Below are the Candidates seeking election in the 2023 TMSU By-Elections. Candidate statements, photos and links are posted as provided by the Candidates.
Executive Positions
President Candidates (5 Candidates)
Trevohn Baker
Liberate
Trevohn Baker, a fifth-year student in the Creative Industries program, specializing in Music Industry and Media Business modules, has been an integral part of TMU’s community since 2019. In 2020, inspired by his personal experiences and a deep commitment to equity and inclusivity, he embarked on a journey to make a difference within the Toronto Metropolitan Students’ Union (TMSU). Trevohn served as the BIPOC Students’ Collective coordinator at TMSU for over two years, passionately advocating for the rights and welfare of BIPOC students. His unwavering dedication to promoting equity and inclusion led him to work within the Anti-Black Racism Student Advisory Committee for three academic terms.
As an Equity Coordinator, Trevohn was at the forefront of several transformative initiatives. He spearheaded TMSU’s Black History Month celebrations for three consecutive years, showcasing his commitment to celebrating the cultural heritage of the BIPOC community. Beyond events, Trevohn actively organized donations and introduced innovative programs, including the Emergency Food Box for BIPOC students, the Black Natural Hair Care Package, and the BSC Cozy Corner, offering free trauma-informed therapy to BIPOC students.
With a rich tapestry of experiences and a proven track record of creating positive change within the TMU community, Trevohn Baker now aspires to lead as the President of TMSU. His vision and leadership aim to elevate TMSU, ensuring it remains a welcoming and supportive space for all students, regardless of their background or identity. Trevohn’s dedication to fostering a more inclusive and equitable campus is the cornerstone of his campaign for the role of President of TMSU.
Success Daka
Hi! My name is Success Daka and I am excited to be considered a candidate for the President of the TMSU position. My enthusiasm stems from a resolute determination to address past malpractices (both financially and otherwise) that have plagued us, and I am ready to take on the task of enhancing transparency within our union. As President, I promise to institute rigorous financial oversight, promoting accountability and ethical practices. I will work tirelessly to rebuild trust by fostering transparency in all possible capacities, ensuring that every student understands how the union’s funds are being utilized to their benefit.
My vision is to establish an era in which students can be confident in a financially responsible union in which the improvement of student life takes precedence. Recognizing that student engagement is hindered when their interests are not prioritized, I commit to making student interest and well-being a focal point of my presidency. As President, I will promote collaboration between students, faculty, and administration to achieve the best possible outcomes for the student body.
I am committed to learning from previous occurrences and implementing necessary rectifications to ensure a union which operates at a high level of integrity. It is possible to have a functioning union, and with your support, we can truly transform our union into an exemplary institution of functionality and transparency.
Thank you for your consideration.
Nikole Dan
The Empire Team
My name is Nikole Dan, I am in 3rd year of my Creative Industries program. I am running with The Empire Team, if you have any questions you can reach out to us on our team social media.
Jordan Haworth
My name is Jordan Haworth and I am running to represent you as the President of the TMSU. I am originally from the countryside of Ottawa, and like many of you, came to Toronto and TMU in hopes of bettering my future, creating lifelong friendships, and finding a community I can connect with. I am currently in my third year at the Lincoln Alexander School of Law, and left a career as a new reporter, where I covered breaking news, crimes and courts, and conducted some investigations into abuses including institutional abuse. I have experience founding and organizing a community service club, and previously worked for the federal government for several years. All my life I have found meaning in giving a voice to those who feel unheard. I am running to represent you, to continue to do just that. I believe my public history of integrity, leadership experience, and exceptional work ethic will help lead the TMSU back into the spotlight as a powerful voice for our undergraduate population.
Nathan Sugunalan
Vibe & Thrive
Hi everyone! Thanks for checking out my candidate statement for President of the TMSU.
Over the course of my student leadership career, I’ve seen and experienced first hand how transformative educational support and extracurricular opportunities are for students. Going from being the reserved student asking for advice, to now being the confident student giving advice; I’m just a single example of how one person giving a little bit of time to another can go so far. This is the VIBE that l want to pay forward for future generations of TMU students!
Fostering an atmosphere on campus that is positive, inviting and exciting encourages everyone to discover and work harder for themselves and others. With more interest on campus, more leadership will take hold to dream and deliver more innovative opportunities than ever before. This is how we can THRIVE the most in our time at TMU!
With my experience with various campus groups, student societies, TMSU and TMU; I know I have the knowledge and ability to raise future generations of leaders for a brighter future!
Vote for our team Vibe & Thrive! The best is yet to come!
