Faculty of Graduate Studies’ Council Graduate Student Councillors at-Large Election 2026

Graduate Students’ Biographical Statements

Health Studies/Sciences Research Area

Ethan Chin, Graduate Program in Biology

As a member of the 91��ɫ community, I am eager to serve as a Member at Large on the Faculty Council, and am committed to representing and advocating for the interests of the wider graduate science student community. My interest in this position stems from my time as an undergraduate at 91��ɫ, where I served as an active member and executive on the Bethune College Council for several years, in addition to continuing to be involved in the university community as a graduate student in various voluntary capacities. This experience gave me an appreciation for the role of the student perspective on decision-making and the importance of maintaining an impartial, diverse perspective when making decisions that affect the wider student body. It also granted me exposure to governance at 91��ɫ, in addition to valuable insight about the experiences and priorities of students at 91��ɫ, not only within Biology (which I belong to), but other science disciplines as well (e.g. engineering, math, chem, health, etc). As a graduate student representative, I would aim to advocate for the interests and perspectives of all graduate science students. I would approach this role with an open, collaborative mindset, a willingness to listen to different perspectives (including those from other fields of science), and a commitment to meaningful, transparent governance.

Johdeth Dela Cruz, Graduate Program in Kinesiology & Health Science

My name is Jodie, and I am an MSc student in Kinesiology and Health Science at 91��ɫ. My current research explores how university students experience participation in physical activity within a peer mentorship context to inform the development of a student-centred program, Movement Mentors for Mental Health, being conceptualized in collaboration with campus partners.

Beyond my research, I have been involved in student leadership and mentorship at 91��ɫ. I previously served as Co-President of the undergraduate Kinesiology and Health Science Student Organization (KAHSSO) and as Peer Mentor Coordinator for Calumet and Stong Colleges, where I worked closely with students navigating academic, social, and personal challenges throughout university life. These experiences strengthened my interest in student engagement, mentorship, and fostering supportive communities.

As a Member-at-Large, I would bring both a student leadership and research perspective to Faculty Council discussions, with a particular interest in student experience, health, and meaningful collaboration between students, faculty, and campus partners.

Nneka Egbonrelu, Graduate Program in Supply Chain Management

My name is Nneka, and I am currently pursuing a Master's degree in Supply Chain Management at the Schulich school of Business, 91��ɫ. I hold a Bachelor's degree in Pharmacy and a Master's degree in Public Health, both in Nigeria. I have worked as team lead in programs funded by the Centre for Disease control (CDC Nigeria) and Bill and Melinda Gate Foundation. I also facilitated programs centered on preventives measures and promoting health equity among children, women and vulnerable group. I am devoted to serving people.

Bogdan Hududui, Graduate Program in Health

Hi, I’m Bogdan. I’m a 91��ɫ Alumni from the Health Studies program. I’m coming in the 2026-2027 year as a masters student in health system management and health data analytics. I’m interested in this position to represent students at 91��ɫ's Health programs and to bring meaningful change to health programs at 91��ɫ. I look forward to representing you as a member at large for Health Studies/Health.

Xihan Liang, Graduate Program in Health Industry Administration

As an incoming MHIA student at 91��ɫ, I am interested in serving as a Member at Large for the Health Studies/Sciences Research area. I currently work as a Nutrition and Food Service Supervisor with Nova Scotia Health Authority, where I work closely with healthcare teams, staff, and patients in a fast-paced hospital environment.

Through my work experience, I have learned the importance of communication, teamwork, and listening to different perspectives. I also have experience with volunteer work and student research, which helped me become more involved in community engagement and collaboration.

As a graduate student, I hope to bring student perspectives, take part in discussions, and help build a supportive graduate student community at 91��ɫ.

Reham Omer, Graduate Program in Health Industry Administration

I am a graduate student in the Master of Health Industry Administration (MHIA) program at 91��ɫ with a background in pharmacy, pharmaceutical biotechnology, healthcare education, and community outreach. My academic and professional experiences have developed strong communication, analytical, and collaboration skills that I would bring to Faculty Council.

I am interested in serving because graduate students are directly affected by academic policies, funding decisions, student supports, and program planning. Through the MHIA program, I have gained greater insight into healthcare leadership, policy, and organizational decision-making, which strengthened my interest in contributing to academic governance and student representation.

In previous roles, I have worked in healthcare training, patient education, and community initiatives focused on underserved populations. These experiences strengthened my ability to work collaboratively, consider different perspectives, and contribute constructively to discussions. Balancing graduate studies, professional responsibilities, and family commitments has also given me a practical understanding of the challenges many graduate students face.

I am particularly interested in discussions related to graduate student experience, accessibility, academic quality, and professional development. I would value the opportunity to contribute to Faculty Council while representing graduate student perspectives in a thoughtful and professional manner.

