The following students have put their names forward for election to the TRUSU Board of Directors for the 2023/2024 term. You can find out more about each of the candidates by clicking on the positions below.

Students are invited to attend a meet the candidates event on March 17 from 12:00 – 1:30PM in the TRUSU Lecture Hall. Grab a free slice of pizza and find out more about the candidates and why they are running to represent you.

Voting will take place from March 22 at 9:00AM until March 23 at 5:00PM. Members will receive a digital ballot via email. If you are having any issues casting or accessing your ballot please contact us at n.lane@trusu.ca or 250.828.5289.

Results will be posted following the close of voting on March 23.

President

Jannat Bhullar

Progressive Student Advocates

Firstly, I would like to acknowledge that the Union operates on the unceded traditional territory of the Secwe̓pemc people.

I am Jannat Bhullar, a third-year Journalism student from India who serves as the International Students’ Representative on the TRUSU Board of Directors. This year I am grateful for the opportunity to represent the student disagreement on the issue of international tuition, which has inspired me to continue advocating for student rights and keep expressing student disagreement on tuition disparities.

As an international student, I empathize with experiences that inspire me to continue the advocacy work that helps change student lives. It is through these lived experiences that I am determined to tackle the changing student needs that require help from the Union and its representatives. Nevertheless, I am always keen to address issues surrounding domestic students, Indigenous students, and the LGBTQ+ community on campus.

If elected as President to represent the diverse student community at TRU, I aim to work for the betterment of all student groups on campus. And collectively, as PSA, we aim to serve students at TRU by striving to work towards helping students through advocacy for their rights and continuing to fight against international tuition disparity.

 

Connor Norman

Connor Norman

Independent

I am welder, I will make a grate president, my favourite colour is blue.

 

Anshuman Walia

Anshuman Walia

Young Liberals

Weyt-k,

I am writing to endorse Anshuman Walia for the position of President of the TRUSU. Having worked closely as a member of the University Board of Governors and the University senate over the past year, I have witnessed their passion, dedication, and leadership firsthand.

I have a proven track record of advocating for student needs and have worked tirelessly to ensure that their voices are heard. They possess exceptional communication skills and can serve as a spokesperson for the Student Union.

Furthermore, I have a keen understanding of the importance of collaboration and have demonstrated the ability to work effectively with others. They have a talent for delegating responsibilities and ensuring that all members are involved in the decision-making process. I am deeply committed to upholding the values of the Student Union.

Finally, I have a clear vision for the future of the Student Union and have outlined several initiatives that will benefit students across campus. They are passionate about student representation and have a deep understanding of the issues facing our community.

In conclusion, I strongly endorse myself for the position of President of TRUSU.

Sincerely,
Anshuman Walia

Vice President Equity
Asem Ibrahim

Asem Ibrahim

Young Liberals

Hello fellow students,

I am Asem Ibrahim, and I’ll be honored to fill this position as the new VP equity to insure development. I’ll make sure to chair, oversee, and report the work of the equity committee. As it will be my responsibility to make every community equal to each other and treated with the respect they deserve. Also, I will make sure to respond to all the requests we receive from the students and to take every request into consideration. Let’s make this right, lets do this together.

 

Dallas Odsen

Dallas Odsen

Progressive Student Advocates

Hey Folks!

My name is Dallas Odsen, and I am a fourth-year student running with Progressive Student Advocates! This will be my third year on the Board, and I look forward to meeting and working with so many amazing students this year. I have a passion for EDI work both on campus and in my community, and if elected I hope to make campus safer, and more welcoming, for all students.

 

Sourajita Panda

Sourajita Panda

Independent

Sourajita is a first year student of post baccalaureate in Human Resources Management, as well as the Communications Coordinator of the Human Resources Management Club, and an Intercultural Student Ambassador at TRU.

Born and raised in India, Sourajita brings a diverse perspective to her role. She has always been an active volunteer with various NGOs in India. Her experiences have enriched her perspective and she is deeply committed to help build an inclusive community at TRU. With the university’s diverse and vibrant community, she believes that connecting with students from diverse cultures and backgrounds at TRU, not only helps build the “TRU” community, but also builds a deep understanding of an equitable campus.

 

Vice President External
Anel Jazybayeva

Anel Jazybayeva

Progressive Student Advocates

Hello, my name is Anel Jazybayeva (She/Her), and I would like to acknowledge that I am pursuing my undergrad in the traditional and uncharted lands of the Tk’emlups te Secwepemc.

I am international student from Kazakhstan studying Communications.
I am committed to being a strong advocate for students. By serving on the TRUSU 2022-23 Board of Directors as a Campaigns Committee representative, I worked alongside municipal, provincial, and federal government to make changes in students’ interests.

Sitting on various committees, whether TRUSU Campaigns Committee, Student Caucus Arts Faculty Council committee or next elected student representative on TRU Senate, my primary focus is to ensure that appropriate student representation is being met and advocated for. I worked on such campaigns as cap for international tuition increase, Academocracy (Academic democracy), housing, transportation, menstrual equity, etc.

As a current president of TRUSU Taxation Club, my top priority is to offer students an opportunity to acquire valuable skills, experience for the benefit of the community.
It all has given me an excellent set of skills, tools, and expertise to bring to my position as your VP External at TRUSU.

Please, consider voting for Anel Jazybayeva for VP External and the Progressive Student Advocates (PSA)!

