There is no shortage of inspiring students who have made an impact in Arts, at UBC, and beyond. This year, we received 117 nominations and are celebrating 60 outstanding students who have become strong leaders and created positive change in their communities and around the world.
These students come from more than 20 different majors across the Faculty of Arts, from Political Science to Media Studies, Art History to Film Production, and many more.
These student leaders held senior roles in student associations like the UBC Alma Mater Society (AMS), the Arts Undergraduate Society (AUS), and various departmental student associations. They showcased student research through journals, participated in experiential learning programs like Arts Co-op and Go Global, helped fellow students succeed through peer academic support. Many also led advocacy efforts on social issues that matter—from climate justice to food security to drug policy to international development and engagement.
We asked each of the following student leaders how their experiences at UBC and beyond shaped their time in UBC Arts, and what they learned along the way.
Award Winners
Learn more about the award winners here:
Outstanding Student Leaders in the Faculty of Arts
- Emma Martin-Rouselle, Sociology
- Harper Xiao, Psychology
Outstanding Student Leaders in the UBC Community
- Kaden Anderson-Hancock, Honours Political Science
- Faith Trottier, Psychology
Outstanding Student Leaders in the UBC Community and Beyond
- Ambihai Akilan, Human Geography
- Maryam Begzhada, Political Science
Award Nominees
Lena Alwash, Psychology
What did you learn about yourself during your time at UBC?
I’ve learned a lot about my resilience and adaptability. University has challenged me in ways I didn’t expect, especially balancing academic pressures with extracurricular involvement and personal growth. I’ve discovered that I thrive when I’m part of a community, whether it’s collaborating with research teams or mentoring peers. My experiences have also shown me the importance of being flexible and open to new perspectives, whether through coursework or working with diverse groups. Overall, UBC has taught me the importance of continuous learning, not just in the classroom but in life. I’ve gained a deeper sense of purpose and clarity in my personal and professional goals, and I’m excited to carry these lessons forward.
Shambhavi Arora, Political Science
What advice would you give to incoming UBC Arts students?
Opportunity is everywhere, waiting to be acted upon. The sheer range of possibilities can feel overwhelming at first, but know that UBC is designed to help you navigate and thrive. From academic resources to wellness support, from clubs to research opportunities, there’s a space for you to grow and explore. Don’t hesitate to reach out, ask questions, and take that first step—whether it’s attending an event, joining a community, or applying for a program. The support is here; you just have to take the initiative to use it. Your journey is yours to shape.
Arundhati Arun Thampi, Political Science
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
Being a Marketing and Communications Assistant with UBC Arts Co-op. As someone from a different culture and country, I struggled to find my place at UBC, especially since I began my studies virtually. I often doubted my capabilities and felt unsure about how to navigate career opportunities. Working at the Arts Co-op office changed that. I was in an environment that encouraged me to explore different opportunities using my own experiences. Through this work, I realized that I wasn’t alone in my uncertainty, many students shared the same fears about their futures, and my contributions helped address these concerns. I gained the confidence to put myself out there, meet new people, and engage with UBC beyond the classroom. It helped me realize that I could shape my own path, and that sense of empowerment has defined my university experience.
Thorn Austin, History and Theatre Studies
What advice would you give to incoming UBC Arts students?
Your greatest asset is being able to ask good questions and talk to people. Take advantage of the wealth of knowledge and experiences this university and the people here offer. Find your community and care for each other while navigating your new experiences. While academics are undoubtedly important, so many other fantastic opportunities await you on campus. Through the good times and the bad, remember your strengths and utilize them for a positive impact.
Aatisha Avasthi, Psychology
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
My Work Learn position with Arts Compass was the most impactful part of my UBC journey. Working on the Career Design Studio (CDS) changed my mindset towards many elements of my degree, motivated me to prototype careers throughout my time at UBC, and introduced me to Design Thinking. I carry the learnings from my time with the Compass in everything I do, including research.
