Faculty of Graduate Studies’ Standing Committee Election | Faculty of Graduate Studies (FGS)

Graduate Students’ Biographical Statements

Creative Arts Area

Keisha Bell-Kovacs, Music
I will be entering year 4 of the Ph.D program in Music in the fall of 2024. I am interested in learning more about governance within FGS, as the decisions of the faculty affect all graduate students at York University. I have served as the president of my department’s GSA, and been on the Board of directors of a charitable organization in the province. My research is based on intersectionality regarding race, gender, and sexuality, and I would like to bring some of this knowledge to my role at the FGS council.

Sophia De Goey, Cinema & Media Studies
I would be honoured to hold a member-at-large position on the Faculty Council. From 2020-2023, I served as the undergraduate representative on three similar committees at the University of Guelph: the English Curriculum Committee, the English Undergraduate Committee, and the Creative Writing Curriculum Committee. Serving on these boards helped me build an intimate understanding of the inner workings of faculty administration as well as the decorum expected at such meetings.

In turn, I found it incredibly enriching to represent my student body: I conducted surveys, kept my ear out for pressing concerns, and through the knowledge gathered, I was able to communicate the needs of my fellow students clearly and effectively. Performing such a service for my fellow students, whose voices are not always heard or understood, was a job on which I prided myself. I am deeply passionate about communications, equity, and advocacy, and it is my firm belief that I am uniquely equipped to succeed in this role as a voice and conduit for graduate students. My 3.5 years of similar committee experience have not only primed me to be able to execute the job effectively, but they have also ignited in me a passion to continue this work as a student member-at-large.

I sincerely hope that I may be awarded the chance to further chase this passion while making a positive impact on campus life at York University.

Sridevi Kandamangalam Venkatraman, Canadian Common Law
I am deeply committed to fostering collaborative environments and advancing our institution’s academic objectives, rendering me a suitable candidate for either the Standing Committee or a Member at Large position on the Faculty Council. Drawing on a background rich in relevant experience, including leadership, research, and administration, I offer a diverse perspective.

Throughout my professional journey, I have actively engaged in endeavors aimed at enhancing the student experience, advocating for diversity and inclusion, and nurturing faculty development. By becoming a part of the Faculty Council, I aim to extend these efforts by championing policies that prioritize student success, promote equity, and support faculty well-being.

My experiences have refined my communication, leadership, and problem-solving abilities, all crucial for fostering effective collaboration within the Council. I am committed to listening to diverse viewpoints, facilitating constructive dialogue, and making well-informed decisions that serve the best interests of our academic community.

If elected, I promise to uphold the Faculty Council as an inclusive platform for meaningful discussions and decision-making. I am eager to contribute my enthusiasm, dedication, and expertise to further our institution’s objectives and amplify the collective voice of our faculty members.

Thank you for considering my candidacy. I am excited about the prospect of playing a role in shaping the future of our academic community and collaborating with fellow faculty members to achieve our shared goals.

Health Studies/Sciences Research Area

Athulya Abraham, Health Industry Management
A profound sense of duty and commitment with a hefty load of courage to achieve the best University experience is what that motivates me to write this statement. I am Dr. Athulya Abraham, a pharm D graduate, joining York University in the Fall of 2024 for Master of Health Industry Management program. Today I decided to take a step towards a version of myself that I always wanted to be. I believe that every individual in this university has overcome a great deal of obstacles to reach their current position. I intend to contribute in carrying out the annual duties and also connect with my fellow students and faculty. I humbly ask for support and I am committed to fostering an environment where every voice is heard, every idea is valued and appreciated. Together, we have the power to build a future that we dreamed of.

Norman Dang, Kinesiology & Health Science
As a Member at Large, I will be dedicated towards representing the concerns of graduate students and working collaboratively to address the needs and concerns of York’s diverse student body.

Morteza Ghafar-Zadeh, Electrical Engineering
I’m eligible since I have been involved in various research from biology and engineering as well as psychology research during my undergraduate. Given my experience in these field’s I would like to be in the committee to improve upon the various research that is ongoing.

