Shyam Ragavan is a Mechanical Engineering student at Concordia working at the intersection of engineering, sustainability, and public affairs. He has worked with The Link Newspaper and been a board member of QPIRG Concordia and the Concordia Food Coalition. He is an advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion in the field of engineering. Furthermore, Shyam is easily accessible and hopes to address the concerns of his fellow students.

My name is Nour Soufani, and I am a 3rd year student in Computer Science running for Student Council. As a Concordia Student, I am anti-tuition hikes and support the decolonization and indigenization of campus. I also support the sustainability actions being done on campus. My experiences include being cohort representative of my Cegep program for two years where I communicated student demands and issues to program coordinators, and informed students of the decisions being taken on their behalf. I am friendly, serious and care about providing the best undergraduate experience to students. I also care about better representing Gina Cody students within the council, especially as a woman in engineering.

Driven by compassion, I advocate against tuition hikes and passionately champion human rights, striving to challenge colonialist structures and ensure fair access to education. With a deep belief in the transformative power of education, I aspire to become a student counselor. Through compassionate support and advocacy, I aim to cultivate nurturing environments where all students feel empowered to thrive. Driven by my passion for social justice, I strive to create caring and equitable educational spaces where every student's well-being is prioritized.

With prior experience as a counselor, my journey as an anti-tuition hike advocate and human rights supporter has been enriched. Through counseling, I've witnessed firsthand the challenges students face due to financial constraints and systemic inequalities. This insight has fueled my activism and strengthened my commitment to creating a more just educational system. Drawing on my counseling background, I offer empathetic support and guidance to students, empowering them to navigate academic and personal hurdles. As a counselor, I blend advocacy with compassionate listening, striving to foster inclusive environments where every student feels valued and supported in their educational journey.

As a second-year Computer Engineering major at Concordia, I am passionately running for a position in our student union. My academic journey and extracurricular engagements have equipped me with the skills and insight necessary to effectively represent our diverse student body. My main goal is to ensure your needs and concerns are conveyed to the CSU. I plan to introduce more academic and recreational activities on campus, fostering a vibrant and supportive community. I am committed to launching initiatives that enhance academic resources, promote mental health, and ensure sustainability on our campus. My approach involves active student participation, ensuring your voices are not just heard, but also acted upon. Collaborating closely with faculty and administration, I aim to address student concerns effectively. Therefore, be sure to vote for me so I can make sure your voices are heard in Concordia!

I am Hamza Belbaali, a second year student in computer engineering. I am passionate about sports and technologies as well as students well being. I want this position to support low tuition prices, the feeling of security inside the school and the alignment of the students values with the schools actions. As a second year, I feel like I have a good grasp of what it feels to go through the first 2 terms and could add good insight on in from the engineering programs perspective.

My name is Ahmed Al-Araj, I am many years into my Civil Engineering undergrad, and I am running to become a member of student council. After many years of studying here, of getting to know my peers, traversing through freezing winters, long and intense classes, and seeing this university change and grow before my eyes. I want to represent my fellow students in the CSU, to grow my understanding of the relationship between University and Student, to push for policies and stand for positions that are supported by the student body that has chosen me.

I am eager to join the Concordia Student Union council and actively contribute to our community. Committed to anti-colonialism and opposing tuition hikes, my values align seamlessly with CSU's mission. I am driven to foster inclusivity and drive positive change on campus. Joining CSU presents an opportunity to leverage my passion for activism within a dynamic collective. I am enthusiastic about contributing to the CSU's mission and making a meaningful impact on the student experience.

My name is Mohamad Abdallah. I’m currently a Gina Cody student of Civil Engineering. Over my academic years, I’ve participated in many leadership experiences that increase my ability to connect to people and listen to their different perspectives on things. Back in high school, I was engaged in student politics and enjoyed having to represent student’s voices to the administration. I’ve managed to accomplish many things with my team on student government for the student body. I even won awards for motivational speaking and competitions requiring high level of team work (like regional debate tournaments and MUN contests). I think the thing I learned the most from these experiences is how important listening to others is and making every student feel that their opinion matters. I’ve always joined many clubs and participated in plenty extracurricular activities, because my view of a great student academic experience is not restricted to doing schoolwork and getting marks. That is why my vision is concentrated on making student’s experience better at Concordia by enhancing the conditions of our clubs and associations. My platform will also concentrate on reforming the CSU to become less bureaucratic and more efficient. I will work on better managing our funds and investing them in real support and relief programs aimed at helping students. The slogan for my campaign will be “Real Change Starts Now” because that is what I believe in.

I’m in computer engineering, I believe that it’s trendy in universities for engineers to only worry about their degrees and totally ignore student life and representation in student unions. I enjoy participating in social caucuses and debating different ideas, I've specifically enjoyed my experience in SPHR as I got to meet and connect with many people and was able to put it to practice. I hope to continue doing the same in the csu council representing engineers.

