Introducing the inspiring group of students who have impacted communities within Arts, at UBC, and beyond. In 2024, we received 102 nominations and celebrate 74 students who have brought forth a wealth of interdisciplinary skills, demonstrating the incredible leadership and capacity our students have to improve their communities and the world.
These students come from over 32 different majors that are represented within the Faculty of Arts, ranging from First Nations and Endangered Languages to Media Studies, Philosophy, Visual Arts, and many more.
These student leaders held senior positions in student associations including the UBC Alma Mater Society, the Arts Undergraduate Society, and departmental student associations. They supported research in the Indigenous Undergraduate Research Mentorship Program, developed advocacy campaigns through the Human Rights Collective, conducted seminars, and jumpstarted new initiatives such as the Ukrainian Student Union. They extended their service leadership through positions with the AMS Sexual Assault Centre, Peer Programs, Athletics, and beyond.
To learn more about their experiences and reflections as student leaders, we asked the winners and nominees how these opportunities have impacted and shaped their undergraduate journeys in their time as UBC Arts students.
Award Winners
Learn more about the award winners here:
Outstanding Student Leaders in the Faculty of Arts
- Ashley Haines, International Relations
- Hannah Stengler, Ancient Mediterranean and Near Eastern Studies and Religious Studies
- Trinity Stephens, Psychology
Outstanding Student Leaders in the UBC Community
- Viola Chao, Psychology
- Alancia Jeffery, History
- Kenneth Lao, Honours in Sociology
Outstanding Student Leaders in the UBC Community and Beyond
- Sagorika Haque
Award Nominees
Kiran Bhana, History
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
The student leadership experience that has shaped me most profoundly has been my time with the Thunderbird Marching Band. I’ve had to learn a lot about organization, to keep track of moving pieces such as event requests and rehearsal planning. I’ve also had to develop the ability to make long-term plans, so that I can plan larger events a little at a time. I’ve had the privilege of meeting, befriending, working with, and learning from people with a broad array of perspectives. I’ve been able to interact with audiences ranging from sports crowds to fundraiser attendees, which has pushed me as a musician and a leader to learn how to plan for and perform to many different audiences.
What advice would you give to incoming UBC Arts students?
Do not be afraid to try new things that interest you! If a club seems interesting, attend a meeting or an event. If a course looks intriguing, try it out! If your professor mentions something during a lecture that draws your attention, they are probably eager to discuss more with you at office hours. University is about academics, but it is equally about the experiences you gain in meeting new people and learning from them.
Zoë Bigelow, Speech Sciences
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
The most impactful leadership opportunity as a Course Support Work Learn with the Department of Asian Studies was being brought onto the scheduling team. I love my job, so it felt amazing that the department trusted me enough to take up more responsibility. Working as part of a team has been amazing, as I love the collaborative effort of working together to solve issues and create new things.
Gavin Boothroyd, Philosophy and Political Science
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
The experience that stands out is my time captaining a competitive intramural soccer team for the last four years at UBC. I was able to put together a roster for each term, help structure a squad in the games, encourage players from a wide range of skills to develop in outdoor and indoor tournaments, and provide a social outlet for my team. This was a leadership role that felt like a natural fit and was one that I found to be challenging yet highly rewarding.
What message do you have for your graduating peers?
It has been a pleasure to share lecture halls and seminar rooms with you. The various projects, in-class discussions, and perspectives have all helped shape my intellectual interests and I will carry these experiences far beyond my undergraduate years. Best of luck with all your future endeavours!
Emmanuel Cantiller, Political Science
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
I have had the honour of being on the UBC Vancouver Senate as the Arts Student Senator! I have had the privilege of advocating and fighting for students during COVID and the transition back to in-person classes, as well as strengthening ties and advocacy efforts with the Arts Undergraduate Society. I will treasure the memories made in my efforts to leave a positive impact on the student community.
What did you learn about yourself at UBC?
I have learned to trust myself and to trust the process. Every experience is a growth opportunity! Good things take time! Rejection is redirection! My time in university has had its ups and downs, and overcoming the challenges I faced made me reflect and discover myself. Being resilient is one of the strongest attributes one could have. I have gotten to where I am by learning that I am capable, passionate, positive, and resilient! My experiences have been fostered by the communities I was a part of, the mentors that guided me, and the friends that shared my passions. All of these pushed me to become the best I could be, and I wish to give back to others when given the chance.
