City of Kingston, KEYS and Kingston Immigration Partnership celebrate a successful inaugural International Student Symposium

KINGSTON, ONT. / MARCH 20, 2024 – The first International Student Symposium, held earlier this month at Portsmouth Olympic Harbour, has been received as a resounding success. Hosted by the City of Kingston, Kingston Immigration Partnership and KEYS, the "Kingston as a Global Community in the Making" event brought together nearly 200 international post-secondary students to share their unique perspectives and experiences within the community. 

“With the rapid growth of the international student population over the past few years, KEYS has been actively providing support through a special program tailored to international graduates, generously funded by the RBC Foundation,” says Gillian Watters, Director of Employment Services at KEYS. “In the process of connecting this global talent with local opportunities, we’ve witnessed unimaginable challenges, but also so much resilience and community support.”

“This International Student Symposium is the culmination of many conversations with the City, KIP and other community organizations,” adds Madeleine Nerenberg, KEYS’ Director of Newcomer Services. “It demonstrates Kingston's commitment to improving the international student and graduate experience in practical, measurable ways that will continue to support their well-being and integration into our community.” 

The full-day session featured a lineup of keynote addresses and engaging panel discussions which provided a platform for graduates to answer questions and share advice. Participants also had the chance to connect with local service providers and take part in small group discussion sessions, contributing to the conversation on topics such as employment, health care, finance and intercultural communication. 

"Our experience at the Symposium was truly enjoyable," said Marinelly Villalobos, a graduate of the Health Care Administration program at St. Lawrence College.  "The atmosphere was vibrant and let us connect with numerous international students and exchange ideas about networking within the Kingston community," added Mariana Rosa, a student from the same program.  

According to Digital Marketing Communications alumna Gail Manigsaca, "It was a meaningful experience that fostered a strong sense of collaboration and community among all the attendees." 

“We see this symposium as just the start of an ongoing conversation, celebrating the contributions of international students in making Kingston a thriving community,” says Wendy Vuyk, Director of Community Health at Kingston Community Health Centres. “By coming together, we aim to tackle challenges faced by international students, foster a sense of belonging and ensure they feel included and empowered in the Kingston community.” 

In recognition of their valuable contributions, participants received an official Certificate of Engagement underscoring their role in shaping Kingston as an inclusive and globally connected city. The event was made possible through the generous support of sponsors J.E. Agnew Food Services and the RBC Foundation. 

"We’re so grateful to everyone who took the time to come out and learn from one another, as well as our speakers, sponsors and volunteers who helped make this event a resounding success,” concludes the City of Kingston’s Director of Innovation, Strategy and Partnerships, Craig Desjardins. “We’ve taken away ideas that we’ll be putting into action with the help of our incredible partners. We look forward to continuing this conversation and growing the International Student Symposium in the years to come.” 

City of Kingston media contact: For more information call the communications and customer experience department at 613-546-4291, ext. 2300.  

Non-media related inquiries: Submit a request or question about municipal programs and services online or by calling Customer Services at 613-546-0000 Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. City staff will aim to respond within two business days.