Student Alumni
Council

Originally from Winnipeg, MB, Ben is a fifth-year student studying Behavioural Neuroscience. With previous experience in the SAC’s Campus Engagement and Career Development committees and as the Science Undergraduate Society’s Associate Vice-President External, Ben brings his passion for supporting UBC’s campus community and getting students involved to his role as the President of the SAC. Outside of the SAC, he is part of the research team at the Providence Breast Centre and was previously a member of UBC’s Rankin Lab. Ben looks forward to working with a strong SAC cohort to support UBC students in their student-to-alumni journey.

Rachel has had a lot of fun exploring all that UBC has to offer in the past 2 years and is extremely excited to continue her journey with the SAC as a VP this year. She has met many close friends and accomplished student leaders within this group, and is constantly inspired from working with them. Rachel is also looking forward to further developing her career in tech, planning future travels, and building stronger connections in the UBC community. Outside of academics, she loves trying new foods, playing ultimate frisbee, running, hiking, cooking, and so much more!

A dedicated student leader at heart, Ian is a political science and journalism student passionate in uplifting the Filipino culture, community building, and communication media. Aside from being a former student senator and residence advisor, he has been involved as an executive of the Arts Undergraduate Society and President of UBC Kababayan. His most notable role is serving as the AMS VP Administration where he managed the 400+ clubs at UBC, the Nest building, and the Society’s sustainability and art gallery departments. With his committee, Ian aims to bring SAC’s media engagement to new heights this year.

Athina is a third-year electrical engineering student passionate about driving change and self-improvement in the UBC community, especially in empowering minorities in STEM. Her involvements include taking on a presidential role in Women in Engineering, doing pro-bono consulting with the Strategy Consulting Initiative, presenting workshops at the Student Leadership Conference, and analyzing EEG signals with UBC Multifaceted Innovations in Neurotechnology. Athina first joined SAC as a first-year representative and is excited to give back as a VP, strengthening the student-alumni bond with the SAC.

A defining moment in Kelly’s time at UBC was being involved with UBC Orientations as a Collegia Advisor and a Senior Orientation Leader. Through supporting new students in finding their place at UBC, she found her own place in community building and fostering connections. Aside from school involvements, she also enjoys calligraphy, exploring the city, and learning new fun facts! Kelly is excited to continue growing her community building skills with SAC.

Throughout his undergraduate degree, Linkai has been deeply engaged in a variety of on-campus and off-campus activities. His diverse experiences in both business and science, along with being on the SAC Career Development Committee, highlight his dedication to fostering interfaculty collaboration. Over the years, Linkai hosted events such as the 2023 UBC BizChina Forum and the SAC Networking Night, which united students, professionals, and academics to discuss critical issues of student development both locally and globally. He also worked as a research assistant at the Vaccine Evaluation Centre, driven by a keen passion for pediatric health equity in BC.

With a passion for event planning and community building, Jessica is excited to be joining the SAC and contribute to the planning of school-wide events that bolster school spirit. Outside of the SAC, Jessica is a campus tours student ambassador and an Arts Co-op student, working in the non-profit sector to plan citywide community events. In her free time, she loves playing intramural volleyball, going to beaches, and trying new restaurants around the city!

Having grown up in the small city of Winnipeg, Bonnie aims to create meaningful spaces that encourage others to build relationships. With valuable experience within the Science Undergraduate Society and CVC this past year, she is excited to expand her advocacy efforts and make an even greater impact for UBC students. On a sunny day, you can catch her having a picnic outside, relaxing at the beach, baking, or dancing to her hearts content as a retired ballerina! Bonnie is eager to contribute to the creation of fulfilling memories and connections here at UBC for students and alumni alike.

Ben (he/him) is a dedicated student from Richmond, BC, pursuing a major in Economics with a minor in Data Science. He actively contributes to the UBC community, holding leadership roles such as VP Events for the UBC Economics Student Association and VP External for the Vietnamese Student Association. He has also served as a Jumpstart Orientation Leader and a Grants Coordinator in the Arts Undergraduate Society. Outside of school, Benjamin enjoys exploring new restaurants, watching the latest movies, and connecting with new people. He is thrilled to join SAC and enhance school spirit at UBC.

A lifetime resident of Vancouver, Joshua has a passion for politics, history, international relations, and law. He has been heavily involved in equity-inclusion programs at UBC, including the position of BIPOC Events Coordinator for the Arts Undergrad Society. Joshua is also an avid reader and writer, particularly in philosophy. Singing is another passion for Joshua, as the Musical Director of the UBC A Cappella group “Fast and Forte”. Never shying away from work that will help the student base, Joshua is thrilled to work with the SAC.

Priya is a fifth-year student in the Honours Biology program, who has taken on several roles during her time at UBC. Notably, she has contributed as an Orientation Leader and a Senior Orientation Leader for UBC Jumpstart. Additionally, Priya serves as the Co-Founder and President of the AMS Medical Ethics Club, which was awarded “Best New Club” at the 2024 AMS Awards Gala. She advocates for the holistic student experience beyond academics, believing in the abundance of opportunities UBC offers. Priya is eager to join the SAC team and is looking forward to connecting students and alumni through her role!