Paola Palacios Paez, Graduate Program in Health Industry Administration

I am a physician from Mexico, currently beginning the Master of Healthcare Industry Administration at Schulich School of Business. My clinical training, across specialties including surgery, internal medicine, gynecology, and pediatrics, gave me firsthand experience with the gaps that exist between healthcare practice and administration. And although I'll be forever fulfilled and grateful for my clinical background, the decision to pursue this master's program was a direct response to that.

Real, sustainable change happens where decisions are made. And that realization is what brought me to Schulich, and why I want to serve on the Faculty of Graduate Studies Council as a Member at Large representing professional Degrees students.

I think a council works best when its members can look beyond the immediate problem, spot inefficiencies before they become bigger issues, and think about how to actually improve things, not just respond to them.

More than anything, I want to be useful. I want to listen to what Professional Degrees students are actually experiencing, bring that into the room, and help translate it into decisions that make a real difference in our graduate experience.

I'd be honored to be part of that.

Michael Aron Petosa, Graduate Program in Chemistry

Hello everyone! My name is Michael Petosa and I will be entering the Masters in Chemistry program in the Fall 2026 semester. I've been a working member of the Chemistry department at 91��ɫ for a little over two years and have integrated myself well into this community.

I've had plenty of experiences standing on various committees, whether as a general member or an executive. I've served as the Vice-President of the Chaplaincy at 91��ɫ and even co-founded Project Sunshine's 91��ɫ Chapter, a fundraising committee that works to benefit children in hospitals with medical needs. I'm well-versed when it comes to administrative duties and working on teams of like-minded individuals. I also currently sit on an adjudicating committee at 91��ɫ.

I would love to continue paying my services forward for the betterment of the University as a whole. I have plenty of other collaborative experiences that would benefit my experience as a Member at Large of Faculty Council!

Thank you!

Ina Samson, Graduate Program in Nursing

I am an incoming MScN–Nurse Practitioner student with a strong commitment to advancing health equity, patient-centered care, and interdisciplinary collaboration. My clinical background as an Emergency Room nurse in Mississauga has provided me with broad experience managing acute and complex presentations across diverse populations. In addition to my ER work, I have practiced in primary care and northern outpost Indigenous communities, where I developed a deep appreciation for culturally safe care, resource stewardship, and the impact of social determinants of health.

Beyond clinical practice, I am actively engaged in quality improvement and leadership initiatives, including participation in my department’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee and a Delirium Prevention Working Group. These experiences have strengthened my ability to collaborate across teams, advocate for vulnerable populations, and contribute to system-level improvements. I was honoured to receive a Nursing Excellence Award this year, recognizing my commitment to compassionate care and professional leadership.

As a member of the Faculty of Graduate Studies Council, I hope to represent Health Studies students by bringing forward diverse perspectives, supporting inclusive and equitable academic environments, and contributing to thoughtful policy development. I am particularly interested in initiatives that enhance student engagement, wellness, and research impact. I would value the opportunity to serve and meaningfully contribute to the graduate student community.

Israa Sinan, Graduate Program in Kinesiology & Health Science

My interest in serving as a Member at Large for Health Studies/Sciences Research stems from a research background deeply rooted in the populations and questions this disciplinary area serves. I am an incoming MSc student at 91��ɫ, and my work to date has spanned rare disease research, gender-based violence, equity, diversity and inclusion, palliative care, and healthcare access barriers with a consistent focus on vulnerable and underserved populations. I have held committee roles in equity-focused research platforms, including serving on the EDI sub-platform of a national rare disease consortium and as an EDI committee member for a Type 1 Diabetes research network. These experiences have shaped how I think about representation: not as a symbolic presence, but as an active responsibility to ensure that the perspectives of those most affected by structural gaps are brought into institutional conversations. As a graduate student in health sciences, I am well-positioned to represent the interests, concerns, and priorities of this student community at Faculty Council. I understand the intersection of research demands, equity considerations, and institutional policy and I am committed to showing up to that work with both preparation and accountability. I believe diverse voices at the governance table lead to better decisions, and I am eager to contribute meaningfully to 91��ɫ's Faculty of Graduate Studies in that capacity.

Satyam Verma, Graduate Program in Health

Hi everyone,

My name is Satyam Verma, and I completed my undergraduate degree at 91��ɫ. During my time at 91��ɫ, I was involved with the Science Student Caucus for three years, where I had the opportunity to participate in several committees, including the Petitions Committee and the Undergraduate Curriculum Committee.

Through these roles, I gained valuable experience in student advocacy, academic policy, and understanding the concerns that matter most to students. I also learned the importance of listening, collaboration, and bringing student voices forward in a meaningful way.

I am now looking forward to using the knowledge and experience I gained through the Science Student Caucus to contribute to Council. I am confident that I can bring a thoughtful, informed, and student-focused perspective, and I hope to help make positive changes that benefit all of us.

I would truly appreciate your support, so please take the time to vote for me.

