UTM Student Leadership Awards

Aimen Zehra

As a dedicated student leader, Aimen Zehra, will be graduating after her 4th year in the Forensic Anthropology specialist program. She has demonstrated a commitment to academic excellence and community engagement, through both her on-campus and off-campus experiences. Whether that be through her involvement in UTM Abroad Virtual Peru, volunteering in a clinic in Tanzania, working with UTM’s medical first responder team, mentoring first-year forensic students, or partaking in a book club learning about Indigenous voices, Aimen has honed her skills in understanding and addressing complex perspectives. Her passion for bridging cultural barriers and in exploring the social determinants of health through a medico-legal lens reflects her dedication to promoting health equity and fostering inclusive communities. She aspires to pursue a career focused on advocacy and connecting the realms of forensic pathology and public health. 

Alexis Konopny

My name is Alexis Konopny, and I am in my final year pursuing a double major in biology for health sciences and psychology. Throughout the years, I have had the opportunity to take part in many campus initiatives that have greatly shaped my student experience. For example, founding A Better Day Tomorrow (ABDT), a student club and non-profit organization that supports and advocates for those experiencing homelessness. Over the years, I have also been an active mentor and leader, and I take great pride in my ability to inspire students and colleagues to get involved in campus life. After graduation, I aim to pursue medical school, becoming a physician serving vulnerable and underserved communities. Similarly, I plan to continue research involving these communities with the goal of adding to the limited literature. Further, I plan to continue growing ABDT and acting as a mentor and leader in our community.

Amit Dalaya

Amit is currently pursuing his CPA through the Master of Management and Professional Accounting (MMPA) program. Through his undergraduate and master's studies at UTM, Amit has been involved within the community through impactful leadership, and extensive community service commitment to fostering and supporting the academic environment has left an indelible mark on the University community.

Disha Prabhu

Disha Prabhu is in her final year at UTM, where she double majored in Communication, Culture, Information and Technology, and Professional Writing and Communication. Throughout her time at UTM, she's been involved in various extracurriculars on and off campus, including the Centre for Student Engagement, ICCIT Council, ICCIT Student Mentorship Program, and more. Her journey began in first year where she volunteered with clubs such as the Hindu Students Council and Boss Women UTM. From there, she went on to spend three years at the Centre for Student Engagement in various roles, guiding peers as a Peer Mentor in the ICCIT Student Mentorship Program and going as far as to participate in two study abroad programs in both England and Germany. Her most proud achievement is her leadership roles and involvement with the ICCIT Council, where she acted as the Co-President, leading a team of 33 to collaborate on events for the ICCIT student body.
As an upcoming graduate, Disha’s future endeavors lie in advertising and brand development. With the opportunities she took part in during her 4 years at UTM, she has garnered valuable experience both in academia, leadership roles, and the professional realm.

Ethan Lam

Ethan Lam is a graduating student majoring in Computer Science. Throughout his undergrad, he’s been a TA, an executive of a student society, a hackathon founder, public transit advocate, and frosh leader. In his final year, he founded the UTM Urbanism Club, a club dedicated to advocating for better public transit at UTM. After graduation, you can find him as a Software Engineer in Toronto, longboarding through the streets, and eating lots of dumplings. 

Irene Chang

Over their 4 years at UTM, Irene or more commonly known as Ren has been involved with many student life opportunities and has taken the chance to help others like them find queer and positive spaces on campus. Working at the Women, Gender, and Equity Center in MN, they have hosted numerous events and provided a variety of support to queer and gender-diverse students; an act which they continue off campus. Further, volunteering at the sexual education center and the UTMSU food center for the past 2 years has enabled them to connect students with more resources as well helping to ensure their wellbeing. Despite balancing academics, work, health, and social life they are always happy to lend an ear and share the many events and resources available to students. 

Lovelle Pong

Lovelle is in her fifth year of the Forensic Biology Specialist Program with a Minor in Psychology. She has taken part in various leadership roles on campus with the RGASC, the UTM Pre-Law Organization, the UTM Canadian Asian Student Society, and the IVNVI Forensics Society. Her leadership contributions were driven by her goal of fostering a community on campus that focuses on unique professional opportunities, exciting events, and inclusivity. These experiences have also given her opportunities to be inspired by many passionate and hardworking individuals on campus. After obtaining her undergrad, she plans to pursue her passions in science and the law through graduate studies. 

