What do you want IGNITE to advocate for?

Students want to see this on campus! What do you think?

At IGNITE, our goal is to advocate for students and ensure you have the best post-secondary experience! That’s why we offer a variety of resources to accommodate students’ needs.

However, there’s always room for improvement. We’re constantly exploring new ways to enhance campus spaces and ensure you’re having the best post-secondary journey at Humber Polytechnic and the University of Guelph-Humber.

So, we asked students to share what they’d like to see from IGNITE on campus. Here are some of the most common opinions!

Recreational spaces

t-pain arcade GIF by MTV Cribs — *Via GIPHY*

Some of you have been looking for places on campus to connect with friends outside of the academic environment. One popular suggestion, made by student Rutnum Chellapen, is a game room with the stellar appearance of a pool table, along with board and video games.

Film student Henry Haskins shared that spaces such as a roller-skating or skateboarding zone, could also help students take their minds off books, especially during exam season.

Currently, IGNITE hosts events that include recreational spaces where you can connect with peers, play fun games, and win amazing prizes!

Additionally, you can check out Humber Athletics for fitness facilities to practice your favourite sport.

Free and affordable food

Person serving soup at IGNITE Soup Bar at Humber Polytechnic North campus — *Picture by IGNITE*

One of the most heard suggestions from students is having more food options on campus that stay within the student’s budget.

Student Aoraya Ariyasatjakul shared that she would love to see multicultural cuisine, while film major Corson Fraleigh mentioned he’s always wanted additional on-campus restaurants, like McDonald’s.

Humber Retail Services offers a variety of food options at the cafeteria, residence and shops around campus. For specific requests or feedback, you can reach out to them here.

IGNITE also makes a great effort to fight food insecurity and increase food affordability on campus, such as the Soupbar, available at Humber Lakeshore, North and Downtown campuses. The IGNITE Soupbar offers a range of FREE soups to help students stay healthy and full at all times.

Promotional content for IGNITE services

Girl opening the door to the IGNITE Sleep Lounge — *Picture by IGNITE*

There are a couple of IGNITE services that some of you might not be aware of. Fashion student Viviana Maravi, who has been at Humber for three years, shared that there are many resources from IGNITE she hadn’t heard of.

For starters, IGNITE provides Health and Dental Insurance for all full-time and part-time students. Which includes dental, accident and travel coverage, as well as prescription drug coverage and extended health and vision care.

IGNITE also offers bursaries and learning essentials support for students facing financial need, ensuring you have all the school essentials you need to start the semester strong.

Additionally, if you need a place to unwind after classes, head to the IGNITE Sleep Lounge to get that much-needed power nap or visit the IGNITE Zen Zone for a moment of peace whenever you feel overwhelmed.

Discover even more IGNITE resources on our website and social media @shareignite.

Student life experiences

Happy Music Video GIF by LorenzoTheGawd — *Via GIPHY*

We know many of you enjoy IGNITE events and are eager to see more!

In the Fall 2024 semester, events like Speed Friending, the IGNITE Concert, the Happy Painter and the Pop-Up Library attracted students seeking social opportunities and fun activities to connect with new people.

Student Marcus Macivor said he would also like to see seasonal festivals such as a winter fest with an ugly sweater competition and hot chocolate. Sounds like a cozy way to celebrate the season!

Making these ideas a reality: Get involved at IGNITE!

IGNITE Board of Directors meeting for advocacy purposes — *Picture by IGNITE*

Do you want to see these ideas—or your own—come to life? Well, we have good news! You can be part of IGNITE as a Student Advocate or a member of the Board of Directors to make them happen.

If you’re passionate about leadership, representing students and making decisions on initiatives such as budgeting, the Board of Directors could be the perfect fit for you!

Applications for the 2025-2026 Board of Directors term start very soon! The nomination period—which is crucial for your candidacy—runs from Jan. 13 to Jan. 26.

Don’t miss your chance to make a difference on campus!

Season 7 Nbc GIF by The Office — *Via GIPHY*

So, what do YOU want IGNITE to advocate for? Is it the much-wanted pool table, more financial support or affordable food?

IGNITE is here to support you and your needs, so don’t hesitate to let us know what you’d like to see us advocate for. Big or small, we want to hear all of your ideas!

If you’re passionate about advocacy and leadership, the election nomination period is coming soon and we’d love to see you run for the Board of Directors!

Feature image courtesy of IGNITE.

Need more reasons to apply for the Board of Directors? Board member Onoriode Francis Osifo gives advice to future candidates.