A Heart for Community: Devina Mishra’s CBU Story

When Devina Mishra arrived at Cape Breton University from Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India, she brought with her a profound dedication to helping others. Having founded her own NGO in India at just 18 years old to organize donation drives, workshops, visits to old age homes and more, the 23-year-old Bachelor of Arts in Psychology student has always had a drive to bring people together.

“We had more than 50 members, mostly students,” Devina says. “Since it was built on the foundation of students, we could not get professional help, but we did guide people toward helplines. This was our way of contributing to society and building community.”

Devina already had built up a passion for care and community at home in India, and had a clear path for what skills she wanted to sharpen in her post-secondary studies. But when it came down to choosing a university, it was Cape Breton Island’s natural beauty that initially caught her eye. 

“I love the ocean and nature, which led me to choose CBU,” Devina says. “Even though it is a small place, I like the peace. I also really liked the community. It is very welcoming.”

Finding a Welcoming Community

As a person who values community, finding her space and people within the CBU campus was an early goal for Devina. Living in residence for her first two years, she quickly found the tight-knit, inclusive environment she was looking for.

“Through university I joined Chaplaincy. They were very welcoming, and even though I am not Christian, I felt it was a safe space,” she says.

Transitioning to life in Canada meant Devina had to step back from running her NGO at home, but she quickly found new ways to get involved on campus.

“I stayed connected with my team for two years online to keep it going, but it was very difficult because of the time difference and my studies,” says Devina. “ As volunteers started graduating and moving on, I had to step back. However, I would be very happy to build that foundation again in Canada.”

Theory in Practice

Studying Psychology seemed to be the perfect way to build on her already established passion for community and care. Devina notes that despite the theoretical nature of her Psychology studies, the concepts and lessons within the theory have helped her build skills which have held significant value in real-life situations.

“Classes are mostly theoretical, but participating in society events builds communication, teamwork and confidence,” says Devina. “These skills prepare you for jobs and I believe they increase your chances of success.”

Devina wasted no time applying her psychology coursework and passion for community to scenarios in her new life. She became a Peer Support Leader at the Nancy Dingwall Health and Counselling Centre, facilitating groups and helping her fellow students navigate university life.

“I believe this role taught me a lot and will help me in future jobs,” she adds.

A Team Effort

She also took on a role as a Social Media Coordinator with CBU Recreation, where the support of staff and peers proved invaluable.

“A big thanks to Jashandeep Singh, who was the marketing and editing lead at Athletics, for introducing me to many skills and software like Photoshop. Together, we learned teamwork,” Devina says.She credits now retired Manager of Recreation Services at CBU, Yann Artur, as being the “most understanding and helpful manager,” and notes that CBU’s Coordinator of Recreation and Sports, Garrett Nicolson, always welcomed her ideas to help create an amazing experience over the past two years. 

Devina’s ambition also led her to become a presenter for Enactus at the Atlantic Regional Competition in Halifax, an opportunity she credits to CBU Enactus President Botchway George and Faculty Advisor Todd Graham. Beyond that, she volunteered as a student ambassador for the Psychology Society, participating in high school trips to encourage future students to join the CBU family.

While she is proud of her extracurricular success, Devina is also quick to highlight the academic mentorship that helped her cross the finish line. Earning her degree was a collaborative effort and she speaks highly of the personalized guidance she received from her instructors.

“My professors helped me a lot—Heather Schmidt, McLennon Wilson, Dana Mount, Veronica Litt and Sierra Dye,” she says. “I believe they are great professors who are always ready to help students. The world needs more professors like them.”

Looking Forward with Purpose

As she prepares to graduate, Devina’s advice to new students is simple: get involved. She emphasizes that while classes provide essential theoretical knowledge, participating in community and campus events builds the communication, teamwork and confidence needed for future success.

“My best advice for students is not to wait. If you feel like you can do something, go for it,” Devina shares. “Enjoy a little and do not stress too much because it is a rollercoaster—you won’t even realize when it ends.”

Looking beyond convocation, Devina hopes to eventually rebuild the foundation of her NGO here in Canada. For now, she is stepping into the future with an open mind and a steadfast commitment to her core values.

“My goal is to use my experience and skills in the best way to give back to the community and help people, because even before starting my studies, that has been my passion,” Devina says. “I do not worry about where I will go from here, but I know it will be something interesting and amazing.”

Congratulations to Devina and the entire graduating class of Spring 2026!