This past November, the Faculty of Education Students’ Association (FESA) hosted its annual Professional Development Conference, this year, titled SHIFT 2025, bringing together teacher candidates, faculty, and education professionals from across the GTA for a powerful day of learning, dialogue, and connection.

Designed around the idea that education is constantly evolving, SHIFT challenged future educators to think critically about how classrooms, curriculum, and teaching identities must evolve alongside students and society. Through workshops, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, participants explored how to build more responsive, inclusive, and forward-thinking learning environments.Throughout the day, attendees participated in sessions that addressed some of the most pressing issues in education today. Workshops explored Culturally Relevant and Responsive Teaching, identity-affirming practices to support student mental health, and supporting multilingual learners in the age of artificial intelligence. These sessions offered practical tools and frameworks that teacher candidates could take directly into their practicum placements and future classrooms.

One of the most impactful moments of the conference was the Alumni panel discussion, “What They Don’t Teach You in Your B.Ed.” 91��ɫ alumni working in different facets of education shared honest reflections about their early teaching experiences, offering resources, strategies, and insights that helped bridge the gap between theory and practice. For many participants, it was an opportunity to ask the questions they didn’t even know they had yet — and to leave feeling more prepared for the realities of teaching.

SHIFT 2025 was not just about professional learning — it was also about connection. The conference brought together teacher candidates from 91��ɫ and other post-secondary institutions, alongside educators and facilitators from organizations such as 91��ɫ, OCAD University, the 91��ɫ Region District School Board, and the Toronto District School Board.

By gathering diverse voices from across the education community in one space, the conference created meaningful opportunities for networking, mentorship, and collaboration. Participants were able to exchange ideas, build professional relationships, and see themselves as part of a broader community of educators working toward shared goals. These connections form the foundation for continued collaboration long after graduation.

Several sessions stood out for their high attendance and strong engagement. Anna Jupp’s workshops — “Making the Shift from Student-Teacher to Teacher-Learner: Everything You Need to Know About Learning After Graduation and AQ Courses” and “MPT: Everything You Need to Know to Prepare for the Test” were especially popular, offering clear guidance on professional pathways beyond the B.Ed.

Other well-attended sessions included “Interviewing and Beyond” led by Annette Livi, which helped teacher candidates prepare for hiring processes, and “Teaching Against the Grain: SHIFTing to Disrupt Curriculum Violence in Ontario Schools” led by Dr. Shamiga Arumuhathas, which challenged participants to critically examine how curriculum can both reflect and perpetuate systemic inequities. Dr. Lorin Schwarz’s “Our Own Language: A Clinical Investigation of Classroom Experiences” further deepened conversations about identity, communication, and learning in schools.

The theme of SHIFT continues to resonate beyond the conference itself. As education systems respond to changing student needs, new technologies, and evolving social realities, today’s teacher candidates must be equipped not just with content knowledge, but with the ability to adapt, reflect, and grow.

SHIFT 2025 provided participants with both the tools and the community to do exactly that. By connecting future educators with innovative ideas, experienced professionals, and one another, the conference reinforced the importance of lifelong learning and collaboration in teaching.

As graduates move into classrooms across Ontario and beyond, the lessons and connections formed at SHIFT will continue to shape their practice, helping them create learning spaces that are inclusive, responsive, and ready for the future.

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The Faculty of Education Student Association (FESA) has undergone a major transformation to better serve the needs of its constituency. Over the past year, FESA has implemented new systems, restructured its operations, and launched fresh initiatives to ensure that every education student feels supported and represented. These changes reflect FESA’s commitment to accountability, accessibility, and impact. More than just a council, FESA is an evolving hub of connection, growth, and leadership for 91��ɫ’s Faculty of Education students.

The Faculty of Education Student Association (FESA) is dedicated to enriching the experience of every student in 91��ɫ’s Faculty of Education. Through social events like the annual FESA Formal or the more recent BEd 1st year Social Orientation, FESA helps students build community and make lasting connections. Professional development opportunities such as the annual Professional Development Conference and the annual Employment Fair prepare teacher candidates for their careers, while FESA's revamped mentorship program in collaboration with the 91��ɫ Education Alumni Network as well as advocacy efforts to ensure that every student’s voice is heard.

Beyond academics and networking, FESA also offers exclusive Faculty of Education merchandise, giving students a way to showcase their pride and support their community. With these initiatives and recent changes to strengthen operations, FESA continues to grow as a hub for connection, leadership, and professional growth.

Get to know the Executives behind FESA's 2025/2026 Team and discover how they are shaping your academic journey!