Cho Hung Cherie Ho, Business Administration
I did my undergrad in kinesiology and during COVID, I learnt a very new modality in alternative medicine called Natural Bioenergetics. Not a lot of research has been done on it and that is certainly one obstacle in the process of introducing it to people and having them try it. I have always been passionate about health and fascinated by how different things work for different people. Therefore I would really appreciate if I could be a part of Health Studies research of the Faculty Council. As a holistic practitioner, I also applied to MBA with the initial goal of opening my own clinic one day and gaining the skills needed to be a successful manager. The more research I do however, the more I realize how I want to explore my potential in other fields. I believe that leadership and eagerness to serve are both very important keys in order to do that. I would like to volunteer as a Member at Large so that I can train myself, get confident and help others succeed. Although I do not have a lot of experience being a committee member, I am a fast learner and I promise to do my best for the benefit of our community at Schulich.

Natan Levi, Kinesiology & Health Science
I want to learn how twisted and messed up the governance of the university is. I want to know why when we get a scholarships it gets clawed back by the university. I want to speak to truth to power in this colonial institution. This is another form of precarious labour that graduate students face. For these reasons you should vote for me, not those who wish to use this to climb ranks.

Udyan Mahajan, Management
In the words of MLK Jr., “”We must use time creatively, In the knowledge that the time is always right to do right.”” I strongly believe that now is the perfect time to bring about change. Since I was a child, I have had a deep interest in medicine and the medical industry, particularly in research and advancements in equipment. Although I was accepted into medical school, I made the decision not to attend. However, one thing has always been clear to me: my determination to transform the healthcare system and ensure that it becomes more futuristic, accessible, and a fundamental right for everyone. Coming from a well-educated and financially privileged business family with a legacy spanning three generations, I now intend to contribute to the betterment of society and give back in my own way as much as I can.

After successful completion of Bachelors in Biological Sciences from University of Illinois at Chicago, i Plan to attend Mmgt at York to understand the business models, with particular focus on of medical Industry.

Lets work today to make a better tomorrow!!

Parmin Rahimpoor-Marnani, Kinesiology & Health Science
Hello Faculty of Graduate Studies students! My name is Parmin and I am running to serve as one of your Members at Large for Natural Sciences and Engineering Research and/or Health Studies/Sciences Research. Currently an incoming MSc student within Faculty of Health’s School of Kinesiology and Health Science, I’m deeply rooted in York University, having completed my undergraduate studies in Kinesiology and Health Science too. I’m committed to enhancing your graduate student journey by advocating for your concerns and fostering positive change collaboratively and through actionable steps.

With a background as the Faculty of Health Student Senator, representing over 12,000 students, and serving as Student Senator Caucus (SSC) co-chair for a team of over 20 fellow Student Senators, I bring invaluable experience to the table. For instance, in my term as SSC co-chair and with the support, I spearheaded collaborative efforts with Senate, SSC, and the Vice-President Equity, People and Culture to broaden consultations for York’s Anti-Black Racism Framework, amplifying the voices of black student-led organizations campus-wide.

Moreover, my neuroscience-focused MSc research bridges natural and health sciences, allowing me to connect with a diverse range of graduate students. I plan to leverage this perspective through regular university-wide roundtable meetings, Q&A sessions, and an anonymous feedback form to ensure your needs are heard and addressed effectively.

Thank you for considering my candidacy. Vote Parmin Rahimpoor-Marnani for a stronger student voice, fostering a supportive environment, and shaping a brighter future together!

Fatemeh Soheili, Biology
As a dedicated biologist with a passion for academic governance and community engagement, I am excited to express my interest in serving on the Standing Committee or as a Member at Large of the Faculty Council. With a robust biology background, I bring expertise and enthusiasm to contribute effectively to the council’s initiatives and decision-making processes.

Throughout my academic journey, I have actively participated in various research projects, teaching roles, and extracurricular activities within the field of biology. These experiences have deepened my understanding of the subject matter and honed my communication, collaboration, and leadership skills—qualities essential for effective committee work.

Moreover, I am deeply committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive academic environment where diverse perspectives are valued and respected. As a Member at Large or a member of the Standing Committee, I am eager to advocate for the needs and concerns of both faculty members and students, striving to promote equity, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of academic life.