Ruth Alemayehu

Ruth is in her final year of undergrad completing a neuroscience specialist and biology for health sciences major. She highlights the Black community as a pivotal part of her student experience, as it allowed for a sense of belonging and flourishing at UTM. Her various roles including co-president of the Black Students Association, BAEE Ambassador, and others have inspired her to launch the first student-led Black Mentorship Program. 
She currently serves as VP Equity at the UTM Students Union where she is passionate about social change. She collaborated with university departments to launch the Black Alumni Mentorship Program and secured the Pillar Sponsorship of $5,000 to support Black students’ career development, and recently, obtained $1,000 from Food Banks Mississauga to enhance the Food Centre on campus. 
Post-graduation, she hopes to pursue a Masters of Science and will complete her second NSERC funded project this summer.

Sumyia Hashmi

Sumyia Hashmi is a 5th year English Specialist and Creative Writing Minor student at UTM. Throughout her 5 years at UTM, Sumyia has planned, organized and successfully hosted many events on campus through both the Literature Is ALIVE! (LIA!) and English and Drama Student Society (EDSS) clubs to breathe life back into English and Literature at UTM. Sumyia is most proud of LIA!, a student-centred group and events series run through the Department of English and Drama that she co-founded. LIA! has connected students, faculty and staff through workshops designed to inspire conversations about the practical career benefits, interdisciplinary applications, and real-world social and environmental impacts of studying English in university. In the future, Sumyia hopes to keep working with her LIA! team to inspire future students to see all the benefits that English at UTM has to offer. Sumyia also has no concrete plans for graduate school next year, instead she plans to spend the next year volunteering, working with students and exploring what interests her.

Loridee De Villa

Loridee De Villa is a fourth-year student completing a major in Biology for Health Sciences, and a double minor in Psychology and Religion. As a graduating student, she is grateful for the diverse experiences she has held at UTM, both in and out of the classrooms. She’s been fortunate enough to be a part of multiple initiatives related to all her areas of study. Some of her favourite experiences include co-creating the Fish Outta Water podcast as a resource for first-year students, growing as an executive member in the Erindale Biology Society and leading as this year’s President, taking on the treasurer role for two years with the Historical Studies Society, working as a Religion Program Outreach Coordinator and leading FSG sessions for an introduction to neuroscience course. After graduating, Loridee hopes to take time off to travel and work on her writing. 

Mariam Ismail

Mariam is a fourth-year student, graduating this year with a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology with double minors in forensic science and political science. Throughout her undergraduate journey, Mariam demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication to the UTM community. As Co-President of the University of Toronto Mississauga Pre-Law Organization, she fostered an engaging environment for students interested in the law to gain invaluable insights into legal career paths. Mariam’s passion for law also led her to participate in the Criminology Internship Program this year, where she completed a placement at ADR Chambers, an arbitration and mediation firm. Mariam has also been actively involved in academic research, serving as a research assistant for Professor Randy Besco on the project "Diversity in Canadian Elections." This summer, Mariam will further her involvement in political science research as part of the Research and Advertising team at the Office of the Prime Minister.

Roy Han

Roy Han is a 4th year student specializing in Digital Enterprise Management. Roy has been involved in numerous campus initiatives and activities which include being an orientation leader, working as an Research student aiding in research, being involved in campus clubs, initiatives and activities. Roy Han has always strived to create an ever-lasting impact on the UTM campus and with the greater UofT community. Roy Han created and ran a student organization dedicated to bringing education, support and wellbeing to students through the practice and usage of Martial Arts as a tool for students to find community, physical wellness and an educational and philosophical outlet for students on campus. Roy Han has been able to achieve success in his endeavours at UTM and beyond. Along with his accomplishments in academia, Roy Han has also heavily been involved in the physical wellness of students on campus through his time as a trainer at UTM's Recreation, Athletics and Wellness Centre, being a coach for UTM's Archery Club and through his time spent working at UTM's Career Centre where he worked as a marketing and communications assistant as a work-study student. During his time spent working at the UTM Career Centre, Roy Han was able to increase student engagement by tenfold by introducing new ideas on how the UTM Career Centre Instagram page could be run by introducing more trending student-relatable reels, and more pop-culture referencing Instagram posts that students may engage more with. Overall, through Roy's hard work and dedication, he has always strived to leave a positive impact in his community and his love for the UTM and greater UofT community is what has propelled him to always innovate and create ways to better the student life and campus community.

