With the significant reduction in alumni funding, organizers of McMaster’s annual Light Up the Night event explore alternative funding options
The McMaster Students Union is working to secure additional funding for the end-of-year festival Light Up the Night after a significant reduction in financial contributions from McMaster's Alumni Association.
The event is the MSU's annual year-end celebration, featuring live music and entertainment. MSU president Jovan Popovic spoke to The Silhouette about the event and this year's reduction in funding, stating that the event has grown substantially over the last eight years, with over 11,000 attendees last year.
Traditionally a partnership between the MSU and the Alumni Association, the event has relied on external funding to accommodate its increasing scale. This year, Popovic says the MSU was informed that alumni contributions would be reduced by one-third from the usual.
According to Popovic, the Alumni Association had initially withdrawn nearly all funding early in the winter term. But, following discussions, they have since decided to continue funding the event—though not to the same extent as before. While the Alumni Association remains an important financial partner, the reduction in support has made it necessary for the MSU to seek additional revenue sources.
Hence, the MSU is pursuing alternative funding strategies, including increasing sponsorship revenue and securing support from sources such as the Office of the President and Facility Services.
Despite initial concerns about scaling back the event, Popovic expressed confidence that Light Up the Night will match last year's in terms of scale.
"At this point in time, I have full confidence that the event will be able to continue as it did before; we fully escaped crisis mode," said Popovic.
At this point in time, I have full confidence that the event will be able to continue as it did before; we fully escaped crisis mode.
Jovan Popovic
President, McMaster Students Union
Popovic said the MSU has learned from this experience and will prioritize diversifying funding sources to avoid reliance on single donors. While optimistic about this year’s event, he admitted that funding uncertainties create risks that future MSU leaders will inherit.
Popovic also commented on the Homecoming and Large Events Referendum held earlier during this year's MSU presidential election, which proposed adding $20.00 to the MSU operating fee to secure long-term funding for major student events. The referendum ultimately did not pass, meaning events like Homecoming and Light Up the Night will have to rely more on alternative funding sources.
“Seeing 40 per cent having voted in favour, I think it was a fairly close referenda that told me the students largely support the mandate, but that the fee was maybe just a little bit high . . . Perhaps if we do end up creating a partnership with university partners where perhaps they increase the contribution and that fee comes down, maybe there's a path forward in which the concept can be reintroduced at a lower cost to students and I would hope that we could potentially garner support there," said Popovic.
Seeing 40 per cent having voted in favour, I think it was a fairly close referenda that told me the students largely support the mandate, but that the fee was maybe just a little bit high.
Jovan Popovic
President, McMaster Students Union
Despite the challenges, the MSU remains committed to making this year’s Light Up the Night a success. Popovic emphasized his excitement for another year of the event, calling it a staple of campus life and a key part of the student experience. This year's Light Up the Night will be held on Apr. 8, 2025, starting at 6 p.m.
Final ruling confirms Piper Plavins as MSU president-elect, bringing election process to a close after appeal deliberations
Following the resolution of a disqualification appeal, Piper Plavins has been officially confirmed as the next president of the McMaster Students Union. The appeal, initiated by the request of presidential candidate Olami Olalere, was dismissed after two levels of review, finalizing the results of the 2025 MSU presidential election.
Olalere was disqualified from the race after accumulating a combination of standard and severe campaign violations.
In an interview with The Silhouette, Sinead Gono, the chief returning officer of the elections department of the MSU, said that Olalere received a total of nine standard violations and two severe violations.
Under MSU election rules, surpassing half of the spending limit in fines—$200.00 of the $400.00 limit—results in automatic disqualification. A standard fine is worth $15.00 and a severe fine is worth $35.00. Additionally, Olalere received $42.00 in poster violations for a total of 21 poster violations valued at $2.00 each, as per presidential election rule 7.10.4. In total, Olalere accumulated $247.00 in fines.
“The rules are very specific and I feel that they’re quite clearly laid out . . . There’s a threshold and if you pass that in terms of monetary value, then you get automatically disqualified. That’s what happened in this case,” said Gono.
There’s a threshold and if you pass that in terms of monetary value, then you get automatically disqualified.
