Earlier this month, the York University Black Alumni Network (YUBAN) and York University Sexuality and Gender Advocacy (SAGA) Alumni Network held the third annual Black and Rainbow graduation celebrations. Graduates, alumni, faculty, staff, friends and allies gathered at Keele campus to celebrate and honour the achievements of the Class of 2025.
The graduating class of Black-identifying and 2SLGBTQIA+ identifying members were celebrated in a supportive and inclusive environment while providing the graduates with the opportunity to network with alumni.
Hosted by Zoey Wyeld (BFA ’16), Chair, Sexuality and Gender Advocacy Alumni Network, the Rainbow Grad Celebration included inspirational words by graduating student Freddie Wraight (BFA ‘25) and moments of nostalgia and reflection for alumni.
“It was a very reflective and poignant moment for me to have come back to York tonight as an alumni,” says Wasifa Noshin (BFA ’22). “It’s a privilege to get to sit amongst many fellow alumni and celebrate the graduates from 2025.”
Graduates from the class of 2025 were also acknowledged in a celebration ceremony to commemorate their hard work and dedication and highlight their success.
“The Black and Rainbow Grad Celebrations remind us of the power of community when we honour and recognize not only achievements, but identity and resilience in a space where Black and 2SLGBTQIA+ graduates are seen, celebrated and supported,” says Heather Auden, Director, Alumni Engagement.
The Black Grad Celebration was hosted by Fikayo Aderoju (BA ’22), Chair, York University Black Alumni Network, a few days later and included powerful words by Professor Uzo Anucha (BSW, MSW ‘98), Assistant Vice President of Faculty Affairs at York, followed by an inspiring performance by Kayla Jones (BA ‘25), a fourth-year interdisciplinary Social Science student and York University student ambassador.
“The third annual YUBAN Black Grad Celebration was truly a success. The energy in the room was electric, the stories were powerful, and the atmosphere was one of genuine celebration and pride,” says Fikayo. “The celebration was not just an event; it was a reflection of what is possible when community, commitment and culture align.”
The graduates also connected with the leaders of YUBAN, who welcomed them to the alumni community and shared words of encouragement.
“Getting feedback from the graduates on how happy they were to cross the stage made me happy that YUBAN is fulfilling its mandate to support graduating students from their last days at York to becoming successful alumni,” says Aisha Imran (BPA ‘22), Career and Mentorship Coordinator, YUBAN. “The success of the third annual Black Grad Celebration is a testament to the resilience and strength we get from working together and lifting one another up.”
If you are interested in learning more about YUBAN, SAGA or our other alumni networks, please reach out to Yasmine Mensah (BA ‘20), Alumni Engagement Officer at mensahy@yorku.ca.