If given the opportunity to serve on the Faculty Council, I pledge to approach every task with diligence, integrity, and a collaborative spirit, working tirelessly to uphold the values and goals of our academic community. Thank you for considering my candidacy, and I look forward to the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the Faculty Council’s mission and vision.

Best Regards

Fatemeh Soheili

PhD Candidate of Biology

Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Area

Kevin Yat Hang Hui, Computer Science
Greetings, my name is Kevin Y. H. Hui, and I am an incoming student in the MSc Computer Science program. I am running as a member at large under Natural Science and Engineering. I am very interested in representing and advocating for my fellow students in computer science, science, mathematics, and engineering majors, providing a crucial student perspective to the faculty. Our input and active participation will greatly benefit their decisions.

During my undergraduate years here, I served as the president of Computing Student’s Hub (CSHub), the largest casual academic club in York’s computer science and engineering departments, providing extracurricular lectures and hosting activities for any student interested in computing. Additionally, I was the president of the Student Support Application Development Council (SSADC), responsible for many useful tools such as course prerequisite graphs, empty room finders, classroom path finders, and a student guide app. I also represented students on Lassonde’s Learning, Curriculum, and Students Committee, delivering students’ voices to the staff at Lassonde School of Engineering.

I hope this provides a decent introduction to my past contributions and future aspirations. I aim to be elected as a member at large to advance the integration and cooperation of our school’s community. Thank you very much.

Pierre Lemieux, Kinesiology & Health Science
Pierre Lemieux (he/him) is a second year PhD student in the School of Kinesiology and Health Science (KAHS) researching how epigenetics regulate the adaptation of the skeletal muscle microvasculature to exercise. Pierre is an active member of the York University community at the KAHS school level by currently serving as a student representative on the KAHS Graduate Council and as a member of the KAHS Graduate Student Association (KAHS-GSA). For a second consecutive year, Pierre will be organizing the KAHS-GSA Broaden Horizons Conference where the excellent work of graduate students in the KAHS program is showcased to the broader York U community. Pierre has completed several Rights, Equity, Diversity, Decolonization, and Inclusivity (REDDI) workshops at York U and understands the importance of promoting dialogue and action related to Equity, Diversity, Inclusivity, and Decolonization at the school level. Pierre’s interest in serving as a Member at Large for Faculty Council stems from his desire to act as an agent of change by voicing the needs of students in the broader York U community towards promoting an equitable and inclusive environment for all. Pierre’s valuable experience serving on committees and organizations at the KAHS school level is an asset preparing him for the potential role of Member at Large for Faculty Council. Pierre would be humbled to be given the opportunity to take on this important responsibility.

Lets work today to make a better tomorrow!!

Parmin Rahimpoor-Marnani, Kinesiology and Health Science
Hello Faculty of Graduate Studies students! My name is Parmin and I am running to serve as one of your Members at Large for Natural Sciences and Engineering Research and/or Health Studies/Sciences Research. Currently an incoming MSc student within Faculty of Health’s School of Kinesiology and Health Science, I’m deeply rooted in York University, having completed my undergraduate studies in Kinesiology and Health Science too. I’m committed to enhancing your graduate student journey by advocating for your concerns and fostering positive change collaboratively and through actionable steps.

Thank you for considering my candidacy. Vote Parmin Rahimpoor-Marnani for a stronger student voice, fostering a supportive environment, and shaping a brighter future together!

Best Regards

Fatemeh Soheili

PhD Candidate of Biology

Professional Degrees Area

Samuel Godfred Brown, Business Administration in Technology Leadership
I am Samuel Godfred Brown, a prospective Tech MBA student from Ghana. I present myself to play a leading role in the affairs of the FGS Council through democratic process as highlighted by this council. My diverse experience in leadership such as General Assembly Speaker, Course Representative and AGCM President has prepared me strong enough for a committee member. In my previous positions, I chaired and moderate the affairs of the general assembly and liaise between lecturers, administration and students.
My interest in aspiring for a committee member is primarily to uplift the status of the council and to ensure the general interest of its members by upholding the principles and values of FGS Council to the admirations of onlookers.