Sinead Gono
Chief Returning Officer, MSU Elections
After his disqualification, Olalere filed an appeal in two stages. According to Gono, in the first stage, the MSU Elections Committee reviewed his objections and overturned only one $0.00 violation, which did not impact his total fine amount.
In the second stage, the Elections Appeal Board, which is an independent panel consisting of the MSU deputy speaker, the university secretariat and a member of the McMaster community, upheld the original decisions in full. As a result, Olalere remained disqualified and his name was removed from the official ballot.
Due to the MSU’s ranked-choice voting system, votes cast for Olalere were not discarded. Instead, they were redistributed to the next-ranked candidates on each ballot.
“There’s no erasing of votes . . . They now consider the other ranked options,” said Gono.
Gono emphasized that the elections department followed its policies and treated all candidates equally.
“We did the best that we could on our end. We followed the process that we always follow . . . The rules are pretty set in stone and we try to make them as clear as possible,” said Gono.
This year’s election cycle also saw a rise in voter turnout. Gono credited the increase to coordinated efforts by both the elections department, the MSU as a whole and the efforts of the candidates themselves.
“There was a union-wide goal of reaching 20 per cent turnout . . . We worked tirelessly on promotions and events . . . The candidates also made this election really exciting for students . . . I also think we’re seeing a natural rebound in student engagement post-COVID,” said Gono.
The candidates also made this election really exciting for students . . . I also think we’re seeing a natural rebound in student engagement post-COVID
Sinead Gono
Chief Returning Officer, MSU Elections
The final certified results have officially confirmed Piper Plavins as MSU president-elect. She is set to begin her one-year term on May 1, 2025.
Two 4th-year students tackle barriers and spark conversations about inclusion in the arts through their thesis project comedy show
For their thesis project, Isabella Stravropolous and Sofia Smith, two theatre and film students, have co-written and co-directed a live comedy show titled Disabled People Are Funny, Too! The production is having showings at 7:30 p.m. on March 19, 21 and 23 and at 1:30 p.m. on March 20 and 22 in the Lyons Family Studio. Admission is free of charge and tickets can be found on their Showpass website.
Smith and Stravropolous prioritized the show's accessibility for all audiences in creating it. They organized all performances to include audio descriptions and captioning. Certain days will incorporate ASL interpretation or relaxed performances which include increased light for visibility, reduced sound levels and in-and-out access whenever audience members require, as seen on their website.
The show explores the journey of a disabled writer working for a late night comedy show that feels excluded from the rest of the production due to the workplace being inaccessible and the crew’s unwillingness to accommodate. Through standup and sketch comedy, this show navigates creating accessible spaces for everyone.
The title of the show itself came after a thoughtful process. Initially, Stravropolous and Smith had chosen the title Your Late Night Trip, which ended up being the title of the late night comedy show within the story.
“But then we were like, ‘Okay, this title doesn’t represent the main character as much,’” Stravropolous explained. They knew they needed a new title that better aligned with the show’s core message of fighting against stereotypes surrounding people with disabilities.
“It was a late night after a rehearsal and we're like, disabled people can be liars, disabled people can be horny, disabled people can be mean, disabled people can be evil. And then we were like, disabled people are funny,” said Stravropolous.
Disabled people can be liars, disabled people can be horny, disabled people can be mean, disabled people can be evil. And then we were like, disabled people are funny.
Isabella Stravropolous, Co-Director and Co-Writer
Disabled People Are Funny, Too!
Stravropolous and Smith were careful to authentically portray characters with disabilities.
“Our main focus was the main character was a person with a disability,” said Stravropolous. “It's important to represent the actors within the show and not just cast able-bodied individuals in roles that are meant to be played by people with disabilities.”
Within the script, Smith and Stravropolous wanted to highlight all aspects of inaccessibility in theatre.
“A big part of what we wanted to focus on too was accessibility within production spaces,” said Stravropolous, noting that people often associate inaccessibility with the audience but not the actual production crew and cast.
Stravropolous and Smith drew from both personal and community experiences throughout their writing process to highlight the subtle ableism that people may not even recognize in their everyday lives.
“We also did a lot of interviews with folks within disabled communities . . . We interviewed a friend who is low vision and he referenced a lot of stories where we were like, this would be really interesting to incorporate in our show,” shared Stravropolous.
