the World Cup, along with staff from the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre. Saint Mary’s is the only university representing Canada in this competition. 

“We are incredibly proud of the efforts of every student who has made up this team,” says Co-President Courtney Dingle. “Their dedication to making the world around them better has earned us the title of National Champion for the second consecutive year, and we are excited to watch them take on the 2025 Enactus World Cup in Thailand.” 

This year, third-year accounting student and team captain Olivian Sanderson, third-year accounting and global business management student Becca Sullivan and second-year engineering student Mia Makhlouf take center-stage along with tech team Maya Campbell BComm’25 and criminology student Prateek Tamta. The team will compete in three rounds before a world champion is named. In addition, Saint Mary’s University will also represent Canada in the early-stage competition, comprised of account and business management student Kavya Shah, finance and accounting student Zach Collier and the tech team, accounting and finance student Hanna Johnson and marketing student Leah McNamara.

Follow the team’s journey on the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre and Enactus Canada social media channels.   

From student to mentor: how Experience Ventures came full circle for Hayden Ennis

Hayden Ennis BComm’25 participated in the Experience Ventures program for entrepreneurship. He now owns Downstream Exterior Cleaning.

When Hayden Ennis BComm’25 first signed up for Experience Ventures through the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre at Saint Mary’s University, he had no idea how the opportunity would shape his career path or that, just a few months later, he’d find himself on the other side of the experience—this time as a small business owner welcoming a student into his company.

“I saw the program as a great chance to put everything I’d learned into practice,” Hayden recalls. “I was placed with CanNova Construction in Halifax, and suddenly I was doing social media, content creation and graphic design — things that were totally new to me at the time.”

That placement wasn’t just a one-off learning opportunity. The skills Hayden gained during the project stuck with him. Now, they’re part of the foundation of Downstream Exterior Cleaning, the business he officially launched in January 2025.

Based in Nova Scotia’s Annapolis Valley, Downstream has already served nearly 100 customers since beginning operations in April, and it’s just getting started.

This summer, Hayden stepped into a new role in the Experience Ventures program, not as a student, but as a business owner. Through the same initiative that helped him gain hands-on experience, he’s now providing that opportunity to Alexi Melanson, a double honours student in finance and accounting at the University of New Brunswick.

And just like Hayden, Alexi didn’t waste a moment.

“Drawing on my background in corporate finance, I was able to step into a consulting-style role with Downstream,” Alexi explains. “I worked on refining the company’s approach to financial planning, building out cash flow projections, setting budgets and streamlining existing practices. It was amazing to work so closely with a small business and actually see my ideas implemented.”

For Hayden, watching Alexi’s impact has been a full-circle moment. “It’s surreal, honestly,” he says. “Experience Ventures gave me the space to learn and grow as a student. Now, I get to pass that on. Even if a student walks away with just one new skill or lightbulb moment, that’s a win.”

This story also highlights something bigger: the growing reach of Experience Ventures across Atlantic Canada. Hayden, based in rural Nova Scotia and Alexi, from New Brunswick, show how the program fosters meaningful cross-provincial connections by bridging classrooms with real businesses and students with entrepreneurs who were once in their shoes.

As Hayden looks ahead to 2026 with big goals for Downstream, he credits programs like Experience Ventures for helping him build the confidence and the community to take the leap.

“It’s more than just a resume line. It’s real growth, real people and real impact,” he says. “I’m proof of that.”

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Powered by the Hunter Hub for Entrepreneurial Thinking at the University of Calgary and funded in part by the Government of Canada’s Innovative Work-Integrated Learning Initiative (I-WIL), Experience Ventures enables students to make an impact alongside real-world innovators through entrepreneurial thinking placements. See our upcoming Hackathons and Challenges. Honorariums are available for students.

Visit our website to learn more.

