2023 Letter Awards

Throughout my time at UTSC, I have had the privilege of being part of a vibrant and inclusive campus. My contribution to campus life came through organizing events and promoting a close-knit community feeling at UTSC. I have organized TEDx conferences, lead FSGs, represented UTSC on the international stage as a Student Ambassador and represented international students by being a part of the student body. I am passionate about education which is shown through my work for the Department of Biological Sciences. I made sure to provide a safe and welcoming place for all students. As this chapter of my life comes to an end, I am confident about the skills I gained and excited to see what the future holds!

Throughout their time at UTSC, Amanda has been committed to serving the people within their community through disability justice advocacy and student support. Their most notable contributions include creating a disability access map of the Accommodated Tests & Exams Centre and assisting in the redesign of the University’s websites to be more accessible. Amanda has also worked as a Teaching Assistant, Invigilator for students with disabilities, and Residence Advisor, where they have supported hundreds of students in their academic and post-secondary journeys. Amanda will be graduating in June 2023 with an HBSc degree. After graduation, Amanda hopes to continue serving the people through community organizing with Anakbayan Scarborough.

Andrew D’Amario is graduating with a specialization in Computer Science, a major in Mathematics, and a minor is Astronomy and Astrophysics. He has thoroughly enjoyed his studies at UTSC and is extremely thankful for the amazing professors who have greatly inspired him. Andrew is well known for his passion, joy, and enthusiasm as a Tutor and TA, and for the extra sessions and genuine care he has for each of the hundreds of students he is grateful to have helped in some way. During the pandemic he created a server “code-it” to help bring CMS students together. Among his many aspirations, making a positive difference in the world is his greatest goal.

Anika Munir, a recent graduate from the University of Toronto Scarborough, holds a Bachelor's degree with a double major in Public Policy and City Studies. Anika is highly dedicated to the fields of urban planning, real estate, policy, and infrastructure. Her commitment to fostering sustainable and equitable cities has driven her to pursue a career focused on expanding her knowledge and expertise in these areas. During her time at UTSC she was the president of the Geography and City Studies Association (GCSA), Director of Human Geography in the student union, Vice President of communication at the University of Toronto Mindfulness Association, did various research roles and participated in research competitions. Anika has been highly involved in campus life here at UTSC and she continues to be an active member volunteering in the Scarbrough community. When Anika is not working or volunteering she enjoys participating in physical activities like going to the gym and canoeing, as well as indulging in reading.

Throughout my time at UTSC, I have aimed to leave a meaningful legacy that enhances the overall university experience for all students. I served as a governor on UofT’s Governing Council, VP External for the Political Science Students’ Association, Student Mentor for ArriveUTSC, Accessibility Services volunteer, and keynote speaker at the UTSC Recovery College at the Ontario Shores Centre. I spearheaded impactful projects that empowered and united students to foster a vibrant and inclusive campus environment. I encourage all students to take an active role in our university! It’s nice to be recognized but better to make a positive difference!

Ashley Heng is a multidisciplinary artist and will be graduating from the Arts Management Specialist Program with a Double Minor in Music & Culture and Media Studies. With experience working in both English and Mandarin Arts, she is extremely passionate about how the performing arts touch and connect the lives of individuals, to transcend physical and literary boundaries. During her undergraduate studies, she sought out many opportunities with a variety of different roles, such as ARTSIDEOUT, UTSC Cheerleading, UTSC Drama Society, UofT Drama Coalition and Music 303, with the goal of creating a welcoming community for expression and positive spirit.

I completed a double major in Human Biology and Neuroscience. Over the past few years, I have served as a First Year Peer, FLC Leader and Program Assistant for the First Year Experience team, helping First Year students. I have also been part of the Medical Education Initiative Organization, both as a Vice President of Operations as well as the President of the organization. I have also served as the coordinator for BrainWaves UTSC, a club that educates elementary school classes about the importance of the brain, and brain injury prevention. I have also been a part of Neuroaxis UTSC.

Fatima has been involved on campus from the moment she started her undergrad, starting as a first-year representative for several clubs including MoveU and then mentoring incoming first-year students as a First-Year Representative in her second-year. Notably, she held these positions: team lead for MoveU, Co-president for the Psychology and Neuroscience Departmental Students’ Association, Trainer for HOSA Public Health, Campus Program Coordinator for one of the Wellness Peer Programs at the Health and Wellness Centre, and an elected member on the governance council. Fatima is committed to facilitating student wellbeing and her friendly presence has allowed her to inspire others to assume leadership roles to contribute to campus life.

