December 21, 2024

LUNAFEST unites women across the world with film

Female filmmakers from as near as Halifax and as far as Texas will be showcased on April 23 at the 21st annual LUNAFEST – a film festival by women, for women. The proceeds will go towards supporting local women’s charities and other women in film. Since the first LUNAFEST in 2001, more than 170 filmmakers have been showcased, with 2,700 screenings nationwide. Organizations across the world can apply to host … Continued

VIDEO: The Pulao Gals combine food and hospitality to make a home away from home

Passing by the open door of The Pulao Gals, the scent of spices – like cinnamon for kofta, and cilantro for buttering naan – hangs in the air, hinting at some of the menu items that can be found within. Once you’re inside, the warm feeling you get isn’t from the oven – it’s from the kindness owners Zerka and Shahgul Mya extend.  Shahgul and Zerka, a former Conestoga culinary … Continued

REVIEW: My search for a retinol product for acne that works on dry skin has ended

Battling acne is not an easy feat. But when you’re prone to dehydrated skin and eczema, it complicates things a little – so many acne-fighting products contain chemicals that dry out your skin. Retinol can be a product that balances fighting acne without being too drying, but it can be intimidating to pick the right brand. Retinol is a type of retinoid, derived from vitamin A, and can be used … Continued

AUDIO: World Autism Awareness Day’s importance goes beyond April 2

World Autism Awareness Day is a day to promote inclusivity, create awareness, and listen to autistic voices about their experiences. While April 2 is the day dedicated to this, people with autism and organizations that support them believe World Autism Awareness Day should be on our minds – specifically, neurotypical minds – every day, ensuring the awareness turns into action.

OPINION: Makeup for men shouldn’t be “normalized” – not for the reason you might think

Men using makeup has become more common, especially once public figures like James Charles – the first Cover Boy for Covergirl – popped up. While self-expression should be celebrated, normalizing makeup for men is a slippery slope into pressuring them to uphold yet another beauty standard. It also contributes to the division between men’s and women’s products. On Feb. 28, Stryx, a skincare company for men, posted a TikTok video … Continued

AUDIO: Proposed roundabout at Dickie Settlement and Roseville Rd. sparks concern for residents

A proposal for a new roundabout at Dickie Settlement and Roseville Rd. has drawn criticism from nearby residents. Traffic operations data revealed multiple accidents and congestion in the area, but some residents are worried about disruptions to safe and timely commutes.   More information about the roundabout proposal can be found on the Engage Region of Waterloo’s website.

OPINION: If the customer is always right, why does their behaviour often feel so wrong?

If I had a loonie for every time I’ve heard the phrase “the customer is always right,” during my six years of customer service, I wouldn’t have to work anymore. As much as that phrase is repeated, it doesn’t become any closer to being a true statement. There have always been some customers who are in the wrong and forget to leave their sour attitudes at the door, but since … Continued

“Knowledge is power.” How Waterloo Region is making connections during Black History Month

Organizations around the region are hosting a variety of events to educate and connect residents during Black History Month. From events like guest speakers, live streams, and music, to more active events like workshops, and getting outside, there is a way for everyone to participate. Even though all of Conestoga’s events to honour Black History Month are being held digitally, Conestoga Student Inc. (CSI) members, like Premium Event Coordinator Kyle … Continued

Internationally educated nurses in Canada want to hit the field, but are stuck on the sidelines

Many internationally trained nurses in Ontario are eager to help during the pandemic but can’t contribute because their credentials aren’t accepted in Canada. To upgrade their credentials, some are attending Conestoga College’s 16-month Enhanced Practice Internationally Educated Nurses (IEN) program, or the Personal Support Worker (PSW) program. But upgrading doesn’t come without its challenges. Sheila Marie Pascual immigrated to Canada last August and began Conestoga’s PSW program in 2021. Before … Continued

The mystery behind the mask: how to prevent and treat acne

The pandemic has left marks on lives in a myriad of ways – some of those marks are being left on faces. Acne from wearing masks, coined as “maskne,” has been a new issue many people have had to deal with. When wearing a mask for a long period of time, sweat, oil, and bacteria become trapped – creating a breeding ground for breakouts. Skin professionals, like Sofia Awani, owner … Continued

Cambridge Winter Illumination installations spark joy in the community

The City of Cambridge brought back a community favourite, the Winter Illumination, to kick off this year’s holiday season. The decorative light installations spread across the city aim to bring the community together and add some light to these dark winter nights. According to the City of Cambridge website, Winter Illumination was brought back “by popular demand,” and will shine brighter with more installations than last year. Some installations will … Continued

VIDEO: Snowflakes are falling, warm clothing is calling: these are the trends to watch out for

Just as summer tires are being swapped out for winter tires, wardrobes are experiencing the same switch – jackets, sweaters, and boots are coming out from the back of the closet again after their summer slumber. Those interested in fashion will be looking at what trends will influence their style selections this season, such as earth tones, shackets, and plaid pieces.

AUDIO: #Purple4Prevention: How Conestoga College, Wilfrid Laurier University, and the University of Waterloo are opening dialogue about sexual and gender-based violence

Conestoga College, Wilfrid Laurier, the University of Waterloo, and the Sexual Assault Support Centre (SASC) in Waterloo are teaming up to wear #Purple4prevention. Earlier this month, they sold shirts to raise awareness about sexual and gender-based violence because they will be part of the Global 16 Days Campaign. Shirts were sold until Nov. 17, but those who were unable to purchase a shirt can still donate to SASC, or wear … Continued

AUDIO: Conestoga alumni helps forge a pathway for women in trades

Conestoga alumni Clarice Ward has been named one of Canada’s Most Powerful Women: Top 100 for 2021, by the Women’s Executive Network (WXN). Ward’s dedication to encouraging women to join the trades industry and guiding them through it, has inspired women that now find themselves with a hammer in hand at Conestoga. Ward had taken the Women in Skilled Trades and Carpenter Apprenticeship programs at Conestoga, leading to an interest … Continued