Nova Scotia’s next gen entrepreneurs shine at the Summer Entrepreneurial Experience Bootcamp

The SEE Bootcamp was held at the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre

Participants represented multiple universities and colleges across Nova Scotia

SEE 2025 winner, SMU Arts student Stuti Sandhu

Stuti Sandhu presenting her Being There business idea

Staff from the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre chat with student participants

SMU BComm student Asmita Ale presents Alaagi

NSCC student Avery Cote presents TrekIQ

SMU alum Chantal Brine, Interim President and CEO of EduNova

Gabriel Martin BA’25 presents ScoutRoom

Jason Turner and Dina Sallam

Kulkaran Singh presents

Emo Ikede judges the competition

Yao Zhang presents

This summer, Nova Scotia’s brightest student entrepreneurs came together for the Summer Entrepreneurial Experience (SEE) Bootcamp 2025, a month-long program designed to equip students with the skills, mentorship and connections they need to turn ideas into action. Hosted by Saint Mary’s Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre in partnership with the TD Entrepreneurship Inclusion Initiative, EduNova and the Black Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub (BEKH), SEE 2025 provided a launchpad for the next generation of innovators.

This July, 33 student entrepreneurs from across Nova Scotia participated in intensive workshops, collaborative sessions and mentorship opportunities. These sessions covered the full spectrum of entrepreneurship, from business planning and marketing to finance and pitching. The top 18 students advanced to the final pitch competition, where they presented their business ideas to a panel of judges, competing for recognition and prize funding to kickstart their ventures.

The winners were:

• First Place ($2,000): Stuti Sandhu, SMU arts student - Being There

• Second Place ($1,000):

  • Gabriel Martin SMU BA'25 - ScoutRoom

  • Asmita Ale, SMU commerce student - Alaagi

• Third Place ($500):

  • Avery Cote, NSCC commerce student - TrekIQ

  • Adeb Arianson, Dalhousie University arts student - Fund a Life

Special scholarships of $1,000 each were also awarded through the Black Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub to support Black student entrepreneurs. MSVU master’s student Lotoya Forde (THRIVEDRIVE), and SMU commerce student Aquilya Smith (ScholarConnect), received the scholarships.

For participants like BComm student Amita Ale, the experience was both inspiring and practical. “The SEE Bootcamp covered a wide range of topics relevant to starting a business. The variety of speakers and insights helped me build confidence and clarity as an aspiring entrepreneur,” she said. “You also get to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs and build your community. I highly recommend this bootcamp to anyone with a business idea or in the early stages of launching one. It’s an excellent starting point to turn your idea into action!”

SEE 2025 brought together students from multiple institutions, including Dalhousie University, Saint Mary’s University, Nova Scotia Community College and Mount Saint Vincent University, creating a diverse environment for idea-sharing and collaboration. The bootcamp also tied into broader initiatives, like the Study and Stay™ program, which focuses on retaining international talent in Nova Scotia and supporting students in building ventures that contribute to the province’s economy. By the end of the program, students had not only refined their ideas but also gained a sense of what it takes to launch and scale a business.

The SEE Bootcamp shows the growing movement behind student entrepreneurship in Nova Scotia. By providing early-stage entrepreneurs with mentorship, resources and a platform to pitch their ideas, the program is helping to create a startup ecosystem within academic institutions, bridging the gap between classrooms and real-world business opportunities.

As first-place winner Stuti Sandhu reflects, SEE 2025 was more than just a competition. It was a journey that empowered students to dream bigger, act bolder and connect with a network that will support them long after the bootcamp ends.

Interested in learning more about the Summer Entrepreneurial Experience (SEE) Bootcamp? Follow this link to learn more.

Meet the entrepreneurs breaking barriers this Disability Pride Month

This Disability Pride Month, we’re celebrating Kevin MacKinnon and Melissa Laverdure, two entrepreneurs who are leaving their unique marks in their industries. After participating in the Access Ability Entrepreneurship Incubator at the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre, Kevin and Melissa both show what’s possible when creativity, resilience and the right support come together. 

Kevin MacKinnon is the co-founder of KevEthel’s SpringRoll Company, based in Port Hawkesbury, Nova Scotia. Known for putting a delicious twist on tradition, Kevin’s spring rolls have become a local favourite. His signature cheeseburger roll, which blends familiar Canadian flavours with Filipino inspiration, is a crowd favourite.  

Kevin MacKinnon (right) with Ethel Doncillo MacKinnon.

Through the Access Ability Entrepreneurship Incubator, he brought his creations to Harbourside Rib Fest in Dartmouth as one of the featured food vendors. The exposure was a huge milestone for Kevin and a sign of just how far he’s come since his time in the Access Ability program.  
 
