Candidates

Bio

Ajibola Adigun - Mandela-Rhodes Scholar – is a PhD student in Educational Policy Studies. He is a Governance Specialist and has worked in the Research and Policy Sector in Nigeria, South Africa, and the USA. He obtained a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Ibadan, in Nigeria, a Master’s degree in the Social Sciences from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, and Professional Diplomas in Think-Tank Management and Public Relations from the Atlas Leadership Academy and the Leadership Institute in Washington D. C. and in Virginia, USA respectively. He is the author of Leadership for Whom? Interrogating the Effectiveness of Youth Leadership Programs in Africa.

Resume

I am running for Vice-President (Student Life) of the Graduate Students Association of the U of A because I believe University governance should be student-centered. Graduate students have peculiar challenges ranging from work and academic pressures, funding and research grants, and issues concerning immigration and settling down for international students. As an international student with experiences from various countries and having served as a leader and co-founder of several student organizations, including the United Nations Students Association at the University of Ibadan in Nigeria and Students for Liberty globally, I offer a wealth of diverse international experiences to the role of Vice President (Student Life). Embracing the university's motto "Quaecumque Vera", which urges us to pursue whatever things are true, it is imperative that we foster an environment where graduate students can discover a sense of belonging, forge meaningful friendships, and establish a home within the university community.

Benjamin is a 1st year Masters student in the Department of Anthropology and an Indigenous Scholar. Coming from a Métis/Cree background his research explores cultural disappearance in the archaeological record. In addition to his research area he examines where social justice activism and academia can come together to redress the harmful legacy of colonialism and advance human rights. Having completed a BA in Anthropology here at the University of Alberta and now continuing on with graduate studies Benjamin has been involved in student leadership and university governance for 5 years. He brings with him a wide range of experience in working with students from all walks of life and in all areas pertaining to student life.

I am running for Vice-President Student Life because it is in this role I believe I can make meaningful and long lasting change that will improve graduate student experience. University governance needs to be driven by and for students. My experience in student governance and leadership has provided me with insight to the different aspects of student life including academics, awards, student groups, community engagement and more! I’ve had the opportunity and privilege to work with students from all backgrounds including International students, Indigenous students, 2SLGTBQIA+ students, Mature students, and student who are Parents. Working with students from these diverse backgrounds has provided me with an understanding of the needs different groups have and the ability to advocate for them. At the heart of my leadership I am focused on fostering connections and creating an inclusive environment. One thing that makes me the right candidate for VP Student Life is my connections and dedication to this campus and my fellow students.

Khaleeq Ahmed, currently a dedicated second-year doctoral student at the School of Mining and Petroleum Engineering at the University of Alberta (UofA), brings a wealth of experience and academic prowess from his native Pakistan. Born and raised there, he excelled in his studies, achieving a Master's degree in Mineral Resource Engineering from the prestigious Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (PIEAS), a top-ranked university in the country. After completing his Master's in 2018, Khaleeq joined the faculty of PIEAS as a Lecturer, where he passionately taught undergraduate and graduate courses for over three years. In addition to his academic duties, he also took on the role of warden for residential services, gaining valuable insights into student life and focusing on understanding and addressing the challenges faced by students. His commitment to education and student welfare is evident in his ongoing work and research at UofA.

I'm thrilled to declare my candidature for Vice President Student Life in the next elections, utilizing my wealth of experience in the student body. Besides my academic work, mentoring student organizations and supervising staff committees dealing with residential matters, I gained valuable experience as a lecturer at the Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (PIEAS). These responsibilities have greatly improved my comprehension of the difficulties that students encounter and have increased my desire to apply for this job. I'm determined to use this forum to discuss and resolve the problems graduate students face. In addition, I have a strong commitment to advancing equality, diversity, and inclusion so that all students—regardless of background—feel respected, encouraged, and included. My goal is to establish a more hospitable and inclusive atmosphere that represents the variety of needs and goals within our community.