Behnoush Zarandi Baghini, Graduate Program in Health

My name is Behnoush Zarandi, and I am a PhD student in Health Systems Management and Health Data Analytics. My research focuses on culturally safe care for ethnoculturally diverse older adults living with dementia, with attention to health equity, access to care, and the ways institutional and policy contexts shape people’s experiences.

Before joining 91��ɫ, my work in healthcare quality improvement and patient safety, alongside my experience as a student research committee coordinator, taught me how to identify system-level gaps and advocate for practical solutions. These roles strengthened my ability to listen to diverse perspectives and work collaboratively to improve complex environments.

I am interested in serving as a Member-at-Large representing Health Studies/Sciences because I believe graduate students should have a meaningful voice in discussions that shape academic policies, supports, and institutional priorities. My background in health systems, equity-focused research, and quality improvement would allow me to contribute an interdisciplinary and practical perspective to FGS Council discussions.

I would be grateful for the opportunity to represent my peers and contribute to a stronger and more supportive graduate community at 91��ɫ. I also hope to help identify practical ways to strengthen support for graduate students and promote a more inclusive academic environment.

Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Area

Muhammad Abdullah Baig, Graduate Program in Information Systems & Technology

I am a graduate student with academic and research experience in geospatial data science, artificial intelligence, and data analytics. Through my studies, research projects, and collaborative work, I have developed strong skills in communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and interdisciplinary collaboration. I have also actively engaged in academic initiatives that involve research presentations, student collaboration, and knowledge sharing within the university community.

I am interested in serving on Faculty Council because I value student representation and believe graduate students should play an active role in shaping academic policies, governance, and the overall student experience. I am particularly interested in contributing perspectives related to graduate education, research opportunities, student engagement, and the integration of emerging technologies in academic environments.

My experiences working on research projects and collaborating with diverse teams have taught me the importance of listening to different viewpoints, making balanced decisions, and fostering inclusive discussions. I am committed to representing students in a professional, respectful, and constructive manner while helping strengthen communication between students and faculty leadership.

Serving on a Standing Committee or as a Member at Large would provide an opportunity for me to contribute positively to the university community, support student interests, and participate in initiatives that enhance academic excellence and student success.

Ethan Chin, Graduate Program in Biology

Michael Aron Petosa, Graduate Program in Chemistry

Thank you!

Sihat Salam, Graduate Program in Biology

I have been a member of the 91��ɫ community since starting my undergraduate degree in 2018. During that time, I served as a Science Student Ambassador and Transition Mentor for the Faculty of Science, as well as a Peer Leader – Tutor and Mentor for Bethune College, remaining heavily involved with the undergraduate community. After beginning my master’s degree, I was elected Biology Councillor for the 91��ɫU Graduate Student Association (YUGSA) and later internally elected Chief Science Councillor, serving on the 2022–23 committee to support science representation at the graduate level.

Following my role at YUGSA, I served two terms as Treasurer for the Association of Graduate Students in the Biological Sciences (AGSBS), overseeing budget allocation for the annual symposium, journal club sessions, and community events. During this time, I transferred into the PhD program and served as a graduate student representative on Faculty Council and its Standing Committee on Teaching and Learning, working closely with faculty and students to improve the student experience.

Additionally, I served as the graduate student representative on the Faculty of Science Decanal Search Committee. This year, as Chair of AGSBS, I have supported graduate students through the management of sub-committees and student development initiatives in collaboration with the Faculty and associations including KAHS GSA and TMU Mol Sci GCU. As a Member at Large for Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Area, I hope to bring my hands-on leadership experience and commitment to fostering an inclusive and innovative academic environment to Faculty Council.

AbdulRafeh Usmani, Graduate Program in Biology

As an incoming MSc student in Neuroscience and a dedicated member of the 91��ɫ research community, I am running for a Member-at-Large position on the Faculty Council to ensure the voices of graduate researchers in the sciences are clearly represented.

Research in today's academic landscape is highly interdisciplinary. My own work spans both biological health sciences and computational natural sciences, utilizing tools ranging from fMRI imaging to complex neural data modeling. This intersectional background gives me a broad understanding of the diverse resources, funding, and infrastructural support that different scientific departments require to thrive.

Having completed my undergraduate degree and a Graduate Diploma at 91��ɫ, I am deeply familiar with our institutional framework. I understand the unique pressures graduate students face from managing rigorous lab schedules and securing timely research funding, to balancing coursework and teaching responsibilities.

If elected as a Member-at-Large, my priority will be to advocate for policies that streamline administrative processes for researchers and foster a more collaborative, well-resourced environment across the Faculty of Graduate Studies. I am committed to actively listening to the concerns of my peers and ensuring those perspectives directly inform the high-level decisions made at Faculty Council. I would be honored to serve as your representative.