Saraansh Mehta

As a fourth-year student in Psychology with a minor in Education Studies, Saraansh's journey includes pivotal roles in community engagement. By serving as a Team Lead in Community Mentorship at the Centre for Student Engagement, he fostered inclusivity among a diverse community and nurtured growth within our campus community. Passionate about mental health advocacy, he led outreach events and seminars, aiming to destigmatize mental health issues and raise awareness as an executive for the Mental Health Student Association. Saraansh is pursuing a master's degree in counseling and psychotherapy upon the completion of his bachelor's, with the goal to empower individuals and effect positive change in their lives. Guided by the words of Gandhi, "Be the change you wish to see in the world," he embarks on this journey with gratitude, determination, and a commitment to service.

Sayesha Gupta

As a fourth-year student in Political Science, Women and Gender Studies and Education Studies, Sayesha’s journey has been filled with diverse experiences of community engagement. She has worked with the Center of Student Engagement for several years in various roles and most recently held the position of Peer Leadership Coach, where she facilitated leadership sessions and coached the UTM team as they participated in the Collegiate Leadership Competition. Passionate about giving back to her community, she has served as an executive member for student clubs and organizations on and off campus, such as the Mental Health Student Association and Future Lawyers Toronto. Sayesha aims to take this passion for giving back and pursue a law school in hopes of advocating for those who are unable to advocate for themselves. 

Alexandra Hawse

Alexandra Hawse is a fourth-year student completing a Forensic Psychology Specialist. Her journey with the Center for Student Engagement (CSE) began during her first year, following the completion of the Bridging Pathway Program. Over two years, she served as a Bridging Pathway Mentor, before becoming Team Lead for the Access and Inclusion portfolio. Alexandra's proudest achievement lies in her contribution to the development and implementation of the Support, Engage, Experience University of Toronto Mississauga (SEE UTM) program.

Within the CSE, Alexandra facilitated the development of tailored programming for mature students and underrepresented groups, fostering inclusivity across campus. Alexandra has been privileged to work alongside exceptional student colleagues and professional staff, whose guidance has contributed significantly to her personal and professional growth.

As Alexandra prepares to graduate this spring, her experiences advocating for underrepresented groups have solidified her commitment to pursuing a career in forensic psychiatry. Motivated by her dedication to social justice, she is determined to address systemic issues and promote mental health equity within the criminal justice system and beyond.

Cristeidy Gonzalez

Cristeidy Gonzalez is a current third year neuroscience specialist and psychology student at UTM. Her contributions extend from the Centre for Student Engagement to multiple cross-campus initiatives. She has undertaken diverse roles, including Team Leader for STEM Programming, Research Assistant, RSG Leader, Student Group executive, Committee/Voting Member and much more. This multifaceted engagement showcases her leadership, dedication, and genuine passion for personal and communal growth. As an international student, Cristeidy’s commitment to fostering diversity and inclusivity is particularly vital, providing a sense of belonging to students away from home through her continued involvement with the UTM residence council. Committed to growth, future endeavours include further exploring any opportunity that will allow her to expand her skills and tackle challenges. 

Natasha Tweneboah

Natasha is in her final year, completing a double major in Biology for Health Science and Psychology and a minor in Education Studies. Her university journey has been marked by diverse experiences, including serving as a Team Lead for a new portfolio at the CSE and as a programming assistant for the EDI Office. Additionally, she has been an active executive member of several campus clubs, a committed mentor, and a facilitator in various settings. Natasha's leadership and mentorship roles have refined her ability to inspire and empower others, nurturing personal and professional growth in those she encounters. Her dedication to the community extends beyond campus, which is evident in her role as a BAEE ambassador with Student Recruitment and Admission, where she supports young Black individuals in their pursuit of future post-secondary education. Throughout her journey at UTM, Natasha has developed a strong commitment to service and effecting positive change. This commitment fuels her ambition to pursue a career in the healthcare field, focusing on marginalized individuals and communities.