Vice-President Education (2 Candidates)
Abeeha Ahmad
Team Liberate
As a student who spent her first 2 years studying online, I felt that it was a huge loss for all of us because the university experience is a once in a lifetime opportunity. Now that we are back on campus, there is a lot that can be done to make everyone’s experience much better. As a candidate running for Vice President Education, I’m running to make sure students get to have experiences that they never forget.
Hetu Patel
Vibe & Thrive
Hello TMU Undergraduates!
I am Hetu Patel, a second-year international Computer Science student, excited to contribute as Vice-President Education. My role as the Faculty of Science Student Representative at the TMU Senate and active member of the Academic Plan Advisory Group has strengthened my dedication to advocating for our academic community.
I aim to enhance education access and quality, ensuring each student’s voice actively shapes our initiatives. If elected, I commit to championing transparent policies and advocating tirelessly for the diverse concerns of our student body.
Being a part of the Academic Plan Advisory Group has allowed me to contribute to shaping the future trajectory of our academic institution. I wholeheartedly align with the guiding principles of prioritizing students, safeguarding student interests, and conducting extensive consultations within our community.
I take pride in being a member of the Vibe & Thrive team, a collective of dedicated individuals committed to cultivating a positive and inclusive university environment. Our goal is to break patterns, surmount challenges, and steer TMSU and TMU toward a future characterized by academic excellence.
If entrusted with the role of Vice-President Education, I am committed to being a relentless advocate for TMSU’s membership. As your representative, I will advocate on academic issues, policies, and the overall student experience. Through active engagement with the administration, I will prioritize our unique needs, fostering an inclusive academic environment that ensures our community survives and thrives under the principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion.
Vote for Hetu Patel and the Vibe & Thrive team – because You Deserve It. Your Voice does matter. Reach out with questions or concerns. Together let’s forge a future-oriented, inclusive, and academically vibrant TMU. #VoteforVibe&Thrive #YouDeserveIt
Vice-President Equity (2 Candidates)
Patricia Doan
Vibe & Thrive
Patricia, here! I’m super excited to announce my candidacy for the Vice President Equity Position at the TMSU. Throughout my academic journey, an amalgamation of events have led me to become passionate about the position of Vice President Equity. I understand the importance of empathizing with how people experience different social inequalities. I can definitely relate to how an inclusive environment can make a difference in someone’s life and I want to be a part of that difference! By the end of my term, I aim to introduce multiple, relevant avenues of engagement to better connect students to the student union. I want to foster a strengthened feedback system, ensuring every voice is not just heard but actively listened to and incorporated into our initiatives. I believe excellence thrives in environments that allow for freedom of expression, empower diverse perspectives, and represent the underrepresented. I bring a strong background in open-mindedness and compassion to the table. I have experience with MUES and TMSU as the Industrial Engineering Director and the Director of Engineering and Architectural Science, which has equipped me with knowledge of student body governments and their processes to better represent students. I’m ready to represent! Vote for Patricia Doan and the Vibe & Thrive team–because You Deserve It <3 #VoteForVibe&Thrive #YouDeserveIt
Hafsa Iqbal
The Empire Team
My name is Hafsa Iqbal, I am a first year business management student. I am running with The Empire Team, if you have any questions you can reach out to us on our team social media.
Vice-President Operations (3 Candidates)
Muhammed Awais
The Empire Team
My name is Muhammed Awais, I am in 1st year of my Electrical engineering program. I am running with The Empire Team, if you have any questions you can reach out to us on our team social media.
Mahira Shoaib
Team Liberate
My name is Mahira Shoaib, and I am thrilled to announce my candidacy for the Vice President of Operations position at TMSU. I am pursuing a Business Technology Management degree at TMU. With a passion for efficiency, innovation, and a commitment to excellence, I am well-suited to contribute to our university’s continued success and growth. Throughout my academic journey, I have gained valuable insights into the intersection of business and technology. I am driven by a vision of creating an environment where operations run seamlessly and catalyze progress and development. My coursework at TMU has equipped me with a solid foundation in business strategy, technology integration, and project management—essential skills for a role focused on optimizing operations. I am committed to fostering a culture of efficiency, innovation, and continuous improvement if elected as the Vice President of Operations. I will leverage my academic background, practical experiences, and dedication to contribute to the overall success and advancement of TMSU. Together, let us build a stronger, more streamlined university that prepares our students for the challenges and opportunities in future. I look forward to serving and collaborating with the TMSU community to achieve our goals.
Aleksander Strazisar
Vibe & Thrive
Hey everyone, I’m Aleks, and I am proud to announce that I am running for VP Operations of the TMSU!
