Explore Your City,
Discover New Events.
Team Labubu
Maria Bitoon | 301460543
Sabrina Chang | 301421443
Angela Lu | 3014427712
Download VEA now and start planning your next adventure!
VEA
VEA (Vancouver Events Assistant) is an AI-driven app designed to support international students in their transition to life in the Lower Mainland. While tailored primarily for international students adjusting to a new cultural and social environment, all users types can also benefit from VEA’s personalized event recommendations, hobby-matching features, and calendar-syncing functionality. The application uses machine learning to understand the user interests, availability, and mood, seamlessly connecting them with activities, events, and communities to enhance their experience in Vancouver. By integrating into the vibrant communities Vancouver has to offer, VEA fosters a sense of belonging for all, encouraging exploration, social engagement, and a meaningful connection to the city; enhancing students' well-being and their ability to thrive academically and socially.
What is VEA?
why choose vea
How might we incorporate AI/ML into an app designed to help international students feel confident, supported, and connected as they adapt to life in Vancouver?
To empower international students in Vancouver to feel confident, connected, and at home by seamlessly blending their interests and identities with the city’s vibrant multicultural community.
Our platform is built on the values of inclusivity, community, and empowerment.
a inviting environment for all students, regardless of background, by providing personalized experiences that cater to diverse cultural and social needs
belief that strong communities help individuals thrive
empowers the exploration of new opportunities, reducing isolation by offering activities and events that align with their needs and lifestyle
VEA fosters a welcoming space where both international and domestic students can explore new passions or continue existing ones, and discover a place for themselves
hmw
mission
values
how vea addresses user needs
FRUSTRATIONS
WHY VEA WORKS
Difficulty in finding events, activities, or groups that align with their interests or cultural background
VEA uses AI and machine learning to personalize event recommendations based on user interests, mood, and preferences. Whether students are looking for cultural events, hobby groups, or specific activities that align with their background, the app connects users to the most relevant options, making it easy to discover activities that feel meaningful. These suggestions for new experiences and ways to meet like-minded individuals, allows users to build a community based on shared interests, identity, and values, helping them feel connected to their new city
The core functionality of VEA is to streamline the process of discovering events and connecting with communities. By consolidating multiple sources of information into one platform, VEA removes the hassle of navigating various apps and websites. It simplifies access, ensuring users aren’t overwhelmed by unfamiliar tools. Moreover, by focusing on personalized support, VEA helps bridge the gap of unfamiliarity, offering events and opportunities that facilitate smoother transitions and a stronger sense of belonging.
Unfamiliarity with local platforms, apps, and networks that provide information.
Lack of knowledge about where to meet people or explore new hobbies that resonate with their identity
Limited support in bridging the gap between their previous lifestyle and the new environment
vea’s values
SHORT TERM VALUE
Adjustment & Confidence - instant access to information on local events, cultural practices, and hobbies
Community Building & Exploration Made Easy - encourages community by making activities accessible and approachable and eases feelings of isolation and homesickness
Enhanced Well-Being - opportunities for meaningful interactions & help maintain a balanced lifestyle by incorporating familiar hobbies or new interests into their routine
Stronger Sense of Belonging - encourages users to feel like locals to their community rather than outsiders through continued participation in local events and building connections with people
Retention and Growth for the City - highlighting a good reputation of life in Vancouver, contributing to the local economy and community. Encourages a global outlook and cross-cultural exchanges
LONG TERM VALUE
With Canada being known for its diversity and multiculturalism, incoming and current international students play a role in Vancouver’s diversity, but their transition to life in a new country comes with challenges that can hinder their overall experience.
VEA addresses these pain points by providing a solution that simplifies integration into Vancouver’s vibrant multicultural community. It ensures students can focus on building meaningful connections and exploring opportunities without being overwhelmed by the logistical and emotional barriers of adjusting to a new country.
why should we care
how vea works
addressing the users goals
Events and activities are often found through various channels—social media, word of mouth, advertisements, event apps, and the media, etc. —which can make it difficult for newcomers to navigate and find relevant information. VEA is designed for incoming and current international students in the Lower Mainland of British Columbia, who face challenges adjusting to a new environment, understanding local cultures and lifestyles, and dealing with feelings of isolation and homesickness, often with limited access to support and resources.
KEY FEATURES:
Reducing decision fatigue and making exploration enjoyable
Mood-Responsive Functionality aligned with the users current feelings
Sync Calendars | identifies free time slots and ensures recommendations fit their schedule
Data Tracking and Learning | offer relevant and better long-term insights and connections
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VEA's promo video