Nicole Anne Pajatin

Nicole Anne Pajatin is a fourth year student studying Criminology, Law and Society. She has actively engaged in various roles, notably as the International Student Programming Team Lead at the University of Toronto Mississauga's International Education Centre, developing and implementing events to enhance the international student experience. Nicole's commitment to education and research is evidenced by her experiences studying genocide in Cambodia and educational systems in Portugal, showcasing her analytical skills and global outlook. Her teaching experiences, ranging from instructing English language courses to guiding students in design thinking principles, underline her ability to communicate and engage effectively with diverse audiences.

Nicole's involvement in the Dean’s Experiential Learning Group as an Executive Secretary and her volunteer work at leadership forums emphasize her advocacy for experiential learning and social change. Her future endeavours blend her interests in forensic accounting, white-collar crime, and educational innovation, leveraging her diverse experiences and skills gained throughout her university career.

Cassandra Bousfield

As a student in her final year studying Forensic Biology, Cassandra has dedicated her university journey to fostering community, inclusivity, and promoting wellness on campus. Over the past three years, Cassandra served as a Resident Don for Student Housing, supporting over 130 students as they  transition into university. Within this role, Cassandra actively participated in initiatives such as the Colman Cup and Residence Sustainability Initiative. Cassandra was also involved at the RAWC as a Sport Inclusion Ambassador, where she organized a women's sports league to encourage female participation in sports and other opportunities for students to be active while studying. Cassandra was also a mentor for the IVNVI forensic society supporting first year students. Cassandra was also a part of the RGASC as a FSG leader and ECSPerT as a first aid observer. After graduating in June, Cassandra looks forward to continuing to be involved in her community. 

Loridee De Villa

Loridee De Villa is a fourth-year student completing a major in Biology for Health Sciences, and a double minor in Psychology and Religion. As a graduating student, she is grateful for the diverse experiences she has held at UTM, both in and out of the classrooms. She’s been fortunate enough to be a part of multiple initiatives related to all her areas of study. Some of her favourite experiences include co-creating the Fish Outta Water podcast as a resource for first-year students, growing as an executive member in the Erindale Biology Society and leading as this year’s President, taking on the treasurer role for two years with the Historical Studies Society, working as a Religion Program Outreach Coordinator and leading FSG sessions for an introduction to neuroscience course. After graduating, Loridee hopes to take time off to travel and work on her writing. 

Mariam Ismail

Mariam is a fourth-year student, graduating this year with a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology with double minors in forensic science and political science. Throughout her undergraduate journey, Mariam demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication to the UTM community. As Co-President of the University of Toronto Mississauga Pre-Law Organization, she fostered an engaging environment for students interested in the law to gain invaluable insights into legal career paths. Mariam’s passion for law also led her to participate in the Criminology Internship Program this year, where she completed a placement at ADR Chambers, an arbitration and mediation firm. Mariam has also been actively involved in academic research, serving as a research assistant for Professor Randy Besco on the project "Diversity in Canadian Elections." This summer, Mariam will further her involvement in political science research as part of the Research and Advertising team at the Office of the Prime Minister.

Roy Han

Roy Han is a 4th year student specializing in Digital Enterprise Management. Roy has been involved in numerous campus initiatives and activities which include being an orientation leader, working as an Research student aiding in research, being involved in campus clubs, initiatives and activities. Roy Han has always strived to create an ever-lasting impact on the UTM campus and with the greater UofT community. Roy Han created and ran a student organization dedicated to bringing education, support and wellbeing to students through the practice and usage of Martial Arts as a tool for students to find community, physical wellness and an educational and philosophical outlet for students on campus. Roy Han has been able to achieve success in his endeavours at UTM and beyond. Along with his accomplishments in academia, Roy Han has also heavily been involved in the physical wellness of students on campus through his time as a trainer at UTM's Recreation, Athletics and Wellness Centre, being a coach for UTM's Archery Club and through his time spent working at UTM's Career Centre where he worked as a marketing and communications assistant as a work-study student. During his time spent working at the UTM Career Centre, Roy Han was able to increase student engagement by tenfold by introducing new ideas on how the UTM Career Centre Instagram page could be run by introducing more trending student-relatable reels, and more pop-culture referencing Instagram posts that students may engage more with. Overall, through Roy's hard work and dedication, he has always strived to leave a positive impact in his community and his love for the UTM and greater UofT community is what has propelled him to always innovate and create ways to better the student life and campus community.