Sofia Castaño Valderrama, Graduate Program in Biology

I have participated in multiple councils and committees throughout my educational career. Starting from high-school student committees to being a member of the now disbanded consultation committee for Recommendation 1.8 of 91��ɫ. I have a special interest in not only being involved in my community, but also representing my faculty in a larger stage. Thank you.

Satyam Verma, Graduate Program in Health

Hi everyone,

I would truly appreciate your support, so please take the time to vote for me.

Professional Degrees Area

Hussaina Abdullahi, Graduate Program in Business Administration

My name is Hussaina, and I will be joining the Schulich School of Business as an MBA student in Fall 2026. I am originally from Nigeria and have been based in Seoul, South Korea for the past decade. During that time, I completed my undergraduate degree in Economics and have since worked as an IT Business Consultant for over four years.

I believe I would be a strong candidate for the Member-at-Large position on the Graduate Council because I have had several opportunities to serve on committees focused on supporting and improving the welfare of people within a community. Those experiences taught me the importance of listening well, collaborating effectively, and advocating for the needs of others.

Living and working in an international environment has also given me the chance to collaborate with people from many different continents and backgrounds, which has strengthened both my communication skills and my appreciation for diverse perspectives.

As I begin this next chapter at 91��ɫ, I would be honored to represent and support students within the social sciences and humanities community as a Member-at-Large, while contributing to a graduate experience that feels inclusive, engaging, and supportive for everyone.

Taline Apelian-Sutor, Graduate Program in Management

I wish to be appointed to the Council of the Faculty of Graduate Studies (FGS) to contribute the student perspective to discussions surrounding graduate education, academic policy, and university governance. As an incoming Master of Management student at the Schulich School of Business and a recent graduate of 91��ɫ’s Biology program, I have developed a strong interest in institutional governance, student advocacy, and academic policy through leadership and research experiences.

Throughout my undergraduate studies, I actively participated in governance at the faculty and university levels. I was a member of the Faculty of Science Council for four years, serving on the Faculty Executive for my first three years. In my fourth year, I served as a student Senator and as a member of the Senate Academic Policy, Planning, and Research Committee (APPRC), where I contributed to discussions evaluating academic and research initiatives, including the University Academic Plan and MD program proposal. I was also a student member of the Search Committee for 91��ɫ’s next Provost and VP Academic, giving me direct experience in senior-level decision-making.

Beyond governance, I engaged in undergraduate research, served as a student representative on the 91��ɫU Alumni Board, managed funding as Bethune College Council’s Outreach Director, and supported new students as Peer Mentor Coordinator. I would be honoured to bring my interdisciplinary background in science, management, governance, and research to FGS Council while contributing meaningfully to the graduate student experience at 91��ɫ.

Muhammad Abdullah Baig, Graduate Program in Information Systems & Technology

Saraïde Camille, Graduate Program in Human Resources Management

I am a future graduate student in 91��ɫ's Master of Human Resources Management (M.HRM) program, and I would be thrilled to serve on Faculty Council as a Member-at-Large representing Professional Degrees.

As a future graduate student, I recognize the significance of feeling heard and represented in the campus community. I'm interested in this position because I want to contribute to discussions about graduate students while also learning more about how the Faculty of Graduate Studies promotes student success.

My experience in Human Resource Management in Haiti taught me the importance of communication, equity, teamwork, and respectful leadership. I love collaborating with diverse groups of individuals and learning from different points of view. I feel that these characteristics will enable me to contribute positively to Faculty Council.

This opportunity, in my opinion, is both a chance to help other students and a chance for personal and professional development. If chosen, I will approach the role with responsibility, transparency, and a real desire to contribute and represent students in a serious manner.

Dina Dwairi, Graduate Program in Environmental Studies

As an incoming Master of Environmental Studies (Planning) student at 91��ɫ, I hope to bring my interdisciplinary background in environmental science and community-driven advocacy to contribute to the Faculty Council.

My academic and professional experiences have equipped me with a strong foundation in policy analysis and collaborative governance. At the City of London, I serve as a Youth Representative on the Environmental Stewardship and Action Advisory Committee, where I have gained direct experience navigating institutional structures and advocating for meaningful change. Through my research on agricultural resilience in conflict zones, I have developed rigorous analytical skills and a commitment to evidence-based decision-making.

Beyond research, I have consistently worked at the intersection of equity, sustainability, and community organising, most notably co-directing IDEA programming for the Canadian Council for Muslim Women and co-leading the Western Sustainability Leadership Program. These experiences have sharpened my ability to facilitate dialogue across differences and centre equity in institutional spaces.

I believe graduate students deserve a strong, representative voice in shaping the policies and structures that govern their academic experience. I am committed to bringing the perspectives of students from equity-seeking communities to the Faculty Council, with the hope of ensuring decisions reflect the full diversity of 91��ɫ's graduate community.

I would be honoured to serve and contribute meaningfully to this role!

