My name is Devine Levine-Kpai. As a recent graduate of Mount Allison University—where I earned a B.A. in Art History, with minors in Photography, Fine Arts, and Museum & Curatorial Studies—I now have the honor of serving as President of the African Students’ Association (ASA). Born in Nigeria, I spent my teenage years immersed in France’s gentle winters and rich cultural tapestry, before setting out for Canada to complete high school and pursue my university studies.
Arriving in New Brunswick was like stepping into another world. The landscape was blanketed in snow before I even unpacked my bags—winter here stretches from October through April, with drifts that tower over sidewalks. I’ll never forget the morning I trudged through waist-high snow on my way to campus, stunned by the cold that seemed to seep through every layer of clothing. Learning to navigate Canadian winters taught me resilience—and how to find wonder even in the most challenging climates.
But the cold wasn’t the only barrier I needed to overcome. Having lived in three countries by the time I was eighteen, I had grown accustomed to goodbyes and temporary bonds. Building deep, lasting friendships in Sackville required me to shed that mindset—to open up, trust, and invest time in people who’d grown to matter more than I ever expected. It was my involvement with the ASA that bridged that gap: here, I discovered a community of Nigerians and fellow Africans who welcomed me into a circle of shared stories, laughter, and home-cooked meals.
Photography began as a creative hobby alongside my drawing and painting; at university it evolved into much more. Through my lens, I learned to tell stories of joy and struggle, to capture moments that celebrate our identities and uplift our communities. Each photograph became both a mirror and a window—a way of seeing myself and inviting others to see me, too.
As ASA President, I’m proud of what our team accomplished on a shoestring budget and in a single academic year: AfrOlympics, where students united in friendly competition; Soul Food Sunday, a celebration of cherished family recipes; an unforgettable Halifax field trip; and our first-ever Black Excellence Gala. None of these would have been possible without the creativity, dedication, and teamwork of every executive member. Being recognized with the Murewa Black Student Leadership Award was a humbling affirmation—not just of my work, but of the collaborative spirit that made it all happen.
My greatest role models are my parents. They offered me unwavering belief, exposing me to new opportunities and encouraging my every creative pursuit. Their example, along with the guidance of my professors and the grace I lean on daily, has taught me that ambition sustained by patience and hard work can turn the loftiest dreams into reality.
Although my term as ASA President has come to an end, I know I’ll forever miss the buzz of event planning and the camaraderie of a campus that champions growth and imagination. I owe a special thanks to my photography mentors at Mount Allison—your insights have shaped not just my art, but the artist I am becoming.
To every African student embarking on a Canadian adventure: bundle up, both in a sturdy winter coat and in the courage to step outside your comfort zone. Say yes to new experiences, reach out to communities that resonate with your heritage, and be bold in forging friendships beyond familiar circles. In Canada’s long winters and in its vibrant spring days alike, embrace every moment—you’ll find that with a little risk and a lot of heart, you can turn even the iciest challenges into stories of warmth and belonging.
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