Dhira is a second-year Arts student from Jakarta, Indonesia. Growing up, Dhira became passionate for community empowerment and education-centered public policy. On campus, she is an Indonesia Maju Scholar and spends her time working with the Gado-Gado Indonesian Students Association, UBC UNICEF, as well as previously serving the SAC as a First Year Representative. When not watching her favourite mystery shows, Dhira is involved with the UN Foundation, concentrating her advocacy on girls’ leadership and education. A T-Bird at heart, Dhira is excited to return to the Career Development team and promote student-alumni relationships with the SAC!

Born in Abu Dhabi to Sudanese parents, Halla’s international upbringing shaped her worldview. After spending her formative years in London, Ontario, she embarked on a new adventure at UBC, drawn by the campus’s beauty and opportunities beyond academics. Halla’s long-term goal is to enter the field of medicine and create a tangible impact. Outside of her studies, Halla loves embarking on new adventures, learning languages and cultures, and spending quality time with her loved ones. Her hobbies include reading, playing and watching sports, and listening to music. Halla looks  forward to contributing to a meaningful SAC experience!

With an affinity for technology and a keen interest in the multifaceted world of business, Kristen has chosen to pursue a combined major in Business and Computer Science. Engaged in the Co-op programme as well as actively participating in both the Women in Computer Science mentorship program and the UBC CS mentorship program, Kristen acknowledges the crucial role of fostering connections between students and alumni to facilitate their career journeys. Through her involvement with the SAC, she aims to cultivate greater career development and empower students with essential skills needed for success in today’s fiercely competitive professional landscape.

A lifetime Vancouver resident and third year economics student, Micah is eager to continue his studies at UBC and pursue his passions for finance, international relations, and data analytics. In his free time, you can find him playing intramural sports, discovering new music, or running. With previous experience working alongside the DCSU and UBC Intramurals’ events teams, he is eager to bring his passion for promoting interdisciplinary relations and student engagement to the SAC’s career development team and hopes to enrich the student experience through meaningful connections and professional development opportunities.

Nazanin is a 5th year student studying Behavioural Neuroscience and is looking forward to working in the career development team this year! With previous experience at the Science Undergraduate Society and as Vice President Initiatives for UBC PATHS, Nazanin brings passion to fostering student-alumni connections relationships through mentorship opportunities and networking events. Outside of UBC, Nazanin has worked for the road safety team at the VGH Emergency Department and is currently a clinical research assistant at BC Children’s Hospital Paediatric Emergency Department. Her other interests include

Justin is currently a fourth-year student majoring in Neuroscience. With a strong passion for community building and logistics, he hopes to use his past experience to organize exciting internal events and foster long-lasting bonds within SAC. As a previous Orientation Leader and current member of UBC’s Chinese Student Association, he is incredibly passionate about bridging the gap between UBC students and alumni and creating events that foster lifelong learning. Entering as a new SAC member, Justin is looking forward to all the wonderful events to come!

Lana is a second-year student with a love for psychology, originally from Toronto, Ontario. She is incredibly passionate about clinical psychology and psychotherapy, dreaming of one day opening her own clinic! Outside of school, she adores visual arts, fashion, music, and painting nails. As a first-year representative of the Internal team for the SAC last year, she was delighted to bring fresh ideas that fostered a sense of growth and community within the council. Through the SAC, she hopes to continue connecting with students and alumni to better understand and support the UBC community.

Niki (she/her) is a fourth-year student majoring in Cellular, Anatomical, and Physiological Sciences, with a keen interest in human medicine, women’s health, and intersectional feminism. She is currently a research assistant at the Life Sciences Institute, investigating the role of diabetes and obesity in breast cancer risk, and serves as Vice-President of the Women in Science Club. An avid outdoor enthusiast, Niki enjoys backpacking, triathlon training, and playing flag football in her free time. Previously, she coordinated Women’s Empowerment Night with the SAC career development committee and looks forward to continuing similar initiatives this year!

Simrat is a fourth-year student studying Neuroscience, Physiology, and Public Health. With previous experience in the Science Undergraduate Society from the beginning of undergraduate journey, Simrat looks forward to continue serving her community by applying her ongoing passion for student advocacy to her role in the SAC! She is excited to learn how she can equip students with personalized resources, supports, and events to support their academic journey at UBC. Outside of school, Simrat enjoys all things outdoors with sunshine, playing sports, working out, and spending time with her friends and family.

Dedicated to fostering a vibrant UBC community, CJ brings a wealth of experience to the SAC’s internal portfolio. Previously, she has been on the SAC’s Campus Engagement Committee and co-chaired the First-Year Committee within the Science Undergraduate Society (SUS). This year, CJ will also serve as a Senior Residence Advisor on campus, further solidifying her commitment to student well-being. Transitioning to a full-time co-op position next year, she is eager to leverage her academic foundation and professional skills gained through this experience. She is excited to collaborate with fellow SAC members and enhance the student experience at UBC.