Hi! My name is Orly Wazana and I’m a third-year aerospace engineering undergraduate student, actively engaged in student clubs. I’m hoping to run for a CSU Council position, representing the Gina Cody School of Engineering and Computer Science. I am passionate about rocketry, space exploration, and materials science. I aim to prioritize initiatives that provide better opportunities for all program specializations and promote inclusion. The first initiative is to implement a mentorship program where freshmen students are connected to higher level students, tailored to academic goals, career aspirations, work experience, and interests. Next, as someone who can relate to student struggles, I can serve as a liaison between engineering clubs and the CSU in helping voice their concerns and facilitating communication. I believe that my adaptable and collaborative approach will help support student group needs by collecting feedback and establishing dialogue for change. A final initiative is to share various resources for career development such as portfolio building tips and networking skills, and to encourage students to overcome the challenges that come with engineering. Thank you!

Hi everyone! I’m a 4th year international student from Germany studying aerospace engineering. Some may know me as a tutor or from my involvement at Space Concordia. In my free time I enjoy going to the Concordia gym and work out. On the CSU I want to address the specific needs of engineering students. The CSU has many resources that I believe could make a real difference. To give you a few examples - I want to secure better funding for our clubs, advocate for more study spaces, and free crash courses across all departments. As a tutor, I've seen that many students face challenges in their classes. I'm confident that with the right support, these students can succeed. My goal is to work with CSU to ensure that every student is provided with the support that fulfills their academic needs.

My name is Emil and I'm a third-year Aerospace Engineering student. It would be a great pleasure to serve on the CSU council as a representative for Gina Cody students. As an aspiring council member, my goal is to ensure that the concerns and voices would be elevated of our diverse student body and are actively addressed. I am committed to fostering connection and belonging among all students in our faculty. By creating more open channels of communication and actively speaking with students, I aim to liaise between the council and the faculty. I believe that by creating a collaborative environment where students feel empowered to voice their opinions and concerns, we can create a change that truly reflects the needs of Gina Cody students. I am also dedicated to creating meaningful connections with large engineering companies in Montreal. These partnerships can provide invaluable opportunities and experiences for internships and career development initiatives. By establishing strong ties with the top companies in the industry, we can prepare our students for success in the workforce and ensure that they have access to the resources they need to make waves in their careers. Together, let's work towards building a stronger Gina Cody community. With your support, I am confident that we can create a campus community that truly serves the needs and interests of all the students in our faculty.

I'm Joshua Schecter and I am a third-year aerospace engineering co-op student at Concordia University. It would be an honour to serve you as a Gina Cody council member on the Concordia Student Union. My campaign is centered on addressing critical issues affecting our faculty. I aim to eliminate the two-factor authentication systems for all online software at Concordia, and specifically within our faculty. This change is crucial for ensuring ease of access to online resources, particularly for students who do not possess a cell phone. I'm dedicated to improving the accessibility of course materials and book lists to every program in our faculty. It's important that students have timely access to adequately prepare for their classes. I plan to work closely with faculty and the bookstore to ensure that book lists are available before the start of each semester. I will also advocate for Moodle courses to be accessible before the semester begins so students can be prepared for course materials in advance. Mental health support is of paramount importance. While Concordia offers robust physical health services, mental health resources require enhancement. I will advocate for the expansion of mental health services on campus, including easier access to therapists and psychologists. I am looking forward to the upcoming year ahead!

Hello GCS students!My name is Elsa, and I am a 4th-year student in Building Engineering. I have been part of the Engineering & Computer Science Association for three terms now and have been actively involved in academic, social, and political aspects of student life. I've participated in BCEE Department Council meetings as well as Faculty Council meetings to advocate for student concerns. As the President of the Engineering & Computer Science Association, I have attended several CSU Council meetings as a non-voting member to stay informed about CSU affairs and university committee advancements. I am familiar with the functioning of different university bodies and am enthusiastic about continuing to advocate for students in our faculty. My experience in student life and collaboration with executives from various faculties will enable me to effectively represent GCS students within the CSU Council. I will use my voice to bring the perspective and interests of engineering students into decision-making processes. Feel free to reach out via LinkedIn to ask me any questions about my candidacy!

I am Bhumika, a committed software engineering student at Concordia University. I am passionate about my field of study and have big dreams about the future. I have volunteered in many events at Concordia like open house and Welcome Hall Mission, which showcases my dedication to community engagement. I've been honoured with Entrance award at Concordia. Now, I'm driven to influence decision-making processes, which is why I'm running for a council position at the CSU. I aim to utilize my experiences to make a meaningful impact within the community.

I am Rohan Kumar, a second-year Computer Engineering student aspiring to represent my peers in the upcoming Council by-elections. Driven by my passion for semiconductors and microcontrollers, I chose Computer Engineering as my field of study. As a councillor for the past four months, I've gained invaluable experience in understanding the needs and concerns of our student body. Additionally, my extensive volunteer work, spanning various initiatives, has equipped me with a diverse skill set and a deep sense of community engagement. Always prepared to lend a helping hand, I embody perseverance and determination. With an indomitable spirit, I aim to create a positive impact by securing victory in the elections, ensuring the student body's voice is not just heard but truly valued. My unwavering dedication to making a difference in CSU is evident through my candidacy. I am also eager to grasp and learn new things, which would help me integrate into real-life situations, drawing valuable experiences from CSU.