 

Anamika Joshi

Anamika Joshi

Young Liberals

Hello Fellow Students,

I am delighted to announce my candidacy for the post of VP External. As a dedicated educator and passionate community member, I believe that I can along with the contribution of you and the stakeholders, make a positive impact on our University and help us move forward in a positive direction.

My background includes an Undergraduate degree in History and I am currently pursuing a Post Baccalaureate Diploma in HRM. As for my professional career, I worked as a TeachForIndia Fellow from 2020 to 2022, where I worked with students from underprivileged backgrounds and led them towards becoming the leaders of tomorrow. We worked at the grassroots level to eradicate educational inequity.

As part of my commitment to education, if elected, I will work tirelessly to create opportunities for students to succeed. I believe that each one of us deserves access to quality education, and will work to ensure that we provide the support and resources necessary for all students to thrive.

Thank you for considering my candidacy.

I believe in #HigherEducation #StrategicVision #ImpactfulLeadership.

 

Vice President Internal
Deeparsh Singh Dang

Deeparsh Singh Dang

Progressive Student Advocates

Hello everyone! My name is Deeparsh Singh Dang, and I am enrolled in the Bachelors of Computing Science program. l am 2 years into the program and I am currently running for the Entertainment Committee’s Vice President Internal position. I have had the knowledge and experience in planning and executing events back in my home country. I am also involved with the Makerspace as an ambassador at TRU and have already organized few events with them.

I believe that my experience in event planning and passion for creating engaging and memorable experiences for our school community make me a strong candidate for this position. I am committed to working collaboratively with the rest of the team to create a dynamic and engaging calendar of events that hopefully everyone will look forward to attending.

Lastly, as a Vice President Internal, I will ensure that our future events are fun, inclusive and enjoyable for all students.

 

Samiul Khan

Samiul Khan

Young Liberals

I am Samiul Khan, your friendly neighborhood candidate running for Vice-President Internal. When I am not busy studying at the Bob Gaglardi SOBE, you can find me spreading happiness (and diabetes) in the Wellness Center or Future Student Development while trying not to embarrass myself at the Sunday volleyball drop-ins.

But enough about me – let’s talk about YOU. I am running for this position because I am passionate about being your advocate. I want to help you enjoy your time at TRU; whether it is addressing your concerns on campus or making sure there is enough free food at events (yes, I am that guy), I have got your back.

Being the President of the Monash University Student Council in Malaysia gave me experience in hearing students’ needs and advocating for minority communities, mental health, and scholarship for international students.

If you want a VP who is armed with french vanilla, sarcastic quips, and a knack for rallying the troops, look no further. I will be transparent and make sure the administration hears your roar, all while dodging the inevitable sugar rush. I will try to make your campus experience as awesome as a cat wearing a party hat.

 

Vice President Services
Tanya Lekhi

Tanya Lekhi

Progressive Student Advocates

I am Tanya Lekhi, a first-year student of Post Baccalaureate Finance at TRU. I am an International Student serving as the Service Committee Representative on the TRUSU Board of Directors. I am a dedicated individual ready to listen to student needs and challenges and work towards solving them collectively with other student representatives and the Union. I am seeking to run for Vice President of Services in these elections as I wish to continue to serve the student community at TRU by promoting and working toward student welfare.

In my current position, I help facilitate business operations and services of the Union that also extend into helping campus clubs and organizations. Therefore, my present involvement in TRUSU has given me the experience, knowledge and skills that befit the Vice President Services position.

However, my passion and interest in running in these elections come from my experiences as an international student who identifies and empathizes with student difficulties. I aim to tackle student services extensively needs for domestic and international students that would help improve the lives of students at TRU.

 

Abdullah Saleem

Abdullah Saleem

Young Liberals

Hey!

My name is Abdullah, a second-year MBA student, and I am excited to announce my candidacy for the position of Vice President of Services for our student union. As someone who is deeply committed to supporting and advocating for students, I believe that I have the skills and experience necessary to effectively manage the services provided by our student union and ensure that they meet the needs of our members.

We, students, are often unaware of the services to which we are entitled, or may not know how to avail them. My aim is to create a supportive and inclusive community for all students on campus and work to promote the student union’s services to the student body and increase engagement with these initiatives.

Over the past several years, I have been actively involved in various student organizations and initiatives. Through these experiences, I have developed strong communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills, which I believe will be critical to success in this role. I have experience working with service providers, conducting research, and seeking input from members to determine priorities and allocate resources.

Accessibility Representative
Alex Duarosan

Alex Duarosan

Progressive Student Advocates

My name is Alex (she/her) and I’m a psychology student running for the Accessibility Representative position with the Progressive Student Advocates. Firstly, I acknowledge that I am running for this election on the traditional lands of the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc within Secwépemc’ulucw.

I’ve been largely involved with TRU. I worked with TRU World as an ambassador, supporting international students. I was a student-athlete, attending the World Championships of Cheerleading with TRU WolfPack while working with TRU Student Life to promote the student experience. I display leadership qualities working with students as a peer leader.

I value the student experience and advocate for diversity, equity, inclusion, governance, advocacy, and services on campus. I was appointed to the decision making body, Student Caucus, to be a voice for students. I served as a Board of Director on the Entertainment Committee. I participated in campaigns such as decreasing international students tuition fees and equity work such as the Pride Parade. I played a large role in introducing the Accessibility Representative to the board and hope to scale the work by reducing physical, attitudinal and systematic barriers of accessibility campus-wide and in the community. A vote for PSA means a vote for change!