Kevin brings great creativity, and with his continued involvement in industry events like the SPICE food conference, it’s exciting to see where he’s headed next. 

As the founder of The Archival Agent, Melissa Laverdure works behind the scenes in the film and media world as a researcher and archival producer. She specializes in tracking down rare photographs, records and footage which is often material that her clients didn’t even know existed and securing the licenses to use them. Her work has been featured in projects for CBC, The History Channel, Hot Docs and the Canadian Screen Awards. 

Melissa started her business after a major life shift that forced her to rethink how she worked. That moment sparked a decision: if she was going to strike out on her own, she was also going to make it count by uplifting other women along the way.  

Melissa Laverdure

“I arrived at the idea to start my own business after a life-shifting event and had to change the way that I worked,” Melissa says. “I decided that if I was going to try and launch my own business, it would mean that I would also advocate for other women and build each other up along the way.” 

The Access Ability program gave Melissa the structure, guidance and confidence to grow her business and clarify her vision. Today, her work is helping bring powerful stories to life on screen and she’s building a business rooted in collaboration and impact. 

Kevin and Melissa's stories, though distinct, share a powerful common thread: the incredible resilience that drives entrepreneurship and the powerful effects that community partnership and collaboration bring to growing local entrepreneurs.  

Ready to explore how the Access Ability Entrepreneurship program offers guidance, knowledge and resources for your business to thrive? Visit our website for details on the Access Ability Entrepreneurship program. 

Indigenous Youth Business Camp builds early pathways and community at Saint Mary's

Indigenous Youth Business Camp participants at Clearwater

Campers check out the E-sports arena on campus

SMU faculty and staff provided mentorship during the week-long camp

A visit to Tribe Network in downtown Halifax

Camp participants visited the Halifax Wanderers fan shop and offices

A visit to Clearwater

Clearwater hosted camp participants in their boardroom

Participants with reps from Clearwater

Sobeys headquarters

A store visit to Sobeys

This July, Saint Mary’s University welcomed Indigenous youth from Cape Breton for a week-long immersive business and university experience through the inaugural Indigenous Youth Business Camp.

Led in partnership by the Sobey School of Business and Kylar Johnson, Indigenous Student Advisor in Student Affairs and Services, the pilot initiative was designed to create early pathways to post-secondary education for Indigenous youth in Atlantic Canada. Over the course of the week, students lived in Saint Mary’s residence, explored life on campus and in Halifax, and participated in a range of programming focused on entrepreneurship and business fundamentals.

“This week was all about connection,” said Kylar. “It was about giving students a feel for what it’s like to live here and learn at Saint Mary’s, helping them build relationships with our Indigenous community at SMU, showing them what supports exist within Student Affairs and Services and beyond, and giving them a chance to explore what SMU has to offer.”

The Sobey School of Business programming focused on experiential learning with faculty, staff and student groups. Participants engaged in workshops on how to pitch a business idea, develop marketing strategies and manage key aspects of business operations. They also visited local businesses aligned with key business streams, including site visits to Sobeys headquarters, Clearwater, the Halifax Wanderers and Tribe Network, and took part in an on-campus session with the CEO of SimplyCast and prominent SMU alum, Saeed El-Darahali BSc’02 MBA’04. Participants also connected with members of the SMU Enactus team and learned how getting involved outside the classroom can enrich the university experience.

Camp participants visited a local Sobeys location

SMU Enactus members gave a presentation to students

According to Manar Salem, Manager of Strategic Initiatives and Special Projects at the Sobey School of Business, one of the most valuable aspects of the experience was its two-way learning model.

“We wanted to give students a realistic insight into university life – what to expect, how it differs from high school, and what opportunities exist across different areas of business,” Salem said. “But it was also a learning experience for us. Hearing their questions and seeing what sparks their interest helps us understand how to better connect with and support our future students. It shapes how we think about teaching business, and how we build community.”

Throughout the week, participants explored a variety of business disciplines, from marketing and sustainability to sport, retail, AI and non-government organizations. They gained a deeper understanding of the different academic pathways available at Saint Mary’s and how these are reflected in real-world business operations.

“It was validating to hear from presenters who wanted to learn from us too,” said Bethany, a participant in the program. “I make art, and I want to sell it, so this experience helped me start thinking through what I need to consider like expenses, pricing, even how to market to audiences. It also helped me think about how to find balance and not burn out.”