Ifeoma Lovelyn Diala, International Business Law
I wish to introduce myself as Ifeoma Lovelyn Diala. A Graduate student of Professional LLM in International Business Law at Osgoode Law School, York University for Fall 2024.

I am writing to apply for a Member at Large in the FGS position. I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Law from Imo State University, Nigeria, and an LLM in General law from the University of Lagos, Nigeria. I was called to the Bar in 2015 and attained the status of an Associate Member of the Nigerian Institute of Chartered Arbitrators in November 2023.

After graduation, I worked as an Associate at S.C. Ukairo and Co. gaining valuable experience. I served as Corporate Secretary to companies, provided advisory roles on tender boards, and evaluated commercial and technical bids. In 2019, I became the Head of the Corporate and Business Law unit at OOA Legal and have been involved in perfecting documents for corporate bodies within and outside Nigeria.

The knowledge and skills gained over time make me a strong candidate for this position. I would be honoured to be selected as a Member at Large in the FGS Position.

Thank you.

Niki Gerami, Economics
Dear Committee,

My name is Niki Gerami, and I am an incoming Master of Economics student. Having completed my undergraduate studies in Financial and Business Economics at York University, I am deeply familiar with the institution’s academic environment and administrative processes.

Throughout my academic journey, I have consistently ranked at the top of my class, been an active member of the Dean’s Circle of Student Scholars and have received multiple awards for academic excellence. Additionally, I have assisted the department of Information Technology and Economics as a research assistant in various projects. My passion for economics drives me to actively engage in discussions, research, and critical thinking.

I believe that serving on the Faculty of Graduate Studies Council would allow me to contribute significantly to the university community. I am excited about this opportunity to gain invaluable experience during my graduate studies at York.

Thank you for considering my candidacy, and I look forward to the chance to contribute to our academic community.

Sincerely,

Niki Gerami

Lets work today to make a better tomorrow!!

Ahmed Mohamed, Human Resources Management
Dear esteemed colleagues,

As a dedicated scholar and advocate for interdisciplinary collaboration, I am thrilled to express my interest in serving as a Member at Large on the Faculty Council, representing the Social Sciences/Humanities Research discipline. With a Ph.D. in Management (HRM) from York University, coupled with extensive research and teaching experience, I bring a unique perspective that bridges the social sciences and humanities.

My academic journey has been enriched by diverse educational experiences, including a Master’s in International Business and a Bachelor’s in Business Administration. This multidisciplinary background equips me with a comprehensive understanding of the interconnectedness of various fields within the social sciences and humanities.

Throughout my academic career, I have actively engaged in research and scholarship, with a focus on topics such as organizational behavior, work performance, and qualitative research methods. My contributions to prestigious conferences and publications underscore my commitment to advancing knowledge and fostering interdisciplinary dialogue.

Moreover, my involvement in community service initiatives, such as volunteering at food banks and fundraising for charitable organizations, reflects my dedication to societal well-being and community engagement.

If elected, I am committed to representing the interests and perspectives of scholars in the social sciences and humanities, advocating for inclusive policies, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the promotion of research excellence. I am eager to contribute my expertise and passion to the Faculty Council, fostering a vibrant academic community that thrives on diversity, innovation, and collaboration.

Thank you for considering my candidacy.

Warm regards,

Ahmed M.

Saher Rasul, Business Administration
Having been a part of various committees standing for policy making and regulating the services of my undergraduate university and in my current organisation, I believe that i will be able to contribute a lot to this role. I believe in standing up for others’ interests, maintaining good coordination and a cordial environment to enhance everyone’s efficiency. It is ONLY TOGETHER that we rise, with empathy in our hearts and passion in our minds.

Shena Stubbs, International Business Law
Hi my name is Shena Stubbs, I am an Attorney-at-Law from the tiny but impactful country that gave the world, reggae music, Bob Marley, Usain Bolt, jerk chicken and so much more. Yes, I am a proud Jamaican!

I was called to the Jamaican Bar in 2001, so yes, I am also a mature student. I have worked for over 15 years in media and communications as in-house counsel. My last position was Senior Legal Counsel for the (the RJRLGLEANER Group), Jamaica’s largest media conglomerate.