A little bit about me: I’m a 4th year Economics and Finance student with a lot of experience helping and supporting student groups in our university. Of the people and groups I have interacted with during my time here, I would highlight my time as the Economics (IECON) Course Union President, my time as TMU Chapter Head of the Investa Insights Investment Club, and as VP Finance of SASSH, the Student Society for the Faculty of Arts.
During my time as VP Finance of SASSH, a big success of our team has been to ensure 90% of student groups have received their reimbursements on time, with extended support for their events and projects, and with easy and clear requirements for funding right on the website. This has contributed to what is the most engaged, fun, and productive student body we have ever had.
Any student in the Faculty of Arts knows that I believe TMU is, and can be even more, a school that supports you on whatever initiative or project you are passionate in; to help you graduate university with the experience you wanted, and with your wants and hopes fulfilled.
I want a student union that is here to support students and the university as a whole, creating a positive and supportive atmosphere. For this, I will keep things basic: By the end of my term students will have easy and clear access to funding for their projects, easy access to event spaces worthy of large events, and clear consistent communication from the TMSU. It’s going to be a great 2024!
Vote for Aleksander Strazisar and the Vibe & Thrive team–because You Deserve It! #VoteForVibe&Thrive #YouDeserveIt
Vice-President Student Life (1 Candidate)
Nadir Janjua
The Empire Team
My name is Nadir Janjua, I am in 3rd year of my Aerospace Engineering program. I am running with The Empire Team, if you have any questions you can reach out to us on our team social media
Director Positions
Faculty of Arts – Acclaimed
Andrew Ciddio
Dear TMU Students and Faculty,
My name is Andrew Ciddio, a dedicated second-year History student at TMU, and I am honoured to present myself as a candidate for the Faculty of Arts Director at TMSU.
Over the course of my academic journey, I have been deeply involved in several leadership roles that have prepared me for this pivotal position. As the President of the Metropolitan History Council Course Union, I have fostered an inclusive community where students can passionately engage in historical discussions while advocating for the betterment of History courses based on student feedback. My tenure as the Second Year Representative for History students allowed me to actively represent and voice the concerns of my peers, ensuring that every student feels heard and valued. Furthermore, as a Finance Associate for Society of Arts, Social Sciences & Humanities (SASSH), I’ve gained invaluable insights into budget management and allocation, ensuring every event and initiative is well-funded and executed.
Volunteering during the orientation week with SASSH was an enlightening experience, where I had the privilege of welcoming and guiding incoming students, reflecting my commitment to community-building at TMU.
Each of these experiences has equipped me with a comprehensive understanding of student needs, fiscal responsibility, and the importance of a holistic educational experience. I am committed to leveraging these skills to serve the Faculty of Arts, ensuring our community thrives academically and socially.
I kindly ask for your vote, and together, we can co-create a vibrant and inclusive community for all TMU students. Feel free to shoot me an email if you have any questions!
Warm Regards, Andrew Ciddio
Jason Ramsay
I’m Jason B. Ramsay, a 4th year Economics student aspiring to serve as your next Faculty of Arts Director at TMSU. Through the leading of 80+ students, Co-Founding of 2 groups, and serving as an executive of 2 others, my candidacy stands on a foundation of action and results.
My Founding of Investa Insights, TMU’s first intercollegiate investment group where we have represented TMU and won finance competitions on the national stage, most notably demonstrates my dedication to expanding opportunities for our students beyond the classroom. Furthermore, as the past President of IECON, the Economics Course Union at TMU, I have promoted financial & economic literacy and practical skills among our peers.
My professional stints at CIBC and TD were pivotal, exposing me to the high stakes of corporate and investment banking. It was during these Co-Op terms that I recognized that work experience is a cornerstone of learning that is often undervalued in university settings. This realization ignited my commitment to advocate for a curriculum that prioritizes Co-Op placements, ensuring that every student gains the indispensable experience that I was fortunate to receive.
I am vying for the position of Faculty of Arts Director because my mission is to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and its real-world applications, fostering a generation of Arts graduates who are as adept in the classroom as they are in the workplace. With immersive experiences, industry partnerships, and a curriculum designed for the current job market, we can ensure that an Arts degree from TMU is synonymous with readiness and relevance.
A vote for Jason is a vote for progress, for employability, and for a future where the Faculty of Arts at TMU is renowned for producing not just graduates, but innovators and industry leaders.