Indigenous student leaders played a key role throughout the week, with two current students serving as chaperones and mentors. “All it takes is one visit to campus and you're sold,” shared BComm student and Huskies Football player Cole Prosper. “Everyone here wants you to succeed - don’t be afraid to ask questions.”

The group also had the opportunity to experience campus life by staying in residence, touring spaces, including SMU’s newly renovated Indigenous Student Space, learning about available resources and supports, and going on social outings together.

“I loved the camp,” exclaimed Cheyanne, another student participant. “Everyone connected so quickly. I feel like I would be more likely to choose SMU now, having had the chance to meet some of the Indigenous students and seeing the student space they have here.”

A highlight of the week was the final presentation project. Participants worked in teams to develop and pitch creative solutions to real cultural issues, applying what they had learned throughout the week. Supported by student mentors from the Sobey School of Business, they presented their ideas to a panel of judges, impressing the judges with their innovation, confidence and thoughtful insights, and offering a glimpse of the potential these future leaders bring.

“This camp gives students a real chance to picture themselves here,” said Professor Vurain Tabvuma. “They’re not just hearing about university; they’re living it for a week, asking questions, meeting people and seeing what’s possible. That kind of experience can be a turning point in helping them figure out what they want and knowing they’d be supported if they came here.”

Alaagi is one step closer to $1 million

SMU sustainable business advances to the next stage of the Hult Prize Competition

Sheheryar Khan, Vaishali Sachdeva and Tyler MacLean

Alaagi, a company created by recent SMU graduate Sheheryar Khan BSc’25 DipENG’25, is disrupting the plastic industry. Launched in July 2024, Alaagi is redefining the future of packaging.

The Alaagi team, comprised of Khan, Vaishali Sachdeva and Tyler MacLean, competed against 56 international teams in the Hult Prize Competition and is one of 22 to advance to the next round.

The Saint Mary’s University student-led initiative has created a durable, fully compostable bioplastic made from seaweed. This innovative material can be used to make items like sandwich wrap and grocery bags. Additionally, the plastic film can be heat sealed to preserve freshness.

Khan demonstrates how the bioplastic is made at the Alaagi lab space on SMU campus

Alaagi bioplastic sample

Now, Alaagi is creating the world’s first bioplastic film that meets the industry-standard 10K Oxygen Transmission Rate. This bioplastic film, suitable for meat and seafood packaging, is an innovation with enormous commercial potential.

The team was named National Champions after competing against 19 other Canadian teams at the Hult Prize Competition in March, allowing them to advance to this latest round of competition.

“Being a part of the Hult Prize Global Accelerator is a dream come true,” says Vaishali Sachdeva, Saint Mary’s University arts student. “The incredible mentorship through the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre and the Hult team has helped us accelerate our business. I am so excited to represent Alaagi and Saint Mary’s University in London this August.”

The Hult Prize competition consists of five stages. Alaagi now moves on to Stage 4: the Global Accelerator, held in person in London this August. There, 22 teams will receive intensive mentorship, strategic guidance and networking opportunities. Of those, only eight will be selected to compete in the Global Finals in September, pitching their ventures to a distinguished panel of judges for the $1 million prize.

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Watch: Saint Mary’s University students transforming seaweed into compostable plastic (CTV News)

Supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs through collaborative design

A design sprint rooted in reflection, led by Indigenous voices

Angela Poundmaker-Gromova, founder of Nurture Meditation speaking 

Michael Maracle-Polak, founder of Akwekon Enterprise Inc.

Kara Thordvalsen chats with participants

Ali Hammoud and Omar Dahleh from Dalhousie University

Michael Maracle-Polak chatting with participants 

The judges watch participants present. Left to right: Emo Ikede, Michael Maracle-Polak, Angela Poundmaker-Gromova and Nithin Jacob Eapen.

Omar Dahleh presenting to judges

Haniel Lordwin Girish Kumar presenting to judges 

Participants in the Indigenous Innovation Design Sprint

The Indigenous Innovation Design Sprint brought together students, community leaders and entrepreneurs for a two-day event focused on co-creating solutions rooted in Indigenous knowledge systems. Held on June 2 and 3 at the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre, the sprint was a collaborative effort between FlintHub at United College–University of Waterloo, the TD Entrepreneurship Inclusion Initiative at Saint Mary’s University and Nova Scotia Community College. The goal: to support Indigenous-led innovation and generate ideas that promote wellness and inclusive economic development in Indigenous communities.