By exaggerating ableist behaviours in comedic sketches, the show encourages the audience to reflect on their own actions and question whether they’ve ever acted in ways that may have been inadvertently discriminatory.
Their work takes on additional significance in light of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, which aims for Ontario to be fully accessible by 2025.
“The Robinson Memorial Theatre in Chester New Hall is not accessible for actors on stage or production crew . . . It’s 2025 . . . that’s what AODA said, that Ontario would be fully accessible by [now] and it’s not,” noted Stravropolous, emphasizing that despite the AODA’s clear goals, many venues remain inaccessible for many.
Through Disabled People Are Funny, Too!, Stravropolous and Smith seek to spark essential conversations about accessibility in theatre.
“There’s still so much more that needs to happen,” emphasized Stravropolous, highlighting the ongoing nature of the fight and efforts to create a truly accessible society. Their show aims to entertain while reminding the audience that real change requires constant advocacy and effort.
There’s still so much more that needs to happen.
Isabella Stravropolous, Co-Director and Co-Writer
Disabled People Are Funny, Too!
The Black Student Success Centre welcomes new wellness counsellor to support Black students in overcoming mental health barriers
Foluke Akinboyo, the Black student wellness counsellor at the Black Student Success Centre, recently transitioned into her new role. Previously, she was a wellness counsellor in student affairs in Undergraduate Medical Education.
Akinboyo is a registered psychotherapist with over a decade of experience in community mental health, student support and culturally considerate care. In this new role, she focuses on providing a supportive space where Black students can address their mental health needs and feel understood.
The BSSC is a dedicated space for Black-identifying students, aiming to support and uplift their academic, personal and professional success. It is a space that aims to combat racial isolation and connects Black students to resources, peers, programs and faculty to foster their academic and personal growth.
Akinboyo currently offers individual counselling and group wellness programs for Black-identifying students.
Akinboyo’s motivation to take on this role at the BSSC came from her own experiences as an immigrant student. She reflected on the difficulties she faced, such as feeling isolated, struggling with unfamiliar systems and lacking adequate support. Her own journey led her to realize the importance of creating spaces that help students overcome these barriers.
“Even if I cannot impact everybody, even if it was just one little tear at a time that we could change, let me try,” said Akinboyo.
Even if I cannot impact everybody, even if it was just one little tear at a time that we could change, let me try.
Foluke Akinboyo, Black Student Wellness Counsellor
Black Student Success Centre
Akinboyo discussed the stigma surrounding mental health within the Black community. According to her, mental health concerns are often viewed as a sign of weakness.
“How dare you not have that mental toughness to be able to function? What is really bothering you that you cannot function?” said Akinboyo, describing some of the thought processes behind this stigma.
She explained that these attitudes can discourage individuals from seeking help. She further elaborated that the cultural expectation that Black individuals should remain strong and resilient in the face of adversity often leads to mental health issues being minimized or ignored.
The 2017 Pan-Canadian Health Inequalities Data Tool found that between 2010 and 2013, 64 per cent of young Black women aged 12-17 reported their mental health as excellent or very good. However, this was significantly lower than the 77.2 per cent of young white women who reported excellent or very good mental health.
Akinboyo also pointed to a long-standing mistrust in health care systems among many Black communities, stemming from historical injustices such as unethical medical experimentation.
“When we look at the history of unethical experimentation, the Tuskegee Syphilis Study . . . our parents and our ancestors raised us to be wary of things that are like that because we could be thrown into spaces that we don't understand,” she explained.
When we look at the history of unethical experimentation, the Tuskegee Syphilis Study . . . our parents and our ancestors raised us to be wary of things that are like that because we could be thrown into spaces that we don't understand.
Foluke Akinboyo, Black Student Wellness Counsellor
Black Student Success Centre
In addition to stigma and mistrust, Akinboyo noted that mental health issues in Black individuals are often overlooked or misunderstood, as they may be seen through a lens shaped by
“Some women may show aggression—quote-unquote this ‘aggressive Black woman’ type of talk. However, what if she's actually depressed?” said Akinboyo.
Akinboyo also pointed out that Black men in particular face barriers to seeking therapy and are less inclined to reach out in comparison to Black women. The cultural expectation of Black men to be strong, protective figures can make it difficult for them to embrace vulnerability.
