The STU International Students Association’s multicultural fair has always been a great event.
It brings international students and community members together to share in their individual cultures, while food, clothing, displays and talents are discovered as many join in the fun.
This year’s fair was especially important, as money raised went to Friends of Kofi, an organization formed to help former STU student Kofi Ampong, who uses a wheelchair after being assaulted in Moncton.
“His current situation is such where he cannot work,” said Richard Myers, a political science professor at STU, and a behind-the-scenes organizer of Friends of Kofi. “We want to help him get through this next little while.”
Myers said he was thrilled to hear the fair was donating the money.
“It’s a nice touch since Kofi himself has participated in the Multicultural Fair a number of times,” he said. “He was also vice president of St. Thomas’s Student Union.”
When the St. Thomas community heard about what happened to Ampong, they rallied behind the former STU student.
“Students have been very supportive because they know that he was one of us,” Myers said.
Sabrina Sotiriu led much of the fair’s organization. She said that STUISA felt they needed to do something to help Ampong.
“We didn’t and don’t really have to donate anything to anyone but we wanted to because in Kofi’s case, we are one of his few sources of support,” Sotiriu said. “In addition to the STUSU, STUISA is the only student group on campus who is fully committed and part of Friends of Kofi.
“It seemed almost natural that we try to help an international alumnus, a student who was once one of us, and who dedicated his time to STUISA and one or more multicultural fairs,” she said.
More events are coming up to show support.
A second STU Review for Kofi will be Feb. 17. The last one showcased talent from across the St. Thomas community, and garnered positive reviews.
The second is hoping to result in the same.