 

Graduate Representative
YASH KANSAL

Yash Kansal

Dreamer-Believer

I’ll consider it my highest obligation to address every problem graduate students encounter, and I’ll do all in my power to find a solution as soon as possible.

 

Sandeep Kumar

Sandeep Kumar

Independent

I, Sandeep Kumar, an MBA student from India, am grateful for the chance to study and live on the traditional territories of the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc (Kamloops campus) and the T’exelc (Williams Lake campus) within Secwépemc’ulucw, the traditional and unceded territory of the Secwépemc.

I like learning about other cultures and people, and I take advantage of every chance I have to meet and talk to individuals from all walks of life. I was able to make connections with individuals from many walks of life and cultures during my B2B sales work in India, and those experiences helped me much in settling into life in Canada. In addition, I think this quality will serve me well in my role as Graduate Student Representative

Throughout my time at TRU, I have volunteered at the Tax Clinics and represented “Bob Gaglardi School of Business and Economics in the BC MBA Games.

I’m the kind of person that thrives on the excitement and novelty of trying something new, and I think this is perfect opportunity to do so while also contributing to a worthy cause on behalf of graduate students.

Thank you.

 

Ugochi Nwangwu

Ugochi Nwangwu

Progressive Student Advocates

Hi, I’m Ugochi Nwangwu, a passionate communicator, experienced program implementer, and events producer. As a graduate student at TRU, I bring a unique perspective that understands the challenges of both experienced and younger graduate students.

I am committed to using my voice to advocate for policy changes and practices that benefit all graduate students. As an international student, I understand the impact of tuition increases and will work alongside the University Affairs and International student representatives to advocate for graduate international student tuition fee caps.

With my experience in storytelling and connecting people, I promise to be a strong voice for graduate students and to work tirelessly to amplify issues that affect us all. I am dedicated to continuing the good work that has already begun in improving the housing management of TRU residences and will advocate for further policy changes to make our experiences more favorable.

When I’m not being your advocate, some of my hobbies are swimming, working out, listening to music, reading, and travelling.

If you vote for me, I promise to carry you along and serve with passion, and excitement. Trust me to be your voice and advocate for the things that matter to graduate students.

 

Niloy Paul

Niloy Paul

Young Liberals

Hey there, TRU fam! My name is Niloy Paul, and I’m running for the position of Graduate Students Representative. As an MBA student at Thompson Rivers University, I have gathered a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities that graduate students face and I’m passionate about advocating and representing the interests of my fellow grad students. Whether it’s fighting for more funding opportunities, pushing for better mental health resources, or working to make TRU a more inclusive and welcoming place for all students, I’ll be there, standing up for what matters most. But enough about me – let’s talk about what matters most to you! Whether you’re juggling a full course load, balancing work and school, or simply trying to stay sane in these crazy times, I want to hear from you. What are your priorities, your concerns, your hopes for the future of TRU? Let’s work together to make our campus a better place for all of us. So if you’re looking for a passionate and dedicated representative who’s always ready to listen and fight for your needs, then I’m your guy. Vote Niloy Paul for Graduate Students Representative, and let’s make TRU the best it can be!

 

Indigenous Representative
Nathon Naziel

Nathon Naziel

Independent

My name is Nate Naziel. I am in my second year at TRU in the Bachelor of Arts program, majoring in Psychology. I am from Witset First Nation, which is located in Northern BC, about 30 minutes outside of the town of Smithers. I enjoy the outdoors, creating music, and spending time with my loved ones. I am running for the position of Indigenous representative for the Equity Committee because I believe that diversity is a source of strength and meaningful change. Because of my Indigenous background, I believe that I would be a valuable advocate for all current and perspective Indigenous students. If elected, I would use my position to ensure that the concerns and perspectives of those who identify as Indigenous are considered in decision making processes and other respective contexts at TRU.

 

International Representative
Sara Donneys

Sara Donneys

Young Liberals

Hello everyone

I am Sara Donneys, a second year coop business student. I am from Colombia, and since I arrive to Canada I have been surrounded by international students. I have had the opportunity to share thoughts and ideas on how we feel as international students. Understanding that we are a large percentage of students in the university, our thoughts and feelings should be heard to take any decision that affect us. I will be more than proud of representing you and being there for support, I will take part as a messenger for the community.

Thank you

 

Sijo George

Sijo George

Independent

I am Sijo George, a PBD candidate in Supply Chain Management, and I am excited to submit my candidacy for the University Board of Directors position. I am from Mumbai, India.

My passion for exploring cultures and traditions has given me a unique perspective on diversity, which I believe is essential for academic success. As a former University Student Council member, I successfully represented over 20,000 students during the pandemic, honing my leadership, collaboration, and communication skills.

My department head experience for various events and active involvement in trekking since 2014 have developed my organizational, management, perseverance, resilience, and teamwork skills. I am committed to ensuring a safe and inclusive learning environment for all students and upholding the highest ethical standards.

If elected, I will work diligently to promote innovation and advance the University’s mission, providing every student with the education they deserve.

Thank you for considering my candidacy. I look forward to contributing to the University’s continued success as a member of the University Board of Directors.

 

Quwamdeen Ibiribigbe

Quwamdeen Ibiribigbe

Independent

My name is Quwamdeen Ibiribigbe. Please call me Quwam. I am from Lagos, Nigeria. I am currently in the Bachelor of Business Administration program majoring in Supply Chain Management and minoring in Project Management. I am a jovial and social person and I am ready to take up any task presented before me. Some of my hobbies are; cooking, hanging out with friends, and table tennis.