“Black men are supposed to protect, provide, serve, you know, be the person that we women or society could lean on,” said Akinboyo, detailing the cultural and societal expectations of Black men.
This societal pressure leads to emotional challenges being viewed as a sign of weakness, creating additional obstacles to accessing mental health support.
“We’re all emotional beings. So why can't they be emotional?” said Akinboyo, emphasizing that creating safe spaces for Black men to express their emotions and seek support is essential.
Akinboyo emphasized that her role now focusing on Black students is not meant to exclude other students or invalidate the work of other counsellors. Instead, it is aimed at helping Black students who feel vulnerable or misrepresented and combating the unique barriers they face in accessing mental health support.
“The work that we're doing is tapping into the minds who are very vulnerable, who are questioning, who are scared to raise their hand up, who don't have a voice, who are afraid to even use their voice, because their voices have been misrepresented many times,” she said.
Akinboyo has several initiatives in mind to support Black students. One of her upcoming services is titled Power Emotion, a wellness group designed to help Black men connect with their emotions and seek mental health support.
Akinboyo also hopes to introduce a program titled Success Beyond the Degree, which would help upper-year and graduate students transition from academic life to their professional careers, while maintaining a strong sense of self.
“You can still be you beyond that degree that you have,” she said.
Ultimately, Akinboyo believes that the presence of Black wellness counsellors is essential for creating inclusive and supportive environments for students who may feel overlooked. She argued that without adequate representation, universities risk failing to provide the quality of care their students deserve.
“There is a lack of not just representation, [but] a lack of voices on tables that matter . . . And when we continue to remove voices or not create spaces for the voices that are represented in the student body, especially on those types of tables, then we run the risk of pretty much failing our students. We take the money, but we don't give the quality,” said Akinboyo.
There is a lack of not just representation, [but] a lack of voices on tables that matter . . .
Foluke Akinboyo, Wellness Counsellor
Black Student Success Centre
For anyone who connects with Akinboyo, she wants to leave them with the following message:
“Stop bullying yourself . . . Be gentle with yourself as you forgive yourself . . . You have to start forgiving yourself so you can actually love yourself again.”
Akinboyo’s role at the BSSC focuses on supporting Black students’ academic, emotional and mental well-being. Through initiatives aimed at fostering safe and inclusive spaces, she works to help students navigate challenges and build resilience.
To learn more about the work that Akinboyo and the BSSC are doing, visit their Instagram and website. Students interested in booking a session with her can email [email protected].
MSU's Diversity + Equity Network releases the findings of its research on student perspectives on racism and belonging at McMaster University
On Jan. 31, 2025, the McMaster Students Union’s Diversity + Equity Network announced the release of findings from its research study titled Understanding Student Perspectives: Racism, Belonging and Discrimination in an Ontario University Environment.
The study was conducted in collaboration with DEN’s student research team and professor Jeffrey Denis from the faculty of social sciences. It examined student experiences with racism at McMaster to inform efforts to create a more inclusive campus.
In the fall of 2023, DEN ran an Instagram poll asking followers if they had experienced discrimination on campus. Of the approximately 120 students who responded, 43 per cent reported experiencing racism.
Leilani Xue, a third-year sociology student and assistant director of DEN who worked on the research study, told The Silhouette that first-year students reported the highest instances of racism.
Xue noted that, upon reviewing other research studies on university campuses, the team identified a lack of open discussion and information about racism and discrimination at the undergraduate level. This, combined with the poll results, prompted the development of a larger research study examining how students of diverse backgrounds experience belonging, perceive discrimination and racism, and how these perceptions shape their overall comfort and sense of safety on campus.
From March 1 to 22, 2024, DEN’s research team collected 283 survey responses. The survey explored participants’ demographics, personal experiences with racism or discrimination, instances where they had witnessed racism, and their awareness of and satisfaction with campus services and resources.
The finalized report found that 16 per cent of students reported personal experiences with racism, while 37 per cent reported having witnessed it on campus.
Middle Eastern or West Asian students, followed by Black students, were most likely to report experiences of racism. Black, Middle Eastern, Latin American and South Asian students were most likely to report witnessing it.