Saraansh Mehta

As a fourth-year student in Psychology with a minor in Education Studies, Saraansh's journey includes pivotal roles in community engagement. By serving as a Team Lead in Community Mentorship at the Centre for Student Engagement, he fostered inclusivity among a diverse community and nurtured growth within our campus community. Passionate about mental health advocacy, he led outreach events and seminars, aiming to destigmatize mental health issues and raise awareness as an executive for the Mental Health Student Association. Saraansh is pursuing a master's degree in counseling and psychotherapy upon the completion of his bachelor's, with the goal to empower individuals and effect positive change in their lives. Guided by the words of Gandhi, "Be the change you wish to see in the world," he embarks on this journey with gratitude, determination, and a commitment to service.

Sayesha Gupta

As a fourth-year student in Political Science, Women and Gender Studies and Education Studies, Sayesha’s journey has been filled with diverse experiences of community engagement. She has worked with the Center of Student Engagement for several years in various roles and most recently held the position of Peer Leadership Coach, where she facilitated leadership sessions and coached the UTM team as they participated in the Collegiate Leadership Competition. Passionate about giving back to her community, she has served as an executive member for student clubs and organizations on and off campus, such as the Mental Health Student Association and Future Lawyers Toronto. Sayesha aims to take this passion for giving back and pursue a law school in hopes of advocating for those who are unable to advocate for themselves. 

Albert Pan

First year student studying Life Sciences, was an associate for the Erindale Biology Society, and a VP associate for the UTM Residence Council. A voting member on the Quality of Student Services Committee, and a part of the Resident Dining Committee. One of next year's Campus Affairs Committee members, and one of next year's LAUNCH Leaders. Future endeavours include but are not limited to trying out for Varsity Rugby and running for various club executive positions.

Giovanni Williams

Giovanni is a first-year student studying Criminology and Political Science. He served as a mentor for a program called SEE@UTM at the Center for Student Engagement where he supported the Black experience and made high-school students feel safe and welcomed. He organized events, workshops, and activities both in and out of class to make sure everyone had a fulfilled time while learning. Moreover, Giovanni was involved in various initiatives and clubs such as the LAUNCH Program, Mock trials, the Black and Caribbean Writing Collective, BSA, ASA, and Black Table Talk. Giovanni will continue to be part of UTM through his role as a CSE mentor in addition to his new profession, a residence Don as well as staying in clubs like mock trials and being involved with the community. Future endeavours include becoming president of said clubs, creating his own club and improving his grades for the following year. 

Monisola Ajetunmobi

Monisola earned the Student Leadership Award for her exceptional achievements as a first year. Aspiring to be a lawyer, she placed successfully in the UTM mock trials involving multiple universities like Waterloo, and, is actively serving as an events associate for the African Student Association. With outstanding academic performance and dedicated community contributions, Monisola has left an incredible mark on the school community as a first year. 

Ruth Alemayehu

"Ruth is in her final year of undergrad completing a neuroscience specialist and biology for health sciences major. She highlights the Black community as a pivotal part of her student experience, as it allowed for a sense of belonging and flourishing at UTM. Her various roles including co-president of the Black Students Association, BAEE Ambassador, and others have inspired her to launch the first student-led Black Mentorship Program. 
She currently serves as VP Equity at the UTM Students Union where she is passionate about social change. She collaborated with university departments to launch the Black Alumni Mentorship Program and secured the Pillar Sponsorship of $5,000 to support Black students’ career development, and recently, obtained $1,000 from Food Banks Mississauga to enhance the Food Centre on campus. 
Post-graduation, she hopes to pursue a Masters of Science and will complete her second NSERC funded project this summer."