 

Anika Jovner

Anika Jovner

Progressive Student Advocates

I would like to acknowledge that the Students’ Union operates on the traditional and unceded territory of the Secwépmec people. As an international Student, I am honored to be able to live on and experience the beautiful Tk’emlúps te Sécwepemc lands.

My name is Anika Jovner, I am a second-year Bachelor of Business Administration student from South Africa. Currently, being a part of the Student Caucus as a student representative on the Academic Integrity Committee, I strive to bring a student perspective on cases presented to the committee. Additionally, I serve as a Member at Large on Union’s University Affairs Committee during which I had the opportunity to work on projects like Student Housing, International Financial Aid, International Student Tuition Strategy and other such projects.

Working on these projects inspired me to keep advocating and working toward bringing positive change at TRU. If chosen to represent the International Student Community at TRU, I would continue to work toward improving student experiences and keep advocating for student rights and the need for a 2% cap on international tuition fees.

 

Satinderpal Kaur

Satinderpal Kaur

Independent

My self satinderpal kaur. I am in TRU as an international student. I would be happy to serve as an international repreentative.

 

Hind Namili

Hind Namili

Independent

I am an international student from Morocco, pursuing a master’s in education. I have 4 years of enriching experience working in China. Furthermore, I believe that my competence and ability to get along with people from different cultures would make me an asset to the TRUSU Board of Directors. I am excited about the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to the TRUSU community, and I am willing to commit the necessary time and effort to ensure that the needs and concerns of all students are heard and addressed. Furthermore, I am also committed to working collaboratively with my fellow board members to make informed decisions that benefit the student body as a whole from many different walks of life. As an international student, I believe that it is crucial to have diverse representation on the Board, and I am confident that I am a competent and dedicated individual who can effectively represent the international student community.

 

Yana Narula

Yana Narula

Independent

Hello everybody, I go by Yana Narula (she/her) and I’m a third-year science understudy from India. I’ve been a pageant winner too in India. My interests lie in computer science and beauty, the two of which have assisted me with creating abilities in advancement, certainty, and public talking. I at present work parttime, which has shown me significant abilities like using time effectively, obligation, and joint effort. As an international student, I comprehend the exceptional difficulties looked by international students and am focused on upholding for their freedoms and supporting them in any capacity conceivable.

Whenever elected for the international affairs position, I will work perseveringly to address the worries of all understudies and guarantee that their voices are heard. I will team up with individual understudies, staff, and personnel to make major areas of strength for a comprehensive local area that encourages development, learning, and achievement. My own encounters, energy for software engineering, and commitment to having a beneficial outcome make me an optimal possibility for this position. Much thanks to you for thinking about my nomination, and I desire to have your help in the current year’s student representatives elections.

 

LGBTQ+ Representative
Monalisa Hazarika

Monalisa Hazarika

Progressive Student Advocates

My name is Monalisa Hazarika and I’m an international student from India, pursuing Post Baccalaureate Diploma in Marketing.
Last year was a remarkable year for me as I came out as a Cis Pansexual Woman. I have come a long way from attending my first parade last year to being the Vice-President of TRUSU Pride Club and a student representative for the Gender Diversity Implementation Group. But this journey wasn’t easy for me as I both gained and lost a lot of things in the process.
I have nominated myself as the LGBTQ+ Representative, 2023 because I want to bring forth the voice of the people of our community. I feel grateful to my parents for their support. But I know it isn’t easy everyone to come out or even share their feelings with their family or friends. I am working on an EDI project to meet the needs of people in times like this. A safe space for them to guide, feel belonged, and how they can deal with situations like this. I want to be able to give them all the possible help I can provide and do my best for the inclusivity of our community.

 

Tegan Parsons

Tegan Parsons

Independent

My name is Tegan Parsons. I am a second-year student at TRU, majoring in Philosophy. I plan to apply for Law School upon graduation, and I am applying for the position of LGBTQ+ Representative for the TRUSU Board of Directors. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community myself, I have experienced profound discrimination throughout my years living in Kamloops. As LGBTQ+ Representative, I would be passionate about raising awareness of discrimination and harassment toward the LGBTQ+ community, and with raising awareness often comes increased understanding and acceptance. I strive to advocate for my peers who identify as LGBTQ+ and may not feel secure or ready to raise their voices, and my desire is to make our campus feel like a safe place for everyone. Homophobia and transphobia in Kamloops remain extensive, and I would like to do whatever I can to change such stigmas and biases.

 

Racialized Persons Representative
Apoorv Kohli

Apoorv Kohli

Young Liberals

After spending almost two years in university I believe that race is just a social construct, rather than a biological or genetic reality. The idea of race has been used throughout history to justify discrimination, oppression, and violence against certain groups of people based on their physical characteristics.

We as students have spent our time studying, partying, sharing the same dorm or sharing our personal lives and we learnt that stereotypes and prejudices are nothing but assumptions that we carry.

 

Samikshya Paudel

Samikshya Paudel

Progressive Student Advocates

Born and raised in Nepal, I identify as a racialized person and I have firsthand experience of the challenges faced by students from marginalized communities. My experiences have shaped my perspective and fueled my commitment to advocating for the rights and needs of those who have been historically underrepresented and marginalized. In my role as a representative for racialized persons at the student union, I aim to be a vocal and passionate advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion on campus.
I am committed to making a positive impact on campus life. I have worked for an academic year at the wellness centre, where I am responsible for organizing and managing programs and initiatives that promote physical and mental health and well being among students as well as promote inclusivity, celebrate diversity and foster intercultural understanding.

