Power in learning: My feminist reflections as an international student

This International Women’s Day, the theme is “Accelerate Action (external link) ”. It highlights the importance of taking concrete steps towards progress, with the ultimate goal of achieving gender equality all over the world. 

Here on the TMU campus, one way action is taken is by offering specialised resources and services to protect and uplift women and people who identify as women. These are often run by community members such as students or staff who are passionate about change and creating a supportive community.

When I came to TMU as a first-year student, I experienced a lot of freedom for the first time. From living alone to working jobs, it was my first taste of independence. Over time, I overcame challenges and became more strong-minded. It became important to me to start using my voice in support of my community of not just international students, but women of color as well. Now almost in my final year with a better understanding of my own self and the world around me, I take the time to acknowledge the importance of celebrating voices. One way I like to do this is by attending and supporting community events, cultural festivals, and student groups on campus!

We’re a campus where Consent Comes First

The Consent Comes First (CCF) office provides a confidential, judgement-free space to those affected by gender-based violence, fostering a healing-centred environment for support and reporting. Through initiatives like the Begin by Listening Conference, Gender Justice committee, e-learning courses, counseling and medical services, and workshops focused on fostering healthy conversations, CCF is committed to providing care and support to those who need it. Their offerings go far beyond being a student service; they also promote empowerment and awareness for everyone on campus.

Finding safety through the WalkSafe Program

One of my favorite campus resources is the WalkSafe program, a TMU-exclusive service where security guards escort students, staff and visitors safely on campus or within a kilometre radius. Available 24/7 all-year-round, I rely on this service, mostly when I am coming to and from a friend’s place near campus or studying in the library after hours. This way, I don’t have to worry about safety when coming home late and can have a friendly companion to walk with.

Women’s only programs for safety and comfort

Recreation & Active Wellbeing at TMU offers Women’s Only Programming at the Recreation and Athletic Centre (RAC), creating a comfortable space and experience for those who identify as women to stay active. From the Fitness Centre, track and swimming pool to drop-in and intramural sports, all services dedicate 3-4 weekly sessions towards women-only hours. Women’s only classes are also offered for Instructional Programs such as dance, kickboxing, and weight training. Personally, these programs have been a great way for me to get over my mental barrier when going to the gym, and the regular hours make it easy to make new friends!

Learn to protect yourself through self-defence

One of my first jobs as a first-year student was with TMU’s Facilities Management and Development (FMD), where our team updated campus signage. To ensure women felt safe in quieter areas on campus, our supervisor enrolled us in a Self-Defence workshop series led by certified security instructors over the course of four classes. Having equipped me with the skills and ability to learn some basic hands-on defence training and become aware about safety and security issues, these classes have been fundamental in making me feel safe both on and off campus.

University Health Insurance Plan (UHIP) for health and wellness

All international students on campus are registered in UHIP, TMU’s mandatory insurance plan. UHIP offers reliable health insurance which can go a long way in making you feel safe and supported in your university journey. This insurance includes annual exams, X-rays, emergency services, general practitioners, specialists, and more. UHIP also offers access to the Medical Centre on campus, which offers service similar to that of a family doctor. Many international students have been able to find the right support and medical assistance, along with referrals to specialists, through the Medical Centre.

You can learn about what UHIP covers and other health insurance plans available to you as a student at TMU.

Power through learning

In a community full of diverse voices, I feel empowered when I can contribute my own to meaningful conversations. Last semester, I took PHL 544: Feminist Philosophy which fundamentally altered the way I think about gender and its practices. My favorite part of this class was the debates and discussions which involved people from different backgrounds. I learned the value of having productive conversations that aim to understand complex social structures and their history. I was able to lend my perspective as an international student, a woman of color, and a South Asian person, and understand all versions of my identity through an informed lens. 

Similarly, I have been able to contribute my voice to events as a former student staff at International Student Support. By meeting other international students, I found community in strong women and got inspired from their stories. At TMU, I have learned that both power and compassion stem from learning experiences. It is as important to listen as it is to speak and to receive support as it is to uplift others.

Being on my own as a woman in a foreign country has taught me endless lessons. But most importantly, it has taught me about my own strengths and resilience. This International Women’s Day, I want to pass this strength forward to all the women that I know and encourage them to celebrate themselves and their capabilities. There is nothing we can not achieve, and this day is an important reminder of that.