The York community is celebrating the life of Ravichandiranesan (Ravi) Ponnudurai, a dedicated student, passionate environmental advocate, and a friend to many. At 57 years old, Ponnuduai’s unexpected passing while visiting Sri Lanka leaves a deep void, but his story is one of resilience, transformation, and profound impact.
Born in Thirunelvely Village, Jaffna, Sri Lanka, in February 1967, Ponnudurai’s journey was shaped by the determination to build a better future. Arriving in Canada in 1990 as a Tamil refugee during a time of conflict, he faced challenges with unwavering optimism. Settling in Toronto, Ponnudurai pursued studies in Computer Science and Mathematics at Carleton University while also navigating a career in real estate and other professional pursuits –with over 20 years of experience in STEM sectors. But it was his shift toward environmental studies that defined his later years, marking the beginning of a profound legacy.
Ponnudurai came to York University in 2018, driven by a desire to make a real difference in the world. His commitment to environmental sustainability became central to his life’s work. By 2022, he completed his Bachelor of Environmental Studies (BES) before becoming immersed in a Master’s degree (MES), researching ecological footprints and biodiversity. Even as he moved to Napanee, Ontario, Ponnudurai’s dedication never wavered—he commuted for hours each week to continue his studies and engage with his academic community.
A photo of Ravi Ponnudurai
His colleagues and mentors recall Ponnudurai as a person whose enthusiasm for sustainability and his genuine care for others left a lasting impression. Peter Timmerman, Ponnudurai’s supervisor, described him as more than just a student—he was a friend and a collaborator. “Ravi was an integral part of our community, engaged in everything from tree planting to extraordinary support for our international students,” Timmerman reflected. “I got to know Ravi when he was a student in my Environmental Ethics class, and then as his advisor, supervisor and friend. He was a wonderful, caring student and I considered him a colleague.”
A group photo of Desmond Asiedu, Neha Basnet & Ravi Ponnudurai
Neha Basnet, a fellow MES peer, remembered Ponnudurai as “one of the kindest and most considerate people ever known.” She marveled at his dedication to his studies, despite the long commute. “As a classmate, he was dedicated and motivated, always bringing positive energy to discussions. Despite having to commute three hours to attend class, he rarely missed a lecture. His presence and insights made every discussion lively and engaging.,” Basnet recalled.
Desmond Asiedu, another MES colleague, reflected on Ponnudurai’s impact on those around him. “Ravi was wonderful. Too wonderful, in fact,” Asiedu said. “He genuinely cared about people and always wanted them to be happy. His memory will stay with me forever, and his life is a firm example of how to live and treat others.”
Ponnudurai’s dedication extended far beyond his studies. He was deeply involved in initiatives that ranged from tree-planting campaigns to advocating for urban gardens and wildlife conservation. His passion for sustainability was matched only by his desire to improve the lives of others. "Ravi’s love for bringing people together for a common cause, especially in protecting biodiversity and greenspaces, was inspiring," said Professor Eric Miller, who knew Ravi through the Ecological Footprint Initiative. His life was a testament to the power of education, community, and the willingness to embrace change for the greater good. Ponnudurai 's story is not just one of personal success, but of a legacy that will continue to inspire those who knew him to act with kindness, purpose, and a commitment to the environment.
Liette Gilbert, director of the Environmental Studies graduate program, described Ravi as “a gentle presence in the Faculty of Environmental & Urban Change (EUC) and specifically in the MES program. His humility and kindness were felt by all around him. Gilbert added. “His dedication to knowledge, community and the environment was however fierce.” To note, Ravi was also an active bird watcher and nature photographer.
Beyond his academic work, Ponnudurai was a constant source of positivity and support for his peers. Philip Piluris, a fellow MES student, remembered him for his warmth and generosity. “Ravi had the biggest heart,” Piluris said. “He always found ways to make life better for those around him. His passion for sustainability—from urban gardens to wildlife conservation—was matched only by his love for family and friends. His quick wit, boundless kindness, and adventurous spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew him.”
As a changemaker, Ponnudurai’s involvement in various initiatives, including the Las Nubes Study Abroad Program and a GSO-funded program entitled the SDGs in Action: Student Challenge in York International, exemplified his desire to make a tangible impact on the world. Ana Maria Martinez, associate director at Las Nubes EcoCampus, shared how his leadership inspired both peers and educators alike. “His work ethic and commitment to making a difference were exemplary, serving as a model for other students” she said.
Professor Eric Miller, who directed his work in the Ecological Footprint Initiative, spoke about Ponnudurai’s passion for both the environment and for bringing people together. Miller said. “I am grateful for our time together and grateful for seeing him enrich the lives and experiences of other students. And forever impressed by how eager he was to participate in on-campus and Toronto-area events even though he lived hours away.”
Ponnudurai’s life was more than just a collection of academic achievements—it was a testament to the power of passion, kindness, and a genuine desire to make the world a better place. His legacy is one of positive change, not just in the environment, but in the hearts and minds of all who had the privilege of working with him.
On behalf of iGoCitizen—a student-led initiative that evolved from the SDGs in Action Student Challenge, co-founder Christiane Marie Canillo, recalled Ponnudurai as one of the pillars of the iGoCitizen team. “He played a major role in the success of our programs across several communities in Sri Lanka as the Director of Finance and Networking. Ravi connected many lives, bringing together advocates from all corners of the world to inspire conversations that lead to positive actions, she said.”
A group photo of Christiane Marie Canillo, Katrin Kohl, Charles Hopkins & Ravi Ponnudurai
A photo of Ravi Ponnudurai
“He lived his life as a true global citizen, with deep love and compassion for protecting the world and its inhabitants. Within the team, we'll remember him as kind-hearted, humble, generous, determined, a dedicated activist and a visionary. We will move forward carrying his stories and legacy of kindness that radiated not only to our members but also to the larger global community and the future,” Canillo said.
As we remember Mr. Ponnudurai, we honor a life dedicated to making the world a more sustainable, compassionate place. His work and his spirit will continue to inspire those who knew him, encouraging us all to act with kindness, purpose, and a commitment to the environment. His influence is felt not just in the research he conducted or the initiatives he led and/or helped shape, but in the lasting relationships he built, and the lives he touched - including the exceptional support he provided to many international students.
This story about our York alumni and MES graduate scholar highlights just a few reflections from our graduate community at York University. We also invite you to visit the Kudoboard page, created in his memory by his friends and colleagues from iGoCitizen. You are also welcomed to share your own memories and reflections.
May the life and memory of Ravichandiranesan (Ravi) Ponnudurai, continue to be a light for us to learn together and create a better world.
“I’ve had opportunities to contribute to finding sustainable […] solutions
and explore my interests in topics close to my heart and home.”
--- Ravichandiranesan (Ravi) Ponnudurai