Student journalists spotlight Ottawa's culture and activism

Carleton students tackle culture, tech and activism in bold broadcast

The latest student-led broadcast from Carleton University covered a wide range of local and cultural stories. Topics included a Korean film festival, invasive plant species in Ottawa, and student initiatives tackling environmental and social issues. The show also explored technology, healthcare, and Indigenous rights before the Fall Reading Week break.

Allie Cruzado highlighted the Ottawa Korean Film Festival, an annual October event that has grown alongside other local festivals like the International Film Festival of Ottawa. While the festival focuses on Korean cinema, its role in adapting webcomics for the screen remains unclear. Meanwhile, Carleton's student association launched a bottle-collection scheme to encourage recycling among students.

Zoe Pierce examined the spread of non-native shrubs in Ottawa, detailing community efforts to control their growth. She also spoke with a computer science expert about how artificial intelligence is reshaping job markets. Another segment previewed potential shifts in Canada's healthcare system, with predictions of increased privatisation and for-profit services. Marilyn Madlion interviewed an engineering student who developed an app to connect student entrepreneurs with customers. Clarisa Gonzalez spoke to a Sobey Art Award finalist about blending traditional techniques with contemporary art for global audiences. Students also organised fundraisers, including bake sales for Palestinian aid, alongside a candlelight vigil. Holly Joth-Smith covered Carleton's Pride Week celebrations in the final show before the break. Matthew Garwolinski reported on food insecurity during Thanksgiving, focusing on Ottawa's largest food bank. A local Indigenous advocate also discussed concerns over **Bill C-5**, arguing it unites provinces while excluding First Nations voices.

The broadcast showcased student-led journalism on issues from cultural events to environmental action. Discussions on AI, healthcare privatisation, and Indigenous legislation provided deeper insights into ongoing challenges. The stories reflected both local activism and broader societal shifts ahead of the university's Fall Reading Week.