The sprint centred around a real-world challenge presented by Angela Poundmaker, founder of Nurture Meditation, who asked participants to explore ways to develop effective wellness and professional training programs for rural and remote Indigenous communities. What made the event especially unique was its tone and approach. It began with a sound bath and meditation session, setting up a culturally grounded and reflective atmosphere. Rather than jumping into the exercise, participants were encouraged to pause and approach the challenge with care and intention.

Joined by a diverse group of community members, including creatives, policy leaders, makers, funders and youth, students split into small groups and began developing solutions. No prior business or design experience was required, just an openness to learn, collaborate and contribute to meaningful change.

Students were encouraged to apply design thinking principles and worked alongside mentors and community members to develop innovative responses to Angela’s challenge. The energy in the room was collaborative and hopeful, as participants imagined new possibilities for Indigenous wellness initiatives that are community-driven.

At the end of the sprint, each team presented its ideas. The top teams were awarded a $2,000 prize. Ali Hammoud and Omar Dahleh from Dalhousie University won first place. Kate Carr and Haniel Lordwin Girish Kumar from Saint Mary’s University claimed second place, and Kaitlin Cullen from Dalhousie won third place. While the prizes were exciting, the real reward was the opportunity to contribute to something bigger, which was supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs and amplifying Indigenous-led innovation.

The Indigenous Innovation Design Sprint offered a glimpse into a future where innovation is inclusive, culturally rooted and truly transformative.

If you are interested in being a part of an Innovation Sprint in the future, visit our website for more information.

Makers and Movers: How Saint Mary’s University students led the way

This winter, something new hit the Saint Mary’s University campus. The Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre launched Makers and Movers, a pilot program designed to empower students to teach one another, providing a platform for them to speak, share and guide their peers.  

Each student pitched their own session idea, covering topics like leadership, finance, sustainability, business and personal branding. The goal? To create peer-led conversations that felt real, helpful and based on personal lived experiences.  

Eight Mavericks were selected to host sessions. The lineup was filled with students who provided their insights and energy. One student explained budgeting in a way that was simple and made sense. Another opened up about building confidence through trial and error, and a few of the speakers even shared the early wins and stumbles of starting their own business.  

The program wasn’t just about presenting; it connected peers through sharing knowledge. Over 50 students attended, learning from each other, asking questions and finding new ways to grow.

Saint Mary’s student Robert Francis captured it best: “The Makers and Movers program that was offered at the Entrepreneurship Centre was a breath of fresh air. It really enriched my education, helping me add new depth by giving me the privilege to listen to people speak. People who have lived the life I want to live and do the things I want to do.” 

For a first-time program, this one really hit the mark. Our Mavericks brought energy, and the community showed up in a big way to make it something special. Makers and Movers was just the start. If this was any indication, there’s much to look forward to!  

Resources, learning opportunities highlighted for National Indigenous History Month

June is National Indigenous History Month in Canada, an opportunity to learn about the unique cultures, traditions and experiences of First Nations, Inuit and Métis. It's a time to honour the stories, achievements and resilience of Indigenous Peoples, who have lived on this land since time immemorial and whose presence continues to impact the evolving Canada.

National Indigenous Peoples Day is June 21, the summer solstice and the longest day of the year. For generations, many First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities have celebrated their cultures, languages and traditions at this time of year. The summer solstice holds deep spiritual and cultural significance for many Indigenous Peoples, marking a time of renewal, connection, and celebration. Learn more.

Saint Mary’s University acknowledges its location in Mi’kma’ki, the traditional land of the Mi’kmaq Nation. The Mi’kmaq flag flies proudly on the university’s campus.

Visit the online Indigenous Community hub to see news, events and resources.

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Indigenous Innovation Design Sprint

June 2-3, 2025
Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre
Sobeys Inspiration Hub, 5907 Gorsebrook Avenue

Indigenous innovation and entrepreneurship are transforming Canada’s economic and cultural future. With Indigenous entrepreneurs launching businesses at 5x the national rate and contributing over $56 billion to Canada’s GDP, the momentum is undeniable. 

