Policy and Public Affairs Specialist at Ontario Chamber of Commerce
BA 2018, Economics

Born and raised in Tanzania, Samir came to Canada as an international student from Tanzania to pursue a degree in Economics and International Development Studies. During his time at York, Samir spent a year abroad at the University of Nottingham and the London School of Economics. Following graduation, he actively volunteered with the Ontario Council for International Cooperation.

Samir later went on to serve as a political staffer for a federal Member of Parliament developing communications materials, handling constituent issues and community outreach throughout the pandemic. Most recently, he joined the Ontario Chamber of Commerce as a Policy and Public Affairs specialist.

Outside of work, Samir has been an advocate for affordable and accessible public transportation in Toronto, driving him to his current role as Transit Lead for the Toronto Youth Cabinet (TYC). In addition, Samir serves as Co-Chair of the Toronto Youth Vaccination Advisory Committee, working with a team to reduce vaccine hesitancy amongst youth aged 12-29 in the city.

Samir has previously served as an Ally on the Ontario Council for International Cooperation’s Youth Policy Hub and is an active volunteer within the Ismaili Community.