2023/2024
Board of Director Candidates
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Mansoor Ali
Information Technology Services
Students are SAITSA’s business!
We are all feeling the bite of inflation, and I believe it is my job to ensure for all SAIT students that it stings a little less.
I will ensure that every last penny of the surplus revenue from SAITSA’s operations is re-invested into making student life at SAIT more enjoyable.
Professional Experience:
I am currently the CEO and Director of one of the largest suppliers of aftermarket parts for pocket electronics in Canada.
Over the last five years, this position has developed my skills tremendously in the following areas:
– Growing the company from just Canada-wide to World-wide by expanding to international markets.
o This included dealing with local and foreign entities, overcoming numerous language and cultural barriers to come to mutual understanding.
– Excellent problem-solving skills; My door and Microsoft Teams will always be open to anyone that may be facing any problems while at SAIT.
– Strong business acumen and financial management skills that will allow me to make the best of the funds provided to SAITSA to make student life easier.
– Strong communication and interpersonal skills. As a student at SAIT, you want someone in charge that can understand any issues you may have so that they can be remedied quickly and painlessly.
o As Director, I plan not only to advocate for sweeping changes that benefit students at large, but also be open to helping individuals with even the smallest of concerns.
Personal Experience:
I look up to Marcus Aurelius, the great stoic Roman emperor and philosopher in all my roles as a leader. I have exhibited all the qualities of a fierce leader in my personal activities which include but are not limited to:
– Leading a ragtag group of soldiers to their first victory in Call of Duty: Warzone in March of 2020 while under the strenuous pressure exerted by a global pandemic (Covid-19).
o As the CEO of my company, I learned how to rally a individuals confidently towards a common goal no matter how inexperienced.
– For two hours, I stayed cool and lead a charge against a toxic foe to take my team to a win in the League of Legends without uttering a single derogatory word in the face of endless slandering from the enemy.
Student Wellness:
As students, our mental and physical health is of utmost importance. That’s why I believe it’s crucial to provide students with opportunities to unwind and relax after a long day of studying.
To do this, I will work towards implementing the following initiatives:
– Bringing about Fall Reading week in addition to Winter Reading week to give students a much need mental break from school.
– Providing free refreshments such as Ghulab Jamuns and Leche Flans on Fridays as a token of appreciation for all the hard work you do.
– Partnering with local food vendors to offer more healthy and affordable meal options on campus.
– Organizing various recreational and physical activities, such as sports/e-sports tournaments, and concerts.
Climate Change:
As the future leaders of tomorrow, it’s our responsibility to ensure that we leave a better world for generations to come. That’s why addressing the issue of climate change is at the forefront of my platform.
To do this, I will work towards making our campus more environmentally friendly by:
– Ensuring that transit remains free and accessible to all students.
– Encouraging the use of eco-friendly modes of transportation, such as cycling or C-Train
– Educating the student body on the importance of protecting the environment and taking action to mitigate climate change.
– Promoting sustainable practices, like reducing waste and conserving water
In addition to a diploma in IT, I am also working towards a pilot’s license! So, vote for Mansoor Ali and let us soar to new heights together!
Tomi Aroge
Information Systems Security
Its essential for us to have an ally. Having a support system that would help us navigate challenges and advocate for us. This is what i aim to accomplish as a director – to support and advocate for students
I served as the president of LetsTalkICT, which serves to advocate for students, and improve student experience by connecting students with recourses and information to help them successfully navigate their journey at SAIT
I also serve as the vice-president of the Afro-Caribbean club, which aims to foster and advance an inclusive campus environment
– Work Integrated Learning
– Career transition supports
– Instructor accountability
– Mental well-being
I love art, dance and music. I engage in music production and marketing with my partner. Check out our songs @Goldmarkist, available on music platforms. Let me know what you think! 🙂
Arianna Atkins
Administrative Information Management
It is in my nature to put others before myself, and so if elected I would engage with my fellow students and ask questions perhaps not asked before to understand what changes could be made to improve their experience. I like to think outside the box and so I will bring this approach with me to provide creative solutions. I also believe in empowering those around me to be the best version of themselves, to learn and to thrive wherever they are.
