A group of students and faculty members sit together inside the newly opened affinity space, smiling toward the camera. The room features comfortable seating, colourful décor, and an affirmation poster celebrating belonging, respect, and inclusion.
The Faculty of Social Sciences officially opened its new Affinity Space for Black, Indigenous and People of Colour (BIPOC) graduate students on June 24, bringing together students, faculty, and staff to celebrate an important step toward building an even more inclusive and supportive campus community.

Located on the fifth floor of the Social Sciences Building, the new space was created in response to a student-led initiative aimed at providing BIPOC graduate students with a welcoming environment where they can connect, build community, and find support throughout their academic journey.

The event featured remarks from Dean Nathan Young, doctoral student Kafui Sawyer, members of the School of Psychology's Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee, and a musical performance by Veronica Agyemang, who performed O Canada and a second song celebrating community and belonging. The ceremony concluded with an official ribbon cutting, followed by networking and refreshments.

For Dean Nathan Young, the Affinity Space demonstrates the power of collaboration and a shared commitment to student success.

A faculty leader delivers remarks during the opening ceremony while holding prepared notes. The entrance to the affinity space, featuring decorative blue artwork and the red ribbon from the ribbon-cutting ceremony, is visible behind them.
“"What made this project so special was the shared commitment behind it. People across the Faculty recognized the importance of creating a space where students feel they belong, and that collective support allowed us to bring this vision to life...”

Nathan Young

— Dean

Professor Young also acknowledged the many individuals who contributed to the project, including student leaders, Faculty staff, Facilities, the Library, and members of the Faculty's senior leadership team, highlighting the collective effort that made the space a reality.

The idea for the Affinity Space was championed by doctoral student Kafui Sawyer, whose vision was rooted in creating a place where students could build community and feel a true sense of belonging.

A speaker addresses attendees while reading prepared remarks during the opening ceremony. Standing beside a Faculty of Social Sciences banner, they gesture as they speak, with the entrance to the affinity space visible in the background.
“"This space sends a powerful message to BIPOC students: you belong here. It is a place where students can build community, find support, and feel seen and valued throughout their graduate journey."”

Kafui Sawyer

— Doctoral Student

Kafui explained that spaces like this can help students navigate the challenges of graduate studies by providing opportunities to connect with peers who understand their experiences.

A welcoming lounge area with modern seating, colourful cushions, plants, and decorative wall art. A large poster on the back wall displays affirming messages including "You belong here," "You matter," and "You have a voice," creating an inviting and inclusive atmosphere.
“"Spaces like this help reduce the impact of racism and stress that many students experience. They give us a place where we can build community, support one another, and focus on learning."”

Kafui Sawyer

— Doctoral Student

Reflecting on her own doctoral journey, Kafui shared that while graduate studies brought challenges, they also introduced her to mentors, colleagues, and allies who demonstrated the power of community.

Faculty members, staff, and students stand together outside the entrance of the affinity space for a group photo. A Faculty of Social Sciences banner is displayed beside the doorway, with refreshments visible nearby as part of the opening celebration.
“"Community can make all the difference. I hope this becomes a place where students can breathe, feel supported, support one another, and help build a lasting community."”

Kafui Sawyer

— Doctoral Student

More than a physical room, the Affinity Space represents the faculty’s ongoing commitment to fostering belonging, equity, and inclusion by creating environments where every student feels welcomed, respected, and empowered to succeed.

As students gathered following the ribbon-cutting ceremony to connect, sign the guest book, and celebrate together, the atmosphere reflected the purpose of the new space: a place where meaningful conversations, friendships, and future collaborations can flourish.

For the Faculty of Social Sciences, the opening of the Affinity Space marks an important milestone in strengthening a community where every graduate student knows they belong.

Two attendees share a warm embrace during the opening celebration while other guests gather nearby, chatting and enjoying the event in the university hallway.