President, Devonte Ellis

Hey everyone! I’m Devonte Ellis, and I’m honoured to serve as your President of the Faculty of Education Students’ Association (FESA) for 2025–2026. I am an Intermediate/Senior Division BEd student with teachables in Music and French. I’m passionate about building community and career-ready opportunities for future teachers. I joined FESA as President this year to reconnect our cohorts, elevate student voice, and deliver high-impact programming for all of us. This year, expect purposeful advocacy, clear communication, and lots of ways to get involved. Let’s make it meaningful...together!

Vice-President (Internal), Aryan Puri

Hi everyone, my name is Aryan Puri (he/him) and I'm FESA’s Vice-President (Internal) for the 2025-2026 Academic year! I'm a first year Consecutive Education student in the Junior/Intermediate division, my teachable is Physical Education & Health. I'm excited to be apart of FESA this year and make a difference! As VP Internal, I’ll be working to support our executive team, keep communication flowing, and make sure everyone feels connected and included. I’m really looking forward to meeting more of you, hearing your ideas, and helping FESA create a supportive and engaging space for all Education students this year!

Vice-President (External), Jedd Kenedy

Hey everyone! My name is Jedd Kenedy (he/him), and I’m happy to be serving as the Vice-President (External) for FESA for the 2025-2026 academic year. I’m currently a second-year Teacher Candidate in the intermediate/senior division, with teachables in Philosophy and Politics. In my role, I’m excited to collaborate with external organizations to create meaningful partnerships that benefit both their communities and our program. This year is full of amazing opportunities to network, engage with others, and unwind at the fantastic events FESA has planned. Looking forward to a great year ahead!

Vice-President (Administration), Christine Suh

Hi! My name is Christine Suh (she/her), and I'm FESA's Vice-President (Administration) for this year. I'm a second year BEd student, I/S division for Music and General Science. I'm excited to do my part in FESA, keep us organized, and help us advocate for education student wellbeing. If you see me in the halls or in class, don't be afraid to say hi!

Beyond the Executive team, FESA is made up of dedicated Directors and Cohort Representatives who work hard to keep students connected, supported, and informed. From leading mentorship, events, and equity initiatives to representing their peers in each program cohort, these council members play a vital role in making FESA a strong and responsive community for all Faculty of Education students.

Want to meet the full team and stay up to date on everything FESA? Visit their website at and connect with them on , , and to join the conversation and your cohort groups to get involved.

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The Faculty of Education Student Association (FESA) is the heartbeat of the undergraduate education student community. Made up of passionate student leaders, FESA not only represents education students but also plays a key role in enriching their university experience. From hosting engaging conferences and workshops to selling exclusive merchandise, the FESA council is dedicated to fostering connection, support, and growth for all education students.

Get to know the Executives behind FESA's 2024/2025 Team and discover how they are shaping your academic journey!

President: Sadaf Sohrab

Hi! My name is Sadaf Sohrab and I'm this year's FESA President! I'm a Year 2 P/J teacher candidate. I did my undergraduate in music at 91��ɫ U with a specialization in classical violin and Canadian folk fiddle.

Vice-President (Internal): Matthew Noce

My name is Matthew and I am the 2024-2025 VP Internal. I am in my final year of undergrad majoring in Criminology. I can't wait to continue to attend 91��ɫ this Fall for Intermediate-Senior education. I hope to use my social science and English teachables to teach highschool.

Vice-President (External): Rebecca Breault

Hi, My name is Rebecca, and I’m in my second year of the Bachelor of Arts in French Studies and Concurrent Education program at 91��ɫ, Glendon Campus. I currently serve as the Vice President External for the Faculty of Education Students’ Association (FESA). I enjoy reading and exploring different histories, whether it’s cinema, literature, or cultural events from the past. I’m also an assistant coach for a girls’ softball team, and I love teaching a sport that I’ve played and been passionate about for many years.

Vice-President (Finance): Devonte Ellis

Hey! I'm Devonte and I am this year's Vice-President of Finance. I did my undergraduate degree in Music here at 91��ɫ as well and am currently BEd candidate in the Intermediate/Senior Division! My teachables are Music and French but I hope to get one in Communications Technology too! I am also currently the Communications and Marketing Assistant for the Faculty of Education and can play several instruments!

Vice-President (Administration): Tavlen Pannu

Hi! I’m Tavleen and I’m this year’s Vice President of Administration! I did my undergraduate degree here at 91��ɫ in Psychology and continued with my Bachelor of Education in the P/J division.

My motivation for getting into teaching stems from my personal journey overcoming a fear of water. Through the support of wonderful swimming instructor, I gradually overcame my fear and eventually became a swimming instructor myself!