I have worked as a student ambassador for TRUworld previously and also served as a board member in my previous university’s Amnesty International Youth Network. I believe that everyone deserves to feel valued and respected, regardless of their background or identity and within the role of racialized representative at TRUSU, I shall thrive to be a representation and a voice for people like myself.

 

Women’s Representative
Neda Ghandhari

Neda Ghandhari

Independent

I am Neda, a passionate feminist striving for gender equality and empowerment. I am a believer in women’s rights and an advocate for international feminism. I was born in Iran, where women’s rights were always severely restricted. Women must comply with the Islamic Republic’s mandatory hijab laws from the onset of puberty. They are unequal in matters of marriage, divorce, custody, inheritance, and more. As an Iranian girl with the slogan Woman, Life, Freedom, I like to fight for the rights of all women, regardless of race, class, or sexual orientation. Therefore, I nominated myself for the position of Women’s Representative.

Regarding my educational background, I earned my BA in English Language Translation. Also, I got my master’s and Ph.D. in English Language Teaching (ELT). I also believe learning is a lifelong process, so I am doing my Master of Education (M.Ed.) at TRU.

Regarding my career experience, I am working as a Graduate Teaching Assistant in LLC at TRU.

As a woman, I was struggling with injustice, inequality, and oppression in my home country. Therefore, I am passionate about dismantling systemic oppression and promoting social justice for all genders.

Thanks for your support and consideration.

Sincerely yours,
Neda Ghandhari

 

Samantha Jo Haire

Samantha Jo Haire

Progressive Student Advocates

Samantha Jo Haire is an avid volunteer in her community and within the university. Participating in opportunities presented by the TRU sustainability office, the Kappa Beta Gamma International Sorority, and the local Sea Cadet corps. Everything she does is to benefit the next generation. Through her eight years of pageantry, she has won a local title, 2 provincial titles, and numerous community service awards to show the world the power of a woman. Using her Instagram platform, Samantha promotes positive mental health by providing resources for students, children and people in her community. After recently being featured on the TRUSU Instagram page for International Women’s Day, Samantha is using her voice to show that women can be powerful in anything they set their minds to. If elected as the Women’s Representative for the TRUSU equity team, she will not be silent. Samantha will use her social media to promote women’s events and resources. She will strive to host more events/fundraisers for women support organizations, such as the most recent event she hosted with the Elizabeth Fry Society to support women and youth escaping abuse. Samantha thanks TRUSU for this opportunity and vote PSA!

 

Sona Harareh

Sona Harareh

WomenEmpowerWomen

I was born in Iran, where women’s rights have been neglected for decades. Growing up in such an environment, I developed a deep sense of empathy for the struggles of women. After completing my education, I became a teacher and worked tirelessly to inspire and empower students. My passion for the arts also led me to explore various creative outlets, including painting and photography. I became increasingly involved in charitable work, mainly focusing on improving the lives of women in my community. Through my work with local charities, I was able to provide essential resources and support to those in need. In addition, I published a paper that addressed the challenges of women who wish to communicate effectively in a culture where their voices are often silenced. I also help Iranian immigrant children to overcome the language barrier and excel in their studies. My experiences as a woman and a teacher in Iran have given me a unique perspective on equity and social justice. My background and skills make me an excellent fit for the TRUSU Equity position. I am passionate about promoting equity and inclusion, and I am dedicated to making a positive impact in my community and beyond.

 

Aishwarya Manmadhan

Aishwarya Manmadhan

Young Liberals

Gender equality and women’s empowerment are crucial aspects of sustainable development. Despite making up half of the population, women are still underrepresented at all levels of decision-making globally. Ensuring balanced participation and representation of women is essential to creating inclusive student bodies that cater to the interests of all members.
As a woman, I have experienced firsthand the challenges and obstacles that women face everywhere. It is often harder for women to break into leadership positions, and even when they do, they face additional hurdles that their male counterparts do not. Therefore, I am committed to advocating for policies that promote gender equality and help eliminate these barriers. I believe in working collaboratively with my colleagues in a non-competitive way to achieve welfare for all. By working together, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in our organizations and communities. I am committed to organizing workshops, seminars, and other events to raise awareness about gender-related issues and provide support and resources to women who are facing challenges in the workplace. As an MBA student with extensive leadership experience, I am committed to championing women-related issues and working collaboratively with my colleagues to achieve this goal.

 

Arundhati Srivastava

Arundhati Srivastava

Independent

As a woman, I know firsthand the challenges that we face on a daily basis, from subtle subconscious biases to more blatant acts of discrimination and harassment. I am running to represent women on the equity committee because I believe that every woman deserves to have a voice and be heard.

Currently serving as a “member at large” on the campaigns committee, I have been a part of successful initiatives such as the Period Promise campaign, which aims to provide access to free menstrual products for all women.

If elected, I promise to stand up for every woman and to represent them to the best of my ability. I will work tirelessly to address the issues that women face, including safety concerns, lack of access to resources, and discrimination in the workplace and beyond.

My experience in advocacy and my dedication to the cause make me an excellent candidate for this role. I believe that by working together and amplifying the voices of women, we can create a more equitable society for all. So, I ask for your vote to represent women on the equity committee and to make a real difference in the lives of women in our community.