I am a mature student and I feel that this offers a unique perspective of the student experience, along with a level of confidence earned through life experience. I also consider myself an articulate communicator and have advanced interpersonal skills. I challenge myself to outgrow habits or behaviors that do not serve me in a positive way, and I believe this growth mindset can inspire those around me. I also have more than 8 years of experience in customer services, administrative and financial service roles. I carry myself with a certain level of decorum and professionalism that I believe students, SAIT staff, and community and/or government leaders will appreciate and respect.
I am passionate about educating students on resources available to them. Based on my conversations with my fellow students, many may have heard of services such as food hampers that SAITsa offers, resume help, mental health supports etc, but they do not feel comfortable accessing them, may not understand the value these services offer, may not prioritize finding the resources, may not have the time to take advantage of said services. So, I would want to present the most beneficial services directly to them, help them find access and then assist further if they are still uncomfortable. There is a difference between being aware of an action you could take to change vs. actually taking action.
Secondly, I want to investigate the registration process as for myself I have found it to be painful and frustrating. My first and second semester I encountered issues with the system glitching and then had to spend a considerable amount of time and energy speaking with SAIT staff about the issue. SAIT is an established institution and these type of infrastructure issues should not exist.
Lastly, as I work in finance I feel strongly about financial literacy. I understand students need to understand the value of an education in financial matters, and so I would want to brainstorm ways to educate students on things like credit, interest, financial products (credit cards, loans, lines of credit and banking accounts), debt, saving, and basic investment products. I have had conversations with domestic and international students and have seen the unfortunate effects that a lack of financial education can have on young people. This is something I feel very strongly about changing.
I have recently come to love physical fitness – most notably I enjoy boxing and weightlifting. I prioritize my physical health and so in addition to the issues above I would also want to inspire those around me to make time for their health and to take care of their bodies. It is possible to feel amazing everyday and so I would lead by example by showing that eating healthy, prioritizing sleep and staying hydrated are all crucial to quality of life!
Shubham Bhatia
BIO COMING SOON
Gurnoor Singh Brar
Civil Engineering Technology
- Supporting Saitsa and helping them wherever and whenever they need me .
- Giving strategic plans to organization .
My family have political background and the leadership skills were rooted to me by my grandfather who successfully ran the administration of our village for 5 years. I have leadership skills like I believe is doing things in strategic thinking and I am ethical and civic minded.
- Starting extra tutoring classes.
- Reducing parking fees and continuing free transit access.
- Providing scholarships.
- Promoting sports and extra-curricular activities.
- Increasing more intercultural activities.
- Promoting mental health programs.
Friendly, good communication skills, have a welcoming nature, I have magnetic personality with my talks which makes people to share their feelings with me in their thick and thins.
Sukhsimrat Kaur Brar
Business administration Management
Saitsa’s mission and vision resonate with me because they focus on creating opportunities for students to get involved in their community and learn new skills. I plan to support Saitsa by becoming involved in their events and volunteering my time.
I am passionate about ensuring that students have access to a quality education and that they have a voice in the decisions that affect their lives. I am also passionate about ensuring that students have the opportunity to get involved in the governance of their institution and that they have the resources they need to be successful.
I love going on bike rides! I’m a National Pistol Shooter as well as an Equestrian. Also, i am very good with remembering pretty much everything that has numbers in it.
Auginne Carla Bunado
Business Administration
To improve the student experience at every opportunity– that is the very goal. Our students should feel excited, engaged, and inspired to learn in and out of the classroom. Success isn’t only measured by grades, but by also how they connected and contributed to the community. Experience, building collaborative connections, and learnings that they received from SAIT that they can apply after they graduate. To support this goal, students must feel heard and be able to experience what the institution can offer by:
- Improving awareness and access to the resources available.
- Improving communication and connection with the students.
- Inspiring the students to be leaders by involving them in the community.
The longest role I held is an HR Associate in the Philippines, where strong ethics, leadership, collaboration, and critical thinking are expected. In my last role, I was directly involved in conceptualizing projects that aim to continuously improve the employee experience through dynamic engagement programs, which I plan to apply as a SAITSA Director. As an HR, I always maintain the confidentiality and integrity of our business.
I’m a good communicator and listener (as per my previous co-workers and managers) and one of my goals, if I am elected as a Director, is to be the bridge of the students to the administration.
I am the people’s champion, but I always make sure that I am fair and honest to all stakeholders – to the organization, to the employees, and to everyone involved – qualities that I apply in my daily life which I am positive can contribute to being a successful Director.