Himali Chhabra, Psychology and Economics
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
Leading the UBC Music Initiative as its President hugely shaped my UBC experience. As a singer, music is my joy. I led our team through the transition back to in-person activities post-pandemic. We hosted events that brought students together, fostering a community spirit at a much needed time. Our commitment to giving back to society through events offered comfort to many, including myself.
What advice would you give to incoming UBC Arts students?
Your time at UBC is truly yours to shape. Engage actively—join clubs, attend events and meet new people. Don’t hesitate to create your own path. Invest yourself fully in whatever you commit to; your passion and dedication will shine through. Lastly, be sure to explore UBC’s vast resources like Arts Co-op, entrepreneurship and research opportunities.
Erin Co, International Economics
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
Serving as Vice President External Affairs at the UBC Alma Mater Society (AMS) was a defining experience. It wasn’t just a title, it was a platform to drive meaningful change. From successfully advocating for free prescription contraceptives to affordable housing, everyday was a lesson in strategic planning, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement. This experience solidified my belief in the impact of student leadership.
Amelia Creemer, English language and literature
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
The leadership opportunity that most impacted me was my time as a senior orientation leader for UBC Arts. Leading a small group of peers allowed me to build my leadership skills, giving me the confidence to take on more responsibility, such as being the editor-in-chief for the Geography Students’ Association’s Trail Six: Undergraduate Journal of Geography.
What did you learn about yourself during your time at UBC?
Starting at UBC during the pandemic brought a myriad of unexpected challenges. Navigating these uncertainties taught me resilience and showed me I was capable of so much more than I thought. I’ve learned the importance of taking time for myself, that it’s ok to ask for help, and that the people around you make all the difference. These lessons will continue to guide me on my next adventures.
Laura Derby, Anthropology
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
Running The Ethnograph: The Journal of Anthropological Studies reminded me of the importance in using the platforms you have available to you to speak up, against, and in support within the realm of academia. The system is an oppressive one, and it contradicts itself constantly, so the spaces we carve out for ourselves are intimate and important. It’s so fulfilling to uplift our peers and create the support we read and dream of!
What advice would you give to incoming UBC Arts students?
Experience your community in every way you can, from visiting colloquium talks to attending the various community centre events. Take advantage of the library’s recommended shelf, and discover on-campus live music! You learn so much more by seeking out new experiences, and it can be both thrilling and exciting when you find those corners of community that feel like home for you.
Anneke Dresselhuis, Visual Arts and Economics & Informatics
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
Being a part of UBC’s Gender+ in Research Collective was an incredibly formative experience for me. Through this opportunity, I was able to research alongside an interdisciplinary team of scholars and learned how to bring my whole self to my work. The collaborative, research, and presentation skills I developed during this opportunity continue to benefit my work today.
What did you learn about yourself during your time at UBC?
My time at UBC helped me hone in on, and cultivate my affinity for interdisciplinary learning. Despite the fact that the university is institutionally set up to push learners to specializations and niches, I realized that I love to think from the margins and interstices of knowledge. Drawing from those areas was where some of my best work came from.
Luke Forrester, Honours Psychology
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
My work and volunteering at the AMS Sexual Assault Support Centre totally transformed my leadership style. I learned that striving to “prove myself” meant I was role modelling a fear of failure, rather than a love for spiritual growth. By shifting my work ethic to embrace emotional authenticity and collaboration, I was able to learn to lead without relying too much on hierarchy.
What advice would you give to incoming UBC Arts students?
University is as much a place for you to learn about yourself as it is to learn about any academic discipline. Self-compassion will get you further than you think in times of high stress. Stay curious about what you are learning beneath the surface!
Bruno Graneiro, Philosophy
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
Serving as President at the UBC Philosophy Students’ Association (PSA) has been the most impactful leadership role for me at UBC. I joined the club relatively unmotivated and with a passing interest in philosophy. Now at the end of my degree, I’ve completely fallen in love with the subject and made most of my friends through the club. I was honored when I was presented with the opportunity to lead the club. Together with my co-president, Emily Mann, we led the club into a healthier place of higher potential than ever and are proud to pass the torch to the next generation of philosophers.
