Puneet Johal, a resident of Brampton, has made significant strides in addressing food insecurity among international students in Canada. Her journey began in 2018 when she immigrated from India to study chemical engineering technology. After graduating in 2021, Johal secured a position at Sheridan College, where she took on various initiatives aimed at improving the experiences of international students.
In 2021, a call for assistance from a local food bank illuminated a pressing issue within the student community. “Food insecurity was a topic that came up over and over again,” Johal recalled during a recent interview. The situation became particularly evident when the food bank requested that Sheridan College share information about its availability during the winter holidays.
The response to that single post was astounding, with 30 to 40 students visiting the food bank in just a few days. “That was sort of the starting point,” Johal said. This overwhelming response highlighted the urgent need for support, prompting Johal and her colleagues to take action.
Launch of the Sheridan Food Program
Motivated by the evident need, Johal initiated the Sheridan Food Program, which launched as a pilot project in January 2022. The program quickly evolved into a comprehensive initiative, officially expanding to all three Sheridan campuses by fall 2022. To date, it has distributed over 100,000 pounds of food and has directly benefited more than 4,000 students.
Johal explained the impact of the program, stating, “Having a food program on campus helps reduce stress and anxiety among students. It positively impacted their academic performance because they had fewer worries.” The initiative addresses the crucial intersection of food security and educational success, aiming to create a supportive environment conducive to learning.
Recognized for Advocacy Efforts
Last month, Johal’s dedication was recognized when she received one of the 2024 International Alumni of Impact awards, presented by ApplyBoard, a Canadian organization that assists students in accessing international education. This honor celebrates individuals who have made meaningful contributions to their communities, particularly through their support of international students.
ApplyBoard’s CEO and co-founder, Meti Basiri, emphasized the significance of these awards. He noted that the winners exemplify the tremendous potential of international students to drive economic growth and foster community development. “Their stories of resilience, leadership, and entrepreneurial success powerfully illustrate how education fosters global citizens who contribute significantly to their host and home countries,” Basiri stated.
As part of the award, ApplyBoard will establish one-time scholarships in each winner’s name. Since the program’s inception last year, it has awarded $20,000 in scholarships, furthering its mission to empower international students.
A Broader Perspective on Food Insecurity
Johal’s commitment to advocating for international students extends beyond food security. She has also played a vital role in developing Sheridan College’s off-campus housing department, highlighting the importance of stable living conditions for students. She expressed gratitude for the recognition and noted that the award serves as a motivation to continue her advocacy efforts.
“Food insecurity affects students’ physical and mental health,” Johal pointed out, emphasizing that many students reduce their meal intake to save money. This trend raises alarm bells, as both domestic and international students grapple with food insecurity.
“If those needs are not met, you cannot expect the student to excel academically,” she explained. “You cannot expect a worker to work efficiently.” Johal believes that addressing these needs is essential for fostering a thriving community and a robust society.
Call to Action
As Johal continues her education at McMaster University, she remains passionate about raising awareness of food insecurity among students. “If we want our society and community to flourish, this is a topic that needs a lot more attention,” she asserted. “All of us must come together to address it.”
Through her ongoing work and advocacy, Johal is not only supporting her peers but also paving the way for future initiatives aimed at improving the lives of international students. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that dedicated individuals can have on their communities, encouraging others to take action and support those in need.
Conclusion
Puneet Johal’s journey from a student to an advocate for international students highlights the importance of addressing food insecurity within educational institutions. Her initiatives at Sheridan College have provided essential support to thousands of students, fostering an environment where they can thrive academically and personally. As she continues her studies and advocacy work, Johal’s story inspires others to recognize and address the challenges faced by international students, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive and supportive educational landscape.
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