I always plan and am adaptable. Being a newcomer in Canada, I always do my research to make sure I am on the right path and to prepare myself for any challenge that might arise. If elected as a Director, I shall continue to educate myself about the students’ needs to consistently provide the best services and programs that support the students and the organization’s goals.
Equity, Diversity & Inclusion – As an international student, coming to Canada and going to SAIT is such a positive experience for me, and I want every student (domestic and international alike) to also feel the same! The feeling of belongingness and having a solid support system are crucial to one’s success, and I aspire for every student to remember their stay at SAIT as one of the best years of their lives. We can do this by ensuring that our community – students, the institution, and SAITSA- is committed to providing equal opportunities and that all are empowered to become the best they can be.
Mental Health and well-being – As a student, it is easy to feel overwhelmed! People have different coping mechanisms, and we should continuously develop programs to address our students’ struggles. I envision SAIT as a safe place for everyone, where students can access health services and receive the coaching, counselling, and assistance they need.
Access to more affordable education – While we cannot control the increasing costs outside the institution, there are still ways to help our students cope with school expenses. For one, I envision a more comprehensive open textbook program in the SAIT library that will enable students to enjoy accessible and low-cost (or even free) textbooks, thus reducing the amount they spend on textbooks.
I love nature, which is one of the main reasons we decided to move to Calgary! I hike and dive whenever I have a chance back home, and I’m looking forward to the summer so I can go back to the mountains. I love traveling and speaking to the locals. It’s the best way to learn about their culture and make real connections.
I bake (or at least I try to!), read graphic novels, and watch TV series whenever I have time. Learning new things always excites me! My mantra in life is “do or not do, there is no try.”
Marina Butenko
Civil Engineering Technology
Student-led is a major highlight, in my eyes. The idea that students can advocate on behalf of other students is appealing to me. It is something that I have already been facilitating, though on a smaller scale. Students need a voice, especially in an ever-growing school, and who better to trust than a peer? I plan to continue my pursuits in advocating for the student body, but in an all-encompassing manner.
I am a very persistent and hardworking student. I am a member of the Program Advisory Committee, and the Civil Eng. Technology Student Club, come summer and I will be the president of the Club’s Executive Committee. I also spear-headed a petition for the students of the CVT program, to seek changes that would encourage the success of students in the program.
Promoting the success and mental health of students through:
- Implementation of negotiable UPass terms (ie. Opting out of transit fees, and recreational fees), so students can afford the high parking rates or get a membership to a fully functioning Recreation Centre.
- Lowering parking fees through monthly passes or more term-passes.
- Addressing the accessibility issues on campus (ie. Broken escalators and elevators)
- Expansion of the Accessibility Centre, primarily the testing centre. Students with accessibility needs are a growing part of the student body, awareness is one thing but adjusting the services offered is critical.
- Introducing ‘School’ wide Mixer-style events, to encourage interaction between students in different programs of the same school.
- I did 6th grade math in 5th grade because I loved it so much. I then continued on to nearly fail grade 10 and 11 math, and had to upgrade at SAIT before starting my program. This is why I am passionate about the mental health of students.
- I learned, as an adult, that I have ADHD. I say it with pride because I want to lead by example, and show students that labels shouldn’t stop you from succeeding at your goals.
- With my Russian/Ukrainian heritage, I am fluent in Russian and English.
Heaven Deschamps
Legal Assistant Diploma Course
The Saitsa values of authenticity, empowerment, and community stick out the most to me. I would love the oppourtunity to be able to encourage a strong collective identity and highlight a shared vision amongst SAIT students that empowers them to make a difference in their community. A grand dream doesn’t become reality without the help of other people, and I want to highlight the importance of each individual and their involvement. Creating and nurturing an intentional community through understanding, honesty, and collaboration offers students a sense of belonging and equips them with soft skills that will set them apart in any work or social environment. If one wants to make big changes that impact the world, they have to start with their own neighbourhood. By empowering and encouraging those around me, I hope to offer them oppourtunities to advocate for what they believe in, no matter where they go.
I would like to think of myself as a considerate, observant, and creative person who is always open to hearing other perspectives and finding solutions to accommodate them. Leadership is a relationship characterized by mutual respect and acknowledgement. Making others feel comfortable and heard can go a long way.