Romina Hajizadeh, International Relations
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
While every student leadership opportunity has had a unique and strong impact on me, my roles in academic mentorship with Arts Peer Academic Coaches (APAC) and as a Teaching Assistant feel particularly relevant as I reflect on these past four years. These experiences allowed me to engage in a collective learning process centred around community, making my time at UBC a profoundly positive and extremely memorable experience.
What message do you have for your graduating peers?
Another day, another slay! To my graduating peers, you are all seriously so amazing. I am always in awe whenever I speak to you all. You have worked so hard and accomplished so much, and for that alone I hope you’re proud of yourselves as we say goodbye to this chapter. I am looking forward to seeing all the amazing things you will do beyond UBC.
Dafne Kaynak, Human Geography
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
My role as President of the Geography Students’ Association (GSA) allowed me to create a vibrant, supportive community within the geography department while challenging me to grow personally and professionally. Leading the GSA was a rewarding experience filled with advocating for student needs, fostering a sense of belonging among geography students and making meaningful connections.
What did you learn about yourself during your time at UBC?
My university journey taught me the value of positivity and building connections. Embracing challenges as opportunities, I discovered the importance of a supportive community and finding your people. This experience showed me that with optimism, resilience, and nurturing relationships, I can overcome obstacles to achieve my goals. This is something I will continue to do after my years at UBC.
Jamie Logue, Psychology
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
Being a Totem Park Residence Advisor was the most impactful leadership experience I had at UBC, as this involvement enabled me to connect with so many other incredible student leaders and organizations on campus. Supporting students in their transition to UBC life was not only rewarding, but also helped me better understand the various issues students were facing, which guided me in my future leadership pursuits at UBC.
What advice would you give to incoming UBC Arts students?
Academics are important, but they don’t have to define your experience at UBC. There is a wealth of opportunities available for students to get involved in the broader UBC community and make a positive impact on other individuals. I would encourage new students to seek out involvement opportunities that excite them and remind them that they are more capable and resilient than they might think.
Sushmita Mahadani, Honours Psychology
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
There is a diverse number of opportunities at UBC that have positively impacted me, such as conducting my honours thesis within the Mental Health Systems and Services Lab, being a Work Learn student in the Department of Psychology, engaging with the arts community as an Arts Peer Academic Coach and Imagine Day Orientation Leader. Additionally, being involved in clubs such as UBC Psi Chi, Campus Lightbox, UBC Launchpad, and the Arts Undergraduate Society also provided me meaningful experiences within a variety of different campus communities.
Manjot Mangat, Honours Sociology
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
Among the opportunities I’ve had the pleasure of being a part of, my time at the Human Rights Collective (HRC) stands out. Working alongside my peers in teams, I had the privilege to advocate for various human rights cases. This experience significantly broadened my perspective on human rights cases, reaffirming my commitment to pursuing a career in this field.
What did you learn about yourself during your time at UBC?
I underwent significant self-discovery, particularly relating to my passions and career aspirations. Initially uncertain about my path upon entering university, I have found clarity through the support of my amazing department and engagement in extracurricular activities. Thanks to these experiences, I was able to refine my career goals and set a clearer trajectory for my future.
Nicole Mendoza, Honours Political Science and International Relations
What advice would you give to incoming UBC Arts students?
Be strong and courageous in all you do. Your degree is what you make of it, so be bold and get involved in the UBC community whether it be through research, student clubs, or campus events. You may feel unqualified or incapable at times, but where there is passion and determination, the rest will certainly fall into place.
Artem Meshcherin, Honours Philosophy
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
Without a doubt, being a seminar coordinator taught me more than I have ever learned in any of my other courses or leadership positions. Creating and leading a seminar was one of the most rewarding initiatives I have taken, and I appreciated how UBC provided me with a unique and catered opportunity to showcase my capabilities.
Deeandra Miranda, Music Education
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
I deeply appreciated the growth I’ve experienced from all of the leadership opportunities that I’ve had the privilege of being a part of, but a highlight is definitely my time with the Music Undergraduate Student Association. I felt incredibly connected with the music community, and extremely fulfilled by the work we put in to help new students feel at home at the School of Music.
What did you learn about yourself during your time at UBC?
