Meet the Langara student leading a thriving Black community on campus

The Langara Black Student Union (LBSU) was founded in 2023 with a clear purpose: to create a space where Black students feel seen, supported, and connected. In two short years, the LBSU has blossomed into a thriving community with a membership of hundreds and an active leadership team that’s organizing campus events throughout the school year.

For Yusuf Garuba, current LBSU President and a Diploma in Computer Science student, the LBSU has been a home away from home. Originally from Nigeria, Yusuf arrived in Canada in April 2023, seeking to further his education. He found more than just an academic path, he found a community.

A pathway to Langara.

Before coming to Canada, Yusuf worked as an HR professional and explored IT project management at a bank in Nigeria. With a background in statistics, he recognized the growing demand for computer technology skills and sawLangara as the perfect place to pivot his career. Langara’s Computer Science Diploma program offers a strong foundation in technology while providing room to explore different pathways by giving students a wide view of available careers.

“The curriculum is great for true beginners. I've done courses on software, cybersecurity, web development, networking, data structures. It gives you the opportunity to look at everything and see which works for you.”

Finding support and community.

Moving to a new country can be daunting, especially without your family nearby. Luckily for Yusuf, he discovered the LBSU within his first week. That stroke of luck was a turning point for him in his experience with his new surroundings. “It was such a relief seeing people that reminded me of home,” he said. “Having people that can relate to where you’re coming from made missing home less difficult.”

The LBSU provided Yusuf with invaluable support, from helping him find his first apartment to guiding him through job applications. It quickly became a network of friends and acquaintances that helped each other navigate life in a new country. As Yusuf puts it, the LBSU provided him “a softer landing" in Canada.

Now, as LBSU President, he takes joy in providing that same softer landing to new students. “It’s a great feeling being the person who is asked for help or who is needed to help someone do something for the first time," said Yusuf. “It’s giving back to the community.”

A home away from home.

Yusuf’s commitment to giving back to his community led him to take on leadership roles within the LBSU, first as Public Relations Officer and now as President. Under his leadership, the LBSU has expanded its reach beyond Langara, collaborating with Black Student Unions at other colleges and universities to create a larger, interconnected network.

“School is just for a period of time, but what happens after? We’re building relationships that will last beyond Langara.”

The LBSU is also a space for learning and cultural exchange. “Even within the Black community, we are from different countries, different tribes, and have different traditions. Being able to have these conversations lets us both teach and learn.”

Finding the right place for you.

For those considering registering at Langara or considering joining the LBSU, Yusuf has the same advice: take your time and find your people.

“The tech space is huge and changing,” he said. “You might come in having an interest in one area and learn something intriguing in another. Your mind is definitely going to change. And that’s the beauty of it.”

For students interested in the Black Student Union, the first step is simple: reach out. “If you see someone, say hello. Our door is always open.”

The Computer Science Diploma program at Langara College provides a strong foundation for students looking to enter the ever-evolving world of technology. Learn more about the program and admission requirements on our website.

If you’re interested in the Langara Black Student Union, follow them on Instagram and TikTok to stay connected and learn how you can get involved.