I am Salma Hashem a Second-year student in Political Science. I am very interested in social justices, and I want to continue bringing those interests to life through student politics and advocacy. I have been already a councillor representing ASFA and I will be running for my second term this fall. I am social, resourceful, and focused which allows me to communicate and negotiate student concerns with accuracy. I care about student mental health, equality, and environmental justice. I also support the decolonization and indigenization of education on campus, and I am against student hikes.

My name is Ali Salman, and I am running for CSU council. I am in my 2nd year of Political Science, and I am running to be a representative for all the students fighting against tuition hikes, and who have a moral duty to be anti-colonialists. I am an outspoken advocate for several causes, and I am a confident public speaker with substantial debating skills. Any motion that is proposed which goes against the core values of students will be fought against, pushing forward policies that are approved by the voices of students. I have a list of past experiences and will use to the best of my ability as councillor in the CSU.

I am honored to submit my application to become a member of the CSU council committee. Allow me to briefly introduce myself: My name is Maryam Mouhammed, and I am a Political Science student. Joining the Concordia Student union will be a wonderful opportunity for me to deepen my involvement in the community and contribute to its growth. As an anti-tuition hike and anti-colonialist pro human rights student, I believe it is essential to have representatives who are committed to these important causes. With my passion and dedication, I am confident in my ability to become an asset to the CSU. By choosing me, you would be choosing someone deeply engaged in human rights issues, ready to make meaningful contributions. You would also be choosing a passionate individual who strikes for excellence. Together, I think we can achieve great things. Thank you for considering my application. I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to work with the CSU.

I am a science major in Biology, who is deeply committed to serving the student community. Running for the position of Student Union Counselor, I will be bringing a passionate vision for a more equitable, inclusive, and supportive educational environment. With a focus on advocacy against tuition hikes, support for human rights, and a deep understanding of the financial constraints faced by students, I am poised to make a significant impact. I understand the challenges we face as students and am determined to create a supportive, inclusive environment where every voice is heard. With your support, I'll work tirelessly to ensure our university is a place where education is a right, not a privilege.

My name is Salma Bennani and I’m a freshman at Concordia studying Political Science. I’m interested in becoming a CSU councillor so that I can help make sure that our student government represents the incredible diversity of Concordia students! I was born here in Montreal but grew up in Morocco, where my family is from, for many years. Since being back in Canada I have immersed myself in the community and culture here at Concordia and Montreal and I’ve loved every bit of it! I decided to study political science after doing Model UN for many years, and even helped to plan one of our national conferences. This experience helped me to realize that becoming politically engaged is a powerful way to make a positive impact in your community, which I hope to show clearly in my work representing the needs of Concordia students. I am passionate about environmental sustainability and cultural diversity, two values that I hope to promote in my role on council.

Shahd Elwerfili, born in the UK to Libyan heritage, studies applied human science. With a penchant for social interaction, she thrives in community engagement, driven by a commitment to justice and positive change. Outside of her profession, she enjoys diverse activities and cultural exploration. Guided by integrity, she strives to make impactful decisions, aiming to contribute meaningfully to her community and beyond.

My name is Danayit Bobrowski, I have been a member of the Concordia Student Union body since 2022. I am running for a position as councilor. My goal in this role is to approve and suggest legislation that is equitable and advantageous to the undergraduate body. I am anti tuition hikes and privatization of student services, pro student democratic initiatives that advocate for the conditions of students within Concordia and the larger Montreal, provincial, national and international population.

Standing up for what’s right is our duty! My name is jenin alafranji, I’m a physics major. As a student, I strongly endorse initiatives opposing hikes in tuition, opposing colonialism, and advancing women's rights both on and off campus. Increases in tuition significantly impact students, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds, worsening socioeconomic disparities and restricting access to higher education. Regardless of financial situation, everyone should be able to have access to education, and raising tuition would simply strengthen the structural hurdles that prevent people from doing so. Furthermore, it is critical that we address and eliminate colonial legacies that continue to oppress indigenous peoples and sustain inequality in the pursuit of a more fair and equitable society. We may strive towards decolonization and reconciliation by recognising the negative effects of colonialism and elevating indigenous voices and viewpoints. Thank you!

Hi, my name is Chana Leah. I am in my second year at Concordia, pursuing a major in Child Studies and a double minor in Early Childhood Education and Exceptionality and Diversity. I recently had the honour of serving as a Councillor on the CSU, representing the faculty of Arts and Science, and I would like your support to continue to serve and advocate for the needs of the faculty. As part of my role, I also sit on the Mental Health Committee, where I do some of my most important work. I enjoy working with kids, socializing, volunteering, and connecting with nature in my free time. I have a strong passion for women's rights and environmental advocacy. Should I have the privilege of representing you once again, I hope to execute some of your proposed project ideas, such as supplying feminine products in different buildings throughout the school year, working with the greenhouse to provide additional composting options, and increasing awareness, as well as user-friendly access, to mental health services. I am looking forward to working with Arts and Science students to help bring your ideas to life!