My time at UBC has taught me to trust myself and my own path. I’ve built a lot of confidence just by pushing myself to do one thing a day that scared me, whether it was attending a social event or applying for a club or leadership opportunity, the possibilities for growth are endless if you are willing to push yourself beyond your comfort zone.
Golsa Moazedi, Psychology and Law & Society
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
My 3-year long involvement with the Arts Undergraduate Society (AUS) has been an invaluable part of my UBC experience and has left an incredible impact on me. In my varying positions, from Coordinator to Vice President Internal, I’ve met so many student leaders who also wanted to build a strong community of Arts students and foster bonds. I was able to work alongside my peers to build and grow our vision of a community.
What did you learn about yourself during your time at UBC?
My time at UBC has taught me how capable I am when I push myself beyond my comfort zone. If you had told me in my first year that in the next few years I would be able to speak to over 170 people in a lecture hall, I would have never believed you. I am grateful that I have been able to discover my passion for literature and advocacy during my time at UBC!
Helia Moghaddam, Honours English Language and Literature
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
Definitely representing the UBC Vice-President’s office at the LeaderShape National Institute in Dover, Massachusetts. Participating in equity, diversity, and inclusion workshops with students from all around the world was so enriching. If not for this opportunity, I would not have been exposed to the great leadership qualities of other institutions that we can integrate into UBC!
What advice would you give to incoming UBC Arts students?
Don’t be afraid to try new things. There is so much community to be found at this institution. Taking advantage of the wealth of opportunities will encourage your growth and introduce you to individuals from all walks of life!
Sabrina Moshenko, Sociology
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
The most impactful initiative I undertook at UBC was hosting online beading circles during the COVID-19 pandemic. Having this digital space for Indigenous students, staff, and faculty to come together regularly helped combat the isolation that was so common during the time. And when we were finally able to move our beading to in person, it made the experience that much more special!
What advice would you give to incoming UBC Arts students?
Remember that your degree doesn’t have to be a race to the finish line. Be sure to enjoy everything this university has to offer you!
Jack Mosher, Theatre Design and Production
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
Organizing community events through theatre greatly impacted my time at UBC. Using tools I’ve cultivated in my degree to create and foster community within UBC has allowed me to grow as a person while offering others a chance to create connections in university, which often feels like a daunting and isolating experience.
What did you learn about yourself during your time at UBC?
I learned that I can hold much more than I thought I could, and that there’s a strength to variety. In the first couple of years at UBC, I was very focussed on my theatre courses, but in the last two years, I’ve begun to branch out into different disciplines and areas of study. I have found that these courses have enriched my theatre practice, and that my theatre background allows me to bring something new into these courses as well.
Chloe Pan, Sociology and Economics
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
My time with the Sociology Students’ Association (SSA) as the Vice-President External and Co-President was especially impactful as I built friendships and fostered community. I was also able to make incredible memories as the Co-Chair of the Multidisplinary Undergraduate Research Conference (MURC), which allowed me to take on new responsibilities and challenge myself.
What did you learn about yourself during your time at UBC?
I learned to be receptive to change and to take things one step at a time. It is easy to get overwhelmed and doubt yourself, but sometimes you just need to take a deep breath and focus on the issues in front of you. Sometimes, there is nothing you can do to change the situation but you can change how you react and respond, and how you allow yourself to adapt.
Cecilia Raweater, First Nations and Indigenous Studies
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
The student leadership opportunity that had the most impact on me was my role as a UBC Indigenous Student Ambassador with the UBC Indigenous Recruitment Department for four consecutive years.
What advice would you give to incoming UBC Arts students?
The advice I want to offer is specific to Indigenous students entering UBC. Everyday is going to feel like a battle, but you belong here. Your very presence on this campus is creating an impact and making a change.
Siavash Salamatian, Honours Political Science
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
As President of one of the AMS political clubs for two years, I gained leadership and organizational skills that only develop through leading a team of people. It was especially rewarding to be able to connect fellow UBC students to a variety of career opportunities in the world of politics, and overcoming partisan differences through co-hosting events with other political clubs at UBC.
What message do you have for your graduating peers?
We did it, but this is just the beginning! For some of us, undergrad has been a stop in our academic journey, and for others it has opened the door for new work experiences or opportunities. Whatever your story is, we all share a period of intense growth and self-reflection at UBC. I hope we can continue to rely on each other as we apply the things we’ve learned and contribute to a bigger world.