Nader Gerges, Graduate Program in Business Administration

I am currently a part-time MBA student at the Schulich School of Business while also working full-time in technology management within the financial services industry. In my professional role, I lead and support technology initiatives across Investment Banking, Equity Research, and Marketing Technologies, with a focus on digital platforms, stakeholder engagement, governance, and operational strategy. Through this experience, I’ve had the opportunity to work closely with diverse teams, manage competing priorities, and contribute to long-term planning and decision-making initiatives.

Balancing graduate studies alongside a demanding full-time career has given me a strong appreciation for the challenges many students face, especially those managing professional, academic, and personal commitments at the same time. My experience at Schulich has reinforced the importance of strong student representation and thoughtful academic governance in helping create a positive and supportive graduate student experience.

I am applying for the Professional Degrees Member-at-Large position on Faculty Council because I would value the opportunity to contribute a practical and collaborative perspective that reflects the needs of professional graduate students. I hope to support meaningful discussions related to graduate education, student experience, academic policy, and the long-term direction of the Faculty of Graduate Studies.

I believe my combination of industry experience, leadership exposure, and firsthand experience as a graduate student would allow me to contribute positively while representing students balancing both career and academic responsibilities.

Mark Gervin, Graduate Program in Law

I am defence counsel from the Downtown Eastside of Vancouver. I have been volunteering for 25+ years. I am currently enrolled in a Masters of Law program. As I am now an Osgoode student I want to volunteer and give back to this community. I will work hard to represent the students I will be working on behalf of.

Lorain Nestory Kinoko, Graduate Program in Marketing

As a Master's student in Marketing, I am interested in serving as a Member-at-Large for Professional Degrees to contribute to a collaborative and diverse graduate student community at 91��ɫ.

As an African student who essentially became an adult in China for the past seven years, I have developed a strong appreciation for inclusive communication and the importance of ensuring diverse student perspectives are represented in academic spaces. During my undergraduate experience, I worked with student representatives and university faculty to voice international students' concerns and advocate for greater integration between local and international students through more inclusive activities and engagement opportunities.

I also worked as part of my university's social media team, where I advocated for more authentic and diverse student representation across our content. By encouraging broader student participation and showcasing a wider range of student experiences, our platform saw a significant increase in engagement, growing from approximately 1000 followers to several thousand from current and prospective students within a few months. Additionally, it also led to our first viral video, showing that students want to see themselves represented as accurately as possible.

These experiences strengthened my interest in student advocacy, communication, and community-building. I would greatly value the opportunity to contribute to the Faculty Council by bringing a collaborative mindset, strong communication skills, a global perspective, and, most importantly, a warm and bubbly heart to the representation of graduate students.

Sukansha Kulshrestha, Graduate Program in Health Industry Administration

I am an incoming student at the Schulich School of Business, and I am eager to contribute to the student community from the very beginning of my academic journey. I bring a strong sense of initiative, adaptability, and a genuine interest in representing and supporting my peers.

Although I will be starting my studies this term, I see this as a strength—I offer a fresh perspective and a deep curiosity to understand and improve the student experience. My academic and professional background has equipped me with the ability to communicate effectively, collaborate across diverse groups, and approach challenges with a solution-oriented mindset.

I am particularly interested in serving on a Standing Committee or as a Member at Large because I value inclusive representation and transparent decision-making. I am committed to listening to student concerns, advocating for their needs, and ensuring their voices are reflected in meaningful ways.

My goal is to actively engage with the student body, build strong connections, and contribute to initiatives that enhance both academic and social experiences. I am dedicated to being approachable, accountable, and proactive in this role.

If given the opportunity, I will work to ensure that every student feels heard, supported, and empowered within our community.

Vanshika Mathur, Graduate Program in Marketing

I’m an incoming Master of Marketing (MMkg) student with a background that sits at the intersection of creativity, technology, and problem-solving. Before starting at 91��ɫ, I spent nearly six years working in advertising technology, client services, and digital media, helping solve challenges, manage relationships, and navigate fast-moving industries where no two days look the same.

What makes my journey a little different is that I come from both the creative and business worlds. I studied film business and media, worked in ad-tech, and developed a strong interest in analytics and strategy along the way. Because of this, I care deeply about connecting academic learning with the realities of today’s evolving industries, especially in marketing, technology, and data-driven decision-making.

I’m someone who genuinely enjoys working with people, listening to different perspectives, and finding practical solutions. Whether it’s solving a complex work issue, collaborating across teams, or simply making sure people feel heard, I naturally bring an open, positive, and solutions-oriented mindset to the table.

As a Member-at-Large for Professional Degrees, I hope to represent students in a way that feels approachable, thoughtful, and proactive. I want to contribute to conversations that improve student experience, support professional growth, and make sure student voices are part of meaningful decision-making.

Most importantly, I’d love to help build a graduate community that feels connected, collaborative, and future-focused.

