When Humber Polytechnic has asked, alumnus John Narvali has answered.

Narvali, who graduated from Humber’s Photography program in 1975, is the owner of Narvali Digital Photography and has been a strong supporter of Humber since graduating.

For example, Humber offered the Narvali Photography Award scholarship for several years that he supported. He also sat on the Program Advisory Committee for the Photography program and often comes back to share his experiences in the industry with students when asked by professors. Over the years, he’s also brought onboard Humber students looking for work-integrated learning placements.

He's a proud alumnus and supporter, attending alumni events where he often brings friends and family with him. He’s also a regular at the Humber Golf Classic and invites friends to hit the links as well.  

“It was a cool way to show support while introducing my friends and family to Humber,” he said. “I enjoy staying connected with Humber and I want to give back. Business has been good for me so I can give back on a regular basis.”

Narvali said, when Humber connects with him, he’s happy to respond and help out. He appreciates that the institution has made a concerted effort to remain in touch with him over the years.

Humber is hosting Alumni Fest from September 13-21 and it features a number of events and activities including Toronto Blue Jays and Argonauts games and a virtual workshop. It culminates with Campus Day on September 21. Held at North Campus, there’s lots to take in that day including volleyball and basketball games between varsity alumni and current Humber student athletes.

Narvali says he was attracted to Humber for a variety of reasons. He had caught the photography bug at the Brooks Institute in California when he started tagging along with his then-girlfriend to her classes. He was interested in Humber due to its impressive collection of photography technology he would have access to along with the smaller class sizes with knowledgeable professors.  

Narvali knew how to use a camera, but it was beneficial to have professors who could impart knowledge about the field he wanted to work in. His time at Humber studying under the professional eye of the instructors reinforced his belief in himself that he could thrive in the industry and that he could take well-composed, impactful photos.

He remembers displaying some of his works while enrolled at Humber and how exciting it was when a person he didn’t know attended the show and decided to purchase one of his photographs.

“Photography has always been a passion of mine, and I knew I wanted to explore that passion for a career,” he said.

More information can be found by visiting the Alumni Fest website.