SAITSA is offering free food and a chance to play against SAIT Trojan athletes to promote a healthier lifestyle.
In SAIT’s Irene Lewis Atrium inside the Stan Grad Building, SAITSA is hosting a three-day expo called Healthy Habits, which advocates mental, physical, and sexual well-being for students. The event runs from April 5 to 7, 10 – 2 p.m.
The first day was centred around mental health, the second day held a variety of events that promoted physical health, and the third day is about sexual health.
“We have students that struggle with food insecurity and financial issues,” said Kat Dulay, SAITSA staff member.
“We have other students that really struggle mentally. It’s an important time for people to learn about themselves, about others, and things like consent and safe sexual practices that aren’t necessarily taught in high school.”
Through Healthy Habits, SAITSA is hoping to give students opportunities to learn skills in overcoming personal struggles and being their healthiest selves.
Healthy Partnerships and Showcases
One of the partners at the expo was Calgary Co-op, who were handing out reusable shopping bags full of groceries, such as potatoes, carrots, onions, canned goods, and canola oil.
The City of Calgary was also present to promote youth employment and recreational activities in the city.
True to their mission, SAITSA offers students a free weekly breakfast that starts at 10 a.m., and this event had no shortage of students waiting for it to open.
“It’s been ten minutes and we got 41 people already,” says Jose Sandoval, SAITSA staff, who had been keeping a tally of students approaching the breakfast table.
The SAIT Trojans setup ellipticals and exercise balls for students to use. Yoga sessions were also held, which allowed students to test their balance and endurance.
The Trojans hosted the “Challenge a Trojan,” where the Trojans Men’s Soccer player Zach Michaud challenged SAIT students with juggling a soccer ball.
“I came here for the free food, but I’ve also been looking around and I’m liking the vibes here. The Trojan guys are talking to people again. They’re showing them how to stay active, and stuff like that,” said Chetan Sheemar, a business administration student at SAIT.
The event will continue for one more day, with a focus on sexual well-being.
You can learn more about the event on SAITSA’s event page.
