On March 14, the spirit of Cape Breton University traveled more than 9,000 kilometers across the globe as more than 60 alumni gathered in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, for an evening of reconnection, reflection, and celebration. Organized by proud alumni, Ammar Tayeb (BBA ’16), the annual CBU alumni reunion in Saudi Arabia continues to grow in scale and significance, proving that no matter the distance, the CBU community remains close-knit and connected.

Held in one of Jeddah’s vibrant community venues, this year’s gathering brought together graduates from a range of academic backgrounds and professional paths. What united them all was a shared love for a university that helped shape their futures.

Ammar Tayeb, the driving force behind the event, has long been passionate about building bridges between international alumni and CBU. His own journey at CBU began in 2011, when he arrived in Cape Breton from Saudi Arabia as an international student.

Ammar's contributions to the CBU and Cape Breton communities as a student were recognized with both the Vital Excellence Award for International Student and Volunteerism and the university’s Leadership Award. His commitment to community has remained strong, even from across the ocean.

“The goal of this event has always been to stay connected to CBU and to each other,” said Ammar. “Even though we’re now spread out around the world, our experiences in Cape Breton unite us. These reunions remind us of where we came from and how far we’ve come.”

The annual alumni gathering in Saudi Arabia is more than just a reunion—it’s a tradition that reflects the strength, diversity, and enduring bonds of the CBU alumni community. As the event continues to grow each year, it serves as a shining example of how staying connected beyond graduation can lead to lasting personal and professional impact.

Whether in Sydney, Nova Scotia or Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, one thing remains clear: once you’re part of the CBU family, you’re part of it for life.