Andie Bartolome, International Economics
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
My time at the UBC Centre for Community Engaged Learning (CCEL) as a Co-op student shaped my career path and the kind of engagements I wanted to ideate and implement for communities. Aside from building the skill of thorough event-planning, organization, and project management, this opportunity allowed me to meaningfully engage with communities on different climate action advocacies and initiatives. Being able to work on the climate crisis with the centre’s supportive environment motivated me to seek out opportunities that were working with the communities that these issues directly affect.
Isidora Basanovic, International Relations
What advice would you give to incoming UBC Arts students?
Step outside your comfort zone and embrace new opportunities! Whether it’s studying abroad through Go Global, joining clubs, extra-curricular activities, or taking on leadership roles, these experiences can be transformative and can open doors you never knew existed.
Getting involved in the campus community will help you build connections, and most importantly will help you learn about yourself. Apply your learning beyond the classroom by taking on internships, getting involved in research projects, and volunteering to bring real-world impact. Most importantly, don’t be afraid to ask for support. There are incredible resources and mentors ready to help you succeed!
Ksenia Belanger, Psychology
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
One of the most impactful opportunities I had during my degree was serving as senior editor for Beacon, UBC’s undergraduate Media Studies journal. It has such a vibrant, interdisciplinary community working behind it, and I loved the reciprocal experience of being an editor, where you get to uplift and evolve someone else’s passion project while also learning something new.
Saanvi Bhambhani, Political Science
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
One of my most memorable experiences would undoubtedly be my role as a Project Assistant with the Phil Lind Initiative at the School of Public Policy and Global Affairs (SPPGA). I had the opportunity to engage with so many incredible figures, providing valuable insight into a wide range of perspectives on the American identity. Each day, I learned more about the intricacies and logistics of planning such large scale, impactful events and the effort it takes to bring such an ambitious project to life. It was an experience I will never forget!
Joshua Bransford, Political Science
What advice would you give to incoming UBC Arts students?
Get involved in extracurriculars early! Sit in the front row of lecture, talk to the professor and go to office hours. Do all the readings because you will get so much out of them. And get your degree requirements done early!
Sam Cheng, Theatre Design & Production
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
Working as an undergraduate academic assistant in various theatre courses greatly impacted my time in UBC. Not only was I given the opportunity to teach students to work safely and efficiently around power tools and heavy-duty equipment, I was also able to be a part in fostering an environment of encouragement and mutual growth. It was an amazing opportunity that allowed me to grow as a person, while getting to know many talented and enthusiastic individuals within UBC.
Jane Christiana, Psychology
What advice would you give to incoming UBC Arts students?
Follow any interest that sparks your curiosity, no matter how small. If you even have a passing thought of joining a club or volunteering, take that first step and follow through. Explore spaces that intrigue you— that is how you begin to weave yourself into the vibrant tapestry of UBC. You’ll discover new passions and build connections along the way.
Isabella Corbet, Honours English Language & Literature
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
Being elected as the honours representative for the UBC English Students Association (ESA) made the biggest impact on my self-confidence during my degree. While I was used to taking on minor leadership roles in my Nation, I had never taken on a leadership role at UBC. Getting elected by the ESA gave me that confidence. It encouraged me to take on a 4-year committee role as a Youth Representative for the Housing Advisory Committee (HAC) in my Nation, and also made me more confident in my work as policy intern, propelling me to request to do more writing and intergovernmental work. The ESA elected position therefore gave me the needed boost to give back to my communities of both UBC and Tsawwassen First Nation (TFN) by taking on more leadership roles. Within those leadership roles, my aim is to encourage future leaders, by promoting education, passion and reciprocity.
Kaitlyn Eng, Psychology
What advice would you give to incoming UBC Arts students?
Step out of your comfort zone and try something new. Exploring interests beyond academics is a great way to meet like-minded people, build connections, and make your university experience that much more memorable.
