Winter 2025 Student Participants

Abi Parameswaran

My name is Abi Parameswaran, and I am currently a full-time student doing my Master of Arts in Public Policy and Administration at TMU. I graduated from Carleton University with a Bachelor's degree in Global and International Studies, specializing in Inequality and Social Change with a Minor in Communications. I am a teaching and grading assistant in the Politics department at TMU. Before this, I worked for over 3 years part-time as an analyst and later full-time as a project assistant at Immigration, Refugee, and Citizenship Canada. I have also had the opportunity to work for the City of Toronto in their recreation department. I am particularly interested in bridging gaps and divides between intersectional and marginalized individuals and their access to existing policies. I want to work in spaces that create policy recommendations to support marginalized communities and their lived experiences.

Adizde Rubio

My name is Adizde Rubio. I am pursuing a Master’s in Immigration and Settlement Studies at Toronto Metropolitan University. As a licensed paralegal, I have a solid legal research and advocacy background, built through an accelerated Paralegal Diploma from Seneca College and a Bachelor’s degree in Spanish from Wilfrid Laurier University. My professional experience includes working as an Immigration Paralegal Intern at the Law Office of Bola Akinnusi and as a Spanish Interpreter with Exacta Interpreting, roles that have deepened my understanding of immigration law and cross-cultural communication. I have also volunteered with organizations like Compass Refugee Centre and the Earth Law Center, reflecting my commitment to refugee issues and human rights. I am fluent in English and Spanish, with intermediate French. I am passionate about refugee settlement, inclusivity, and shaping equitable immigration policies, and I aspire to make a lasting impact in these fields.

Ana Zavaleta Bernuy

My name is Ana Zavaleta, and I am a Master’s student in Immigration and Settlement Studies at Toronto Metropolitan University. I hold an Honours Bachelor of Arts from the University of Toronto, where I completed a double major in Ethics, Society & Law, and Criminology & Sociolegal Studies. As an immigrant, I have gained a deeper understanding of the systemic barriers newcomers face through both my personal experiences and academic background. My research focuses on how immigration laws and policies adapt to labor market challenges. I am also interested in how migration reshapes family structures and relationships across borders. In September, I will begin law school at the Lincoln Alexander School of Law, where I aim to further my commitment to immigration law. I have worked in student services and community engagement, organizing programs that promote equity and inclusion. My goal is to advocate for fair and effective policies that support marginalized communities.

Angelica Baglio

My name is Angelica Baglio, and I am currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Public Policy and Administration at TMU. In 2023 I completed a Bachelor of Arts in Politics and Governance, with a Minor in Criminology, at TMU. My academic work has primarily focused on issues of gender, intersectionality, violence, and equity. I am currently working as a research assistant at TMU, contributing to projects that explore these critical themes. I will soon begin a Major Research Paper, which will examine violence against women in its various forms and explore the policy gaps that perpetuate this violence. Ultimately, I aspire to build a career as an advocate for women, making meaningful contributions to policy spaces working to address their needs in today’s society.

Carolyn Nicol

My name is Carolyn Nicol, and I am a master’s student in the Immigration and Settlement Studies (ISS) program. I hold a strong background in international development, highlighted by my work with Shelter and Settlements Alternatives (SSA), a housing NGO in Uganda, where I contributed to communications initiatives supporting women's access to land and housing. Currently, I serve as a Student Success Assistant with TMU’s Faculty of Arts, helping international students navigate their transition to life in Canada as new immigrants. My academic and professional interests include Canadian foreign policy, Global Affairs Canada’s international development initiatives, and the intersection of Indigenous and immigrant rights.

After graduation, I'm not quite sure what I'd like to do! Something involved in support for migrants/asylum-seekers.

Cassandra Cunanan

My name is Cassandra and I am in my third year in the Psychology program at TMU. I have been involved with the non-profit WoodGreen for many years where I assisting in projects centered improving access to primary care, mental health services, and newcomer services. My experience in this role has made me more inclined to pursue a career where I can advocate for the unmet needs of people in cities like Toronto, especially around healthcare and newcomer services. Therefore, I am interested in pursuing a career where I can merge my passion for social justice and healthcare either as a healthcare provider, policy development, or continuing my career in the non-profit sector. I do believe that sustainable change in my interests would require a strong interdisciplinary approach which I am hoping to form by taking this course!