Abera is entering her fourth year exploring the multidisciplinary stream in the Kinesiology program. She values the sense of community at UBC and hopes to establish connections with students and alumni through a sociocultural lens, especially through her role as President of the Tamil Students Association once again. With a passion for digital design, she has various experiences in media coordination like working for non-profit organizations. Outside of digital design and content creation, Abera enjoys being active outdoors, cafe hopping and curating the perfect playlist for any mood.

Jannat is a second year student aiming to pursue a major in Political Science and minor in Law & Society. Coming from a smaller high school in Metro Vancouver where she was involved in every club or extra-curricular that fit her schedule, Jannat knew she wanted to leave a mark and build strong relationships at UBC as well. What better way to do so than joining the SAC? She is beyond excited to join the media production team and help create some fun, engaging content for everyone while expanding her worldview and growing her skills!

Katrina is thrilled to return to her second year of studies in commerce at UBC. The previous year, she served as a first-year representative on the SAC’s internal committee and gained a great deal of experience. Over the summer, Katrina pursued her passion for science and leadership as an Outreach Facilitator and Instructor at UBC Geering Up Engineering Outreach, teaching young people about various STEM concepts. She is eager to create and lead thoughtful and engaging marketing campaigns in her new position as project coordinator for the media production committee.

Rameen is a second-year undergraduate student in the Faculty of Arts. As a third culture kid who has lived in Karachi, Jakarta, Dubai, and now Vancouver, she deeply values community and diversity. Her experiences in theatre, as a writer for her school magazine, and as an event organizer and design intern have fueled her passion for all types of media and its ability to transcend barriers and build connections. She is enthusiastic about joining the SAC’s Media Production committee and looks forward to making positive contributions to the UBC community.

Yejin is an incoming fifth year student majoring in Biochemistry and a member of the Media Production team this upcoming year at the SAC. She is interested in pursuing a career of science communication through combining her technical science background with her creative hobbies. Outside of school, you can probably see her snowboarding (if there’s snow!!), editing a vlog, reading, watching a movie, or using an excessive amount of exclamation marks!

Growing up in culturally rich locations, Parthivi learned to value the stories of others and to foster genuine connections. This appreciation led her to pursue a Bachelor of Commerce at UBC Sauder School of Business. To enhance her education, she has become involved in UBC campus life, including serving as the First Year Representative for UBC Student Alumni Council’s Career Development Committee. Beyond her academic and volunteer work, she can be found playing sports or watching the latest box office hit.

Emmy’s passions have always been rooted in connection, advocacy, and sustainability. Honing her experiences from the inaugural BC Young Leader’s Council and several other past involvements, she is excited to be a first year representative on the Committee Engagement Committee. Her passions carry over to her academics as she hopes to pursue a legal career and her other campus involvements as a photographer for UBC GetThrifty. Outside of school, Emmy is often seen with her camera, drinking caffeinated beverages, and spending time with her friends. Emmy is excited to continue her journey with the SAC!

Ajay is a first year science student who is passionate about pediatric healthcare and immunology. Born to first generation immigrant parents, Ajay moved to Vancouver from the Philippines when he was two. Highly valuing community, he strives to use his experiences as a volunteer at BC Children’s Hospital and co-founding the Richmond Youth Advisory Committee to build bridges between UBC alumni and students. Outside of the classroom, Ajay enjoys spending time with friends and family, drawing, painting, and listening to music. As a first year representative for the media production committee, he is excited to contribute positively to the SAC!

Aamna is a first year Science student planning to major in Computer Science. She is passionate about creating a diverse community where all voices are heard and is excited to bring fresh perspectives to her role as a First-Year Representative for the Internal Committee. She is eager to contribute to initiatives that connect students and alumni, equipping them with opportunities to grow and thrive within the UBC community. Outside of academics, she loves playing and watching sports, staying active, and spending time with family.

A first year student in the Faculty of Science, Rachna is deeply committed to fostering a welcoming environment that encourages the involvement of individuals from all backgrounds, and is eager to contribute meaningfully to campus life. With a strong passion for equity and inclusion, Rachna is excited to share her perspectives as a first year representative on the Campus Engagement committee and help cultivate a sense of belonging and connection among students and alumni. Outside of school, she is often seen reading, carefully curating Pinterest boards, planning dream vacations, and spending time with family and friends!

Maya is a first-year commerce student who was born and raised in Vancouver. Maya has been actively involved in her community through youth advocacy groups and councils. She is passionate about building community and making a positive impact. Outside of school, she is a certified yoga instructor and enjoys practicing yoga, baking, and is an avid concert goer! As a member of the SAC, Maya is eager to help foster meaningful connections between students and alumni and enhance the UBC student experience.

Tayla Barbosa is a first year arts student hoping to major in Political Science. Tayla began her journey with media production in her high school’s magazine club as the club’s social media manager, and soon became the President and Creative Director. Now in university, Tayla is eager to be involved in her school community, pursuing her digital creative interests with the SAC and as a Social Media Director for the UBC Arts First Year Committee. Tayla’s passion for the creative arts extends far and she looks forward to what comes next in her involvement with the SAC!