Among religious groups, Jewish and Muslim students were the most likely to report experiencing discrimination, followed by Sikh and Hindu students, who reported feeling more affected than Christians or those without religious affiliations.
Most students who experienced racism said it significantly impacted their mental health, while many were unaware of campus resources. Those who knew about them often did not use them or report incidents.
Most students who experienced racism said it significantly impacted their mental health, while many were unaware of campus resources.
The report also provides recommendations for McMaster University to foster a more inclusive campus. These include increasing diversity among faculty, staff and university leadership and encouraging instructors to diversify curriculum content and discuss available resources. The team also suggested evaluating anti-racism and cultural competency training initiatives and raising awareness of the reporting process for racial discrimination.
Now, DEN’s research team is preparing for a second phase of research, set to launch between March and April 2025. This new study will collect qualitative data through focus groups, allowing researchers to engage directly with students, particularly those who identify as Black, Indigenous or as people of colour.
“Our first study helped us get a general understanding of [racism and discrimination on campus] . . . but now we want to actually talk to students and hear about their experiences on a lived experience level,” said Xue.
Our first study helped us get a general understanding of [racism and discrimination on campus] . . . but now we want to actually talk to students and hear about their experiences on a lived experience level.
Leilani Xue, Associate Director
Diversity + Equity Network
Their goal for this second study is to collaborate with students, faculty and staff on campus to inform inclusive, student-centred policy changes.
The full study, published earlier this year, can be read online. For more information about DEN and the work it does, interested students can visit its website and Instagram.
Support local and grab a treat at The Grind’s second market, featuring over 15 student vendors
The Grind, McMaster University’s campus coffee spot, will host its second student-run market on March 25, 2025, from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. The event was founded by Margaret Qin, a third-year human behaviour student, Union Market employee and jewelry maker. The market provides a platform for students to connect and sell their work.
The market offers a variety of student-made goods, including jewelry, candles and service-based offerings.
“We have candles, lots of jewelry. So, earrings, necklaces, rings, bracelets. I have a component where we started doing something called service-based vendors,” said Qin.
The second market builds on the success of the first, which took place on Jan. 28, 2025.
The service-based vendors include student business owners who sell on-site services. There are 22 confirmed vendors, including four service-based vendors. These services include live tarot readings, live drawings, henna and a live poet.
“My first service vendor I had was a live poet and so she brought her typewriter with her. She set up and you would sit down with her, have a chat with her and she writes you a poem right there,” said Qin.
The idea for the market came from Qin’s experience selling her own jewelry.
“I remember where all my nerves were; going out to art crawls by myself, bringing a table with me, everything,” said Qin.
After facing challenges with outdoor markets in the winter, she wanted to find an alternative for student vendors during colder months.
“After homecoming and after the other events happened, looking at the next couple of months of the winter, it was a little harder to find events,” said Qin.
She spoke with her manager at Union Market and pitched the idea for The Grind Market in November 2024.
“I asked him for that one chance. I said, ‘Just let me try this. Let me see how this can go,’” said Qin.
Once she received approval, she planned the event from November to the first market in January and is now preparing for its second iteration in March.
The Grind Market prioritizes financial accessibility for student entrepreneurs.
“There's no cost to vendors. There's nothing that they have to pay, it's entirely free. We don't take any money that they make, all their money is theirs,” said Qin.
There's no cost to vendors. There's nothing that they have to pay, it's entirely free. We don't take any money that they make, all their money is theirs.
Margaret Qin, Founder
The Grind Market
By removing the financial barrier of fees for vendors, Qin aims to make it easier for students to participate and succeed.
For Qin, the best part of The Grind Market is the sense of community it creates.
“Sales is one thing, but to just be in a space—it’s warm there, like you feel all connected and you can look at other people's art . . . You're just amazed,” said Qin.
Sales is one thing, but to just be in a space—it’s warm there, like you feel all connected and you can look at other people's art . . . You're just amazed.
Margaret Qin, Founder
The Grind Market
The market also aims to create a welcoming environment for first-time vendors.
“One of the best parts is I can now extend this branch to new vendors—whether it’s advice, physical support, or just checking in. It’s so important to me to uplift first-timers—I see myself in them. So, at the Markets, I check on them. I’ll stop by every hour, see how they’re doing, just support them along the way,” said Qin.
