In addition to the University College and Seminary’s programs on its main Otterburne campus, Providence has also offered various options for international students in Winnipeg since 2023. For the past couple of years, this has taken place out of the historic Massey Building, and students have been graduating with degrees such as an Associate of Arts in Business, an Associate of Arts in Education, and the Master of Management.
Last week, Providence hosted its largest graduation, with ceremonies over four days – three of which were for Prov Downtown graduates. During those events, the speaker was Ismail Hussein, who himself was an international student that moved to Canada in 2010, graduated from Providence in 2013 with a bachelor’s in business administration, and now works as the inaugural Director of Global Initiatives.
“It is important to take the time to reflect on how far you’ve come…to look back and reflect on the entire journey that got you here to this point,” Hussein addressed the graduating class of 2026. “It keeps you grounded, because you are reminding yourself of what it took you to get here – where you came from, where you are now, and where you are headed tomorrow.”
To this end, Providence asked its downtown graduates to themselves reflect on their experience of studying in Winnipeg.
“My experience at Providence Downtown has been truly transformative, both academically and personally. As an international student, adjusting to a new country came with many challenges, but the welcoming and supportive environment at Providence made me feel at home from the very beginning. Providence Downtown has not only strengthened my knowledge in business but also helped me become more confident, independent, and prepared for my future” (Jashanpreet Kaur, AA Business).
“When I first arrived, I was unsure of myself, but Providence slowly built me into someone stronger and more confident. The different roles I took on helped me discover my abilities and showed me that even small actions can make a difference in someone’s life. The respect I earned here wasn’t just an achievement – it was a reminder that I mattered. Providence didn’t just shape my education – it shaped my heart. It taught me kindness, compassion, and the importance of being there for others” (Maninder Kaur, AA Business).
“The education that I received here shaped my academic knowledge, career path, and improved life skills such as communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving. It has provided me with the knowledge of business concepts like management, accounting, marketing, business ethics and human resources, which has given me a clear vision for how to achieve my goals and prepared me to enter the job market to contribute to community welfare” (Samanpreet Kaur, AA Business).
“My time at Providence has been truly special. It has opened doors to new friendships and knowledge. I’ve learned not just from books, but also from the people around me. Each moment, whether joyful or challenging, has shaped who I am today. I will always cherish the memories made and the lessons learned – like through supporting each other, we can uplift one another and create a richer, more collaborative experience” (Karanjot Kaur Gill, AA Business).
“Being part of a smaller, supportive learning environment allowed me to build genuine connections with classmates and instructors. Through my program, I’ve not only gained practical knowledge but also developed confidence in my abilities. The courses challenged me to think critically, manage my time effectively, and prepare for real-world situations. I feel more equipped to step into my future career with a stronger sense of direction and purpose” (Pranjal Sharma, AA Business).
“When I first arrived in Winnipeg, everything felt unfamiliar: the weather, the people, and even the rhythm of daily life. But somewhere between early morning classes and late-night work shifts, Providence Downtown became more than just a place of study – it became a space where I learned how to adapt without losing who I am. My degree helped me build a strong foundation in business and critical thinking, while also teaching me that understanding what not to do is just as important as knowing what to do” (Prabhdeep Singh, AA Business).
“The experience that I gained in my journey has shaped me for the future. From academic life to professional experiences, Providence helped build me to face real life challenges and to make a difference in the world” (Tanvir Singh, AA Business).
“Providence stands out not only for its academic excellence but also for its exceptional professors. They go far beyond simply delivering lectures; they genuinely invest in their students’ growth. Whether it was offering guidance, helping navigate challenges, or providing career advice, the professors were always approachable and supportive. Their mentorship played a significant role in shaping both my educational path and personal development” (Prabhjot Singh Prince, AA Business).
“One of the most special parts of my time here was the strong sense of community. I never felt alone; there was always someone encouraging me, whether it was classmates or instructors. The kindness and patience of those who taught helped me to believe in myself even when I doubted my abilities. If I were to continue my studies in the future, I would choose Providence again without any doubt, because of the love, support and growth that I experienced” (Harleen Kaur, AA Education).
“At Providence, I have learned how to view a company from a managerial perspective, understanding how markets work, how people within an organization interact, and many other concepts that will help me succeed in the future. The professors are brilliant and always look for the best ways to help students understand how the real world works” (Jessica Andreina Bautista Almonte, MM).
“Studying at Providence has taught me so much academically, professionally, and personally. During my time here, I have learned and practiced many things related to strategy, diversity, organizational behaviour, change management, and human resources. Overall, it was a fantastic educational experience that Canada has offered me” (Asher Setty, MM).
