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Night Steps walk supports CNIB

UFV students participate in the Abbotsford walk in honour of their late teacher.

Sophie Smit, a fourth-year social work student at the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV), was affected when earlier this year her anti-racist and cross-cultural studies professor, Abebe Teklu, passed away.

“He was an amazing man, a very motivational and engaging speaker who always looked at the bright side of things,” said Smit.

In honour of his memory, Smit and five other UFV students have formed a team to support the Canadian National Institute for the Blind’s (CNIB) Night Steps, a five-kilometre walk under the stars in Abbotsford.

Proceeds from the event will support CNIB’s services, such as learning independent travel using a white cane and empowering Canadians who are blind or partially sighted to travel independently with confidence.

“We’ll be bringing together family, friends, community leaders, as well as individuals who understand the importance of CNIB’s work and who want to help support people who are blind or partially sighted in leading independent, active lives,” said John Mulka, executive director of B.C and Yukon region.

The walk will kick off with music, a barbecue dinner, local entertainment and prizes, beginning at 5:30 p.m. on Sept. 20 at Mill Lake Park.

To register, visit cnibnightsteps.ca or email Shawna.rathbun@cnib.ca for more information.