I'm Hana El-Jammal, a 20-year-old education student in the Faculty of Arts and Science. As a student, teacher, and a small business owner, I understand the importance of prioritizing mental health initiatives. To better support students, I want to establish a sensory lounge on campus. The lounge will provide students with a calm space to unwind and will serves as an outlet from the demands of rigorous classes. As another mental health support, I would also like to create partnerships with local animal shelters in Montreal to introduce more therapy dogs on campus. These furry companions have a unique ability to offer unconditional love and emotional support, which will significantly enhance student well-being and our overall mental health. With your support, we bring these ideas to life and foster a campus environment that champions compassion, empathy, and inclusivity. Together, let us work towards creating a brighter future for the Concordia community, where every student feels valued and supported. I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to collaborate with you in bringing positive change to Concordia.

Hello! I’m Nicol and I am excited to announce my candidacy for the upcoming CSU elections, with a focus on fostering a stronger connection between the university and its students. My main goal as a representative of Arts and Science students is to strengthen the connection between the CSU and students and ensure that the needs of Arts and Science students are heard at the decision-making tables. One of my primary objectives is to enrich the academic and social environment at the Loyola campus by introducing more diverse and engaging programming, such as networking events and leisure activities. By organizing events and activities that cater to a wide range of interests, I aspire to cultivate a community where every student feels included and supported. Furthermore, as a biochemistry student, I have spent most of my university years at Loyola campus, and I have found a lack of study rooms and spaces available for students. I am dedicated to advocating for the expansion of study room facilities for arts and science students. Access to quiet and conducive study spaces is essential for academic success, and I am committed to working with university administration to ensure that students have adequate resources to support their studies. With your support, I am confident that we can achieve a positive change and create a campus community that prioritizes student well-being and academic success. Together, let's build a brighter future for CSU.

I see myself as a democratic and fair, peoples’ person. I am studying in History at Concordia and planning on moving into Law once I am done. I have also travelled a lot, which adds to my passion for history and cultural interaction. I want to help the students as much as possible to try and make the university experience as enjoyable as possible, and I think I can do so through the CSU council.

Hello! My name is Drew Sylver and I am in my second year at Concordia studying political science and I am seeking your support to represent you on the CSU Council. As you read this, you are probably asking yourself why I am running, and more importantly, why you should vote for me. I am running for the CSU to be able to effectively represent Arts and Science students within the CSU. When it comes to decision making and representing your needs, I am dedicated to hearing everyone out (whether you are currently connected with me or not), consider how decisions impact all students' needs, and advocate for students who would like to present new ideas or get more involved with the CSU. I am deeply passionate about supporting any of my peers who would like to be involved in student government as stronger representation is fundamental to a healthy campus environment for all students. Should I have the privilege of representing you on the CSU, I promise to listen to your concerns, advocate for your needs and make sure that there is ultimate transparency between the CSU and students.

Hi! My name is Aaron and I’m a Poli Sci student who’s running for CSU council. I'm currently on the CSU's policy committee, and next year I want to help enact even more change. I’m running because I believe that I can make our campus and community safer, more collaborative, and ultimately more unified. My time will mainly be spent on issues that directly affect students on campus, as well as thinking and implementing policies and initiatives to make student lives easier on campus. Making sure that students not only can study and go to class safely but also have a fun, engaging experience is vitally important to the modern university experience. Fostering collaboration between students, faculty and administration are something that, in my opinion, is needed to lead meaningful change. Making sure our university is more sustainable and climate neutral is also required to protect our city and our environment. We need all members of the student body to feel as a collective to foster greater collaboration and more initiatives that benefit all of us. For example, making Mackay a pedestrian only street would benefit the student body and the rest of the Concordia administration by showing that we, as a university, are introducing positive change.

Hi! My name is Daniel Azoulay, and I’m a first-year student studying politics in the Faculty of Arts and Sciences. I am incredibly passionate about fostering positive change and enhancing student engagement at Concordia University. As an Arts and Science council candidate, I envision a vibrant and inclusive campus community where every student feels like they’ve made their mark. I am committed to enhancing student engagement. I believe in creating opportunities for Arts and Science students to actively participate in campus life. By fostering dialogue, organizing events, and supporting student-led initiatives, I aim to promote a sense of belonging and involvement among all members of our faculty. I am also dedicated to supporting students who want to explore their career paths and develop skills for their future. I also believe in embracing new ideas and opportunities for innovation. By fostering a culture of creativity and entrepreneurship, I aim to support any student-led initiatives and research projects that contribute to the advancement of knowledge and the betterment of Concordia University. Together, we will work towards creating a brighter future for Concordia University, where every student can thrive and feel supported.

As a JMSB student, I'm committed to fostering positive change. I strongly oppose tuition hikes, believing education should be accessible to all. I stand against colonialism, advocating for a more inclusive society. Additionally, I am a staunch supporter of human rights, believing in equality for all. My experience as a CSU councilor for two semesters has further fueled my passion for advocacy and governance. I am dedicated to creating a more equitable and inclusive academic environment for all students.