Stephanie Subryan

Stephanie is a fourth year student who is majoring in Philosophy with a minor in Sociology and another minor in Ethics, Law and Society. She is passionate about social justice and this was demonstrated through numerous events she has initiated, planned, hosted and facilitated throughout her three years as the VP of Events of the Pre-Law Organization. The events included raising awareness and funds for Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women and Girls by hosting a panel consisting of Indigenous lawyers speaking about their experiences with the legal system and a sale to raise funds for the Native Women's Resource Foundation in Toronto. She also hosted movie nights to shows films to bring awareness to Residential School Survivors. Her dedication to bringing awareness to Indigenous peoples can be observed through two of the poems she has published through the UTM Scribes club called Stolen Sisters and My land, My Story. Overall Stephanie has demonstrated that she is passionate about Social Justice for Indigenous Peoples and she plans to pursue a career in law to further address human rights issues.

Efemena Eghujovbo

Efemena Eghujovbo is a passionate student leader entering her fourth year at UTM pursuing a double major in Criminology Law and Society and Sociology. During her time at UTM thus far, she has dedicated her hours outside of her busy academic life to ensuring all students feel a sense of belonging in post-secondary education. From working as a mentor with Black high school students in the SEE@UTM program to her transition as a student writing support for current students with the Caribbean and Black Writing Collective, Efemena has shown her dedication for creating the inclusive environment she yearned to find in her early years of study. Upon graduation she hopes to attend law school and pursue a career in corporate law. She also plans to continue working on building her haircare brand (Simply Haircare) and, carry on her devotion for Equity and Inclusion through volunteering with her community. 

Benjamin Koshy Jacob

Benjamin Koshy Jacob is a third-year Psychology Specialist and Biomedical Communications Minor, deeply engaged in fostering community and intercultural understanding at the University of Toronto Mississauga. Benji has contributed extensively to our campus, serving as Records & Admissions Assistant at Student Housing & Residence Life and Lab Coordinator at the Chung Lab. He is also the founder of Studio X, a collaborative art club aimed at using the arts to spotlight social and cultural issues, thereby fostering inclusivity and understanding. Benji's passion for community engagement is evident in his collaborations with 8 campus departments, including the International Education Centre, Indigenous Centre, and Health & Counseling Centre. Notably, Benji spearheaded the creation of the community-based mural "Leave Your Mark" and is eagerly anticipating his upcoming installation, "Walks With Reclamation." As a recipient of the UTMSLA Global & Intercultural Engagement award, Benji continues to exemplify leadership and dedication to fostering a diverse and inclusive campus environment.

Arshdeep Singh Bindra

My name is Arshdeep Singh Bindra, a graduating 4th-year student (June 2024), pursuing a Bachelor of Commerce degree with a specialization in Finance and a major in Economics at the University of Toronto, Mississauga. Throughout my academic journey, I've actively engaged in campus life, holding roles such as LAUNCH Leader, LAUNCH Team Lead, EagleConnect Squad Leader, Student Support Assistant, and Summer 2024 Orientation Leader. I'm deeply committed to fostering inclusivity and community engagement, dedicating myself to initiatives that promote diversity and social responsibility. Whether coordinating events, leading teams, or advocating for positive change, I aim to impact campus significantly. I'm looking forward to continuing my personal and professional growth. My future pursuits include obtaining CFA and CPA designations, aspiring to contribute to the financial industry, and empowering others through mentorship and leadership. With unwavering determination and a clear sense of purpose, I'm devoted to leaving a meaningful legacy at the University of Toronto, Mississauga.

Rianna Ramana

I am a fourth year student in the Forensic Psychology Specialist Program. I worked as a Team Lead in the Community Mentorship job family as well as an EagleConnect Squad Leader. I am currently working as an Engagement Events Assistant while also volunteering as a MAP Mentor and Peer Support Program volunteer. In the next academic year, I plan to begin graduate school and work towards pursuing a career in the field of forensic psychology. 

Cassandra Bousfield

As a student in her final year studying Forensic Biology, Cassandra has dedicated her university journey to fostering community, inclusivity, and promoting wellness on campus. Over the past three years, Cassandra served as a Resident Don for Student Housing, supporting over 130 students as they  transition into university. Within this role, Cassandra actively participated in initiatives such as the Colman Cup and Residence Sustainability Initiative. Cassandra was also involved at the RAWC as a Sport Inclusion Ambassador, where she organized a women's sports league to encourage female participation in sports and other opportunities for students to be active while studying. Cassandra was also a mentor for the IVNVI forensic society supporting first year students. Cassandra was also a part of the RGASC as a FSG leader and ECSPerT as a first aid observer. After graduating in June, Cassandra looks forward to continuing to be involved in her community. 