Fatou D Njai, Graduate Program in Public Policy, Administration & Law

As an international student and MPPAL candidate with a background in political science, law, and data analysis, I am running for the Member-at-Large (Professional Degrees) position to ensure our unique academic and professional needs are strongly represented on the Faculty Council.

I bring direct experience in institutional governance, having successfully served in student leadership and representative positions during both my undergraduate and diploma in law studies. My broader professional background includes serving as a National Data Analyst and a Legal Administrator, managing high-volume information systems and collaborating with diverse stakeholders. Furthermore, my global perspective is strengthened by my participation in the International Virtual Exchange Conference (IVEC), where I collaborated with international peers on cross-border policy frameworks.

Professional graduate programs require a distinct balance between rigorous academic theory, compressed timelines, and career transitions. If elected, I will leverage my administrative expertise, prior governance experience, and global perspective to advocate for clear communication, user-centric institutional policies, and accessible resources that support professional and international students alike. I look forward to working collaboratively with the Faculty Council to champion practical, impactful governance that enhances the graduate student experience across all professional disciplines. Thank you for your support.

Reham Omer, Graduate Program in Health Industry Administration

Ganesan Subramani Padayachi, Graduate Program in Business Administration

I am an incoming MBA student and Chartered Accountant with over eight years of experience leading finance and governance functions within the social impact sector. In my previous role as Head – Accounts & Finance at a large CSR-focused foundation, I managed large-scale program budgets, governance frameworks, audit processes, and financial oversight across multiple community initiatives. Alongside my professional responsibilities, I have consistently been involved in voluntary and grassroots initiatives focused on education, community welfare, and youth support.

Beyond my corporate responsibilities, I have co-founded a community school initiative focused on affordable education for children from low-income families and have actively supported community-led fundraising, scholarship, and food distribution initiatives. During the COVID-19 period, I also volunteered as an online commerce instructor for underprivileged students.

I am interested in contributing to the Professional Degrees and Humanities representation areas because I value interdisciplinary engagement and believe graduate student representation should combine professional insight with broader social and community perspectives. Through this role, I hope to contribute constructively to student discussions, represent diverse viewpoints, and support initiatives that strengthen student engagement, governance, and the graduate experience at 91��ɫ.

Paola Palacios Paez, Graduate Program in Health Industry Administration

I'd be honored to be part of that.

Muhammad Uzair Rana, Graduate Program in Accounting

As a Master of Accounting student at the Schulich School of Business, I’m interested in serving as a Member at Large because I want to be more involved in the broader academic community and help ensure student perspectives are genuinely considered in faculty decision-making. As graduate students, we experience firsthand the pressures of balancing academics, career preparation, and personal responsibilities, so I think it’s important to have representatives who understand those realities and can communicate them effectively.

Before joining Schulich, I worked in accounting, audit, tax, and finance roles across different organizations, which gave me experience working with diverse teams, solving problems under pressure, and understanding how strong governance and collaboration lead to better outcomes. Those experiences taught me the importance of listening carefully, considering different viewpoints, and making practical decisions that serve a larger community rather than just individual interests.

What interests me most about this role is the opportunity to contribute beyond my own program and support a faculty environment that is inclusive, responsive, and forward-looking. While my academic path is in a professional program, I value interdisciplinary perspectives and believe that strong institutions are built when people with different experiences come together to solve shared challenges.

If selected, I would bring a thoughtful and approachable perspective, a strong work ethic, and a genuine willingness to listen, learn, and contribute in a meaningful way to the 91��ɫ community.

Evita Reny, Graduate Program in Business Administration

My name is Evita Reny, and I hail from Mumbai, India. As a graduate student with a background in finance and accounting, I hope to contribute meaningfully to Faculty Council through collaboration, representation, and service. My academic journey has taught me discipline, resilience, and the importance of balancing analytical thinking with empathy and communication.

Outside academics, I enjoy writing poetry and have a strong appreciation for music, culture, and storytelling. These creative interests have helped shape me into a thoughtful listener and communicator who values different perspectives and meaningful dialogue. I believe that strong student communities are built when people feel heard, included, and supported.

I am particularly interested in initiatives that encourage student engagement, wellbeing, and academic excellence while strengthening communication between students and faculty leadership. Throughout my experiences, I have enjoyed working with others, supporting peers, and contributing to positive and collaborative environments.

Serving on a Standing Committee or as a Member at Large would be an opportunity for me to give back to the university community and represent students with professionalism, integrity, and sincerity. I would be honored to contribute both creative and analytical perspectives to Faculty Council and help foster an inclusive environment where students can grow, connect, and succeed.