Chelsea Smith

My name is Chelsea Smith, and I’m a fourth-year Public Administration and Governance student, planning to pursue my Masters in Social Work at U of T or York upon graduation. Currently, I work as a crisis counselor at Victim Services Toronto, providing short-term support to individuals impacted by crime or sudden tragedy. As a Black and Indigenous woman, I am passionate about ending the harmful effects of discriminatory justice practices on marginalized communities. I’m deeply committed to advocating for the rights of prisoners and to working toward a justice system that fosters healing, respects human dignity, and reduces recidivism. My goal is to create policies that prioritize the well-being and rehabilitation of those affected by systemic injustice and their families.

Ciboney Pennyman

Hi, my name is Ciboney Pennyman. I am in my 4th year of the Language and Intercultural Relations program at Toronto Metropolitan University. I was drawn to this program because I have always been interested in working in international settings, and this program has allowed me to explore how cultural exchanges shape individual and collective identities. I have taken part in numerous student leadership positions at Toronto Metropolitan University within the Society of Arts Social Science Humanities as the Vice-President of Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility. I have been a research assistant on two projects Black Political Rhetoric in the 19th and 20th Centuries and Black Digital Archive with the Jamaican-Canadian Association. After graduation, I hope to work in the government or an NGO within the development sector. I hope to learn more about policy work, Women in politics and sustainable social activism.

Emily Moss

My name is Emily Moss, and I am pursuing a Master of Arts in Public Policy and Administration at TMU. I completed my undergraduate degree in Political Science at the University of Guelph with a minor in International Development. I have previously worked as a Graduate Teaching Assistant at TMU, and in municipal government with York Region as a Research Assistant. While working at York Region, I researched how fragmented care systems disproportionately disadvantage vulnerable populations, as well as homelessness prevention and reduction strategies. I am passionate about social policy, specifically disability, accessibility, and gender policy. I hope to work for the Ontario Public Service, developing policies that prioritize inclusivity and accessibility and are responsive to communities within the province.

Huma Abrar

Huma Abrar is a 4th-year Psychology major who spent four years charting a path toward a legal career, shaping her university experience around the intersection of psychology and law. However, after years of advocacy and leadership as President of TMU Women in Law and her work at the Lincoln Alexander School of Law, Huma has discovered a deeper calling. Now, she is shifting her focus toward psychotherapy, with a passion for providing critical mental health support to underprivileged women who need it most. With a relentless drive to break systemic barriers, she is determined to create spaces where women can heal, thrive, and reclaim their futures.

Humna Khan

My name is Humna Khan, and I am currently in my fourth year completing a double major in Criminology and Politics and Governance. I aim to become an International Human Rights lawyer as my goal is to contribute to the development of equity-driven policies on a global scale and advocate for marginalized communities. In addition to my academic pursuits, I am passionate about working directly with communities to foster local support, and serve as the Administrative Assistant for the Student Initiatives Fund managing grant funding for student-led initiatives. I also work as a Research Assistant in the Department of Politics and Public Administration, where I collect research on issues of racism and sexism in Canadian politics. In recognition of my efforts to advance equity, diversity, and inclusion at Toronto Metropolitan University, I was honoured to receive the Alan Shepard Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Student Award in December 2024.

Izzy Fiddes

My name is Isabella Fiddes, and I am currently pursing a Master of Public Policy and Administration at TMU. My academic background is in the sciences, and I completed a Bachelor of Science in Applied Biology at the University of British Columbia. While completing my undergraduate degree, I worked for the Department of Fisheries and Oceans on Pacific salmon enumeration programs before becoming Lead Biologist for a Coast Salish First Nation on Vancouver Island. My policy interests include both environmental policy and sport policy. Currently, I am working as a hockey coach for an under 18 female team in Toronto, and for a junior boys team of players under 21. My interest in sport policy was inspired by my personal experiences as an athlete in high school and university. I aspire to work in the public service, developing policy and programs that cater to the needs of Ontarians and beyond.

Josephine Asamoah

Hi, my name is Josephine Asamoah, and I'm a 4th-year Politics and Governance student who also minors in French at Toronto Metropolitan University. I am deeply interested in politics, law, and social justice. My passion for these themes was fueled by my deep obsession with research and the attempt to find solutions to global and societal issues. But, this passion mostly took off as I constantly took law and politics courses to broaden my understanding, joined clubs like Free the Children, and volunteered at events supporting rights, changes, and development. It is this passion for social justice that has inspired my aspiration to become a lawyer, where I hope to leverage my education to effect meaningful change in society and champion the rights of individuals facing systemic challenges.