Some common underlying issues that have come up when talking to my peers have been accessibility issues (broken escalators, elevators, etc.), user interface on mySAIT, and frustrations/inconsistencies with the registration process. As a school that advocates itself as tech-based, I believe that by tackling these, SAIT can improve the student experience and continue to demonstrate itself as one of Canada’s top learning institutes.
I’m Alberta born and raised (like the beef, as I like to say), and grew up in a bilingual household, speaking both French and English.
Bella Espiritu
Bachelor of Business Administration
Having goals and a sense of direction in life greatly influences one’s success. With Saitsa’s Mission and Vision, these statements not only allow the organization to thrive, but also more importantly enables the student body of SAIT to benefit from the fruits of success of these goals.
Saitsa’s overall mission is to enhance students’ experience, and I plan to support the organization achieve this by firstly identifying the various areas of improvement in campus facilities and student life. Secondly, I would be taking the initiative to speak up and raise the issues to the relevant parties involved. Lastly, to further reinforce new and old policies, I would make it a duty to unceasingly collect feedback from both the student body and other parties concerned.
On the other hand, supporting Saitsa’s vision to ensure students prosper in different aspects of life require an environment conducive for personal growth and success. To show support to the organization, I will continuously promote all events, opportunities, and resources provided by Saitsa to the students.
Throughout high school and my university years in the Philippines, I have immersed myself in leadership roles within the school community as well as external organizations. This included roles such as being a secretary, president, and committee heads of numerous clubs. Even before my first semester at SAIT started, I have already been active in helping out my fellow students through volunteering with the International Centre. Additionally, I have also been a volunteer for Saitsa since Fall 2022.
When elected as Director, I aim to be a voice on the following student issues:
- The increasing costs of tuition fees, especially international fees
- The lack of school opportunities, events, and activities for SAIT programs other than Business, particularly the diploma programs; and,
- The inaccessibility of utilities, such as elevators and escalators, to students
In my spare time–when I am not committing time to do volunteer work in various organizations–I enjoy traveling and sports, particularly volleyball and swimming. I believe that in order to enjoy life, you must be one with your surroundings which is why people may often find me out of the house appreciating nature and going on spontaneous adventures instead.
Khadija Fatima
Bachelor of Business Administration
When I was a new student at SAIT, the resources, services they provide and the activities they plan out for students all year were really beneficial to me. This motivated me to volunteer at SAITSA to educate myself about student needs and help provide them with the help and resources they need. There are many resources available for students however, students are not aware of those opportunities.
Throughout my childhood, I took part in various competitions and today I find myself leading group projects at school. I like to plan things ahead of time and I like to focus on the bigger picture rather than the abstract details. Board of directors is a platform where I can see myself learning and growing.
1. I want to be an advocate for all students at SAIT regardless of their age, religion, ethnicity, sex
I plan to initiate more mentoring programs for students especially newcomers or international students here at SAIT
2. I want to represent Muslim students at SAIT and have more halal food options available.
3. After talking to a few students most of them were stressed about parking fees on campus. I want to work on reducing parking costs for students.
4. Have more activities and workshops planned for students such as yoga, mental health workshops
5. Lastly, make SAIT more accessible and have escalators and elevators working at all times.
I Love nature and I often go out for a walk no matter what the weather is outside (rainy, snowy, or sunny) I like taking pictures of the sunsets, and sunrises and this is the reason why I often go for a walk during that time. I also love volunteering in my spare time and you will often find me outside SAITSA resource centre. During summer I often go hiking and cycling. Moreover, My MBTI personality is INTJ which makes me an introvert and I’m always stepping out of my comfort zone to interact with others.
Gurkamaljot Singh Grewal
Khushpreet Kaur Grewal
Bachelor of Business Administration
The mission of SAITSA is to improve student experience at every opportunity. I also plan to do so by creating more opportunities for fellow students and helping develop field-oriented studies and creating more awareness regarding the resources available for their career advancement. I also plan to encourage open feedback from the students. Saitsa’s Vision is to create a community for students for better learning, being an international student I know an importance of creating a safe space for everyone, so I will help SAITSA in making their vision look more successful during my term
I was a council member for the Students Association at Red Deer Polytechnic, where I advocated for students’ rights and policies of the institutions, and to make the institution more engaging and inclusive for students, along with creating various opportunities for the career advancement of the graduates. I also participated in multiple committees at SAIT over the last semester to enhance student learning and to make and change policies in students’ favor. I was also awarded with an outstanding leadership award at the end of my term at the institution.
