NovaNews: July 2025

Summer is in full swing, and with it comes a wave of exciting activity across the EduNova network! From celebrating our graduating Capstone cohort and welcoming a new group of student entrepreneurs, to launching a major international marketing campaign and enjoying the outdoors with community hikes, there’s no shortage of momentum. In this issue, we’re highlighting key initiatives, upcoming events, and the outstanding contributions of our members as we continue working together to strengthen Nova Scotia’s position as a leading destination for international students.

Study and Stay™ Capstone Student Graduation is Coming!

The Study and Stay™–Nova Scotia Capstone Graduation is just around the corner! On July 17, we’ll gather to celebrate the accomplishments of our remarkable 9th Capstone cohort as they complete their journey in the program. If you are a graduate or invited guest and have not yet confirmed your attendance, please do so as soon as possible. Final event details will be sent directly to confirmed attendees. We look forward to honouring this exceptional group and recognizing the milestones they’ve reached in their career and settlement journeys.
 

Join the Entrepreneurship Journeys: Passion, Growth & Networking Panel

The 2025 Summer Entrepreneurial Experience (SEE) officially kicked off this week! In partnership with the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre at Saint Mary’s University, this program supports international students with mentorship, startup funding, and hands-on workshops to help them bring their business ideas to life. We’re thrilled to welcome this year’s cohort and look forward to seeing their entrepreneurial journeys unfold.

Given that we want to support as many aspiring or current international student entrepreneurs as possible, we invite all international students (and recent grads) interested in entrepreneurship in Nova Scotia to join us for a special virtual panel discussion on Tuesday, July 24 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM. You don’t have to be part of the SEE bootcamp program to participate in this panel event.

This one-hour session, Discover the Stories Behind the Success, will spotlight four immigrant and newcomer entrepreneurs who have built values-driven businesses in Nova Scotia. Moderated by creative entrepreneur Teo Kim, Ossama Nasrallah, Shubhra Singh, & Joyce Liu, the discussion will explore how these founders navigated challenges, stayed rooted in their cultural identity, and built meaningful community connections. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear real-world stories that reflect your journey—and fuel your own entrepreneurial vision. 

Study and Stay™ Program - Summer Light Hike (Halifax)

This summer, we’re inviting international students to get outside, explore local parks, and connect with peers through two upcoming group hikes in Halifax. These beginner-friendly events offer a relaxed way to enjoy nature, bond with mentors and fellow students, and take in some of the city’s scenic green spaces. Join us for a light hike at Sir Sandford Fleming Park on Sunday, July 27, or a longer walk and social at Point Pleasant Park on Sunday, August 24. Registration is required and spots are limited—don’t miss this chance to enjoy the trails and make new connections!

Launch of the Study Nova Scotia Destination Digital Marketing Campaign 

We’re excited to announce the launch of the Study Nova Scotia Destination Digital Marketing Campaign, a 12-month initiative developed in partnership with IDP and funded through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency’s Innovation Table. Targeting prospective international students in India, Bangladesh, and the UAE, this campaign aims to reposition Nova Scotia as a top-tier study destination by showcasing the province’s vibrant post-secondary landscape, quality of education, and welcoming communities. The campaign features 10 of our member institutions and will help raise the global profile of Nova Scotia as a place to study, live, and thrive.

July Member of the Month

We’re pleased to recognize Yolana Wassersug, Recruitment and Admissions Manager at the University of King’s College, as our July Member of the Month. A dedicated member of EduNova’s Student Recruitment Committee, Yolana is known for her leadership, initiative, and collaborative spirit, particularly through her coordination of the 2025 Counsellors Tour. Her commitment to international student recruitment and retention in Nova Scotia is evident in the strong connections she fosters across the sector. As Yolana puts it, “A collaborative atmosphere is one of the best things about working in the education sector in Nova Scotia… our teamwork across the sector helps to bring more international students to NS.” We’re grateful for Yolana’s contributions and proud to highlight her impact within our community.

Welcoming our Two Venture for Canada Students

We’re pleased to welcome Kelvin Nguyen and Ashley Mand to the EduNova team for a 7-week work placement through the Venture for Canada Intrapreneurship Program. Both are second-year students at York University—Kelvin studying Digital Media and Ashley pursuing a BBA, who bring a keen interest in digital marketing and social media strategy. During their time with us, they’ll be working on a focused project to develop digital marketing strategies and content for several of EduNova’s programs. We’re excited to support their professional growth and gain fresh insights from these emerging talents.