I was an exchange student to York University for a year during the 90s, so this is a return to home, so to speak, for me. I will be commencing the LLM in International Business Law this fall. I am very excited at the prospect of reading for my LLM at York.

I have extensive corporate governance exposure having served as director, company secretary and on corporate governance committees in Jamaica. I also believe in advocacy and lobby, and I am always involved in student/professional representation groups. I have put forward myself to sit as a standing member representing professional programmes as I believe my professional experience, spirt of volunteerism, boldness and passion for advocacy makes that area of service, ideal for me. I chose the Professional Programme specialisation because as someone pursuing a professional degree that really rang close to home.

I am so excited, and I just can’t hide it! Looking forward to working with all stakeholders!

Social Sciences/Humanities Research Area

Mina Aryaie, Psychology
As an incoming PhD student deeply committed to the Social Sciences and Humanities, I am eager to enhance our university’s graduate and postdoctoral educational development. I am particularly motivated to work on developing and maintaining high educational standards and advocating for policies that ensure the best possible outcomes for both students and faculty. As an incoming PhD student, I bring a fresh perspective to the table that aligns with current student needs and challenges, making me an ideal candidate to bridge the gap between student experiences and faculty expectations.

Samuel Godfred Brown, Business Administration in Technology Leadership
I am Samuel Godfred Brown, a prospective Tech MBA student from Ghana. I present myself to play a leading role in the affairs of the FGS Council through democratic process as highlighted by this council. My diverse experience in leadership such as General Assembly Speaker, Course Representative and AGCM President has prepared me strong enough for a committee member. In my previous positions, I chaired and moderate the affairs of the general assembly and liaise between lecturers, administration and students.
My interest in aspiring for a committee member is primarily to uplift the status of the
council and to ensure the general interest of its members by upholding the principles and values of FGS Council to the admirations of onlookers.

Sunny Chen, Business Administration
With a strong commitment to excellent scholarship, research, and teaching, I am enthusiastic about contributing to the council’s mission of providing oversight and advocacy for graduate and postdoctoral educational development.

I sincerely hope that I may be awarded the chance to further chase this passion while making a positive impact on campus life at York University.

Erika Yolanda Leon Angulo, Socio-Legal Studies
I want to be part of the Graduate Faculty Council because I would like to be involved in spaces where I can help the university community to have a better educational quality. In my opinion, taking into consideration the students’ needs is key for improvement in decision-making processes at the Faculty. I think I would be suitable because I have experience in the organization and planning of educational activities, as well as coordination and analysis in research, since I had been a national team coordinator as a public server in my country. I’m specially interested in promoting research and activities that connect students with the local community.

Tylos Mandiwe, Education
I was pleased to learn your need for a suitably qualified individual with relevant knowledge and professional experience to serve as a member at Large, of Faculty Council. I believe my academic qualifications, and professional experience implementing early childhood and youth development projects involving education in emergencies, early grade reading, children literacy, child protection and commitment to education and development makes me well qualified to meet the needs and demands of this position.

As you will see from my CV, I am an experienced early childhood and youth development practitioner with over 10 years in coaching, conducting training, policy design, formulation, implementation and analysis. I will be starting a PhD in Education in Fall Semester (Full time) 2024 at York University. I am a holder of a Master of Arts in Education Policy and Leadership from Beijing Normal University, and I also holds a Bachelor of Education Social and Development Studies from University of Malawi. So I believe I make a good fit for this position. This is so because I have over 10 years professional experience in managing and coordinating youth development and education programs such as development of literacy and numeracy centers, curriculum design and implementation early reading programs and training strategies.

I would therefore take pleasure in speaking with you further to discuss, in details how I am available. For more details about my qualifications, experience and skills, refer to the curriculum vitae attached.

Yours faithfully,

Tylos Mandiwe.

Ahmed Mohamed, Human Resources Management
Dear esteemed colleagues,

Thank you for considering my candidacy.

Warm regards,

Ahmed M.

Michael Porretta, Humanities
I’m Mike, pleased to make your acquaintance. I am completing my PhD at the Humanities department, after having studied at York for most of my adult life. My academic interest is 20th century Thomism: its ontology, epistemology and aesthetics. For my thesis, I am applying these aesthetics, as articulated by Jacques Maritain (d1973), to the interpretation of video games as a medium of artistic representation.