As a candidate for council at JMSB for CSU, I bring a fervent dedication to student welfare and social justice. My platform embodies a commitment to advocating against tuition hikes and promoting anti-colonialism alongside human rights. Drawing from my experiences as a former president of the student council in high school, I understand the importance of representation and amplifying student voices. Furthermore, my professional background has equipped me with the skills necessary to navigate complex issues and enact meaningful change. I am determined to leverage these experiences to champion initiatives that prioritize the needs of students and foster a more equitable and inclusive environment within our university community. With a passion for activism and a track record of leadership, I am poised to make a difference and advocate for a brighter future for all.

Hi there! My name is Michael Lecchino, and I would like to represent you on the student council. My mission is simple: push for a Concordia cafeteria and a hybrid delivery of lectures. I want students to have an on-campus solution to receive quick healthy meals at an affordable price. By having in-person classes recorded, students can re-watch lectures or catch up on the ones they were unable to attend. My leadership and youth engagement experience consists of being class president for five consecutive years, student body president for one year and the current president of my borough’s youth council. Throughout all three positions, I did my best to represent the voices of students and young citizens. I often held meetings with coordinators, directors and elected officials to address pressing issues and strategize solutions. Together, let’s improve Concordia!

What if, instead of having to worry about the many stressors you face as a student, you could spend more time focusing on your academic success and your distinguished career as a JMSB student? With the increase in living costs, the current financial landscape, and many barriers to access help, student well-being is now more important than ever, yet neglected. Imagine cheaper learning materials, a larger variety of scholarships and financial help, affordable housing, accessible nutritious food, and more student discounts on a variety of necessities and essentials. I, Anastasia Zorchinsky, commit to prioritizing JMSB’s student-well being, should I have the honour of representing you on the CSU. After all, your well-being impacts all elements of your life, and my goal is to make sure that no challenge goes unnoticed at the decision-making table.

Hello! I am Nikol and I am a second-year International Business and Co-Op student at Concordia University, and I am excited to run for the Concordia Student Union (CSU) as a council member. Should I have the honour of representing JMSB on the council, I hope to increase clarity and understanding of student services. By collaborating with student groups and the university administration, we can improve communication and make it easier for students to access the support they need. I commit to ensuring that the needs of different student groups within JMSB, whether you are from Montreal, Québec, out of province, or an international student, that your unique needs and challenges are considered when it comes to decision making. On the same theme, with the increase in cost of living, I will advocate for and will work with the CSU to find solutions to provide additional support to students who commute and need to travel long distances to attend classes. I also hope to increase networking events, mentorship programs, and alumni panels, so that we can create valuable opportunities for students to learn from and connect with successful alumni in their field. I am dedicated to making Concordia more inclusive, and more accessible place for all students. With your support, we can work together to achieve these goals.

Hi! My name is Sarah Wolman, and I am a 2nd year JMSB student majoring in accounting. Why do I want to be a JMSB Council member on CSU you may ask? For starters, I want to play a role in making sure that your campus experience is welcoming, accessible and that there are many opportunities for learning that you can choose from outside of the classroom. So many students at JMSB spend hundreds of dollars on outside tutoring services, and I see this as a flag for a need for better student support services that can provide the same benefits but that are free to you. In addition, I want to better present CSU events and services to students at JMSB. I envision a future where CSU books tables, whether it be to give out merch, resources, or explain services, within JMSB each semester to make students more aware of what is available to them. Lastly, I also want to ensure CSU’s financial transparency. Students should know where their money goes and how it is spent! Should I have the pleasure of representing you on the CSU, I promise to work hard to provide you with the best tools for success!

Hello! My name is Michael, and it would be an honour to represent you on the Concordia Student Union (CSU) Council to represent JMSB. I am currently in my second year of Finance at JMSB, and I am a proud international student. Since arriving at Concordia, I have grown a deep appreciation for the diversity of Montreal and all the amazing opportunities that being a student at JMSB offers. That said, I hope to work with my peers to continue to bring new ideas forward and to make student life better for all those at JMSB. Should you choose me to represent you in one of the JMSB council seats, I commit to working with all business and administration students, no matter your program, to better understand your needs and how the CSU can support you. I also promise to be a strong voice for the international and out of province community, one that has uprooted their lives to be able to study, learn, and live in Montreal and at JMSB. A vote for me is a vote for a strong voice on the CSU council!

My name is Diana Levitin. I am a third year Finance major and International Business minor student. I am honoured to announce my candidacy for the upcoming CSU election, with a dedicated focus on representing JMSB students at the Concordia Student Union. As your council representative, I pledge to ensure that our voices are heard, and our concerns are addressed effectively. I understand the unique needs and perspectives of our business school community and will advocate for initiatives and policies that benefit JMSB students. One of my primary objectives is to strengthen the relationship between JMSB and the rest of Concordia. With my experience in student government and Concordia clubs, I am well-equipped to serve as a liaison between our business school and the broader university community. Through collaboration, transparency, and proactive engagement, I am determined to bring about positive change and foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for all students. I am dedicated to serving you with integrity and diligence. Thank you for considering me as your advocate in this election.