Arjun Saini, Graduate Program in Public Policy, Administration & Law

Hi there my name is a Arjun Saini and I am a incoming student for the professional MPPAL degree at 91��ɫ. I am more then thrilled to seek membership to the standing committee. I have a deep desire to bring change and the improve the lives of others in best way I can. I look at this opportunity as a way to really fulfil my desire. In my underrate education at the University of Toronto, I served as the Vice President of the Political Science Student Association. In that role I really has the opportunity to bring change the department and improve the student life of students. Alongside the rest of the committee we made key decisions which really helped students in programs. I hope to bring that knowledge, education and experience to this committee.

Saurabh Singhal, Graduate Program in Business Administration

Before starting my MBA, I built businesses — a tech firm, a mobile platform, a nutraceutical brand, two restaurants, and a distributorship serving thousands of customers. I didn't come to Schulich to learn what a boardroom feels like. I came to sharpen how I think inside one.

Most candidates will come with strong academic records or corporate experience. I respect that. But governance isn't just about credentials — it's about judgment forged under pressure. I've hired and let people go, recovered from business failures, and built things with no safety net. That's not a better background; it's a different one — and on a council that shapes policy for working professionals and aspiring leaders, that difference matters.

As an international student, I also bring a perspective shaped by a different business culture — one that challenges assumptions and broadens what "best practice" can look like.

I'm not running to pad a resume. I'm running because I've spent my career solving problems that matter, and I'd like to bring that instinct to Faculty Council — asking hard questions and pushing for decisions that actually serve students like us.

If you want someone in that room who's been in the arena, I'd be honored to have your vote.

Numan Tarin, Graduate Program in Canadian Common Law

My name is Numan Tarin, and I am an incoming student in the LLM – Canadian Common Law program at Osgoode Hall Law School. I am a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) and the Executive Director of Tarin Immigration Services, where I work closely with newcomers, refugees, international students, and diverse communities across Canada.

Over the years, I have also been actively involved in community leadership, nonprofit initiatives, and advocacy work focused on education, settlement services, and access to opportunities for underrepresented communities. These experiences have strengthened my interest in governance, policy development, and meaningful student engagement within academic institutions.

I am seeking to serve as a Member at Large on Faculty Council because I believe graduate students benefit when their voices, experiences, and perspectives are genuinely represented in university decision-making processes. As a mature student with both professional and community-based experience, I hope to contribute thoughtfully to discussions relating to graduate education, student support, accessibility, inclusion, and academic excellence.

I value collaboration, respectful dialogue, and community engagement, and I would be honoured to contribute my time and experience in support of the Faculty of Graduate Studies and the broader 91��ɫ community.

Social Sciences/Humanities Research Area

Hussaina Abdullahi, Graduate Program in Business Administration

Muhammad Abdullah Baig, Graduate Program in Information Systems & Technology

Johdeth Dela Cruz, Graduate Program in Kinesiology & Health Science

Dina Dwairi, Graduate Program in Environmental Studies

I would be honoured to serve and contribute meaningfully to this role!

Natasha Hall, Graduate Program in History

I am an incoming Ph.D. student in the history department with experience serving as a club secretary for the Ukrainian Students Organization in undergrad. My experience as an executive member combined with my passion for academia make me an excellent candidate for representing history students, or social studies and humanities students more generally, in discussions that impact the entire student body.

Théo Lhiabastres, Graduate Program in Marketing

Hello, my name is Théo Lhiabastres, I’m a French student joining the Master of Marketing (MMKG, Fall 2026) program. I'm very excited to put my name forward as a Member-at-Large for Social Sciences and Humanities Research on the Faculty of Graduate Studies Council.

My academic background blends business and social sciences in a way that feels very natural to me. Through my Global BBA at ESSEC Business School and an exchange at the Telfer School of Management, I've become genuinely fascinated by consumer behavior : specifically how psychology, culture and societal trends quietly shape the choices people make every day.

That curiosity has followed me beyond the classroom. During an internship in Montreal, I had the chance to conduct market studies on reforestation ecosystems in Canada, which pushed me to think about human behavior in broader social and environmental contexts. I also explored these themes in my thesis on product placement and consumer behavior, which was probably the project I've enjoyed most during my studies.

I'd love to bring this perspective to the Council, both the analytical side and the multicultural one, having studied and worked across different countries. I genuinely care about making sure diverse research needs are heard and supported, and I think that's exactly what this role is about.

Thank you for your consideration, and I hope to have the opportunity to contribute !

Hoang Minh Uyen Ly, Graduate Program in Sociology

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Ganesan Subramani Padayachi, Graduate Program in Business Administration

Muhammad Uzair Rana, Graduate Program in Accounting

If selected, I would bring a thoughtful and approachable perspective, a strong work ethic, and a genuine willingness to listen, learn, and contribute in a meaningful way to the 91��ɫ community.

