By Lindsay Sganga
Hundreds of students filled a lecture hall in Ryerson’s Ted Rogers School of Management on March 8, not for a class, but to celebrate International Women’s Day with poet Rupi Kaur.
From famous Instagrammer to self-published writer, Kaur is a Brampton native who’s had the likes of Ariana Grande and Mark Ruffolo repost and share her work.
Kaur read sections from her debut book Milk & Honey to a sold-out crowd of students. The Ryerson Sociology Students Union put together the event and made this celebration one to remember.
Excitement filled the air as students waited to see Kaur perform her pieces live, since her work is what many students use to comfort and inspire themselves.
“I feel empowered by her work. At the end of her book she says something that mentions that those reading can do the same thing she has done. It’s comforting to know that regardless of stress or whatever you may be going through that anyone can get through it,” said Lisa Scenarine, a fourth-year early childhood studies (ECS) student.
Kaur began each reading with a spoken word piece that reflected the chapter ahead. Her captivated audience gripped their books and followed along as she read. From crying to cheering, emotion and connection through Kaur’s poems brought together a group of women from all walks of life.
“She takes you back to her roots. Being from Canada, we can relate because we too all come from all different parts of the world, but tonight we all stand here together as women empowered by words,” said Kristine Singh, a fourth-year ECS student.
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