A few student issues that I want to bring up during my term will be:
1. Ensuring more comprehensive coverage Saitsa Health and Dental Plan and spreading awareness about the same- Majority of students are unaware about the Saitsa Health and Dental Plan and fail to take advantage of the benefits for their mental and physical well-being.I want to spread awareness about the coverage of the plan and advocate for more coverage through the appropriate channels
2. Finding ways to lower cost of study materials- The cost of mandatory study materials for courses has been on the rise and is becoming increasingly difficult for students over the years. My aim is to brainstorm ideas to lower the cost of books and other material for students. This can involve engaging the teaching and administrative staff to secure supplies in larger quantities to gain discounts and then selling to students, encouraging teaching staff to come up with their own work to substitute external publishers whenever possible.
I love participating into Competitions such as debate and case competitions, and I am a national level Taekwondo player.
Chimdi Ilonze
Bachelor of Applied Business Administration
SAITSA seeks to improve the student experience and build a community where students are inspired to learn, lead, and excel. I believe a complete student experience is not just had in the classroom. I plan to support this Vision by Advocating for better volunteer and other on-campus engagements which would give students more opportunities to grow themselves before heading out to the corporate world and should have all the support they can possibly get from the institution.
Since the fall of 2022, I have been advocating for students through my work as a Student Leader for SAIT’s BEES committee and also through the Afro-Caribbean Club where I have put effort into ensuring students have a fantastic on-campus experience and gain knowledge of all the support we have available to us at SAIT
The student issues I am most passionate about are the challenges students face when transitioning from Campus to the start of their careers. As an international student myself, I am also passionate about helping international students better navigate the complexities of moving, schooling, and starting a career in a new country.
I had drum lessons when I was younger then taught myself how to play the Piano and Guitar. Also, I love watching Anime, Nollywood, and swimming.
Pranjal Jain
Software Development
I will be the bridge between students and the administration. I will cover the real ground level problems for my peers.
1. Accessible scholarships
2. Limiting the fee hike
3. Being readily available for help
4. Making the parking fee affordable
5. Indian restaurants on campus
Usama Javaid
Business Administration
I am really inspired by Saitsa’s Mission which is to improve the student’s experience at every opportunity through school spirit, student support, and advocacy. I truly believe that students have a better chance of succeeding if they have a positive experience during their studies. I plan to support the organization by providing ideas that solve issues that the students are facing on campus.
I have captained various sports teams during high school where I have learned how to work in a team and perform in leadership positions. I feel that these skills will enable me to successfully fulfill the duties of a director at Saitsa.
Saitsa has definitely launched a lot of programs that have solved student issues but I believe that students are still facing issues that need to be addressed. If elected as a director, I will try to solve the following issues:
1) Making elevators/escalators much more accessible to allow students to roam around campus freely.
2) Providing more opportunities for extracurricular activities and campus events for students to relax and have fun during their stressful semester.
3) Establishing a separate prayer space on campus for females as we currently only have a common prayer area for all genders.
An interesting fact about me is that I am able to learn any skill or sport provided that one of my friends is better at it than me.
Jatin Joshi
Administrative Information Management
I am a strong believer in helping others which is what is mentioned in Sitsa’s mission. As I am an international student I also want to improve the student experience by engaging with students, listening to the problems, and trying to solve them with my expertise. I can help the organization with my experience and skills which I have learned during my studies and leading events.
I must say that I have those experience which are relevant for this position. Firstly, I achieved great grades in the last semester and currently I am volunteering as a Director of Social Media for AIM/OFPR Student association and I have the ettiquete to talk with high officials. Moreover, I will learn more about the sait government that how it works and the management system.
It is very obvious that directors play a very crucial role and I have that kind of experience. Talking about student issues, there are several for example student stress, time management, anxiety, study problems, and career advice. These types of issues I am interested in and I want to give my best to solve them.
An interesting fact about me is easily approachable. Everyone can find me on Linkedin, Facebook, and Instagram. I am mostly active on Linkedin and I reply fast as soon as possible and am always ready to help every student.