The Grind Market is an opportunity for student vendors and attendees to be inspired by others' entrepreneurial journeys and support small businesses.
As the second market approaches on March 25, people are encouraged to attend and discover student creators. Updates can be found on The Grind's Instagram or Qin's business Instagram page.
From puppy yoga to delicious, affordable eats, discover wellness escapes in Hamilton as the semester winds down and exams approach
As the end of the semester approaches and stress levels rise, it's important to take a step back and recharge. The City of Hamilton features a variety of relaxing spots that can help you break free from the hectic school bubble.
Whether you’re looking for physical activity, creative expression or simply a peaceful escape, the city has something for everyone. Here are some suggestions to help you unwind as the semester comes to a close.
Unwind with a one-of-a-kind experience at Studio 35’s weekly puppy yoga classes. By booking in advance on their website for $50 per person, you’ll get a one-hour session with puppies roaming freely around the room. After 35 minutes of yoga, enjoy 25 minutes of cuddling, playing and snapping pictures with the puppies. As the class wraps up, guests are offered an ice cream treat.
Treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa experience at Joie Day Spa, where you can indulge in services ranging from massage therapy to facials. While the services are on the pricier end for students compared to other activities, the experience could be worth it for a self-care day. You can book your appointment in advance through their website or by phone to ensure a relaxing and personalized visit.
Tap into your creativity at the Art Gallery of Hamilton’s monthly paint nights and open studio events. These free, drop-in sessions offer a space to explore your artistic side with plenty of supplies and guidance from talented artist educators. Whether you’re creating something new or seeking inspiration, it’s a welcoming environment to express yourself.
Two programs you can check out are QUARTZ: Queer Art Hang and the Youth Arts Collective Drop-in Open Studio.
For a taste of authentic Jamaican cuisine, head to Ellis Kitchen. As a Jamaican myself, I know how challenging it can be to find good Jamaican restaurants without having to leave Hamilton. After trying several places in the city, I can vouch for the flavourful, comforting dishes they serve, making it the perfect spot for anyone craving home-style Jamaican food.
The variety of food offered is great as well—from jerk chicken to patties to mackerel, this spot offers a genuine taste of the island.
If you’re craving birria tacos, look no further than Amigos Tex-Mex. This spot serves up tasty Tex-Mex dishes, including birria tacos, with vegetarian and vegan options available. Open late until 2 a.m. on weekends, it’s a great place to satisfy your cravings and enjoy flavourful food and great service.
Taking a break from the hustle and bustle of the school season is essential for maintaining balance and well-being. Whether you’re looking to unwind with some puppy yoga, indulge in a spa day or enjoy a delicious meal, these spots in Hamilton offer the perfect escape to recharge.
So, take some time for yourself and explore local gems to destress and refresh before exams begin.
Black Student Association holds second exhibition showcasing powerful art, music and performances, giving emerging Black artists and creatives a platform
On Feb. 26, 2025, the Black Student Association hosted Black and Bold, an art exhibition held from 5 to 8 p.m. in Togo Salmon Hall. This was the BSA’s second annual exhibition, celebrating the beauty of Black artistry for Black History Month.
Black and Bold was first launched in 2024 by BSA co-president Chloe Umutoni to create an opportunity to highlight Black artists working in various mediums.
Theodora Oyinloye, an associate creative events coordinator for the BSA, described her surprise at the broad variety of art submissions their team received.
“I think it was surprising in terms of the different mediums and the different ways that they [featured artists] wanted to express themselves . . . I feel like some are more lighthearted, and some are very serious. It really shows the different aspects of the Black experience,” said Oyinloye.
The exhibition featured not only visual art but also dance and music performances. The fashion and performance segment took place from 6 to 7 p.m.
Eniola Olawale-Yusuf, another associate creative events coordinator, emphasized the importance of including art forms that aren’t typically associated with Black culture in mainstream spaces.
“It touched me because there are definitely multiple forms of art, and there are some people who don’t get to see themselves enough in the spotlight,” said Olawale-Yusuf.
I think it kind of touched me because there are definitely multiple forms of art and there's some people that don't get to see themselves enough in the spotlight.