Varsha Gangadharan, International Relations
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
The opportunity that had the most impact on my time at UBC was my role as a Global Partnerships Associate at the UBC Office of Global Engagement (OGE), during which I worked on the development and expansion of a data management system for UBC’s global partnerships. This experience was deeply impactful because it allowed me to apply both my technical skills and analytical thinking. Further, in my role at OGE, I had the opportunity to assist with the coordination of international delegation and diplomatic visits to UBC, which allowed me to develop a practical understanding of the theoretical concepts I learnt in my classroom.
Sophia Guan, Psychology
What advice would you give to incoming UBC Arts students?
As my art teacher would say, “This is the age of sharp corners.” In UBC Arts, it’s likely that you’ll make a lot of sharp turns, meet dead ends, and have life flipped sideways. I certainly did. Embracing this ambiguity of your university years is precisely what makes it so rewarding. Don’t be afraid to change your mind—you’re still making it up right now!
Kiah Hampton, English Literature
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
I am most proud of my work with UBC Sprouts, where I currently serve as the co-Volunteer Coordinator. In this position, I have maximized my productivity skills, practiced public speaking, and made concrete connections with dozens of community members and local organizations. Food insecurity is such a widespread issue in our UBC community, and it has been an absolute privilege to serve food to the community in a dignified way.
Primo Huang, International Economics
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
Being an Orientation Leader was one of the most impactful experiences during my time at UBC, as it pushed me out of my shell and broadened my understanding of the campus community and its support systems. More importantly, it gave me the confidence to step into other leadership roles, and shape my university journey in ways I never expected.
Hana Destiny Huggins, Film Production
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
The opportunities that I created for myself through Directed Studies programs. Through this I developed my own theatre/film program for kids as well as developed a Radio Show “Film Picnic” that has allowed me to bridge my experience from student to working professional.
Gia Kakkar, Psychology
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
My roles as an Arts Peer Academic Coach and a research assistant in the Department of Psychology have had the most impact on me. They gave me opportunities to grow in ways that extended far beyond my academic pursuits, and a strong sense of purpose. Whether it was supporting individual students in their academic journeys or contributing to impactful research, these experiences taught me the importance of collaboration, adaptability, and compassion, qualities that continue to guide my aspirations and the work I pursue.
Kamil Kanji, Honours Political Science with International Relations
What advice would you give to incoming UBC Arts students?
To incoming Arts students, I would say: get involved. The beauty of a university education is not just the degree, but also the experiences you have along the way. UBC offers an endless array of opportunities to get involved (there’s almost always something that will fulfill your niche and if there isn’t, you can start your own club or organization!). Even if it delays your degree by a little or changes some of your future plans, if you find something, pursue it to the fullest. My various involvements at UBC are where I made truly lifelong friends, learned skills that no person in their 20’s could have imagined needing to develop, and grew into a far more mature person.
Malavika Kannan, Honours Asian Language & Culture (South Asia)
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
My most significant student leadership experience was with Sargam UBC, the South Asian Music Club on campus. As Co-Creative Director, I had the opportunity to curate our annual musical showcase, Raagini, which not only helped me grow as a musician but also allowed me to share music from various regions of the subcontinent with the UBC community.
As Co-President, I streamlined the internal functioning of the team and introduced new initiatives and collaborations. Working alongside some of the most passionate and driven musicians I have ever met was truly inspiring, and I will always cherish the memories and friendships I made through this club!
Haesol Kim, Psychology
What did you learn about yourself during your time at UBC?
I learned so much about myself, both academically and personally. Being at UBC has helped me realize that I thrive in environments where I can learn from others, connect with people from diverse backgrounds, and explore topics that push me to think beyond the surface. I’ve grown not only in my academic pursuits but also as a person, becoming more open to new ideas and perspectives while understanding the importance of personal and global connections.