Samreet Kaur
Software Development
The Realistic Approach of the Organization resonates with me . Hence, Getting Inspired from SAITSA created a new resolve in me to do something for my peers and that Inspired me to be the Voice as I am Running for the BOD elections . I am hereby Planning to Support the Organization by building a team that can make a difference.
I have Excellent Public Speaking Skills that Inclined me towards interacting with people everyday. This Passion of mine of Networking with People grew by the time and then, how could my Passionate Spirit resist this opportunity of running as a candidate in BOD elections. Not at all. And Here I represent myself as a Candidate.
In fact, I have Extreme Superior Leadership Qualities that would help me out giving my best Version of Myself to the SAIT Community.
1)The most Important Student Issue which I am Passionate about is High Tuition for International Students.
2) Secondly, I would like to emphasize on the important concepts like Mental Health in the Campus by Making the International Students feel like a Home away from Home just by organizing their Traditions or Festivals.
3) By Inculcating Friendly Study Environment for the Students.
I am Really Optimistic Person who loves spending time with Friends and Family more often.
Sometimes, I often Explore My Talented Spirit by Exploring My Hobbies like Singing, Public Speaking, Dancing.
AS ITS NEVER ENOUGH HAHAHA:)
Shawna LeBlanc
Business Administration-HR
What resonates with me most is improving the student experience. This includes all students, both domestic and international. I would personally love to be a voice for indigenous students, who previously haven’t had much representation. Students should always feel like their voice is being heard.
I have previously ran-and successfully was elected onto the board in the past. I assisted in approving the new governance restructure for the Saitsa Board of Directors. Knowing how the BOD works will help me effectively make a difference for SAIT students this year. I have also succesfully started a construction business and am co-operating it while attending school. In addition, I am currently a member of NIAC-National Indigenous Advocacy Committee, which has given me experience in advocacy.
First and foremost I believe that ALL students at SAIT should be heard. I plan to be a voice for indigenous students and for student parents. I’d enjoy the opportunity to learn about what students want when it comes to their SAIT experience and figure out how to utilize my position on the board to enhance that experience.
I have an 11 year old son who is my height. I am currently making my own moccasins.
Sadaf Naeem
Business Administration
Saitsa is the representation of all the students at sait. That includes part time, full time, students that live on residents and those who do not. We represent international and domestic students. I plan on keeping the interest’s of all these groups of students in the fore-front when taking part in any decision making. My goal will be to improve the overall experience for every student that comes to sait. Establish clear goals and objectives for the association and communicate them effectively to all members.
Encourage and support the involvement of all members in the planning and execution of events and activities.
Develop strong communication channels within the association.
Seek feedback from members and students and use it to continually improve the association’s performance.
Ensure that the association’s finances are managed effectively
Provide leadership and mentorship to members and work to build a strong and inclusive organizational culture last but not the least continuously evaluate the association’s effectiveness and adapt as needed to changing circumstances and student needs.
I am a student leader in the school of business which give me experience of understanding student needs. Along with that I am an immigrant who studied in a university in a different country and am now studying at sait as a domestic student. i can relate to the needs of domestic students as well as international students.
The experience I have relevant to this position is I have ability to lead and inspire others, listen actively and express oneself clearly, collaborate with other members to achieve the association’s goals. I have strong organizational and time management skills which are crucial for ensuring that board members can effectively manage their responsibilities and commitments.
Most important my previous experience as Satis volunteer organizations, such as participating in events, can provide valuable insights and skills that can be applied to the role of a board member.
Student issues on campus can vary widely, but some common ones include:
Mental health: Many students struggle with stress, anxiety, and depression, which can negatively impact their academic performance and overall well-being.
Financial difficulties: Some students face financial challenges that make it difficult to afford tuition, housing, textbooks, and other necessary expenses.
Lack of academic support: Some students struggle to keep up with coursework and may not have access to adequate academic support, such as tutoring or study groups.
Safety concerns: Some students may feel unsafe on campus due to issues like sexual assault, theft, or other crimes.
To address these issues, I can take a number of steps:
Mental health services: I can made effort to improve counselling and other mental health services to students, and also work to reduce the stigma around seeking help for mental health issues.
Financial aid: Sait can offer more scholarships, grants, and other financial aid to help students afford the cost of attendance.
Academic support: I pay more attention on resources such as tutoring and study groups to help students succeed academically.