Yet barriers persist — from limited capital to systemic inequities. 

On June 2 from 3-5 p.m. and June 3 from 1-5 p.m., FlintHub (United College–University of Waterloo) and the TD Entrepreneurship Inclusion Initiative (Saint Mary’s University) are proud to host the Indigenous Innovation Design Sprint—a two-day, hands-on event bringing together Indigenous entrepreneurs, changemakers, and allies to co-create bold, community-driven solutions. 

Why Attend?​ 

• Learn Indigenous-led & human-centred innovation methods 

• Build ideas with community, not for it 

• Connect with peers, mentors, and allies 

• Leave with real tools, fresh energy, and momentum 

Open to all — entrepreneurs, youth, funders, creatives, and those who want to do better. 

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Faculty and staff are invited to participate in an Indigenous Blanket Exercise on Thursday, June 19, from 1–4 p.m., in Room 324 of the Sobeys Inspiration Hub.

The Blanket Exercise is an experiential workshop that explores the relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in Canada, and helps people to understand how the colonization of this land impacts those who were here long before settlers arrived.

This session will be led by several staff members from Mi'kmaw Kina’matnewey, an educational organization.

To sign up, please email EDI@SMU.ca.

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A place of belonging: Indigenous student space officially named “Qomuti”

Kylar Johnson at the naming ceremony for the Indigenous student space

On June 12, in the heart of National Indigenous History Month, Indigenous Student Advisor, Kylar Johnson, joined by President Summerby-Murray and SMUSA President Augustina Tucker, formally unveiled the name of the new Indigenous Student Space: “Qomuti” (pronounced ho-mo-dee), a Mi’kmaw word meaning “a place of safe haven.”

During the ceremony, SMUSA President Augustina Tucker reflected on the deep significance of naming this space. “This land – Mi’kma’ki – has been a place of learning, community and storytelling for thousands of years,” Augustina acknowledged. “Today’s ceremony is more than a celebration; it’s a moment of recognition, reflection and respect.”

Read more

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Taking action to support Indigenous students

Kylar Johnson with the team from Eastward Energy

Saint Mary’s University announced a new bursary aimed at supporting Indigenous students, thanks to a generous donation from Eastward Energy. The Eastward Energy Indigenous Opportunities Bursary, available in September 2025, will provide financial assistance to five Indigenous students each year for the next five years. This initiative will help alleviate barriers to post-secondary education and empower future leaders within Indigenous communities.

"This bursary not only helps Indigenous students financially but also affirms the commitment of the university to provide them with the support they need to thrive,” said Kylar Johnson, Indigenous Student Advisor at Saint Mary’s. “It is a tangible, real-world example of creating change. By creating these opportunities, we are reinforcing the importance of community and reconciliation, ensuring that Indigenous voices are heard and valued throughout the university experience."

Read more

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Red Tape Hockey Game raises awareness around racism in sport

Erin Denny faces off against a STU player during the puck drop with Logan Prosper, Phillip Prosper and Sydney Daniels

In 2019, former Saint Mary’s student Logan Prosper of We’koqma’q First Nation was on the receiving end of a racial slur during a minor hockey game in Cape Breton (or Unama’ki). After that, he put red tape on his hockey stick as a visible reminder that such intolerance has no place in hockey and sport more broadly.

In February, the SMU Women’s Huskies hosted the annual Red Tape hockey game at the Dauphinee Centre against the St. Thomas Tommies. Logan and Phillip Prosper of We’koqma’q First Nation, and Sydney Daniels, a former Harvard University hockey player of Mistawasis First Nation, held a ceremonial pre-game puck-drop. Ryan Francis of Mi’kmaw Kina’matnewey emceed a pre-game reception.

"We have an opportunity through sport to be a voice for change," said Scott Gray, Saint Mary's Director of Athletics and Recreation. "These Red Tape events and our other work with the McCain & McLean Centre will continue demonstrating our shared commitment to being that voice."

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An exploration of Indigenous history, perspectives and culture through the Saint Mary’s lens

At Saint Mary’s, Indigenous culture is reflected in several ways. The Patrick Power Library is host to the Mi’kmaq Cultural Materials Display as part of an ongoing collaboration with the Nova Scotia Museum, the Indigenous Student Advising Office and the Indigenous Students’ Society.

