THE WEST INDIAN STUDENT ENSEMBLE
FOUNDERS ADDRESS
The West Indian Student Ensemble (W.I.S.E.), a dynamic student association, was created at the University of Ottawa in September 2011 with the enthusiastic vision to unite all of the students of West Indian ancestry within a common assembly where they could embrace their Caribbean culture while developing their academic and leadership capabilities. Hence W.I.S.E. was primarily a "home away from home" for Caribbean students. Since the creation, W.I.S.E. has flourished into a diverse organization which not only welcomes the Caribbean community but also the general student body in the Ottawa-Carleton area. W.I.S.E. members are consist of students from all over the world, with ancestry ranging from Caribbean, European, African, Hispanic, Asian, East Indian and Middle Eastern. Similarly to Canada and the Caribbean, W.I.S.E. is a cultural mosaic that embraces individuality, uniqueness and diversity.
W.I.S.E. prides itself as an association that offers opportunities that supports the development of W.I.S.E. members in various ways; the 4 main focuses being Cultural, Social, Academic and Philanthropic development. This effort is reflected in our events, collaborations and volunteer opportunities that fall into one of these categories.
Specifically, the Caribbean culture is promoted through our major events such as Caribbean History and Wave Yuh flag as well as intimate socials which showcase music, food, dance and activities from Afro-Caribbean, Indo-Caribbean, Spanish Caribbean and African roots. Further, W.I.S.E. often collaborates with various community partners and other associations which share the same goal of advocating the Caribbean and African culture.
W.I.S.E. socials allow W.I.S.E. executive, existing members and new members to interact while doing fun activities which build relationships, facilitate networking, strengthen interpersonal skills and increase exposure to Caribbean cultural activities. Socials are also an opportune way to mingle with other student associations.
Academic achievement is an essential aspect of W.I.S.E.. As students, we realize how vital it is to develop our academic capacities since knowledge is power. Education is a primary value for W.I.S.E.. As such, we encourage our members to excel in their studies while offering support; textbook exchange, note sharing, connection to graduate school preparation and conferences, tutoring and peer mentoring, and study sessions.
Last but certainly not least, participating in philanthropic initiatives is how W.I.S.E. is involved in the Ottawa community. W.I.S.E. believes that development of social responsibility in a student's youth will lead them to be serve their community as they venture into the professional world. Our philanthropic efforts include volunteering monthly for diverse NGOs and CBOs organizations that present a need, hosting annual fundraising events for a cause or charity and finally organizing smaller philanthropic events such clothes donations and gift basket making. W.I.S.E. is most proud of the philanthropic aspect of the association as community outreach is an indispensable way that young people can have a positive impact on the lives of the vulnerable and the marginalized. In this way, W.I.S.E. aspires to develop leaders of tomorrow.
Looking at the success of W.I.S.E. thus far, I am truly grateful to have such vibrant and motivated individuals who make up the W.I.S.E. executive council and the general assembly. I value the hard work of my members and their willingness to further the connection of this association with other university and community organizations and partners. This contagious energy and enthusiasm fuels my desire to lead this association, while making my efforts to further this organization in the course of my studies worthwhile.
Together we have not only created a support network to foster personal and professional development - but an environment full of laughter, love, and encouragement as well. I invite you all to come take part in the family that we have created - the W.I.S.E. family. W.I.S.E. welcomes all people with open arms to explore our beautiful Caribbean and West Indian culture. We anticipate your membership.
Warmest regards,
Miesha Roberts-MacDonald
Founder of the West Indian Student Ensemble
Founding Executives:
Simone Dunbar-Nesbeth Vice President
Stephanie Henry Treasurer
W.I.S.E. prides itself as an association that offers opportunities that supports the development of W.I.S.E. members in various ways; the 4 main focuses being Cultural, Social, Academic and Philanthropic development. This effort is reflected in our events, collaborations and volunteer opportunities that fall into one of these categories.
Specifically, the Caribbean culture is promoted through our major events such as Caribbean History and Wave Yuh flag as well as intimate socials which showcase music, food, dance and activities from Afro-Caribbean, Indo-Caribbean, Spanish Caribbean and African roots. Further, W.I.S.E. often collaborates with various community partners and other associations which share the same goal of advocating the Caribbean and African culture.
W.I.S.E. socials allow W.I.S.E. executive, existing members and new members to interact while doing fun activities which build relationships, facilitate networking, strengthen interpersonal skills and increase exposure to Caribbean cultural activities. Socials are also an opportune way to mingle with other student associations.
Academic achievement is an essential aspect of W.I.S.E.. As students, we realize how vital it is to develop our academic capacities since knowledge is power. Education is a primary value for W.I.S.E.. As such, we encourage our members to excel in their studies while offering support; textbook exchange, note sharing, connection to graduate school preparation and conferences, tutoring and peer mentoring, and study sessions.
Last but certainly not least, participating in philanthropic initiatives is how W.I.S.E. is involved in the Ottawa community. W.I.S.E. believes that development of social responsibility in a student's youth will lead them to be serve their community as they venture into the professional world. Our philanthropic efforts include volunteering monthly for diverse NGOs and CBOs organizations that present a need, hosting annual fundraising events for a cause or charity and finally organizing smaller philanthropic events such clothes donations and gift basket making. W.I.S.E. is most proud of the philanthropic aspect of the association as community outreach is an indispensable way that young people can have a positive impact on the lives of the vulnerable and the marginalized. In this way, W.I.S.E. aspires to develop leaders of tomorrow.
Looking at the success of W.I.S.E. thus far, I am truly grateful to have such vibrant and motivated individuals who make up the W.I.S.E. executive council and the general assembly. I value the hard work of my members and their willingness to further the connection of this association with other university and community organizations and partners. This contagious energy and enthusiasm fuels my desire to lead this association, while making my efforts to further this organization in the course of my studies worthwhile.
Together we have not only created a support network to foster personal and professional development - but an environment full of laughter, love, and encouragement as well. I invite you all to come take part in the family that we have created - the W.I.S.E. family. W.I.S.E. welcomes all people with open arms to explore our beautiful Caribbean and West Indian culture. We anticipate your membership.
Warmest regards,
Miesha Roberts-MacDonald
Founder of the West Indian Student Ensemble
Founding Executives:
Simone Dunbar-Nesbeth Vice President
Stephanie Henry Treasurer