Maduomethaa committed to fostering a supportive campus community throughout her undergraduate years. As a Health & Wellness Centre Peer Educator, she contributed to disseminating relevant health information to students. With the support of the UofT Engagement Award, she co-launched the music album Seasons; which aimed to connect students through music that reflected both challenges and self-growth experienced amidst the pandemic. Further, as a mentor with the Academic Student Center (ASC), Maduomethaa empowered first-year students to holistically approach academics, community involvement, and self-care. She also held other roles, such as being a Program Manager with United for Literacy, UCheck Ambassador and student researcher in the Authentic Learning Lab, where she initiated focus-group discussions on lived experiences of second-generation immigrant students. These experiences and skills she has gained are invaluable, which she knowingly will continue to develop in her future career.

Mahnoor Khan, also known as MK, held executive positions in over six student associations. Notably, she served as the simultaneous Co-President of PNDA and BioSA during her final undergraduate year. She helped rejuvinate both DSAs and facilitated the execution of numerous research, career, destressor, and networking events over her three-year tenure with these organizations, empowering students in both departments and fostering collaboration. She actively contributed to the Muslims' Student Association, Global Brigades UTSC, and various mentorship programs dedicated to helping first-year students. Mahnoor's unwavering dedication to mentorship and student support serves as a testament to her profound commitment to UTSC.

Nahidha is graduating an HBSc in Environmental Chemistry at UTSC in 2023. From her first year, she was eager to be involved in the UTSC community, which led her to join student groups such as the Environmental and Physical Sciences Students’ Association and the Chemistry Society. In addition, she was a Student Ambassador, a facilitated study group leader, and a teaching assistant. In all these positions, she was able to support her fellow students in different capacities.

Nisa Rahman, a dedicated student at the University of Toronto Scarborough (UTSC), has made significant contributions to campus life. As President of Students of English Literature and Film (SELF), Nisa organized events fostering intellectual growth and community among students. Engaging with MoveU, she promoted physical activity and wellness on campus. Her role as VP Academics of SELF allowed her to support fellow students through academic resources and mentoring programs. Nisa's participation in Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) UTSC as a Co-trainer showcased her passion for public health and strengthened her critical thinking skills. Additionally, her involvement in the International Development Conference and contributions to the Law Society of UTSC's publications demonstrate her commitment to global development and social justice issues. Nisa's diverse range of experiences and skills reflect her dedication to making a positive impact on the campus community and beyond.

Olga's many significant contributions have stemmed from her passion and love for community service, mentorship, and student development and have been exemplified through her many roles, volunteer positions (FROSH, WIBA), and leadership involvement within student groups (MESA, LIVE Competition), the Department of Management, and UTSC. As the Co-President of MESA during an online transition, she supported 16 management clubs, and 2,500 students in the program, while leading and empowering 20 leaders on her own team, overseeing 12+ events throughout the year. She's been actively involved in the community as she led first-year student groups at FROSH, Management Orientation, and took part in many UTSC marketing campaigns where she talked about her experience, mental health, and well-being, providing valuable advice to her community. Finally, her love for giving back has been seen in her roles as a Career Coach for the Department of Management and a Mentor at the Women's in Business Association (WIBA), supporting students in their job-seeking and creating future leaders.

Ria will graduate in June 2023 with a double major in Human Biology and Neuroscience. Throughout her time at UTSC, she was passionately committed to healthcare, human rights, environmental, and student life advocacy. Ria has held various leadership positions including Co-president and co-founder of For a Better Tomorrow, Co-president of Envirocare, HOSA USTC’s Medical Terminology trainer, and the Academic Event Coordinator of Young Leaders of Public Health and Medicine. Additionally, served as the Green Roof Research Assistant in the BUGS lab, as a member of the UTSC Dragonboat team, and as a Medical Brigade Volunteer in Honduras with Global Brigades UTSC. Ria is an aspiring medical doctor and aims to continue her excellent advocacy ventures even after graduating.

Graduating with an Honors Bachelor of Science, Saman has consistently pursued excellence in her studies while prioritizing the well-being of her community. Her impactful contributions as a First Year Learning Communities member and a Residence Advisor showcased her unwavering dedication to supporting student success and ensuring a smooth transition for incoming students. Passionate about mental health advocacy, Saman actively fostered an inclusive and safe environment, championing equity, diversity, and inclusivity. Her profound commitment and meaningful engagements at UTSC have left an indelible positive mark. Inspired to make a continued difference, Saman aspires to embark on a career dedicated to promoting mental health and community well-being.