 

Campaigns Committee Representative (2)
Naina Agarwal

Naina Agarwal

Young Liberals

Hello ! My name is Naina Agarwal. I am 4th year student, studying BA,Psychology.
A little bit about me : I am a Resident Advisor at TRU residence, I am also a student senate representative. Outside of school, I love to work with kids. I love socializing, going on hikes and attend social events across town.I want to become a Campaign Committee Representative, to support students in raising their concerns, leading to change in our community. I believe I have the required skills and experience to acquire this role.
By becoming a campaign committee representative, I will have the opportunity to learn about the political processes at TRU and gain a deeper understanding of important issues and policies. This can be a valuable educational experience that can complement my academic studies.
I am looking forward to network with like-minded individuals and potentially connect with influential people in our community and beyond to bring a change in TRU community and help students.

 

Mohmed Faizal Bukhari

Mohmed Faizal Bukhari

Independent

An Enthusiast professional with more than 6 years of experience in fields like Photography/Films, Sales & Client Communication, and Human Resource. Apart from the above, I’m also into poetry and writing (Mainly Urdu, and Hindi Poetry).

As an individual, I never restricted myself from learning new things. I love to make a difference and act upon things to make a change, rather than just talking about it on social media platforms.

I’m Adaptive meaning a quick learner who adjusts to different environments with ease and flexibility.
I’m Persistent. The will to quit a task or a tough job? Nahhh.. Not today.. Yes, I’m that guy who would eventually find a way through even if the task was no good.
Apart from the above people/clients have also found me humble, down to earth and someone who listens before acting or taking a step.
People usually feel safe when asking or approaching me with a problem.

Well, this would be brief about me. By the way, they call me “Faizal”.

Looking forward to making a difference.

 

Austin Ferguson

Austin Ferguson

Progressive Student Advocates

I am Austin Ferguson, a law student at TRU. I am excited to run for TRUSU as I can bring my leadership and policy skills to the table to support your student union. I have extensive military and entrepreneur experience in both public and private sectors which will be an asset to the student body. Feel free to find me on campus to learn more, I would love to hear your thoughts and concerns!

 

Nishant Mudgal

Nishant Mudgal

Progressive Student Advocates

Hi there! I’m Nishant, and I’m running for the student representative position at the Campaigns Committee of TRUSU.

As a fellow student at TRU, I understand the challenges we face every day, and I’m passionate about finding solutions that work for all of us. I’m proud to have been a member of the Campaigns Committee, where I’ve worked on different campaigns that address issues important to students.

One of the campaigns I’m a part of is “Academocracy,” which is focused on giving students more representation on the TRU Senate. I believe that having more student voices at the table is crucial to making sure our concerns are heard and addressed.

I’m most proud to have been a part of the “Period Promise” campaign, which successfully convinced the City of Kamloops to provide free menstrual products in public washrooms. This is just one example of what we can achieve when we work together.

If elected, I promise to continue fighting for students and ensuring that our voices are heard at every level of government. Let’s work together to create a brighter future for all of us at TRU. So please vote for me and let’s make a difference together!

 

Disha Mulye

Disha Mulye

Young Liberals

I am a third-year BBA student at TRU, majoring in International Business and minoring in Supply Chain. A little background of myself, I have been a member at the TRU Women in Business Club and featured on the Fall 2022 Dean’s List with a GPA of 3.66. I am originally from Mumbai, India but was raised in Dubai, UAE. I love meeting people from diverse backgrounds and getting to know their culture and traditions. As a person, I consider myself to be a friendly and outgoing, who loves to take on challenges and learning from experiences. I believe the greatest lessons in life are learned from real-world experiences and meeting new people. I display excellent leadership qualities, and I have also been the head of the student council in high school. This year, I would like to be a part of a bigger community where I will have the opportunity to hear from students and take the initiative to address their issues. I am determined and honest towards my work, and if given a chance, I assure the student body that we will work together to make better memories at TRU.

 

Entertainment Committee Representative (2)
Aibiike Alymova

Aibiike Alymova

Progressive Student Advocates

My name is Aibiike. I’m a second year Communications student. I come from Kyrgyzstan. I would want to make TRU not only about studying, but also about the entertaining aspect of university life. Especially, for the international students that come to Canada not only for studies but also for the cultural exchange. The best way to do that is through entertainment. In addition, it’s important for the domestic students to have diversity in it as well. Many of them come from other provinces or the Lower Mainland, so to feel the true Interior they need to have some fun.

 

Daniel Fernandes

Daniel Fernandes

Young Liberals

Let me begin by introducing myself I have a 3 years of experience as an event manager and been at a management position for a top Telecom Company. I come with a lot of skills such as being able to connect to different cultures, needs of people I am addressing, and someone you can easily reach out to. I am a socialiser who who loves to create space wherein individuals can come out and have a good learning experience along with having a good time.
As a candidate for the entertainment representative, I believe I along with my fellow members can help in making TRU an engaging university for students.

 

Bhavika Jain

Bhavika Jain

Progressive Student Advocates

Weyt-kp! I am Bhavika Jain from India, currently in my 3rd year of Bachelor of Computing Science. I served as the Entertainment Committee Representative for the term 2022 – 2023, and as a Student Representative in the Board of Governors and the Senate for the term 2021 – 2022. Our committee had a lot of fun planning and executing various events last year, including the Back to School BBQ, Clubs Day, Outdoor Movie Night, Holiday Fest, and Common Voices. I am committed to bringing fresh ideas to the table and ensuring that every event is a success. With my passion and my experience, I am sure to bring creativity, enthusiasm, and hard work to the role. I am confident that I would be an excellent candidate for the upcoming elections – vote for me as your Entertainment Committee Representative!