Safety measures: I will try to provide workshops of self-defence classes.
It’s important for me to take these issues seriously and work to create a supportive and inclusive environment for all students.
I am 26-year-old student who is passionate about nature and traveling.I loves to explore new places, hiking, and camping.
I also spend my time with my friends and family by sharing meals together, playing board games or video games, watching movies or TV shows, or just talking and catching up on life. I believe that these small moments of connection are what keep my relationships strong and meaningful.
I also believe time and effort I invests in my relationships are always worth-full as they bring happiness, fulfillment, and a sense of belonging.
Ryan Ng
Primary Care Paramedic
One of my primary objectives is to enhance the student experience by means of advocacy. Specifically, I aspire to effectively advocate for the students in the School of Health and Public Safety and facilitate the betterment of everyone’s tenure here at SAIT.
During my high school years, I initiated and spearheaded the formation of several school clubs, and subsequently achieved a leadership position in my workplace where I successfully managed a team of over 20 staff members. It is my innate passion for aiding others that continues to drive my aspirations, and ultimately, has fueled my pursuit to become a paramedic and candidate for board of directors.
As an advocate for the students in the School of Health and Public Safety, my primary goal is to amplify their voice and advocate for their needs while simultaneously striving to enhance the overall student experience at SAIT. To this end, I endeavor to secure additional funding from SAITSA for school clubs and address practical concerns by increasing the number of microwaves in the Stan Grad building, thereby minimizing wait times for students during their lunch hours.
I have a dog and his name is Hank
Benjamin Nwachukwu
Instrumentation engineering technology
SAITSA mission and vision are very passionate to me, mostly in areas of student’s well-being, cooperation, and social interactions. I intend to establish a connecting network of various ethnic nationalities and enhance the progress and objectives of the association.
I have great experience in student and institutional politics. I was once a deputy speaker and director of health in the students’ union government of my institution.
I defended student’s rights and justice and liased with external organizations and government agencies to the benefit of our students.
My intention for this position is mainly to establish a network and foundation internally and externally upon which our students can obtain adequate assistance in their various conditions and limitations in the course of their academic journey. I have heard from different students across boards the challenges they face, and I feel I can work on a great number of them.
I like playing soccer, swimming and listening to music.
I am gentle, easygoing, and with approachable characteristics. I am a good listener with great empathy and friendly.
Mark Peigan
Hospitality Management
I would like to be an advocate all students, so that I can help improve the students experience and help educate all Sait community. I hope to bring awareness through school spirit and supports.
I was the former Event Executive for Sait Indigenous Student Alliance (SISA) in 2019, and relaunched the committee in 2022. I was also the Youth Chief of my nation in 2012.
I am interested in being an advocate for the Indigenous community and helping Indigenize the Sait community. I would like to be an advocate for all students, so that I can help educate all Sait Community.
Im a Huge Batman Fan.
Ankit Poddar
Business Administration
SAITSA stands relevant to its name – the “Student Association”. Volunteering with SAITSA has made me realize that it is “of the students, by the students and for the students”. It makes all the new students welcome at SAIT, providing all the resources, advice and information to settle and study. I was almost a month late in starting my first semester, and SAITSA was one place where I was able to get all the help I needed.
My main aim is to give back what I have received from SAITSA, by being at service to all the students, new, existing and alumni alike. I would like my voice to become one more of the many voices from SAITSA speaking for the students, assisting and providing them the necessary motivation to succeed. Be it the goal of sustainability, student success or resource distribution, I yearn to become a part and add value to each component with the best of my capability.
I am a tutor by passion. Team building, collaborative work, motivation, zeal for excellence, hard work, reservation against shortcuts, empathy, understanding, and inclusion are some of my base traits. Growth of my team, organization and community will automatically make me grow, that is the policy. My greatest achievement is the success of my students, peers or team members; because it will always reflect on me, partially. This position needs similar attributes.
Equity, diversity and inclusion – one of the major foundations on which Canada stands on today. This is still a process with many miles to cover, and my role in it starts with SAIT. SAIT has welcomed me with open arms, with all its resources at disposal. In similar manner, I want to make every student welcome at SAIT, address the grievances, provide a voice, and try to solve them with the best of my capability. For instance, I am currently volunteering with Enactus, assisting them in raising funds for the Stonewall Addictions Recovery Centre dedicated to the 2SLGTBTQ+ community.