Eniola Olawale-Yusuf, Associate Creative Events Coordinator
Black Student Association
Safia Farah, director of creative events for the BSA, shared that this year’s exhibition featured new elements, including interactive art installations.
“People will be able to actually interact with certain pieces, so it’ll just make it a lot more of an immersive experience,” said Farah.
One of the key highlights of the exhibition was the modelling segment, which blended fashion with Black cultural expression.
“You have a lineup of models walking amidst a vocal performance, and then we’ll have the dance performance we’ve done,” explained Farah. “It’ll be a good opportunity for people to really see the exhibition for what it is.”
You have a lineup of models that will be walking amidst a vocal performance and then we'll have the dance performance we've done . . . It'll be a good opportunity for people to really see the exhibition for what it is.
Safia Farah, Director of Creative Events
Black Student Association
The event was designed to guide attendees through different sections, starting with visual art before transitioning into the performance space. This structure encouraged reflection before attendees immersed themselves in the dynamic performances that followed.
“The vision is to have everyone watch the pieces first, take their time with it. And then we move on to a different part of the space, a whole new section where people can witness the performance, the walks and everything incorporated together. And towards the end, they can have their moments to connect with each other,” said Olawale-Yusuf.
One of the exhibition’s goals was to highlight the diverse ways in which Black individuals express themselves creatively.
“Black people have long been restricted from participating in or pursuing contemporary art forms. You don’t see a lot of Black people encouraged to paint or encouraged to dance in certain genres that aren’t hip-hop or something,” said Farah.
Olawale-Yusuf echoed this sentiment, noting that the exhibition aimed to showcase the many ways that Black identity can be expressed.
“We want people who are watching to see there are multiple shades to Black. There are multiple types of Blackness,” said Olawale-Yusuf.
We want people who are watching to see there are multiple shades to black. There are multiple types of blackness.
Eniola Olawale-Yusuf, Associate Creative Events Coordinator
Black Student Association
Farah emphasized the importance of creating a dedicated space for people to experience the art rather than simply leaving it on display. Attendees had the opportunity to interact with the artists, installations and organizers.
“These pieces would have been locked up in Togo Salmon Hall. People wouldn’t be able to see them if we didn’t create a space for it,” said Farah.
For those in attendance, the experience was more than just an art show—it was a celebration of Black expression within the McMaster community and beyond. Those interested in supporting the BSA’s work can follow their Instagram for updates on future events and initiatives.
McMaster Musical Theatre's costume and set leads share the creative process behind their latest production
McMaster Musical Theatre captivated audiences with their production of Anastasia, which ran at the Robinson Memorial Theatre from Feb. 22 to March 1, 2025. The performance took audiences from the splendour of Imperial Russia to the dazzling freedom of 1920s Paris, telling the story of Anya’s journey to rediscovering her royal roots.
While much of the spectacle unfolded onstage, the magic began long before opening night. A dedicated team of designers and creators worked to bring this story to life through research, collaboration and creativity.
For Matthew Jackson, MMT’s set lead for this production, creating a visually immersive world for Anastasia was about more than just aesthetics—it was about setting the tone for each stage of Anya’s journey.
“Basically, I’m in charge of all of the large physical aspects of the play. Really, we were responsible for anything that isn’t meant to be handled by one particular individual,” said Jackson.
Historical references played a role in the set’s design, but there was also room for creative interpretation. Jackson shared that the team incorporated subtle details that audiences might not notice at first glance. One example was a cherry blossom tree in the Paris scenes, a nod to both the source material and a symbol of France during that period.
“It was something I didn’t know until I started doing this play, but felt significant once I had learned about it,” said Jackson.
It was something I didn't know until I started doing this play, but felt significant once I had learned about it.
Matthew Jackson, Set Lead for Anastasia
McMaster Musical Theatre
Bringing these ideas to life, however, wasn’t without its challenges. Working within the smaller confines of the Robinson Memorial Theatre meant making design adjustments.
“We kind of had to think practically. Our train, for example, folds into two four-foot pieces so they can be taken off stage and make things easier to manoeuvre around,” said Jackson, highlighting the team’s resourcefulness.
According to costumes lead Mays Alhellawi, the team took a research-driven approach to bring historical accuracy and character development into the wardrobe.