During his undergraduate studies, Shan significantly contributed to the UTSC community as the Director of Publications for the Political Science Students' Association. In addition to his traditional role of leading the production of the student journal ResPublica, he organized various academic and career-focused events, including workshops on essay writing, interview preparation and public speaking. Shan also facilitated networking sessions, connecting students with faculty, political figures, diplomats, and professionals. Shan acted as a student representative, advocating for student voices to faculty and university administration and ensuring proper remedies were taken. He also played a role in hiring and training new Political Science faculty and teaching assistants across all campuses. Shan's later involvement in a student mentorship program enabled him to serve as a mentor to students, both formally and informally. Furthermore, he was asked to collaborate with the Dean of Student Experience and Well-being to establish a new law school preparation program while also contributing alongside faculty to develop a new major program in Public Law. Shan's contributions throughout his years have played a significant role in the current and future success, betterment, and growth of UTSC.

Shenen had contributed over the past 3 years to the Health & Wellness Centre where she took roles as a Peer Educator and as the Party In The Right Spirit - Campus Program Coordinator. She had made tremendous efforts in developing meaningful connections to increase student engagement via promoting healthy lifestyles through health education focused on mental health, peer pressure, addiction and food insecurity. Through her passion and dedication for health advocacy, Shenen supported to foster community development to further enhance the physical, mental and social health of the UTSC community.

Being torn between pursuing either the arts or the sciences, Shen's diverse involvement in research, extracurriculars, and leadership positions on campus demonstrates that one can excel in both. From taking on Presidency over a fine arts student group called CounterPose in her freshman year, to ultimately becoming the Co-President of the largest DSA on campus, the Biology Students' Association (BioSA), Shen has contributed greatly to campus life through her paintings that hung on UTSC walls, countless professional and artistic events that she organized for the student body, and her work in programs such as Facilitated Study Groups (FSG) and FROSH. Shen further enriched student life during the pandemic by developing Renewed Perspectives, an art exhibit published in 2020, followed by Seasons album in 2021, which are comprised of original paintings and song compositions that portrayed students' experiences of isolation and hope during the COVID-19 lockdown.

Throughout his time at the university, Suddene has made substantial contributions to campus life. He worked with the International Student Centre to provide support to students with their transition to Canada, he served as a Residence Advisor with the Residence Life Team, helping students navigate through student living and providing essential resources for success. Additionally, he volunteered extensively with the Imani Black Academic Mentorship Program, a mentorship program for Black middle and high school students. Suddene has also contributed to research while working as a research assistant and thesis student in the Clinical Laboratory for Personality, Psychopathology, and Psychodiagnostics.

Vera-Ann Sackey has been actively involved in the student community through her participation in various clubs and initiatives. Her notable contribution includes serving as Co-President of the Black Student in Business Club (BSB). In this role, she successfully organized several events, including the LEAD Conference, which welcomed 70 high school students to UTSC to learn about the BBA program. In the past, she was involved in the IMANI Academic Mentorship program and African Impact Initiative. As a work-study student at the BRIDGE, she worked on a research project for a Black-owned business directory created by UTSC's community partner, Nobellum Enterprise.

Throughout his undergraduate journey at UTSC, Vihashan has consistently exemplified an unwavering commitment to community service and student support. Notably, as the President of The Mental Unity Group, Vihashan successfully partnered with the Health and Wellness Center to distribute over 150 suicide prevention training packages to UofT students for free. In his role as Campus Program Coordinator for the Peer Support Program at the Health and Wellness Center, he fostered a community-driven, intentional, and coordinated approach to promoting and supporting mental health on campus, specifically tailored to meet the unique needs of the UTSC community. Additionally, as the Vice President for Voice2Them, Vihashan orchestrated a collaboration with the Scarborough Centre for Healthy Communities, resulting in a donation of $1500 worth of supplies to their food bank to address shortages of women's toiletries and warm clothing. Graduating with an HBSc degree in 2023, Vihashan aspires to channel his dedication to community service and the skills he has acquired into a career in healthcare.

Yao Yan Huang is graduating from UTSC in June 2023 with an Honors Bachelor of Science, specialist in Environmental Chemistry. Yao Yan has been a champion for sustainability on campus and held leadership positions as member of the SDG Student Advisory Committee, Co-President Regenesis UTSC, Director of Funding & Partnership with the Chemistry Students' Society at UTSC, and editor and writer for the DPES Digest newsletter. Yao Yan hopes that UTSC continues to strive for a more sustainable future and will be continuing her academic career starting PhD in Chemistry in September.

Coming soon.