Hello, my name is Ron Ninio, and I am a third-year accounting student at JMSB. As an accounting student I am well-aware of the stereotypes surrounding my major. You wouldn’t really expect an Acco major to run for CSU council given they may be too busy with their spreadsheets. However, I am no regular accounting student. I want better student life at Concordia, so my spreadheads can wait. Having said that, are you tired of tuition hikes? Looking for real change on campus regarding social issues? Or do you just want an overall more positive experience at Concordia? A vote for me to be one of your CSU council members is a vote that will allow me to bring positive change and initiatives to all those at JMSB!

Hi! My name is Danna Ballantyne and I’m a second-year undergraduate student majoring in Child Studies with a specialization in Exceptionality and Diversity in Childhood Settings. I’ve been directly involved in student politics and advocacy throughout my academic career, with a particular focus on promoting decolonial and inclusive practices. During my time at Concordia, I've had the opportunity to collaborate with fellow students, faculty, and community members to advocate for meaningful change ranging from on-campus advocacy to larger community initiatives, and even representing Concordia-based student groups at international workshops and conferences. My strong communication and leadership skills have led to my election as External Coordinator for Concordia’s largest student-led human rights organisation and I’m excited to be running for this same position within the CSU! As I embark on this new chapter of my journey, I am eager to expand my impact and continue advocating for the rights and well-being of all students at Concordia. I believe that my experience, passion, and dedication make me well-suited for this position, and I am committed to representing the diverse interests of our student body with integrity and diligence. Let’s make an IMPACT together!

I'm Giancarlo Laurieri, an enthusiastic student at Concordia University, currently pursuing a degree in Political Science within the Faculty of Arts and Science. My strong commitment to making a difference has led me to want to continue contributing to the Concordia community by being a part of the CSU (Concordia Student Union) executive. With my experience and skills from my time at CSU, I plan to take on more responsibility and transparency with the students. I believe that there's a significant opportunity to enhance the accessibility and relevance of CSU services for our student body. The primary issue I've identified is that many students find it challenging to connect with or fully understand the scope of services provided by the CSU. To address this, my goal is to streamline and simplify these services, making them more student-friendly and easier to resonate with. Furthermore, the aim is to make CSU more transparent with the students about their plans. The lack of communication has created the illusion that the CSU is not for students anymore, a rhetoric that must be corrected and set back on the right track. With my experience in the CSU and knowledge of its standards of operation, I am armed with the tools to take on a more significant role. Further, my skills in debate, promotions, and public relations equip me with the necessary tools to initiate positive changes at Concordia and keep strong communication lines with students. I am confident that by implementing these meaningful improvements, we can significantly enhance the university experience for all students I'm genuinely excited about the opportunity to be a catalyst for this positive transformation within our university.

Hello! I'm Christian, a Political Science student and the current Internal Affairs Coordinator at the CSU. Drawing on my experience as a former Executive for the Poli Sci Association, I am thrilled to bring my passion for fostering inclusivity and amplifying cultural groups on our campus to the forefront.In my current role, I have successfully streamlined policies and financial transactions for all students, ensuring smoother event organization. Building on the strong relationships forged over the past year, I am eager to share my insights and collaborate with the incoming and returning Executives of our 200+ Clubs. My commitment extends beyond CSU Clubs to encompass the Engineering, Fine Arts, JMSB, and Arts and Sciences Associations, reflecting my dedication to a unified and empowered student community. As your Internal Affairs Coordinator, I will keep advocating for all groups, providing a transparent and accessible channel for clubs to voice their concerns. My track record as Internal includes achieving objectives in event collaboration with student groups and addressing bureaucratic and institutional challenges to better support Clubs initiatives. Looking ahead, my focus is on further restructuring the CSU to prioritize students and elevate them as the backbone of our organization. I am particularly excited about taking CSU Sports Teams to new heights, using our platform to highlight the achievements of our talented student-athletes. The integration of Cultural Clubs under the CSU umbrella remains a key priority, and I am committed to fostering their continued growth and collaboration. Overall, I firmly believe that now is the moment for undergraduate students to seize their time at Concordia and actively shape the CSU. Together, let's make waves and rock the boat within the CSU!

Hello, my name is Dania Zeitoun. I’m a third-year international student, studying psychology. Having come to Canada from a different culture and background, I’m acutely aware of the importance of community and fostering lasting connections with those around me. My personal experiences and outgoing personality have helped me exponentially in finding my home here at Concordia and even led me to become an Internal Coordinator and executive member of several student advocacy groups on campus over the past year. This experience helped me to build invaluable conflict resolution, problem solving, and communication skills that I hope to bring to the larger student body.I'm thrilled to be running for the CSU executive team as Internal Coordinator which I see as an opportunity to continue building on a culture of collaboration, trust, and open dialogue among all team members. As Internal Coordinator, my focus would be to bridge gaps and build strong connections within our team by organizing workshops, training sessions, and team-building activities tailored to the group’s specific needs. Beyond this, I also intend to advocate for transparent and open communication channels that will ultimately help in ensuring efficient processes as well as constructive conflict resolution that turns disagreements into opportunities of growth and learning. I am incredibly privileged to have already worked closely with each member of the IMPACT team over the past year and look forward to continuing to learn and grow alongside them, building on an existing circle of trust and respect. Together, we can continue cultivating a culture where every voice is heard, ideas are valued, and collaboration flourishes. I'm excited for the journey ahead and the positive impact we can make as a unified team. Let’s make that IMPACT together.

