The CUBE is dedicated to maintaining strong connections with Indigenous and Black students even after they graduate. We proudly highlight the inspiring impact stories of our students and alumni, showcasing their academic and career achievements.
Merit Ajuwa: From Research Assistant to Professional Success
Merit Ajuwa's journey with The CUBE began when she was introduced to a Research Assistant position at the John Howard Society – Windsor Essex County. In this role, she worked with an exceptional team to co-facilitate and deliver the Financial Literacy Independence Program (FLIP) to community members. Merit played a pivotal role in initiating a metric to evaluate the program's effectiveness, significantly contributing to its quality assessment process. The skills and experience she gained through this position were instrumental in her job search post-graduation. Merit successfully secured a mid-level position as an Employee Engagement Specialist just a few weeks after graduating. Her new employer was particularly impressed by her feature in the Odette Business Everywhere Letter, which highlighted the value of her contributions and experiences. Merit's story exemplifies how The CUBE's opportunities can lead to professional success and recognition.
Chiamaka Anyimigbo: Leading Research and Gaining Mentorship
Chiamaka Anyimigbo's significant achievement as the Lead Facilitator for a qualitative research project on Black Entrepreneurship in Canada at the University of Alberta started with The CUBE at the University of Windsor. The CUBE, dedicated to supporting Indigenous and Black students, provided Chiamaka with the encouragement and support she needed. During her first meeting at The CUBE, she was motivated to apply for the role and assured of Dr. Kemi Anazodo’s unwavering support. Dr. Anazodo’s mentorship has been instrumental in shaping Chiamaka’s approach to research and facilitation, providing invaluable advice throughout the process. The CUBE's emphasis on inclusivity and empowerment, along with access to resources, networking opportunities, and skill-building workshops, has created a supportive environment where members can thrive and cultivate leadership skills. Chiamaka attributes her success in securing and excelling in her research role to the steadfast support of The CUBE and Dr. Anazodo.
Grace Youzan: Building Community and Leadership Skills
Grace Youzan’s first year of undergraduate study was significantly enriched by her experience as a research assistant at the University of Alberta, an opportunity made possible by The CUBE. The initiative offers numerous opportunities and events that can significantly enhance students' work experience. Grace credits The CUBE for providing access to an opportunity that she otherwise would not have had, underscoring the program's role in opening doors to valuable academic and professional experiences.
Maya Jessop: Networking and Professional Development
Maya Jessop found The CUBE to be a vital part of her life as a master's student and continues to benefit from its networking and professional development opportunities. Through The CUBE, Maya has met and collaborated with Indigenous and Black scholars, faculty, and students from various departments. This exposure has allowed her to access fields of knowledge and experience that were previously unavailable to her. As an English major, Maya rarely had the chance to engage in practical work, but The CUBE provided her with the space to put her studies into action. Working on projects and developing solutions to issues faced by her and her colleagues has been incredibly fulfilling. Maya is confident that the connections and experiences gained through The CUBE will remain with her as she continues her pursuits as a scholar and in professional spaces.
If you are a student or alumnus and would like to share how The CUBE has influenced your academic and career journey, please contact us at thecube@uwindsor.ca.