Annis Lee, Orchestral Instrument
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
My elected term as VP Finance for the Music Undergraduate Society Association (MUSA) had the greatest impact on me during my undergraduate studies. Hosting social events or even just sitting at the booth for locker assignments at the start of the year allowed me to make meaningful and lasting friendships with my colleagues.
Lilly Lester, Honours Art History
What did you learn about yourself during your time at UBC?
I learned to trust my instincts and recognize my own capability. There’s a quiet wisdom that emerges when we let go of doubt and listen to the intuition that guides us, even in uncertain moments. It serves as a reminder that we often know more than we realize, and embracing that inner knowledge can lead to growth and unexpected success.
Jodie Leung, Media Studies
What advice would you give to incoming UBC Arts students?
Your undergraduate experience is what you make of it, so don’t be afraid to put yourself out there! Take time to explore your interests by taking part in the opportunities that come your way (just don’t skip class to do it!). The most transformative experiences can be found when you step outside your comfort zone, so take that first brave step to join a club that intrigues you, attend events that spark your curiosity, or run for leadership roles, even when things may seem intimidating. Having the opportunity to witness and contribute to the great things our student body is capable of is truly a rewarding experience. You might find that the communities you build here become one of the most valuable parts of your university journey.
Ethan Lui, International Relations
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
Being involved with the Arts Undergraduate Society (AUS) was the most impactful opportunity during my time at UBC. The endless connections, friends, and learning opportunities from the AUS really allowed me to grow as a student and find my place on campus. Because of the AUS, I was able to see myself become a more creative, confident, and responsible leader while giving back to the community. Importantly, seeing our collective impact on the community as students through AUS events and initiatives was truly empowering.
Shannon May Craig, Psychology
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on your during your time at UBC?
Taking on a role with greater responsibility in the lab, one that required leading a team of research assistants, helped grow my confidence in my skills as a leader. It helped me realize that the leadership skills I had gained outside of academia still translated to my work at UBC.
Sidney Nedelmann, Psychology
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
Volunteering at AMS Peer Support has definitely shaped how I think about leadership. I’ve learned that being a leader isn’t about having all of the answers—it’s about creating a space where people feel heard, supported, and empowered to navigate their own challenges. It’s so important to help people feel less alone in what they’re going through, and my time at Peer Support has really strengthened my commitment to mental health advocacy and making support more accessible.
Talia Neelis, Ancient Mediterranean & Near Eastern Studies
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
My most impactful leadership opportunity at UBC has been my role as Editor-in-Chief of the Ancient Mediterranean & Near Eastern Studies department’s undergraduate journal, Logos (and creating its blog counterpart, Blogos). In this role, I aim to foster a space for all students to engage in conversations that acknowledge our discipline’s ongoing colonial legacy. I’ve also been working with the UBC Library to make issues of Logos publicly accessible to people from a range of academic backgrounds, in order to share commentaries on the field’s imperial historiography by diverse scholarly voices.
Tamano Nishida, International Relations
What did you learn about yourself during your time at UBC?
My experience at UBC – from navigating cultural transitions during my summer abroad term at Yonsei University in South Korea to having multiple work experiences on campus through Work Learn and Co-op programs – taught me that it was truly up to me to decide how I wanted to shape my life. Every opportunity led to another and shaped who I am today. These experiences taught me the importance of embracing new opportunities and continuously learning along the way.
Kira Ptak, Interdisciplinary Studies
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
My time working with Sprouts. Sprouts provides on-the-ground food security support to UBC students, faculty, staff, and wider community alike. Meeting people from all walks of life, with such a dazzling array of stories, experiences, and insights was both humbling and inspiring. The Sprouts events, Semi-Annual General Meetings, and even casual chats over a bowl of stew showed me just how powerful community-building around shared values can be.
Valentina Ramirez, International Economics
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
Leading a student seminar for undergrad students was one of the biggest lessons in my UBC journey. I remember our first session, seeing students lean forward in their chairs, and discuss ideas they had never been given the space to explore. I had built a door, but UBC students were the ones who stepped through it. At the end of the day, I learned that leadership is not standing at the front but knowing when to step aside and let someone else’s voice fill the space. It is the quiet knowledge that you have given others something you once longed for yourself. It is watching them find their place and realizing, in that moment, that you have found yours too.