Hi, my name is Maria Chitoroaga (she/her)! I was this year’s Sustainability Coordinator. My main focus this past mandate was to kick off and run the Transitional Housing Pilot Project. This project, which was started last June provides temporary housing and resources to Concordia students and community members that are at risk of/or are experiencing homelessness. I want to run again to turn this Pilot Project into a permanent CSU service so that we ca continue to help students for many years to come! Some other projects that I want to continue working on are the menstrual equity project and streamlining the process of bursary and award distribution. This year, I’ve introduced pregnancy tests to the array of free menstrual products available at the CSU offices. I’ve also mobilized with Concordia groups to organize a Menstrual Equity Symposium which will take place in May! Next year, I would like to offer more free period underwear and menstrual cups to students. I also want to keep pushing the Concordia administration to provide free menstrual products in all bathrooms across campuses. Moreover, I would like to work on streamlining the process of bursary and award distribution! The current process is not only outdated but it also takes too much time to give out (sometimes crucial) funding to recipients! Overall, I believe that it is high time for the CSU to move away from its archaic bureaucratic ways and streamline the way that they operate, and I’m here to rock that boat!

I'm Dara Younes, a dedicated Sociology student within Concordia University's Arts and Science Faculty. My journey in student politics started during my Cegep years and has since been a constant passion of mine. With a strong foundation in community engagement, I have actively participated in various initiatives, including those within my local Dawson community, and I am eager to continue this tradition at Concordia.My involvement with cultural clubs during my time at Dawson has been particularly transformative. These experiences not only expanded my knowledge but also sharpened my communication skills. Through organizing events, collaborating with diverse groups, and advocating for cultural awareness, I developed a deep appreciation for the power of students in effecting positive change. Now, as I step forward as a candidate for the position of sustainability coordinator at the Concordia Student Union (CSU), I bring with me a wealth of experience and a genuine commitment to making a meaningful impact. Sustainability is a cause that resonates deeply with me, and I firmly believe that Concordia holds immense potential to become a leader in this arena. My vision is to spearhead innovative projects and initiatives that promote environmental stewardship, foster community resilience, and enhance student well-being. I am confident that we can achieve significant progress towards a more sustainable and vibrant future for all Concordia students. Let’s make an IMPACT!

Hey! I’m Kareem. I’m an international student from Trinidad and Tobago studying Finance at JMSB. I’ve previously grown startups from pre-seed to profitability, as well as consulted for some of the largest distributors in the Caribbean. I have also served as the CSU’s Finance Coordinator for the last year, during which I was able to steer the CSU towards a six-figure surplus as well as pursue and see to fruition many different projects such as the turnaround strategy of Reggie’s and NAVI, an AI chatbot aimed to assist Concordia Students in obtaining access to hard-to-find information. Most notably, I’ve been working with different groups on campus to ease tensions and foster a greater sense of community within the Concordia ecosystem. I’ve seen success as well as shortcomings with this initiative, which is why I am running for another mandate. I believe my past experience and track record with the CSU has enabled me to not only run for the position of General Coordinator but to also feel confident enough to represent our students at the highest possible level. It would be an honour to represent the undergraduate students for another year, a responsibility I can guarantee you I will take very seriously. Let’s make an IMPACT on student lives together!

Hi everyone, I’m Alexandrah! I’m running this year because I’m highly motivated by the student body mobilization against tuition hikes and want to help improve solidarity within the Quebec student movement, particularly between French and English schools. I also want to work towards restructuring the CSU to reduce bureaucratic barriers and updating outdated aspects of the union that no longer serve students. Rockin’ The Boat isn’t just a fun name, it’s inspired by our values and willingness to create change within this large institution to benefit the wider community of students. I have a track record of working within the student movement for the past four years and standing up against the administration and the CAQ government in collaboration with a wide number of students. I’ve been featured in The Link and Concordian articles dating back to 2021, demonstrating my unwavering commitment in my advocacy efforts! If I’m elected, that would make me the first woman in six years (!) to be elected to this position!

Hello! My Name is Vanessa Massot. I am a Sexuality Studies student at the Simone De Beauvoir Institute. I am Guatemalan-Argentinian and come from a strong legacy of activism community organizing. As someone who is extremely passionate about social change and justice, I aspire to bring my experience as a student organizer, volunteer, and activist to contribute to positive change in Concordia Student life. I am thrilled to be running for the Academic & Advocacy coordinator executive position. In this position, I hope to represent the Concordia Academic governing bodies well and efficiently address their needs and concerns. I believe that my work experience as an executive assistant to the CEO of a national harm reduction organization will allow me to strive in this role. In my professional life, I have learned to be highly adaptable, open minded and hard working. For the Advocacy portion of this role, I will approach this vital task with compassion and understanding. As my professional work, studies, and personal praxis are rooted in anti-oppression, resistance, and collective liberation, I have confidence that I will be a strong advocate for all students. I believe that we all deserve to have someone in our corner, especially on campus, and I hope to convey this in my advocacy work going forward. I am excited to make an Impact! on the Concordia Campus with you all.