My interest in the flourishing of the faculty is principled. I want York to remain a place where my colleagues, students and I can study securely. I would vote for the academic interests of the university and my department.

Mercedeh Safarian, Sociology
As an incoming second year PhD student in Sociology with a keen interest in research, I have cultivated a robust foundation in sociological theory, research design and methodologies, and a passion for educational development. My background in sociology has trained me in interdisciplinary studies. Therefore, I am particularly eager for the opportunity to engage with members from various disciplines, collaborating and contributing to the educational development of the academic community at York University. My interest in serving as a Member at Large of the Faculty Council stems from my commitment to contribute to the university’s mission of achieving excellence in teaching, research, and scholarship. As a graduate student, I am committed to being involved in cross-faculty initiatives geared towards enhancing graduate student support, research excellence, and professionalization. Overall, I am committed to interdisciplinary collaboration to make meaningful impacts on educational development.

Esther Sampson, Communication & Culture
I am a third year PhD student in the Joint Communication & Culture Program between York and Toronto Metropolitan Universities. Because I have experiences in two universities at the same time (although York is my home university and I am much better acquainted with it) I believe that being a in a joint program will provide me with a unique perspective should I gain the honour to join the FGS Council. I also have related experience standing on a committee as I currently hold the position of Equity Officer for the ComCult GSA. I would love the opportunity to be part of the FGS Council so that I may have a deeper understanding of how Graduate Studies runs and to add my experience and expertise so that I may be of some aid to the FGS Council and everyone who depends on it.

Shaleen Shahi, Philosophy
I am very interested in serving as a Member at Large of the Faculty of Graduate Studies (FGS) Council for the 2024-25 academic year. As a woman of colour with a diverse educational background and extensive involvement in leadership roles, I am enthusiastic about contributing to the advancement of our academic community at York University.

Having completed two Bachelor of Arts degrees at York University, my studies have given me a deep understanding of various subjects, enabled me to develop critical thinking skills, and given me a deep appreciation for intellectual diversity.

In terms of leadership, I have held prominent roles within student organizations at York University, such as serving on the Vanier College Council (director of finance) and the following clubs: Philosophia (chief of finance), Phil and Film (founder/president) and the Social Science Association (president).

If selected, I am committed to representing the interests of graduate students and advocating for policies that promote diversity, equity, and academic excellence. As a woman of colour, I bring a unique perspective to the table, one that is reflective of the diverse experiences and backgrounds within our graduate student community. I am eager to collaborate with fellow council members to address the needs and concerns of our graduate student community.

Thank you for considering my candidacy. I am confident that my background and passion for student advocacy make me well-suited for a position on the FGS Council. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to the continued success of York University’s graduate students.

Richard Tshimpaka, Political Science
My name is Richard Tshimpaka, and I had the opportunity to obtain my undergraduate degree in political science from the University of the Fraser Valley. During my tenure at the University of the Fraser Valley.

I was born in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and was had the amazing opportunity to live in Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, Madagascar, and the United States before having my family settle hear in Canada. This allowed me to experience different cultures whilst breeding adaptability, curiosity, and purpose to better effectively better my community and those I come in contact with.

Having been fortunate enough to have the opportunity to learn about many diverse political, social, and environmental topics through the seven years I spent obtaining my undergraduate degree allowed me to both find myself and understand exactly what I was and still am seeking to obtain through my educational journey. Dr. Cheri Enns from the department of global development at the University of the Fraser Valley endorsed me with the opportunity to experience being a research assistant during my internship in eastern Africa (Kenya and Tanzania), further preparing for this opportunity.

Starting my Graduate Program in Political Science in the Fall, I believe myself to be a great candidate as Member at Large, of Faculty Council. As both my formal experience and my lived experience will allow me to provide a different perspective to the council thus adding to both its diversity and efficiency.

Graduate Students’ Biographical Statements

Creative Arts Area

Health Studies/Sciences Research Area

Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Area

Professional Degrees Area

Social Sciences/Humanities Research Area

Connect with FGS