This self-directed experiential learning opportunity provides you with opportunities to build your intercultural competencies and gain valuable cross-cultural communication skills. Not only will this help you connect with the people around you, but it will also give you a competitive edge in today’s workplace, where these skills are highly valued
How it works
Participate in events, workshops and programming on campus to earn a certificate recognizing your commitment to intercultural learning and growth.
- You must attend at least three (or more!) of the eligible events.
- You also must attend a reflection workshop.
To sign up or ask questions, email globalcareers@mcmaster.ca
Get started
There’s a diverse selection of events to choose from, so you’re sure to find something that fits your interests and passion for intercultural learning.
Navigating Canadian Workplace Culture | February 4, 1:30 p.m. to 2:20 p.m.
Brought to you by the Student Success Centre (SSC) and McMaster English Language Development Office (MODEL). Join us for a hands-on workshop designed to help you smoothly transition into the Canadian workplace. This session is structured like a business meeting, giving you practical experience while you learn. We’ll cover essential topics such as introducing yourself to colleagues, understanding decision-making processes in meetings, engaging in small talk, and effectively communicating with your supervisor. Whether you’re new to the Canadian workforce or looking to refine your skills, this workshop will provide valuable insights to help you succeed.
This event is organized by Africa and Black Diaspora Studies in partnership with the African-Caribbean Faculty Association of McMaster University. This seminar brings together scholars and community leaders to explore how reframing historical contexts can foster a more inclusive understanding of our shared past.
Diasporic Dreams: Afrofuturism as Anti-Oppression | February 11, 1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Hosted by McMaster’s Equity and Inclusion Office and University Libraries, sit with us for a reading of imagined new worlds where time, space and reality are malleable, filled with hope and promise for an equitable tomorrow. We invite you to dream with us for new and vibrant futures, free from oppression and anti-Black racism.
International Food and Grocery Trip | February 12 | 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
The International & Exchange Student Experience office in partnership with the Student Wellness Centre will be hosting an international food and grocery tour in Hamilton. This trip will feature AFROCAN Supermarket and Swadesh Supermarket which will offer food, spices and appliances from West Africa, Caribbean/West Indies, and South Asia.
Book Launch with Dr. Ingrid Waldron | February 12, 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Come join us for an evening of conversation, music and food as we celebrated the launch of Dr. Waldron’s new book. This event is organized by Africa and Black Diasporic Studies and Advanced Research on Mental Health and Society.
Partners and Money | February 19, 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Attend this session facilitated by the SSC’s Mac’s Money Centre to learn about the role of money in everyday relationships (whether with friends, family members, or partners) and discover how to align on common goals, values, and practical strategies for building healthy, long-lasting bonds.
This guided tour will explore some of the cultural notions of Black Optimism and Indigenous ways of being. Speaking about the artworks and the cultural intentions of the artists. Following the tour, join us for a facilitated dialogue that bridges these concepts, drawing connections between the visionary evolution of Indigenous feminisms, futurisms, and some of the connections with Global Africa and Black diasporic knowledge(s). The event will conclude with a social gathering, featuring appetizers and an opportunity to connect with others.
East African Mock Wedding | February 22, 4:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Experience the joy and vibrant traditions of East Africa at our Mock Wedding Celebration! This interactive event offers a playful yet educational glimpse into the rich customs of East African weddings. Whether you’re well-versed in these traditions or discovering them for the first time, join us for a cultural journey filled with color, energy, and celebration. Come connect, learn, and immerse yourself in the diverse wedding practices that bring East African communities together.
Letters and Lyrics | February 26, 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Join Black X-Scape for ‘Letters & Lyrics,’ an open mic night celebrating creativity, connection, and community, open to all Black students, staff, and faculty at McMaster University. Guided by McMaster Alumni Siobhan Stewart and SWC Counsellor Susanne Dorder, explore themes of personal growth, healing, and empowerment through poetry, music, guided writing, and storytelling, inspired by this year’s Black History Month theme, Afrofuturism. Share your voice, story, or simply connect on February 26, 2025, 6-8pm at Bridges Event Space.
Cultural Conversations | February 27, 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Have you ever wanted to learn about a new culture? Curious about the different norms and etiquette from the ones you use? Cultural Conversations is a monthly series offered by IESE that provides an opportunity for you to meet with other students and learn about each others’ cultures by sharing, listening and discussing how things are done in a different cultural setting.
English Language Support Series: Dating Culture in Canada | February 27, 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Navigating relationships is hard, especially in a new country, in a different language. This workshop focuses on customs and expectations around romance and dating in Canada. Students will have the opportunity to discuss using various scenarios, and to share stories or ask questions of their own. This workshop is being delivered by the McMaster Office for the Development of English Language Learners (MODEL), the Student Success Centre (SSC)- International & Exchange Student Experience Team and the Student Wellness Centre (SWC).
International Food and Grocery Trip | March 11, 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
The International & Exchange Student Experience office in partnership with the Student Wellness Centre will be hosting an international food and grocery tour in Hamilton. This trip will feature Samir Supermarket and Punjab International which will offer food, spices and appliances from the Middle East, South Asia and Europe.
International Co-op “Crash Course” and Peer Panel | March 20, 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Learn about international co-op resources, advice and planning considerations for realizing your global ambitions. Hear from your co-op peers abroad regarding their overseas work experiences! This session is facilitated by your SSC Global Experience Coordinator and student panelists from around the world.
MAC Model UN Conference | March 21 to 23
MACMUN is an annual, interdisciplinary Model United Nations run by the club McMaster Model United Nations (MACMUN), which aims to emulate conversations about international relations and global affairs at the United Nations right here at home in Hamilton, Ontario. Register as a university delegate to engage in discussion and debate about pressing world issues. The conference schedule includes a social night, renowned guest speakers, and the chance to bring home prestigious awards.
Games without Borders Social | March 25, 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Are you curious about how different cultures come together through games?
Are you interested in connecting with peers from diverse backgrounds and broadening your global perspective? If yes, don’t miss this exciting opportunity to experience the Games without Borders Social – a unique cultural event brought to you by the Student Success Centre’s Global Experience Peer Leader Team!
This is an in-person event being offered by the SSC in collaboration with the BSSC and McMaster’s Office for International Affairs. The session will provide a thorough overview of the SSC/Global Experience Program, as well as highlight some available, funded opportunities on the African continent, particularly the McCall MacBain International Fellowship (MMIF) and McMaster’s International Youth Internship Program (IYIP).
Stay tuned for more opportunities
If you’re hosting an event on campus that would be appropriate to be included in the events listings, please contact peasee1@mcmaster.ca.