Faculty of Engineering & Architecture – Acclaimed
Hasan Tahir
Greetings TMSU community, I’m Hasan Tahir, a third-year mechanical engineering student, and I’m thrilled to run for the Faculty Director of Engineering and Architecture. My TMSU journey has fueled my passion for innovation and education’s transformative power. As a mechanical engineering student, I’ve applied theoretical knowledge in practical settings, fostering a holistic understanding of our field’s challenges. I believe effective leadership is pivotal in shaping the student experience. If elected, I’ll create an environment promoting collaboration, creativity, and academic excellence within the Faculty. My vision includes a platform for real-world projects, equipping students with skills for a dynamic professional landscape. I’m committed to bridging the gap between students and faculty, ensuring community needs are heard and addressed. I aspire to foster a culture of inclusivity, where every student’s voice is valued, and diversity is celebrated. I’m running to contribute to our academic community’s growth and success, promoting innovation, collaboration, and excellence. Thank you for considering me for this role. I look forward to serving you and the entire TMSU community. Sincerely, Hasan Tahir
Ariana Zuniga
Hey! My name is Ariana and I am so excited to be a Faculty Director for Engineering and Architecture! I am thrilled to be the voice of our hard working community, advocating for resources and initiatives that better our academic and professional journeys. With this new opportunity I believe I can create a supportive and inclusive environment. I look forward to working with the passionate and talented engineering and architecture students at TMU.
Feel free to reach out to me!
Lincoln Alexander School of Law – Acclaimed
Fatima Sheikh
Hi! My name is Fatima, and I am a student at the Lincoln Alexander School of Law. As Faculty Director for the LASL, I will advocate for students in the 2023/2024 academic year. In this position, I hope to:
● Help build a closer relationship between law students and the TMSU
● Work with the Lincoln Alexander Law Students’ Society to address concerns of law students
● Advocate for students
● Contribute to a positive student experience at TMU
Victor Ufot
I am VICTOR UFOT, a first-year law student, I am thrilled to be in the running for Faculty Director for Lincoln Alexander School of Law. I am deeply committed to representing Lincoln law students and ensuring the Lincoln Alexander values of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion are reflected through the representation of LALS students’ voices and concerns at the student union.
During my short time here, I understand the unique challenges and opportunities we as law students encounter daily. I aim to be your voice on the board, advocating for the issues that matter most to us. I will work tirelessly to ensure our concerns are heard, and the responses are tailored based on our needs.
If elected, I will strive to advocate for initiatives that enhance Lincoln students’ academic support, professional development, and overall well-being. A key aspect of this advocacy would be for TMSU to recognize its limitations when serving Lincoln Law students.
I believe in the power of collaboration and will actively seek input from all of you to ensure that our collective voices are represented in every decision that impacts our academic journey.
As a rising Law school, we have the power to define our future to which I am passionate about contributing to the growth and success of our law school community. I am dedicated to upholding the values that make our institution exceptional and ensuring every voice is amplified.
Faculty of Science – Acclaimed
Aneesh Katyara
Hello fellow students, I’m Aneesh Katyara, and today I stand before you, deeply connected to our shared journey in the Faculty of Science, as I announce my candidacy for Director in the upcoming TMSU elections. My journey, from leading the badminton team to victory to pioneering innovative projects as the president of the IT society, has been one of passion, teamwork, and resilience.
In my roles within GMSA, CSR, and the resident council, I’ve spearheaded initiatives that have not only enhanced student life but also honed my skills in communication and organization. These experiences have equipped me to adeptly represent and advocate for our Faculty of Science.
Understanding the unique challenges we face, my focus will be on enhancing student engagement, advocating for better resources, providing robust emotional support, and enriching our campus life. I am committed to bringing tangible changes, such as boosting student participation, fighting for better tools and regulations, offering emotional support, or enriching student life on campus as I am aware of how demanding being a science student can be.
This role is more than a position to me; it’s a chance to empower each one of us in this faculty. I ask for your vote, not just for me, but for a future where every science student’s voice is heard and valued. Together, let’s shape our path forward.
International Director – Acclaimed
Mohammad Khan
As a candidate for the International Student Board of Director, I bring a unique blend of empathy, experience, and dedication, driven by my own journey as an international student. My firsthand understanding of the challenges faced in adapting to a new culture and academic environment equips me with the insight needed to effectively represent and support our diverse student body.
My journey began when I stepped into a foreign land to pursue my education. Navigating through the complexities of a new educational system, cultural differences, and language barriers, I realized the significant impact these challenges have on a student’s academic and social life. This experience ignited my passion for aiding fellow international students in their transition.
I’ve actively participated in student-led initiatives dedicated to enhancing the well-being of international students. My commitment is to improve their academic and social experience. If elected, I’ll advocate for policies smoothing their academic transition, collaborate with the administration to secure resources, including scholarships and grants, and ensure every international student has a voice in campus decisions. My goal is to empower every international student to reach their full potential.
As a member of the Board of Directors, I will leverage my experiences, empathy, and dedication to make a tangible difference in the lives of international students, championing a campus environment where diversity is not just accepted, but celebrated.