Arrive and Thrive Conference Brings Students Together to Connect and Grow
Energy and anticipation filled the room as approximately 150 students from nine HDSB high schools gathered for the annual Arrive and Thrive Conference. The day-long event focused on well-being, identity and building a sense of community among newcomer and international students, providing a space for meaningful learning and connection.
Why did so many students choose to attend? The initial draw for many was based on word-of-mouth recommendations. "I heard about it from my friends, and they said it was going to be a lot of fun," said Mica, a Grade 12 international student from the Netherlands.
That desire for social connection was a primary motivator for attending. Phil, a Grade 11 international student from Germany, noted that he signed up because he "wanted to meet new people and have new experiences," while Diego, a Grade 9 international student from Mexico, echoed the sentiment: "I think we are going to have so much fun and meet new people around here."
While personal connection was a common denominator, the conference also served as a practical resource for future academic success. Hussain, a Grade 12 student, arrived with a focus on scouting the pathways ahead. "I’m here mostly for learning something new and experiencing something new," Hussain explained. "I’ve seen a lot of opportunities here like mentoring, college opportunities, SHSM (Specialist High Skills Major) and more.”
Information booths about available programs and supports such as Dual Credit, Library Services, Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program and Nature’s Near were available for students to explore before the day’s agenda began.
The morning was led by student MCs Aziz from Elsie MacGill SS and Sarina from T.A. Blakelock HS, who guided the opening and helped create a welcoming atmosphere.
“One of my favorite parts of the conference was co-MCing the event using the script Sarina and I prepared and seeing everything come together throughout the day,” said Aziz.
Sarina shared, “I also loved the experience of co-MCing with Aziz... we worked really well together to keep the energy high, and it was wonderful to see our preparation come to life on stage.”
Their leadership helped set a positive and inclusive tone for the day’s conversations and activities. Associate Director of Education Jennie Petko delivered an inspiring opening address, reminding students that they are not alone in facing challenges.
“I'm going to remind you that you have a superpower. Forget Doctor Strange, forget Superman, forget Ironman. Every single person in this room is a superhero. And I'll tell you why; you have the incredible power of resilience.”
She spoke about the strength students carry within themselves, encouraging them to reach out for support when needed and to lean on the caring adults and peers around them.
Following the keynote, HDSB Student Senators Anaya and Muhammad facilitated small-group discussions. Students reflected on questions such as what makes them feel stressed at school and what has surprised them about school in Canada.
Participants were able to engage in their preferred language, supported by HDSB Welcome Centre staff offering assistance in Arabic, Urdu, Mandarin, Hindi, Russian, English and more.
Students discussed coping strategies, including checking in with themselves and taking breaks when feeling overwhelmed. They also shared personal healthy habits, learning from one another’s experiences and building connection through open dialogue.
Students then rotated through four interactive workshops designed to support self-expression and community-building.
In Poetry with Wali Shah, students participated in a guided writing workshop after hearing the message, “Instead of asking why you’re struggling, ask what you can learn from your challenges.”
Living Hyphen: Stories of Home invited students to explore the meanings behind their names and reflect on identity and belonging.
Artistic Mindfulness provided a calm space for students to create unique pieces of art.
Drumming with Holistic Vibrancy energized the room as students created music together using drums, shakers and tambourines.
Reflecting on the experience, Student MC Aziz shared, “I really enjoyed meeting Wali Shah. It was inspiring to hear his message and see how he connected with students… The musical workshop was another highlight for me because it brought so much energy and fun to the conference.”
Oriana Jones, Program Lead - Youth Settlement, emphasized the purpose behind the event:
“The Arrive & Thrive Newcomer Conference provides an opportunity for students to connect with one another over their shared identities and common lived experiences in an environment that celebrates their diversity. We facilitate support and provide them with strategies and resources to help them navigate their settlement journey in HDSB, prioritizing their well-being and overall success.”
The Arrive and Thrive Conference supports the HDSB’s 2024–2028 Multi-Year Strategic Plan commitment to Kindness, Connection and Community by fostering an environment rooted in mutual respect and inclusive engagement. The conference is an example of the HDSB’s work to provide a foundation where every learner is empowered to navigate their educational journey with resilience and a sense of belonging.