Found on the main floor of the Library, the display includes beaver incisors for carving and woodworking, fragments of pottery, an axe head and other artifacts. This collection is accompanied by a selection of books written by Indigenous authors and books about Indigenous cultures.

Around campus, you will also find two pewitekemkewey (dream catchers). The main foyer of the O'Donnell Hennessey Student Centre and the Patrick Power Library are the home to these beautiful pieces, created by former SMU student Isaiah Bernard and his father, Wilbert Marshall, of Potlotek First Nation, in 2020. In 2021, a community drum became a permanent part of the university’s campus, events and ceremonies, reinforcing the collective commitment to Truth and Reconciliation.

Read more about Saint Mary’s place in Mi’kma’ki, Indigenous learning and research, and recognition of MMIWG2S on campus.

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Indigenous Student Advisor 

Kylar Johnson, shown in the blue sweater, chats with students in the Indigenous Student space

Kylar Johnson BComm’23 is from the Mi’kmaw community of Potlotek First Nation in Unama’ki. As the Indigenous Student Advisor for Saint Mary’s, Kylar connects with Indigenous students to provide resources, supports, and services broadly across Mi'kma'ki, community partners, and the Elder In Residence. Learn more about Kylar and his role.

Students can meet with Kylar in the Indigenous Student space located in Loyola 268. Email Indigenous.Advisor@smu.ca to connect with Kylar.

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Explore our library collection

Ta’n Etl-klo'tasik koqoey exhibit

A selection of books featured in the Indigenous collection

The Patrick Power Library is proud to offer a wealth of resources that support learning, reflection and celebration during National Indigenous History Month:

Online Book Display – Explore a curated collection of books by and about Indigenous Peoples. All books can be borrowed with your SMU ID card or accessed online using your SMU email and password.  

Indigenous Studies Research Guide – Your starting point for academic and community-based resources on Indigenous research topics, featuring suggested journals, search strategies, databases, government information and other resources.

SMU Theses on Mi’kmaw and Indigenous Research – Discover original research by Saint Mary’s University community members in the Institutional Repository.

Indigenous Peoples of North America Database – A digital archive covering the political, social, and cultural history of Indigenous Peoples from the sixteenth century into the twentieth century. Access is available through the Library.

Streaming Media Collections – Watch Indigenous films and documentaries through the NFB, CBC Curio, Films on Demand, Audio Cine and Criterion databases. Access is available through the Library. Some film selections include:

• The Pretendians (2022, directed by Paul Kemp & Drew Hayden Taylor, CBC Television)

• Jordan River Anderson: The Messenger (2019, directed by Alania Obomsawin, NFB Canada)

• The Grizzlies (2018, directed by Miranda de Pencier, Mongrel Media)

• Wildhood (2021, directed by Bretten Hannam, Films Boutique)

• Night Raiders (2021, directed by Danis Goulet, Elevation Pictures)

• Kayak to Klemtu (2018, directed by Zoe Leigh Hopkins, Scythia Films & Stellar Citizen)

• Beans (2020, directed by Tracey Deer, Mongrel Media)

Permanent Mi'kmaw Heritage Exhibit – Visit the Library to see Ta’n Etl-klo'tasik koqoey (a phrase meaning “where the items are kept or taken care of”), an exhibit celebrating the enduring legacy and culture of the Mi’kmaq people. This exhibit features a collection of Mi’kmaw cultural objects selected by community members, and on loan from the Nova Scotia Museum.

Golden Living partners with students to reimagine aging in place

Students work on business solutions at the Golden Living Innovation Sprint

Participants in the Golden Living Innovation Sprint

Students work together in teams to solve business challenges for Golden Living

Participants listen to student pitches

Students present their innovative ideas

Last week, 30 students from Dalhousie, NSCAD and Saint Mary’s University gathered at the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre to tackle a real-world business challenge posed by Golden Living, helping seniors live independently. The challenge was finding fresh, innovative ways to support seniors and their families as they navigate the transition of aging comfortably and independently at home.  

The teams brainstormed and pitched solutions aimed at strengthening Golden Living’s brand. The students provided new ideas for standing out in a competitive market, creating meaningful services, and growing their services. Some groups explored AI integration, while others pitched partnerships and subscription-based revenue models. All of them brought passion and unique perspectives from their disciplines, which included science, commerce, computer science, and engineering. 