 

Japinderdeep Singh

Japinderdeep Singh

Independent

Greetings, my name is Japinderdeep Singh. I am originally from Haryana, India and that is where I call home. Haryana is known as the “land of the warriors” due to its rich history of warriors and warriors’ culture and the state is famous for its traditional Haryanvi cuisine, which includes dishes such as dal makhani, biryani, and kheer. Moreover, this state is the birthplace of the ancient Indus Valley Civilization and is home to many historical sites, including the ruins of the ancient city of Kurukshetra.

 

Alexandr Taibert

Alexandr Taibert

Independent

Dear students,

My name is Alexandr Taibert, and I’m running for Entertainment Committee Representative. I’m passionate about making entertainment inclusive, creative, and accessible to all students. With your support, I’ll work tirelessly to create engaging events that celebrate our diversity and bring us together. Let’s enhance our university experience together. Vote for me, your Entertainment Committee Representative!

 

Yash Yadav

Yash Yadav

Young Liberals

Introducing Yash – a self-proclaimed master of fun. A confident and enthusiastic second-year student pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration (BBA) but don’t let his tech-savvy demeanor fool you – this guy knows how to party. Yash is running for the position of Entertainment Committee Representative and is determined to make your university experience unforgettable.

Yash has a charming personality that can light up any room he walks into. He has always been an outgoing and sociable person who loves to interact with people from all walks of life, but don’t let his playful personality fool you – Yash is serious about making a difference on campus. If elected, he promises to bring his unique blend of humor and creativity to the Entertainment Committee and make sure that everyone is having a blast.

He aims to organize fun and engaging events that cater to the diverse interests of the student body, including music concerts, off-grid parties, and game nights. Yash believes that these events will provide a much-needed break from the academic grind and foster a sense of community among the students. University bores him, and that’s why you can count on him to make it more exciting!

GodSpeed.

 

Services Committee Representative (2)
Cinderella Andres

Cinderella Andres

Independent

I’ve been actively serving TRUSU Services Committee since Fall 2022 that I joined TRU under Post Bacc in Human Resource Management program. I’m also involved in various volunteer works for ISA’s activities in and out of campus, including but not limited to volunteering at TRUSU Taxation Club, HRM Club, The Catholic Women League of Canada, and CPHR BC and Yukon member. I can continue my work term at TRUSU Board of Directors as Representative of Services Committee providing support for Clubs, Chefs package, Grants, students health and wellness, and a lot more if I get elected. Rest assured that I will not let you down. I will value your trust. I’m here not only willing and able to give my 100% commitment but you have my loyalty and passion moving forward. & as always, I will sincerely be at your service!

 

Gundeep Singh Chhabra

Gundeep Singh Chhabra

Progressive Student Advocates

I am Gundeep Singh, a first-year student of Post Baccalaureate Marketing at TRU. I am an International Student serving as Members at Large at the TRUSU Service Committee. I have been volunteering at many NGOs like ‘Basics of Sikhi’, ‘Khalsa Aid’ etc. Since a very young age, thus, I have keen interest and dedication in serving people by finding out their needs; fulfilling and rectifying them. I am seeking to run for Service Committee Representative on the TRUSU Board of Directors as I wish to continue to serve the student community at TRU by being a good listener to the issues and working towards making sure that all the students have a smooth and convenient university experience. As a Sikh, I recognize all human races as one and learned to serve all equally. I believe that all my past experiences and current learnings make me fit for the position of Service Committee Representative. I can relate to the hardships and experiences of all the students who came far away from their families to make their career. Students at TRU are from different parts of the globe thus, seeing another inter-student on the Board of Directors would be the voice of

 

Jason Cruse

Jason Cruse

Progressive Student Advocates

I am a Computer Science student currently in my Second year.

I like taking on responsibilities, and working on projects since i’ve been doing this since my senior years at high school.

I love working in groups, meeting new people and working on projects collectively.

 

Niharika Khanna

Niharika Khanna

Ikigai

I want to serve the students of TRU with exceptional service. Share with some services that can help them with food, medical, travel and other on campus assistance. As an international student myself, I can understand the cultural shift and emotional swings that everyone goes through. With my best effort, I am willing to assist you with all possible resources to provide a comfortable life during your studies. If selected, I also wish to wore more towards community building and food accessibility. In addition to this, Kamloops is a beautiful city however, students move out after studying. In order to enlarge student community in town, I am also interested to launch campaigns and alumni meet where we all can come together and contribute back to TRU/Kamloops.

 

Kishan Paladi Shekar

Kishan Paladi Shekar

Young Liberals

I am Kishan PS, a first-year Masters in Data Science student, and I would like to nominate myself for the position of Services Committee Representative. My roles and responsibilities would include the development of available services in the university and improving services for student life.

I have a genuine passion for enhancing the student experience and I am committed to identifying areas for improvement and implementing effective solutions that benefit the student community. Additionally, I possess excellent interaction skills and I am eager to build my network and collaborate with others.