Josie Bhamani

Hi, my name is Josie Bhamani and I’m a student in the Immigration and Settlement Studies program at Toronto Metropolitan University and alumni of the Global Studies program at Wilfrid Laurier University. I chose this program at TMU because of my personal experiences and academic interest in amplifying the voices of newcomers and more specifically in ensuring educational rights for youth newcomers to Canada. I have skills and experience in youth leadership/development and language acquisition, and I am working towards gaining more public sector experience in the future. I would love to learn more about the intersections of immigration policy and education policy because I have a strong interest in how youth newcomers to Canada access and interact with public education.

Kashaf Alvi

My name is Kashaf Alvi, and I am a third-year Politics and Governance student with a passion for community which has contributed to my academic focus on Canadian and urban politics. I currently hold positions as the Politics and Governance Director at the Faculty level and as VP of Events on the Department level, which allows me to connect with students in the faculty and program. I have previously worked with the Ontario Public Service within the AI sector, and am hoping to work with the municipal government in the future. My current policy interests include transportation, education, as well as local issues such as gentrification, cultural preservation and improving access to community centres. In the future, I am interested in working within politics on a local level in a role that allows me to connect directly with community members.

Katie Rodrigues

I am currently pursuing my Master's in Public Policy and Administration at Toronto Metropolitan University. My academic journey is driven by a passion for understanding complex societal challenges and applying data supported insights to influence positive change and community building. I completed my BA in Psychology and Criminology, developing an enthusiasm for critical analysis, adopting diverse perspectives of understanding, and an aptitude for statistical research. As I continue my studies, I am eager to connect with professionals in the field and broaden my horizons. My work with community non-profit and municipal organizations has deepened my understanding of the impacts of public policy, supplementing my theoretical knowledge with firsthand insights from affected populations, and shaping me into a more empathetic and informed researcher. I aspire to a career in government, striving to build on policy to promote intersectionality and equitability, strengthening communities, and empowering others to succeed.

Kobika Vigneswaran

My name is Kobika Vigneswaran, and I am a fourth year student in the Politics and Governance Co-op program at Toronto Metropolitan University. I have completed two co-op terms with a regional municipality and I was able to work alongside prosecutors and prosecution assistants, and gained experience with provincial laws and the Provincial Act. My political and policy interests are women’s rights, education policies, healthcare policies and criminal justice. My career aspirations are to go to law school after graduation and become a lawyer, with the objective of advocating and creating meaningful change.

Leny Rose Simbre

I’m Leny Rose Simbre, an MA student in Immigration and Settlement Studies at TMU and a member of the Bridging Divides program. My academic and professional focus lies at the intersection of migration, labour and human rights, and social justice. I hold a BA Honours in Human Rights and Equity Studies from York University, where I also served as a Research Project Coordinator at the York Centre for Asian Research.

Currently, I am a research assistant, a board member of Kababayan Multicultural Centre, and an active member of Migrante Canada, a grassroots organization advocating for migrant workers’ rights and welfare. I am also contributing a chapter to the Handbook on Migration, Mobility, and Care with Dr. Tungohan and Dr. Ticar. Additionally, I regularly write for The Philippine Reporter, a Toronto-based media outlet. Driven by advocacy and community-based research, I strive to empower marginalized groups and advance policy reform.

Linnea Davis

My name is Linnéa and my pronouns are she/her. I'm in my 4th year of the Public Administration and Governance program. This is my 9th year of post-secondary school. I have an advanced diploma in Sport Management and a graduate certificate in Public Relations both from Niagara College. After working in municipal government for a few years I decided to study at TMU. I am now pursuing a Masters of Public Policy, Administration and Law from York U which starts this September. I am interested in municipal government as I believe that this area in politics is very overlooked but is essential to delivering daily services to Candians. In the future, I see myself as either a municipal clerk, city manager/CAO or as a director of Recreation/Community development. After working in a mayor's office I could see myself becoming a politician one day... we'll see what happens.