One of the participants, Akash, shared his experience. “It’s a great network where you really get to learn how business works in the real world. It’s a supportive environment to build real-life skills, and honestly, anyone who wants to be featured should definitely get involved.”  

Commerce student Munyaradzi Matura and engineering student Q’Ba Richards from Saint Mary’s University took first place. Second place went to computer science student Omar Daleh, science student Ali Hammoud, both from Dalhousie University, and SMU commerce student Haniel Lordwin Girish Kumar. In third place were Dalhousie computer science students Mariam Knakriah, Yuki Law and Nour Ali, who impressed judges with their thoughtful and tech-driven approach. 

The Innovation Sprint is part of an ongoing effort to integrate active, cross-disciplinary learning into the student experience. By connecting with local organizations like Golden Living, students are given the opportunity to make a real impact on businesses that are making a difference in their communities. 

Interested in participating in the next Innovation Sprint? Visit our website for upcoming opportunities to get involved, collaborate with local partners, and put your ideas into action! 

Saint Mary's students win national Enactus title—again!

Halifax team to represent Canada on a global stage with world-changing projects

For the second year in a row, students from Saint Mary’s University have been named Canada’s national champions in a countrywide competition celebrating bold ideas and real-world impact.

Their win means Saint Mary’s will once again represent Canada at the Enactus World Cup in Bangkok, Thailand, this September, competing against top student teams from around the world.

The team rose to the top at the Enactus Canada National Exposition, held this week at the Calgary TELUS Convention Centre, where more than 600 students from over 50 post-secondary institutions across the country gathered to showcase their work. After three rounds of intense competition, Saint Mary’s emerged victorious.

At the heart of their success are two projects making a difference here at home:

• Square Roots fights food waste and hunger by rescuing “imperfect” produce and selling it affordably across Nova Scotia.

• Alaagi™ offers a sustainable alternative to plastic packaging—turning seaweed into biodegradable wrap.

In addition to the first-place national win, Enactus also place in three separate topic challenges. 

• Innovation and Impact Challenge, powered by Enactus Alumni – 1st place

• Canadian Tire Environmental Sustainability Challenge – 2nd place 

• TD Entrepreneurship Challenge – 2nd place 

Finally, the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre’s Business Design Manager, Meredith Drost, was awarded the John Dobson Fellow of the Year by Enactus Canada for her dedication to advancing entrepreneurial learning and student success. 

Enactus Saint Mary’s now moves to the global stage, bringing with them Canadian innovation, East Coast spirit and a commitment to change the world.

About Enactus Saint Mary's

Enactus Saint Mary’s is a student-led organization dedicated to creating a better world through entrepreneurial action. They develop and implement projects that address social, environmental and economic challenges, empowering individuals and communities to thrive. 

Alumni-led Canadian International Peace Conference held at Saint Mary's

On April 25–26, Saint Mary’s University hosted the 2025 Canadian International Peace Conference, organized by alumni Fatu Kaba MTEI’24 through her social enterprise, HEARTS Global Network. The event brought together over 30 speakers and 20 workshops, uniting activists, academics, policymakers and students to explore inclusive and community-driven approaches to sustainable peace.

Fatu Kaba MTEI’24

Kaba is an award-winning peace activist, TEDx speaker, and the first woman in her family to earn a master’s degree. She founded HEARTS Global Network to champion global peace and gender equity through education, entrepreneurship and storytelling. Her lived experience, born during the Liberian Civil War, continues to shape her powerful work today.

The conference emphasized peace-building through clean energy, food security, gender equity and community empowerment, aligning closely with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.

Saint Mary’s faculty, staff and students were featured speakers at the conference. Dr. Saja Al Zoubi from the Department of Political Science and Global Development Studies spoke on a panel titled ‘The Role of Women in Peacebuilding’. Dr. Margherita Cameranesi from the Department of Psychology co-led a seminar titled ‘Gender-Based Violence and Its Impact on Refugees and their Families’. Natasha Fernandes BA’23, Business Consultant at the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre, and SMU student Shaneika Carter, moderated panels.

With inspiring keynotes, performances, and hands-on workshops, the event was a bold step toward a more peaceful and just future.