This is SLC: Our College News

Have you ever encountered a word that opened the door to a story you didn't know existed? For many people, that moment comes when they first hear the terms Two-Spirit or Indigiqueer. While it may be tempting to look for a quick definition, these words represent much more than labels. They connect to conversations about identity, culture, history, and resilience. Before exploring these terms, it's important to remember that there is no single Indigenous experience. Across Turtle Island, First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples have distinct cultures, languages, and traditions. Understanding that diversity helps us approach these conversations with respect rather than assumptions. 

When I think about the kind of graduate we hope to see come through St. Lawrence College, Aayush Sapkota stands out as a remarkable example of curiosity, initiative, and follow-through. Aayush is graduating this year from our Advanced Diploma in Computer Programming & Analysis program, having already gained meaningful industry experience through a 10-month placement as a Software Engineer with Empire Life. In the classroom and beyond, he consistently demonstrated a willingness to step forward—whether that meant refining his technical skills or helping to build community. 

Amanda Babcock, SLC alumna and owner of Loyalist Concierge Co., has been recognized as co-recipient of the New Business of the Year award at the 2026 Kingston Business Awards. The awards are presented by title sponsor MNP LLP and organized by the Greater Kingston Chamber of Commerce. Amanda graduated in 2005 from the Child and Youth Work program and has built a long and impactful career with Family and Children’s Services of Frontenac, Lennox and Addington, where she worked until 2023. In 2023, Amanda returned to St. Lawrence College to expand her skillset, graduating from the Digital Marketing Communications program in 2024.

From May 11–14, SLC joined communities across Canada for Moose Hide Campaign Week, an Indigenous-led grassroots movement calling on men, boys, and all people to help end violence against women, children, and people along the gender continuum. Across SLC, 500 moose hide pins were distributed, each symbolizing a personal commitment to honour, respect, and protect women and children. Virtual sessions throughout the week deepened understanding of the campaign, including the cultural significance of fasting on Moose Hide Campaign Day (May 14), when each campus hosted a walk and shared circle. More than 70 participants took part, united in love, responsibility, and a commitment to meaningful change.  

I recently finished my final placement with Hayabusa Fightwear Inc., closing out three years in the  Advertising and Marketing Communications Management (AMC) program. But for me, this experience didn’t start on day one—it started in second year. We were given a task to connect with a professional. I treated it as an opportunity, not an obligation. I reached out to many people, some didn’t respond, others led to short conversations, but one connection stuck. I connected with Kyle C., Community and Relationships Manager at Hayabusa. We had a call, stayed in touch, and continued to check in over time. So, when placement season arrived, I wasn’t starting from scratch; that connection led me to where I am now.