"The Shy Caterpillar Says Hi!" Arrives at WIN

The Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology (WIN) was delighted to receive three illustrated postcards from The Shy Caterpillar Says Hi!, a student-led University of Waterloo initiative that uses poetry, art, and small acts of kindness to foster connection across campus.

Created by an anonymous graduate student, the project combines original poetry and hand-drawn artwork on postcards that are shared with students, staff, faculty, and campus departments. What began as a personal effort to overcome social anxiety and build confidence has grown into a community initiative focused on encouragement, creativity, and belonging.

The three postcards shared with WIN feature simple but powerful messages:

• Courage can be found in the tiniest of places
• Connection can be found in the tiniest of places
• Care can be found in the tiniest of places

These themes resonate strongly with the WIN community. Nanotechnology explores the world at the smallest scales, where tiny structures and interactions can have transformative impacts. In much the same way, small acts of kindness, support, and human connection can make a meaningful difference in people's lives.

The postcards are now displayed outside the WIN Office in the Quantum-Nano Centre, where students, researchers, staff, and visitors are welcome to stop by, read the messages, and enjoy the artwork.

At WIN, innovation thrives through collaboration, curiosity, and community. The thoughtful messages behind The Shy Caterpillar Says Hi! serve as a reminder that discovery is strengthened not only by scientific excellence, but also by the connections we build with one another.

WIN thanks the creator of The Shy Caterpillar Says Hi! for sharing these postcards and helping spread positivity across the University of Waterloo community.

Learn more about the initiative:

• The Shy Caterpillar Says Hi! 
• Imprint feature article 
• Follow The Shy Caterpillar Says Hi! on Instagram

Have a favourite postcard message? Stop by the display outside the WIN Office and see the collection for yourself.