Want to learn more about the exciting initiatives, events, and opportunities the Faculty of Education Student Association (FESA) is working on? Visit their NEW website at to stay updated and get involved in shaping the future of our faculty.

Check out what the council is doing and how you can make an impact today!

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Meet this year’s 2022/2023 FESA executives: 

Emily Mackinnon: FESA President  

"Hello! My name is Emily MacKinnon, the President of the Faculty of Education Student Association. I am in the Concurrent program and have completed my BA in Liberal Arts and Professional Studies, with a specialized honours in English. I have been on the council since my first year and have served in various roles.  As FESA President, I appreciate the opportunity and the responsibility I have to enhance the student experience here in our Faculty and am very excited for what is to come this year." 

Tharmithaa Tharumaraaj: Internal Vice President  

“Hey! My name is Tharmithaa Tharumaraaj or Thar for short! This is my 5th year on FESA and my 6th year at 91��ɫ! I’m so excited to be this year’s VP Internal and work with our amazing council to bring the best year yet for my fellow education students!” 

Joan Lee: External Vice President  

"Hi! My name is Joan Lee, the VP External of FESA. I am in my 2nd year of the BEd program, having completed my BA in Mathematics and Music last year. I have been on council since I've been at 91��ɫ. As VP External, I work more with our cohort representatives to bring forth or answer concerns/inquiries that students may have. I'm super excited to be back and can't wait to see what is to come during the school year." 

Kiara Bissoon-Kennedy: VP Administration 

“Hi! My name is Kiara (Key-are-a), and I am a 2nd Year BEd student. I have been at 91��ɫ for 6 years as I also did my undergrad in Educational Studies. I am currently working on getting my Intermediate/ Senior qualifications, with teachables in Social Science and Biology. Outside of school, I spend a lot of time with my 2 pups or going on hikes! For those that are new to the Faculty, if I had to give one piece of advice it would be to not be afraid to ask questions and talk to your profs! Whenever I've needed support or mentoring, they were some of the best people to go to!” 

Jacky Zhou: VP of Finance 

“Hello! My name is Jacky Zhou, my pronouns are he/him. I am currently in my 6^th year of completing my Bachelor of Educational Studies and the Concurrent Bachelor of Education degree program. I serve on the FESA executive as the VP of Finance, but I was previously the Professional Development co-director for the past 2 years. FESA provides the student body opportunities to enhance their journey towards becoming an educator through workshops, networking events, and a voice for the teacher candidates.”

"We're extremely excited about what FESA has to offer this year, especially since students are back on campus," said FESA President Emily Mackinnon. "Our Mentorship Program is in full swing, which allows students to rely on a mentor to seek guidance and information throughout the year. The Professional Development conference will take place in November, where students will have the opportunity to sit in on seminars about important topics that pertain to their professions. We will also host an Employment Fair in January where school boards from across the country and some international organizations will provide information about teaching abroad. Lastly, we will host a year-end formal before the March break to celebrate accomplishments throughout the year."

Find out more about what FESA is doing this year at:

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During her remarks, the elder Ms. Asiyo spoke about the partnership that the Wikondiek school has developed with FESA and with the university through the 91��ɫ International Internship Program (YIIP).

The Honourable Phoebe Asiyo and Atieno Asiyo (centre) with representatives of the FESA executive, 91��ɫ International and the Faculty of Education.

“The partnership with FESA and with 91��ɫ has benefited Wikondiek and its residents immensely,” said Asiyo. “Some of the impactful changes that have occurred as a result of the fundraising efforts of FESA include the construction of roads to make the village more accessible; the building of the school and other facilities so that students can continue their studies despite the weather conditions; and the creation of a First Aid Club started to help develop residents’ life-saving skills – this is particularly impactful due to Wikondiek’s rural setting and clinics/hospitals not being as accessible.”

Through YIIP the Wikondiek School has hosted a number of 91��ɫ students as interns during the summer months. “These experiences have been beneficial for not only the students, but have also provided some key learning opportunities for us here at the school,” said Atieno.

“Mobilizing knowledge and learning from each other, all while understanding the importance of education and its impact on people as global citizens – locally and abroad is key,” said FESA President Kim Tran. “As future educators (within the classroom or not), we believe that education should be accessible for everyone.”

In 2003, 91��ɫ awarded an honorary doctorate to Phoebe Asiyo, a former Kenyan member of Parliament, in recognition of her impressive human rights work. That work continues today through her ongoing support and work with the Wikondiek School.

To learn more about internship opportunities at the Wikondiek School, please visit the .

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