Majesty Udjor

My name is Majesty Udjor. I am a third-year student at Toronto Metropolitan University, pursuing a degree in Politics and Governance. My professional journey includes volunteering for the Liberal Party during municipal elections, where I gained firsthand experience in campaign operations and voter engagement. I am particularly interested in the platforms and policies of the Liberal Party and NDP, focusing on human rights, women's rights, and social equity.

My career aspiration is to become a lawyer, where I can advocate for justice and work on impactful public policy initiatives. I am committed to fostering equitable and inclusive solutions to complex societal issues. Through this course, I aim to strengthen my connections within the political sphere, enhance my communication and analytical skills, and gain insight into the challenges faced by women in leadership. This aligns with my broader goal of championing progressive change within both legal and public policy landscapes.

Mila Vujnovic

My name is Mila Vujnovic, and I am a fourth and final year Business Management student at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU), with a major in Marketing and a minor in Finance, with plans to graduate in Spring 2025. I am specifically interested in women in politics, and the specific role that women's representation plays within the political sector. After taking a Women in Politics course, I was drawn to the topic of women in politics, and hope to continuously learn about the vital role women play in parliament, and how to strengthen their representation. I am currently employed by the university as a Student Ambassador, aiding in undergraduate student recruitment endeavours, but have previously worked for several small businesses and nonprofits along with Elections Ontario. I aspire to work within politics or business, combining my interests towards meaningful change aligned with my passions.

Rachel Rossi

My name is Rachel Rossi, and I’m a fourth year student in the Criminology program at Toronto Metropolitan University. I chose this program because of my strong interest in law, community service, advocacy, and addressing policy issues within the criminal legal system. I have skills and experience in community outreach, administrative support and legal research and I am working towards applying to law schools in the summer. I would love to learn more about advocacy in the legal system and possible community-based solutions to aid in solving the different barriers faced by marginalized populations in accessing justice and support. I aspire to combine my passion and ambition for law and community service to create a meaningful impact through my career.

Rajneet Farma

My name is Rajneet Farma and I am in my fourth year in the Politics and Governance Co-op Program. Through the co-op program, I have had the opportunity to obtain experience working in the Canadian government, completing two work terms with the federal government and one term with a city municipality. My political interests include a focus on Canadian foreign policy, international trade, public transit, and housing. As for my career aspirations, I am hoping to get into law school after completing my undergraduate degree and develop a career in the public service. In the future, I could see myself as a diplomat or working in an embassy, however I am open to pursuing career opportunities in private sector industries as well.

Sneha Mathews

My name is Sneha Mathews, I am completing my Master of Arts in Public Policy and Administration at TMU. Last year, after completing my Bachelor of Environment in Urban Planning at the University of Waterloo, I was a research coordinator for the Canadian Foundation for AIDS Research. I created a jurisdictional scan of the Greater Toronto Area’s health servicing gaps for unhoused populations and determined areas in need of HIV testing services. I have always had a deep curiosity about injustice, and much of my previous work experience has involved advocacy for vulnerable communities. I am passionate about social policy and aspire to create a more equitable world for all marginalized.

Theresa Obi

I am Theresa Obi and I am in my 3rd year of Politics and Governance and Sociology (double major). I have a pretty solid background in politics and intersectionality and would love to build more knowledge on campaign strategies and the gender roles that are apparent in political and campaign strategies of electoral candidates. I would love to learn and build more knowledge on policies and mostly the federal government. I am interested in international politics/ global policy because I would love to broaden my political knowledge to a more global scale. I do not really have a set idea of what my career aspiration is but I am considering law way further in the future. After graduation I would love to pursue global policy and international politics and maybe a research position also on women and gender in parliament.

Vanessa Mae Maullon

My name is Vanessa Mae Maullon. I am an undergraduate student, double majoring in Criminology and Politics & Government at Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly known as Ryerson University), who has a passion for understanding the complexities of law, crime, and governance. I am always eager for new opportunities that can help develop my skills and grow my experience — especially experiences that grant social change and promote justice. Throughout my academic career, I have developed a strong foundation in criminological and political theories and systems, which has provided me to grasp complex issues and propose effective solutions. Furthermore, I have and continue to engage in extracurricular activities and volunteer opportunities to enhance my ability to collaborate, articulate ideas, and organize. I aspire to work within politics and within the criminal justice system to address systemic inequities, grant and promote justice and reforms, while putting equality and rehabilitation at the forefront.