Hi, my name is Melissa Spiridigliozzi (she/her), and I’m a third-year undergraduate student in Community, Public Affairs and Policy studies. During my degree, I have channeled my passion for social justice as a board member at the Centre for Gender Advocacy and within several research projects amplifying grassroots voices. This background has also informed my volunteer work as a “Feminist Futures in Law” panel organizer, and I hope to bring similar networking events to students through this mandate.

Hey, I’m Leen Al Hijjawi! I’m an international student from Jordan, currently pursuing a degree in political science at the Faculty of Arts and Science. I am extremely thrilled to use my abilities to create a more inclusive and seamless experience for the Students of Concordia. As an international student, I have lived in different countries, and I truly do understand how international students feel when being away from home and how difficult it can be. My candidacy for the position of Loyola Coordinator at the CSU stems from a deep commitment to implementing projects that will prove highly advantageous to our student body. I believe that the events I have in mind would be extremely beneficial to students. Despite the Loyola campus being a beautiful campus, many can agree that the majority of students in Loyola feel isolated as the majority of events and majority of students attend the campus that is located in downtown. I want to make events and changes to encourage students to go to the Loyola campus. So that the students going to the Loyola campus do not feel so isolated and left out. Such as making raffles to choose events, and having movie nights there, game nights, as well as cultural events. I have experience in coordinating and planning events and have great skills in leadership, communication, and time management. I believe that I am the best fit for this role as I will make changes and help improve the student life for all students. Let’s make an IMPACT together!

Hello, I am Moad Al Hjooj, I am currently studying Finance at the Faculty of JMSB. I aspire to be a student life executive because I am deeply committed to enhancing the overall student experience and fostering a sense of community within the university. One of my primary goals is to actively contribute to the planning and execution of Frosh Week, a crucial initiation event for new students, I believe that Frosh Week sets the tone for the entire academic year because it provides new students with a warm and welcoming introduction to university life, as well as meeting people and making friends since it’s a new atmosphere and sometimes that could feel a bit scary but meeting a new friend always makes it easier on us! By being a candidate for student life I aim to bring creativity, organization, and inclusivity to the planning process, ensuring that Frosh Week becomes a memorable and positive experience for everyone involved. Additionally, building strong ties with the community of undergraduate students is of utmost importance to me. I envision creating initiatives that promote collaboration, communication, and a sense of belonging among students from diverse backgrounds. Through my role as a university student executive, I am eager to foster a supportive environment where students can thrive academically and personally, establishing and enduring connections that extend beyond the classroom.I believe that I am the best candidate for this role as I have amazing skills in communication, time management, open-mindedness, and patience. Let’s make an IMPACT together!

My name is Souad EL Ferjani, and I am currently pursuing a degree in Supply Chain Operation Management with a minor in Data Intelligence at JMSB. I am reaching out to express my enthusiasm for running for the position of Financial Coordinator at the CSU.Since my time at Cegep (Dawson) and continuing into my studies here at Concordia, I have been deeply involved in various aspects of campus life, particularly within the realm of student politics. At Dawson, I actively participated in the Feminist Club and the Green Club, where I sharpened my communication skills and engaged in discussions on critical social issues. Throughout my academic journey, I have furthered my involvement by attending events hosted by the International Business Association (JMIBA) and other student clubs, consistently seeking opportunities to broaden my perspectives and contribute to the community. Additionally, my professional experience as a Financial Security Advisor, combined with my ongoing courses, has equipped me with a solid foundation in financial knowledge. I am genuinely passionate about collaborative work and community engagement, which is why I am particularly excited about running as Financial Coordinator. I believe that my diverse experiences and dedication to making a positive impact align well with the responsibilities of this role. I am eager to leverage my skills and knowledge to benefit the Concordia student body. Together, let's strive to make a meaningful impact on the lives of my fellow students. Thank you for considering my candidacy, and I look forward to the opportunity to run for this position. Let’s Make an IMPACT together.

My name is Niraj Dayanandan (he/him), I am a 3rd year Urban Planning student with a minor in Sustainability Studies. I currently serve as the President of the Sustainability and Diversity Student Association and Vice-President, Finance of the Urban Planning Association. I am running for re-election as a student-at-large member in University Senate and CSU Academic Caucus as I strongly believe that wide representation of the student body, supplementarily to CSU and faculty association executives, is critical. It allows for a wider range of discussion and dissemination of information between university administration and the student body. During my current year on Senate and Caucus, I was able to maintain a clear line of communication between all faculty association’s academic executives whilst also bringing up student concerns and questions from a departmental level to a higher governing body, having experience of student and academic life at both campuses. If re-elected, my primary goal is to bridge the communication gap between Loyola and SGW campuses and between all faculty, while continuing to represent students at the senior academic body of the university.