“We started by separating four key areas for each theme. We looked at the Romanovs’ portraits, who are seen in white during the performance. There’s St. Petersburg, the Russian townsfolk. Then there’s the Parisians. And finally, there’s the Neva Club,” explained Alhellawi. This breakdown helped guide the design process, ensuring each character’s attire fit both the era and their narrative arc.
The colours used in costumes were also chosen carefully and deliberately to signify character arcs.
“Anastasia is blue—because her final gown is blue—and we thought that over time, she could gain more blue within her outfit as she’s transitioning from Anya into Anastasia,” said Alhellawi.
Anastasia is blue—because her final gown is blue—and we thought that over time, she could gain more blue within her outfit as she's transitioning from Anya into Anastasia.
Mays Alhellawi, Costumes Lead for Anastasia
McMaster Musical Theatre
MMT sourced their costumes through a mix of thrifted finds and handmade pieces.
“We had 75 costumes to put together, and buying everything new wasn’t feasible,” said Alhellawi. “There’s a lot of taking things out and changing things along the way.”
Both Jackson and Alhellawi emphasized that the success of the production was thanks to the collective effort of their teams and the broader local community.
“A lot of the tools and materials we used were borrowed from friends, families and even local theatres . . . As wonderful as my team is, we couldn’t have done it alone. At least 20 people contributed to bringing the sets to reality. It really takes a village,” shared Jackson.
As wonderful as my team is, we couldn't have done it alone. At least 20 people contributed to bringing the sets to reality. It really takes a village.
Matthew Jackson, Set Lead for Anastasia
McMaster Musical Theatre
As Anastasia took to the stage, the audience saw the culmination of months of work, where every backdrop and stitch served a purpose. Offstage, it was a reflection of the countless hours, careful research and creative problem-solving that made the production possible.
Discover inspiring on-campus and local events that honour Black history and culture
Black History Month is here, and Hamilton is filled with exciting events celebrating the rich history and culture of the Black community. Throughout February, McMaster's Equity and Inclusion Office is hosting a variety of programs, which can be found on the Black History Month at McMaster website. Whether you're on campus or exploring the city, there are plenty of opportunities to honour the past and embrace the present. Here’s a list of upcoming events you won’t want to miss this month!
Valentine's Day Candygram Sale
MacAfricans is hosting a Valentine’s Day Candygram Sale to help you sweeten your loved one’s day! Pre-order candygram bundles through their Linktree by Feb. 12 and pick them up on Thursday, Feb. 13, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. in MUSC 213. Don’t miss this thoughtful and sweet way to show your love!
NSBE Bake Sale
Celebrate Black History Month and Valentine’s Day with a delicious treat at the National Society of Black Engineers' bake sale! NSBE will be in MUSC on Feb. 12, from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. in MUSC, enjoy African and Caribbean snacks like puff puff, mandazi, and plantain chips, all for under $5!
Boardroom Banter: Games Night Edition
Join Degroote Black for a fun and interactive evening on Thursday, Feb. 13, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in room M12 of the Peter George Centre for Living and Learning. Test your knowledge of business and Black culture with a special twist on Black Card Revoked, a humorous game that challenges players on African American culture, history, and traditions. Enjoy the fun all while competing in teams and making new connections. Exciting prizes await!
Makeup Tutorial
Celebrate Black History Month with Zeena Beauty’s free makeup tutorial for Black women on Feb. 15 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Souk Marketplace in Jackson Square Mall. Learn expert tips for enhancing your natural beauty using high-quality makeup designed specifically for Black women’s skin tones, while enjoying Sudanese chai and Ethiopian coffee. For those interested, register on Eventbrite as spots are limited.
Supporting Black organizations and their events during Black History Month and beyond plays a crucial role in amplifying the voices and contributions of the Black community. These events foster a deeper understanding of Black culture, history and achievements while providing opportunities for connection, education and empowerment.
By actively participating in these events, we not only celebrate Black excellence but also help create an inclusive space for future generations to thrive.
Be sure to check out these events and stay tuned for more events by following the Black Student Success Centre and BHMatMac on Instagram for updates. Let’s continue to learn, connect and celebrate throughout the month!