Farangiz Sadeq, Graduate Program in Humanities

Dear Students and Faculty Members,

I am a returning graduate student to 91��ɫ having completed my Master of Arts in English Literature, and now on path to continue my studies in the Humanities Program, with excitement and hope I am planning on making a meaningful contribution not only through my academic engagement as a student of literature and culture but also as an active community participant. To this effect I am seeking your support as a nominee for the Member at Large council in the Social Sciences and Humanities. Thank you for your patronage. Farangiz Sadeq

Baboucarr Mbye Saidy, Graduate Program in Political Science

There is no task nobler than Student Leadership and representation. It is this conviction i held dear to trigger the energy in me to go above and beyond for our membership. My background is punctuated with various Student and community Leadership from both here in Canada and abroad in the last 20 years. I have served as President and later Chairman of the Student Union of my previous institutions and currently serving as the Chairman of the Gambian Cultural Week in Canada. This goes to to show the trust am privileged from my community and forever grateful and ready to sacrifice all for the absolute empowerment of our Students especially the Graduate community at 91��ɫ.

Fariha Sameen, Graduate Program in Gender, Feminist & Women's Studies

I am a genderqueer, Muslim lesbian in the PhD GFWS program. My current research focuses on how queer, fem-bodied Muslims in India organize community and make sense of their queerness, in the face of rising Islamophobia in Indian political spaces—queer and otherwise. During my undergraduate and graduate studies at Ambedkar University, Delhi, I was an active member of my department's student council: I have experience in advocating for student communities, and working with other students and faculty members to plan strategically to mitigate issues that may arise in the various areas of student life, particularly in accommodating financial and social diversity.

As a student representative, I hope to be able to use both my previous experience, and my lived experiences of navigating academia as a queer Muslim, to help assist other students.

Esther Sampson, Graduate Program in Communication & Culture

I have served as an at-large member of the FGS for the last two years and have found the experience and insight invaluable. I also believe that I can bring unique viewpoints to the FGS Council as a student of a joint program between 91��ɫ and TMU, where I have access to and can observe different ways that higher education institutions function and problem-solve. In addition, I am on the Program Advisory Committee for the Honours Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies at Seneca Polytechnic, which allows me to bridge insights between undergrad and graduate/college and university structures and changes in a time where post-secondary education in Ontario is going through big changes in need of creative solutions.

Hanisi Samuel, Graduate Program in Environmental Studies

My name is Hanisi Samuel, and I am a 1st-year graduate student in the Master's in Environmental Studies in Planning program. I graduated from 91��ɫ in 2020 with a Bachelor's in Environmental Studies and a minor in Japanese Studies. I spent four years as an assistant language teacher (ALT) in Japan, and was an active member of the Working Committee for one of those years. The Working Committee was responsible for planning and organizing two events: the Skills Development Conference, a two-day training seminar for all ALTs in the prefecture, and the Welcome Orientation for new teachers. Working for both the municipal board of education and the prefectural office gave me a glimpse into the inner workings of city hall. As a teacher for various schools across the city, I became a visible and active member of the community as a public servant. The quality of life I experienced there gave me inspiration for how to better my own local community in Ontario. I’ve returned to 91��ɫ in the pursuit of public service, and while I’m here at 91��ɫ, I would like to dedicate myself to ensuring that our community remains a positive, equitable, and enlightening community for us all.

Darrion Singh, Graduate Program in History

Darrion Singh is a historian of the British Caribbean and Canada. His previous involvements have included work in student engagement at the University of Toronto, and he has served in leadership positions in mentorship work, and on advisory committees for the appointment of a department chair for Historical Studies and UofT's Bicentennial. As an incoming Master of Arts student in history, Darrion seeks to extend the connections between disciplines at the graduate level. Particularly, he aims to encourage interdisciplinary communication among Council disciplines to advance how graduate students engage with fields relevant, though perhaps not at first visibly related, to their fields. He envisions professional development through collaborative initiatives between graduate units, and would intend to facilitate communication between degree and diploma-level programs to better inform students of the additional opportunities at 91��ɫ.

Brian Waters, Graduate Program in Geography

Over the last three years as a PhD student at 91��ɫ, I have served on multiple councils and governing bodies, working to understand how this institution operates and where graduate students fit within its priorities. Through that experience, I have encountered the same challenges many of us face: uncertain funding, bureaucratic barriers, and a sense of the growing adversarial relationship between the administration and the students, faculty, and staff. My priority as a graduate student representative on the FGS Council is to keep students, faculty, and education at the center of every governance decision.

I have served on the EUC Executive and Planning Committee, the Research and Global Affairs Committee, the Tenure and Promotions Committee, and the Graduate Pedagogy, Academic Standards and Awards Committee. On those committees, I represented student interests during a graduate student strike, global emergencies, and debates over academic freedom. I have also served on the CASID Executive Committee as Conference Planning Coordinator, have over 10 years of teaching experience, and 7 years of experience in graduate school. I bring this experience to Faculty Council not as somebody who has all the answers, but as somebody who will fight to keep every debate anchored to one question: are we making the lives of the people this university was built to serve simpler, less stressful, and better supported?

91��ɫ

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