As a Services Committee Representative, I believe that I can bring fresh ideas and perspectives to the table. I am confident that my communication skills, dedication, and eagerness to learn would make me an ideal candidate for this position. This opportunity would provide me with an excellent platform to showcase my strengths and capabilities while contributing to the betterment of student life at the university.

In conclusion, I hope that you will consider my nomination for this position, and I am confident that I can make a valuable contribution to the committee. Thank you for your consideration.

 

Hope Richard

Hope Richard

Young Liberals

Hi, I’m Hope Richard but many know me as Kendi. I’m Kenyan, representing the 254. In the BBA program, in my 3rd year and I’m excited to be applying to be one of the services committee representatives.

One unique quality that distinguishes me is that I have a sweet tooth and one of my hobbies is baking to try satisfy my need. My close friends would describe me as kind, enthusiastic and self-driven. In light of that, I’m determined to work hard to make a positive impact to the school’s community.One of the reasons I’m passionate about being part of the student unions, is that I believe in the importance of creating a strong and supportive community on campus. I’m aware of the challenges that many students face, including academic stress, financial difficulties and not forgetting mental health issues. As a member of the student union, I hope to create a welcoming and open environment that supports the needs for all students. I will show my ability to work well with others, communicate clearly and make sound decisions under pressure. I believe these skills will serve me well as a member of the student union.

Thank you for considering me.

 

Rutuja Shirwalkar

Rutuja Shirwalkar

Independent

No biography submitted

 

University Affairs Committee Representative (2)
Imaad Basmati

Imaad Basmati

Young Liberals

I am Imaad Basmati, and I am thrilled to be running for the position of University Affairs Committee Representative. As a BBA student with a major in Marketing, I have learned the art of persuasion, and I am here to convince you that I am the right person for the job!
I hail from the beautiful state of Jammu and Kashmir in India, but I have spent most of my life in the land of endless summers, Oman. My journey so far has taught me that representation and advocacy are essential, especially when it comes to education. Every student deserves a voice in the decisions that impact their lives, and I promise to make sure that every voice is heard. I will collaborate with other representatives and the administration to bring about positive changes on campus. My aim is to ensure that every student has access to the resources and support they need to succeed.

If elected, I promise to be an energetic and proactive representative, who is dedicated to fighting for your rights. I believe that affordable tuition fees, campus safety, and promoting diversity and inclusion initiatives are crucial areas that we need to focus on.

 

 

Parth Bavishi

Parth Bavishi

Progressive Student Advocates

Hello, I am Parth Bavishi. First, I would like to acknowledge that I am thankful to reside on the traditional and unceded territory of the Secwépemc people. I am a fourth-year BBA student at TRU and a former board member of TRUSU and I have served as a board of director for the term 2021-2022. I have been a part of the student caucus for consecutively two years and being a board member helps me deeply understand the role and responsibility and helps me understand student needs and concerns.

I am a current sustainability ambassador at TRU and I have been a social media ambassador at TRU. I am a former senate member of TRU Governing body. Focusing on issues like Parking, and financial aid for international and domestic students has been my focus and will give my best to work more towards it. I will work on planning and have a campus outreach on issues with which the committee would be dealing with. Creating an impact and having that self-belief has been my key factor.

Giving back has been a part of my values and that keeps me going with unflagging perseverance and commitment of making a real difference.

 

Rita Meghani

Rita Meghani

Young Liberals

Gebale ko! My name is Rita Meghani, and I am an international student from Uganda. I am pursuing a post-baccalaureate degree in accounting and holding two jobs. One of my jobs involves selling the best chicken in Kamloops, while the other allows me to interact with fellow students.

In addition to my academic pursuit, I enjoy cooking and sharing meals with friends and taking walks while blasting loud music. I also have a competitive side, which is satisfied by showcasing my pool-playing prowess. Find me at East Village if you’re up for a challenge.

Unity on campus is of paramount importance to me. Whether you are an athletic enthusiast, a scholarly type, or simply someone who enjoys a good nap during lectures, I vow to represent your interests with impartiality.

If elected, I will work hard to ensure that all students’ voices are heard and represented. I am committed to creating an inclusive and equitable campus environment that fosters academic and personal growth.

All in all, if you want someone who can represent you with passion, determination, and a lot of dark humor, then I’m your gal! So, please do the right thing and vote for me.

Weebale Nnyo!

 

Brandon Moyo

Brandon Moyo

Independent

As your representative, I will be committed to ensuring that your voices are heard and your needs are met. I will work tirelessly to ensure that the university is responsive to the concerns of students and that your university experience is as rewarding and fulfilling as possible. If elected, I will work to promote greater transparency and accountability in university decision-making processes. I will actively seek out your feedback and input on key issues affecting the university and will work collaboratively with the committee members to develop effective solutions to these challenges.

 

Loshima Shongo

Loshima Shongo

Progressive Student Advocates

My name is Loshima Shongo. I am an international student pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with a minor in Political Science. I was born in Congo and raised in Zimbabwe. My hobbies include reading, music, dancing, cooking, and writing. The position I am applying for is the University affairs committee representative. I joined TRU this summer, and my interest in working with my peers led me to volunteer for the Student Caucus and the TRUSU University Affairs committee. In high school, I held a few leadership positions as a school Prefect and President of both the Quiz Club and the Environmental Club. If I were to be elected, I would work towards implementing more culturally diversified programs in the community and help create and build better relationships as TRU, because together we are TRU.

 

John Zolis

John Zolis

Independent

John Zols B.Sc, B.A., Dip.T returning student interested in being a service to others.