Thea Sheridan-Jonah, Political Science and Indigenous Studies
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
In my first year I joined a club called Canadian Students for Sensible Drug Policy (CSSDP). We led a panel on decriminalization because many advocates were working toward full decriminalization at the time. We bring our organizing work on and off campus—for example, right now we are leading a petition for healthcare workers to pledge not to force people into involuntary “care” just for substance use. This, and most of what we do, has happened because of the genuine community we have built and the care that everyone I am honoured to work with puts into it. Harm reduction, to me, is a principle that can be applied almost everywhere, because everyone deserves dignity and autonomy and no one deserves harm. The panel was what showed me the value of working in community, and truly loving the community you are a part of enough to try to change the world around us all.
Stuti Sheth, Cognitive Systems
What did you learn about yourself during your time at UBC?
Leadership is not just about making decisions—it’s about creating spaces where others feel comfortable sharing their ideas. I also discovered my love for discussing complex, even controversial topics. I thrive in spaces where ideas can be challenged, debated, and refined. These experiences have solidified my passion for research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and fostering inclusive academic environments. My journey at UBC has shaped me into a more open-minded and intentional leader, committed to bringing diverse voices to the table and creating meaningful change.
Saad Shoaib, History
What advice would you give to incoming UBC Arts students?
Embrace every opportunity—both inside and outside the classroom. Your degree is more than just courses and grades; it is a gateway to exploring new ideas, building meaningful connections, and making a tangible impact on your community. University is about learning but the greatest lessons often come from the challenges you face outside of lectures. But do not rush the journey. It is easy to feel pressure to have everything figured out, but growth takes time. Your Arts degree will give you the critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills you need to thrive. What you do with these skills is up to you – make the most of it and seize the moment.
Laura Silveira, History
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
As editor-in-chief of the Journal of Historical Studies, it has been incredibly rewarding to collaborate with such a talented team of editors to enhance our peers’ historical writing skills!
Breanna Spence, Political Science
What advice would you give to incoming UBC Arts students?
Deep breath – it will all work out.
Josh Tan, Psychology
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
The most impactful student leadership opportunity during my time at UBC was my Work Learn position as an Arts Peer Advisor with Arts Academic Advising. It was both exciting and rewarding being able to apply my knowledge of academic policy to help students with their degree planning at the front reception. Being able to work with the dedicated advisors and staff who all share the same passion as I do for supporting students, has inspired me to want to continue helping others in my future career.
Naton Ting, Urban Studies
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
Being a student staff at the AMS was the most impactful role I held at UBC. Helping rebuild the student club community post-pandemic was really rewarding, and that every club executive I can assist is someone that can further impact the experiences of ten to over a hundred UBC students. I also really appreciate working alongside other passionate student staff, and the practical work experiences I gained throughout!
Tomas Vanderkam, Honours Psychology
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
Serving as President of the UBC Ukrainian Students Union. In this role, I have organized guest lectures, advocacy events, and collaborations with national organizations to support Ukraine and raise awareness on campus. Coordinating efforts with NGOs, academic institutions, and student leaders has challenged me to think strategically, manage complex initiatives, and build a strong, engaged community. This experience has deepened my leadership skills, reinforced my commitment to meaningful advocacy, and shown me the power of student-led initiatives in driving real-world impact.
Michael Vento, Political Science
What did you learn about yourself during your time at UBC?
During my time at UBC, I learned that I am an advocate. Being a student leader means advocating for yourself, your goals, and the welfare of the students you represent. I learned that I couldn’t allow others to drag me down or permit setbacks to keep me grounded. Courage is conviction, and at times I found it pivotal to be my own biggest supporter.