Joloe Mojica

Joloe (pronounced Joe-Low) feels honoured to be recognized as a student leader in Sustainability. She is in her Third Year pursuing a double major in Environmental Management and Criminology. Her environmental studies have taught her about the importance of achieving environmental justice for communities who have been burdened by air pollution and poor water quality. She focuses on environmental science and is currently studying land change detection as a result of climate change. She is a Sustainability Ambassador at UTM where she promotes sustainability initiatives on our campus and helps the team with events. She aims towards a future where everyone has equal access to clean water and shelter, and she hopes that she can make a space for Indigenous peoples and marginalized groups whose voices have been left unheard in policy.

The Bamboo Life

BLife is a non-profit student group run by our passionate team of UTM students. Founded in 2023 by Alanna Sethi, we noticed a gap in accessibility and inclusion in Chinese Language and Culture on campus. As a third culture kid, she did not have the cultural or linguistic background as those in other Chinese student groups but still wished for a space to explore her cultural roots.

At Bamboo Life, we celebrate diversity and encourage individuals of all backgrounds to come join our cozy community for fun activities and building faculty-student connections throughout the year!

UTM Physics Club

Tabassom and her team of Execs, Ilona, Jackie and Manal, have demonstrated their passion in fostering a sense of community among students and professors in the physics department through their own experiences at UTM. They provided first year students with many opportunities to learn about the resources available for students interested in physics, and organized multiple events that allow for a smoother transition into university level physics. They organized fun events for all students in the club to learn about applications of physics and astronomy beyond the classroom and arranged for multiple opportunities that allow students in physics to meet with professors and grad students. They have demonstrated their immense passion for physics and astronomy through this leadership role, and inspired many to pursue such leadership roles as well.

UTM Undergraduate Research Students' Association

The University of Toronto’s Undergraduate Research Students Association (UofT URSA) is a student group composed of research-motivated and interested students, who aims to provide opportunities for community-building, networking, and academic pursuits. All of this is done with the goal that students will get a chance to be further exposed to the numerous research opportunities and pathways available to them at UofT.

Studio X

Studio X is a collaborative art club whose mission is to bring the UTM community together and create projects that portray, address, and reflect on current social and cultural issues. Their past initiatives have focused on a range of topics, such as language perservation, Canada's biodiversity crisis, and mental health awareness. These projects harness the diversity of the UTM student body, allowing for freater intercultural understandin and connnectedness. This year alone, Studio X has collaborated with 9 campus partners, including the Indigenous Centre, IEC and SHRL. They are ending the year feeling optimistic for what is to come, and to see the club continue to grow in the coming years. 

UNICEF UTM

UNICEF UTM's purpose as a UNICEF Canada affiliated club is to be a gateway for students, staff and local sponsors to be able to help children in need around the world. For the 2023/2024 academic year, UNICEF UTM’s focused on organizing awareness campaigns and fundraisers for Child Rights Advocacy by supporting UN Sustainable Development Goal #1 No Poverty, #2 Zero Hunger, #3 Good Health and Well-Being, #4 Quality Education, #5 Gender Equality, #6 Clean Water and Sanitation, and #17 Partnership for the Goals. UNICEF UTM successfully organized over 20+ diverse fundraisers and 35+ outreaching sessions, maintained 5 websites and social media platforms, gathered $700+ sponsorship and raised $3,000+ donations. UNICEF UTM was able to achieve these goals by increasing its general members to 200+ UTM Students, 170+ volunteers, and 27 internal Executive members - and by appealing to different students and student groups with diverse interests to participate with our cause. 

Studio X

Studio X is a collaborative art club whose mission is to bring the UTM community together and create projects that portray, address, and reflect on current social and cultural issues. Their past initiatives have focused on a range of topics, such as language perservation, Canada's biodiversity crisis, and mental health awareness. These projects harness the diversity of the UTM student body, allowing for freater intercultural understandin and connnectedness. This year alone, Studio X has collaborated with 9 campus partners, including the Indigenous Centre, IEC and SHRL. They are ending the year feeling optimistic for what is to come, and to see the club continue to grow in the coming years.