Further, there are some minor technical issues to be dealt with. For technological collaboration, SAIT highly relies on Microsoft as its partner which sometimes leaves Apple users not in sync with the dynamic communication. I would like to raise this issue with the management and work on finding a solution.
I am an international student at SAIT, from India. I have spent a considerable part of my professional life in Nepal, home to the highest summit in the World – the Mt Everest. Fortunately, I have got multiple chances to scale the heights of Himalayas up to the Everest Base Camp, the Kalapathar Summit (18,400ft). Trekking to such heights and distances with mountaineers from around the world has given me an interesting, may be unique, perspective of life and its purpose. I got an opportunity to initiate the development of a community centre and waste recycling facility at such height and remote location, a step towards sustainable tourism. They call this region Sagarmatha, a place which cleanses the soul.
Aaron Ramos
Business Administration – Marketing
I can appreciate the fact that Saitsa is here to enhance the student experience by empowering it’s members in so many different ways! I plan on supporting the organization through spreading awareness to every student on the benefits that come with being a part of a student association. From its grants, health and dental plans, networking opportunities, professional development and other necessary resources available!
In the past I have contributed at a provincial and federal level changes to post secondary policies such as, funding alternative sources of educational resources (O.E.R’s / cheaper textbooks), temporary removal of international student working hours, and the temporary removal of interest on top of federal student loans.
Before coming to Sait I was in the workforce as a manager for a kitchen / deli showing leadership, consistency, and organizational skills in a fast paced and demanding environment.
Once at Sait, I wanted to do more for the community and make a difference. I joined Enactus Sait and have held the position of Vice President of Marketing to move into the role of Vice President of the Club the following year.
I have served on multiple non-profit boards bringing an strategic perspective of organizational behaviors and structures with marketing and first hand business perspectives.
While I am passionate about many areas I have condensed my platform into 5 general fields
– International Student Support ( Cap on International Student tuition / international student integration )
– Mental Health (increase sessions on counselling on campus / funding towards other areas of support)
– Affordability (Cheaper tuition, parking, housing, food insecurity, textbooks, no hidden fees from Sait)
– Equality Diversity and Inclusion (Designated Pride space on Campus, celebrate different cultures at Sait, adovcate for margnizalied communities on campus / surrounding communities)
– and Sustainability (Lower emissions, reponsible operations, mindful consumption)
These 5 concepts are not to limit to what I can do but are here to provide what is possible if elected.
Fun fact is that I play 7 different instruments and sing! I teach music to kids who cant afford conventional music lessons on the weekends!
I enjoy hanging out and laughing with friends as relationships are a very important part of my life.
I also am an avid/responsible car enthusiast!
Gur Sodhi
Journalism
Just being a voice for the students. Especially the ones that can not do it or struggle with it and making sure that the students feel welcomed irrespective of who they are.
In my home country, i was a part of a similar organization. Since my main focuses are the international students, the LGBTQ+ community and their problems, i feel i can give a better perspective , since i have my own personal experience with this.
The transitioning phase for international students is the toughest. That is my main focus, and how to make it as easy as i can is another focus. SAIT already has policies regarding inclusivity but i think people and the students are not given as much education about it , so yes , yet another aspect i would focus on. Can not expect inclusivity when someone does not understand the need and idea behind it.
I love singing, I do tarot professionally and I am a national level swimmer!
Inder Thandi
Business Administration
I look forward to take forward the warmth of welcome in SAIT for international students and create a congenial environment . Besides that ,I would initate the skill in hand programs among students which would turn out to be a great kick start to their future . That would be great if I could encourage SAIT students to be a part of the events and co-curricular activities which would help them to polish their secluded virtues.
I have been a team leader almost everytime at school for the projects and debates therefore could handle the task in a great manner . I am a great orator and can put forward my points in a well organized manner . Apart from this , I love to volunteer different tasks and fond of meeting new people from across the globe.
•It would be great if the students could get the books and assignment packages within the paid fees because sometimes it gets really hard for them to make out time to work and pay .
•I would love to make a variety of sports a necessary and free part of student life on campus as full time students are always seen stuck to the screens.
Something interesting and amazing about me is that I love to interact with people from different nations and learn about their cultures . Apart from this , public speaking is my passion .