Monday, November 9, was the Community Builders 2.0 event. This was a student event to initiate discussion about inclusion and empowerment for all people. It was an opportunity to learn how we can creatively make a difference in the Sheridan community.
The film She Never Gives Up was screened. This was a Laura Sky, Sheridan CYC and Film-student production that documented the amazing lives of five Sheridan CYC students. Amanda Powell, Nickeisha Henry, Melissa Robinson, Tristan Johnson and Imealia Hichoymi worked alongside Laura and six film students (Laszlo Borondy, Ginnelle Alvaro, Alex Cooper, Daniel Samaan, Alastair Sinclari and Diego Guijarro) to complete this powerful and authentic documentary film.
This film afforded students the opportunity to gain new skills and experiences that extended beyond the classroom walls. The film also provided a ‘call to action’ prompting students, faculty and administration to look for ways to build accommodations for parents who are students at the college and create learning environments that support family and student achievement.
The film was shown and the five alumni returned to Sheridan to participate in a Q & A.
Students were empowered to make change.
After the film and Q & A They broke off into pods to discuss:
- Economic issues for students (food, security, and housing)
- Mental health needs
- LGBT inclusion and anti-stigma
- Inclusion and respect for people with disabilities
- Building student leadership
Next Steps:
We have a group of Sheridan students who provided their contact information and would like to continue working on the topics seeking solutions.
We will summarize the ideas and themes that came forward and determine a plan to continue this good work.