Jingle Bells, Christmas Season — A Joy for Some, A Nightmare for Others
Walking through downtown Edmonton in December, the city sparkles with festive lights, the smell of hot chocolate drifts from coffee shops, and last-minute shoppers fill the malls. But just a few steps away, another reality unfolds: men and women, young and old, curl up under thin blankets and tattered jackets, braving the freezing winter nights. While many of us rush between cozy cafes and holiday shopping, thousands are struggling to survive and for some, substance use is the only way to get through the night. This is the winter story of homelessness in Edmonton, a reality often unseen during the season of celebration.
How a Sewing Class Changed the Way I See Sustainability
Last month, I had a random desire to take a sewing class. I’d been feeling a little down and realized it was because my days were starting to look the same — work, rest, repeat. I wanted to try something that would challenge me, get my hands moving, and spark a new sense of curiosity. So, I did the obvious thing and decided to look for a sewing class.
Empowering Racialized and Immigrant Youth Through Civic Engagement
Growing up as a first-generation immigrant in Canada, I quickly learned that the path to opportunity often comes with both visible and invisible barriers. From navigating the education system to figuring out how to engage meaningfully in my community, I experienced firsthand how vital it is for youth to have spaces where their voices are not only heard, but valued. Civic engagement can transform communities and the young people who step into these roles by building confidence, skills and a sense of purpose. For racialized and immigrant youth, getting started in civic engagement can feel daunting.
The Path to Renewable Energy
Dr. Thorlakson's collaborative research shows diversified but positive public opinion on the energy transition. Alberta has a strong cultural dependence on fossil fuels. Nevertheless, support for renewable energy is high. However, there are complexities to this support. Many people support using renewable energy but hesitate to give up fossil fuels. This contradiction offers a chance to explore ways to phase in renewable energy sources rather than a dead end.
Advice for Unversity Students - Things I Wish I Knew in My Early Years (Pt. 1)
When I first started university, I had no idea what I wanted to do or who I wanted to be. It was a tough journey, but now that I’ve graduated and work in a field I love, I feel compelled to share advice that helped me get where I am.
Throughout my first four years at university, I did absolutely nothing besides focus on my grades. I didn't attend any activities, made very few friends, and barely participated in campus events.
#ImpactYEG - YWCA Edmonton’s Rose Campaign
“The campaign not only raises awareness about the prevalence of gender-based violence in our community, particularly against Indigenous, disabled, racialized, trans and rural women and girls, but also critical funds for YWCA Edmonton’s violence prevention and recovery programs. Violence against women and girls is 100 percent preventable, but we’ll only stop it when the entire community comes together to end this abuse.”
Paths for People
“I saw cities built differently from the ones I was used to. I enjoyed the ambience and physical setting of those places and thought maybe we could have bigger dreams and aspirations for the spaces we have at home.”
Gus Sloan
“In high school, I went on a school trip to Paris, France and was inspired by one of the top fashion capitals in the world. My Fashion studies teacher was also on that trip and she supported my passion and education. After high school, I moved to Vancouver and studied Fashion Design and Merchandising at The Art Institute of Vancouver. After school, I deepened my love and understanding of textiles by working at a big fabric store for a couple years, then moved back to Edmonton to have my first child and start my family.“