Alexei L. Villareal, Honours English Literature
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
Being a part of the Sustainability Ambassadors program will always be a highlight of my time at UBC (shout out to the Climate and Movement team). In this role, I discovered not only my passion for promoting climate justice, but also the importance of collaboration and dialogue to this work. I was able to witness how experience and knowledge can join together to create meaningful and positive change. Multiple perspectives are necessary for working towards climate action. I am so lucky to have worked alongside dedicated and like-minded individuals whose experiences have changed the way I see the relationship between myself and the land beneath my feet.
Valarmathi Vishnu, International Relations
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
Serving as Co-President of the International Relations Student Association (IRSA) has been incredibly impactful during my time at UBC. Leading a large team had its challenges, but it taught me a lot about navigating team dynamics, building partnerships, and mentorship. I’ve had the chance to meet so many inspiring individuals and help IR students explore new academic and professional opportunities. Stepping into this role in my final year felt like a full-circle moment at times and was a great chance to reflect and also give back to the same community that shaped so much of my own university experience.
Lulu Wang, Honours Sociology
What did you learn about yourself during your time at UBC?
I learned that I was capable of more than I initially thought, and that real growth happens when you step outside your comfort zone. You can change and grow so much in just a few years. Looking back, I’ve realized how much I’ve evolved academically, personally and professionally. I also learned the importance of adaptability. University is full of unexpected challenges, many of which are beyond your control. Most importantly, I’ve come to understand that growth isn’t about having all the answers. Learning is a continuous journey, and I’m embracing it with open arms as I graduate. Tuum Est!
Ryenne Wen, Anthropology
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
Volunteering with Go Global as a Global Ambassador, I had the privilege of meeting and helping students have their own transformative experiences studying abroad. Coming home from a semester in Seoul, I felt a sense of self-assurance and eagerness to give back to the program. I had the opportunity to support both outgoing UBC students and incoming exchange students, all while working alongside a passionate and involved team of student leaders. My time with Go Global has been especially rewarding as it allowed me to explore my passion for building connections and cultural exchange, one which I hope to continue post-graduation!
Milan Wiertz, Honours Political Science and International Relations
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
My role as VP Academic for the Political Science Students’ Association (PSSA) has been one of the most rewarding and personally meaningful positions I’ve had the pleasure of fulfilling at UBC. Beyond becoming involved with the Political Science Department to represent student perspectives, I’ve had the opportunity to oversee the PSSA’s student development-oriented initiatives. It has been incredible to see how well the team has succeeded in delivering exciting and meaningful initiatives to the student body.
Leean Wu, Honours English Language & Literature
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
My work as a peer mentor and teaching assistant for UBC’s Coordinated Arts Program has made a great impact on me as I hope to become a high school teacher, and the experience helped me better understand students’ struggles, hopes, and experiences.
Viaan Wu, English Language & Literature
What student leadership opportunity had the most impact on you during your time at UBC?
My time as an Undergraduate Academic Assistant with the Faculty of Arts First-Year and Interdisciplinary Programs has had the most impact on me because I have met so many wonderful people who work tirelessly and passionately on projects to benefit the students of the programs. I consider my colleagues as friends, and they inspire me all the time with their diligence and hard work. As a Coordinated Arts Program alum, it feels extra special that I am now working behind the scenes of that program to help new students have as memorable of an experience as I did.
Yik Khai Yew, International Economics
What did you learn about yourself during your time at UBC?
Synergies exist everywhere, you just have to be intentional in fostering relationships and trust for them to show up. I learned the importance of trust, the power of empowerment, and the fulfilment of succeeding together.
Rebecca Zhang, Economics
What advice would you give to incoming UBC Arts students?
Make the most of the vast resources and opportunities available to you. UBC is more than just a place to take classes, it’s a community filled with experiences that can shape your academic and personal growth in ways you might not expect. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Some of the most rewarding experiences come from taking risks, whether it’s studying abroad or applying for a position you think is out of reach.
