By Margaux Perrin
So it’s the end of September and you still haven’t settled into a club or clique. Well, there are over 25 different cultural student groups here at Ryerson.
If you’re still hoping to find some community, then maybe a cultural club is right for you!
The Eyeopener compiled all you need to know about as many that we could talk to. This list will be updated as we are provided more comment from more groups.
African Students’ Association (ASA)
Where and when do they meet? Operating for the past five years, the ASA’s executive team is composed of 10 executives and members from different countries in Africa. The ASA office is being re-built where they plan on having set office hours for students to hang out and ask questions. Until then, you can find them in the Ryerson Student Centre basement.
What are some events coming up? The ASA is planning events throughout the year, such as Pub Night on Oct. 11. Future events include a toy drive and Tales of Forgotten Africa.
You can follow them on their Facebook @RyeASA and Instagram @ryeafricans to find out when these events will be taking place.
Indigenous Students Association (ISA)
Where and when do they meet? The ISA tries to organize two general meetings per semester, which are usually held in the library or SLC. Students can contact the ISA via email at indigisa@ryerson.ca to get involved or learn more about when these meetings will be held.
What are some fun events coming up? An event called Community Kitchen Series is expected to run throughout both semesters if the necessary funding is met. This event is meant to give Indigenous people non-perishable foods or other less expensive options for diet specific foods.
There has been increasing concern about diabetes among Indigenous people. By conducting this kitchen series, the ISA hopes to teach Indigenous students easy ways to eat healthier to lower the risk of diabetes within their community.
Chinese Students’ Association (CSA)
Where and when do they meet? Founded in the 1970s, the CSA hosts an event once or twice a month. Prior to these events, they meet whenever it is convenient for members, working around their busy schedules.
What are some events coming up? A bubble tea and boardgame orientation night takes place on Sept. 27 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the Oakham Lounge. Tickets are on sale now for $2 and cost $3 at the door.
You can follow them on social media on Instagram @ryersonCSA or on Facebook @ryeCSA.
Somali Students’ Association (SSA)
Where and when do they meet? The SSA has bi-weekly meetings on campus. Members sometimes meet in smaller groups to accomplish certain tasks. Students can email somali@ryerson.ca to become a member. Don’t worry about missing things—the group has an email list to send reminders when an event is coming up.
What are some fun events coming up? An event called Bashal and Banter is coming up in a few weeks, but the date remains unconfirmed. This winter, the SSA will host a basketball tournament. The association’s goal this year is to bring our members together by hosting outing and unique events–social and networking.
Iranian Students’ Association (ISARU)
Where and when do they meet? The ISARU meets a minimum of three times a month, for members of the association only. If you are interested in joining, you can contact them through their social media at @iraniansryerson on Facebook and Instagram.
What are some fun events coming up? Their signature event is the celebration of Yalda night, which is the longest night of the year. This event will be taking place sometime in December, it is one of the most important celebrations in Iranian culture. Other events to be organized throughout the year are sports tournaments and picnics.
Filipino Canadian Association of Ryerson (FCAR)
Where and when do they meet? Founded in 1987, the FCAR meets at least once a month, usually in the Ryerson library, but meeting spots vary based on availability.
What are some events coming up? You can follow them on Facebook or Instagram at @fcaryerson to stay updated.
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