Danika Shaw, First Nations and Endangered Languages
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
Partaking in 2 years of the Indigenous Undergraduate Research Mentorship program has helped me discover my capability in participating in research, and in a way that remains aligned with my community’s revitalization goals. I feel confident that I can take the initiative to lead de-colonial research practices in my community and offer new resources to assist us in our work towards language reclamation.
What did you learn about yourself during your time at UBC?
I learned and harnessed the power of my voice. I am grateful that I had such encouraging and supportive professors who helped me build courage in expressing my needs and asking for what I want. Being able to express these aspects is an underrated life skill. Today, I feel confident that I can move through life voicing my thoughts, questions, and concerns without hesitation.
Anna Shubina, Media Studies
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on your during your time at UBC?
I founded the Ukrainian Student Union, which has been one of the most impactful leadership experiences I have gained. In my role as President, I advocated for Ukrainian representation at UBC and established a supportive space for students impacted by the full-scale invasion. This experience was essential in building my leadership skills, and I am so grateful to have played a part in making a change for the campus community.
Veronica Surette, International Relations and Gender, Race, Sexuality, & Justice
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
During my role as a Peer Advisor within the Arts Indigenous Student Advising (AISA) team, I was able to co-develop and lead the pilot of the Indigenous Mentorship Program with Rachelle, a student from the Indigenous Leadership Collective. Together, we organized a group of peer mentors and mentees to make space for collective sharing and community building through workshops and events. Seeing peers in the Indigenous community step up to provide the first years with advice and expertise, and the investment in community building demonstrated by the first years was such a heartwarming experience.
What advice would you give to incoming UBC Arts students?
Put yourself out there and take risks! Whether that be academically, socially, or career-wise, always set big goals and do not underestimate what you are capable of.
Jessica Tosh, Economics
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
Leading UBC UNICEF as President taught me the importance of being a caring leader who takes a personal interest in team members. Understanding their skills and interests enabled me to tailor responsibilities to individual talents, thereby surpassing fundraising goals and building a strong community. The experience and skills I’ve learned will carry forward into my professional work.
Zainab Zahra, International Relations
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
Being a classroom volunteer for an introductory Russian language course allowed me to bring my passion for teaching and education into the university sphere. My involvement allowed me to connect directly with the student body, encourage life-long learning, and help foster meaningful interactions between students through language acquisition. By showing leadership in a classroom setting, I’ve learned firsthand how impactful it is to be a student leader who is present and supportive of other students’ goals, and how it can positively influence a student’s university experience.
What advice would you give to incoming UBC Arts students?
University is one of the most life-changing experiences you can have, but change only happens when we take initiative. One’s effort sparks impact, and effort stems from genuine curiosity and a deep desire to see change. I urge incoming students to step beyond their comfort zone, and to take classes of interest no matter how daunting they may appear. Be open-minded to meeting different types of people, and learn from their experiences and perspectives along the way.
Recognized Leaders within the Arts Community
The following graduating students were also recognized by their peers, advisors, mentors, and professors for their extraordinary leadership within the Faculty of Arts.
Pranav Aatreya, International Economics
AJ Akachuk, French Language, Literatures, and Cultures
Lily Anderson, Linguistics
Izzie Bjonness-Jacobsen, Interdisciplinary Studies
Joshua Boyd, Economics and Mathematics
Reneyah Brown, International Economics
Jeremy Cruz, Psychology
Anoushka Gauta, Honours Political Science and International Relations
Grace Hobby, Speech Sciences
Shaan Hooey, International Economics
Jahnvi Jaiswal, International Economics
Ida Kazemtabrizi, Linguistics
Justin Kim, International Economics
Georgia Krombein, Psychology
Isabela Lucas Moraes, International Economics
Kimi McDiarmid, Linguistics
Megan Mezera, Chemistry
Harlow Nguyen, Theatre Design and Production
Khushi Nilesh Patil, Linguistics
Nolan Petroff, International Economics
April Poy, Linguistics
Ryan Sastra, International Economics
Yasmine Semeniuk, Honours Art History
Lexia Suite, Linguistics
Hao Ton That, International Economics
Albena Vassileva, International Economics
Delaney Westby, Linguistics
Rachel Yang, International Economics
Kassy Zhou, International Economics
