+ READ Bilal's Bio

What is your favourite thing about your role and the work you do for SUS?

Engaging with the students on the campus, organizing events, dealing with the C&As and building connections with other departments and people on and off campus. These things sum up most part of my portfolio so in a nutshell I enjoy every part of my role as the VPS.

Is there anything that your colleagues would be surprised to know about you?

I talk a lot. A LOT!

Who or what has been the biggest influence in your life?

My parents. The amount of effort they have put in to give me and my sisters the life we have is impossible to explain. They are my biggest supporters and they have influenced my life in so many ways that has shaped me to the person that I am today. I am the happiest when someone says that I remind them of my parents when they were my age.

What was your first job?

My first job was to assist my father in a book fair (I don't think he paid me for it tho, lol)

If you could do anything in the world, what would it be?

Be a professional footballer (American soccer)⚽︎ and become a pilot!

What is the most useful advice you would give to other students from your own experience?

Take your chance. You might regret it if you don't.

+ Read Taj's Bio

+ Read Gurpreet's Bio!

What is your favourite thing about your role and your work for SUS?

My favourite thing about my role as the VP External is the opportunity to be a strong advocate for students beyond the campus. I love being able to connect with government officials, community partners and other student leaders across the country to represent student voices.

Is there anything that your colleagues would be surprised to know about you?

Some people know me as a tax preparer during the busy season. What they might not know is that I have recently picked up the guitar. I am still learning the basics, but it is a great reminder that it is never too late to try something new.

Who or what has been the biggest influence in your life?

Moving to a new country as a teenager has been the biggest influence in my life so far. It challenged me to adapt quickly to unfamiliar systems and environments. That shift gave me a broader perspective and I began to see the value of understanding multiple cultures/ have multiple cultural lenses. This experience made me comfortable with uncertainty and gave me the confidence to step into leaderships roles. 

What was your first job?

My first official job was Food Sampling for a third-party at Costco. It was a great experience in customer engagement and standing on your feet for long hours while still having a smiling face and a good pitch, which later turned out to be the company I had my first management role as well. But before that, I had a few side gigs in high school - editing short videos, but the most interesting one was a little print hustle I ran, where I would print documents that professors asked students to bring. Since many forgot, I would bring extra copies printed for free through my sources and sell them for Rs15–20 (supply on demand). I would then use the profits to treat myself to some good food after school, so it felt like a win-win. Looking back, it was a funny but formative experience and sparked my interest in spotting simple business opportunities.

If you could do anything in the world, what would it be?

I would travel the world documenting my journey, while working as a Bug Bounty Hunter or Penetration Tester. It is a perfect balance of creativity and problem solving coupled with the freedom to move, learn and work from anywhere.  

What is the most useful advice you would give other students from your experience?

Don’t be afraid to ask questions and put yourself out there. University is as much about what happens outside the classroom as inside. The more you get involved, the more you will grow and find your people.

+ READ EEman's Bio

What is your favourite thing about your role and your work for SUS?

My favorite thing about my role is how connected I am to the student body and how I have the ability to bring joy their life on campus through events and programs. It brings me happiness knowing that I cater to such a diverse student body and I love that SUS gives me the power, support, and guidance to make campus life at UFV enjoyable.

Is there anything that your colleagues would be surprised to know about you?

I am crazily insanely funny! I will have you rolling on the ground with my humor.

Who or what has been the biggest influence in your life?

My biggest influence in my life has always been my mom. She pushes me to do better and not worry about failing or winning, just trying to do better is a win on its own.

What was your first job?

My first ever job was working for the Canucks Autism Network as a support worker from swimming and Ice-skating. A little story behind me applying for the job is that I was on Indeed one day and I was scrolling through job postings and suddenly a job posting caught my eye, "Support swim and skate lessons ". I mindlessly applied for the job and next thing I know, I have a 2 hour long interview via Zoom and I am hired! I love working with toddlers and children under 12 and help them learn skills that could save their life (swimming) and bring joy (ice-skating).

If you could do anything in the world, what would it be?

I want to be Prime Minister of the entire world, no famine, no poverty, no lost lives of young children. I would bring the resources of the entire Earth to make a difference in everyone's lives. I rename Earth to Eeman's Empire.

What is the most useful advice you would give other students from your experience?

Do everything you see and get a chance to do. Don't back out even if you have to do it alone. No friends? no problem! You will make more on your journey of accomplishing what ever you have planned. 

+ Read Gurarmaan's Bio

My mandate: As a second-year Chemistry major, I’ve had the privilege of connecting with science students throughout my studies. Through our conversations, I’ve learned that these students possess many skills that are vital for the prosperity of our university. From their critical thinking skills to their enduring work ethic, our science students are a cornerstone of the institution’s academic reputation. Having taken up the Faculty of Science Mandate, I will ensure that SUS does whatever it can not only to optimize the student experience of this group, but also to draw in new talent to bolster the innovation at UFV.

What is your favourite thing about your role and your work for SUS? I find election periods fun, since we get to hear some creative proposals from the candidates. And to connect that to my current position, there’s a great sense of accomplishment when we take a proposal that seems far-fetched and, with the help of the board’s creative input, have it manifest in reality.  

Is there anything that your colleagues would be surprised to know about you? I love origami! It all started back in elementary school, when a friend of mine gave me an origami ninja star. I unfolded it to see how it was made, but I couldn't put it back together. With no options left, I resorted to YouTube and found a tutorial. One video led to another, and the rest is history.  

Who or what has been the biggest influence in your life? Looking back, I think it was the math contests I started doing in middle school. There’s something about tackling a seemingly unsolvable problem that made me internalize the notion that every problem has a solution. As strange as it sounds, this gave me the courage to start coming out of my shell a bit more, resolving the shyness that I once took for granted as an unsolvable problem.   What was your first job? I was a carrier for The Abbotsford News. (Thank goodness I quit shortly before the heatwave that hit the Pacific Northwest back in 2021.)   If you could do anything in the world, what would it be? I would love to see BTS perform live at least once. And if I can be a bit greedy with my answer, I’d have them perform at my wedding.  

What is the most useful advice you would give other students from your experience? Don’t like something about your current experience at UFV? Think about how you can change it! If you’re not getting much in terms of campus life, join or start a club where you can meet others with a common interest. If you hear about a cool event from your friends at another university, try to see if you can replicate it here. Be the change you want to see.  

+ Read Balkarn's Bio

My Mandate: I have chosen the Applied and Technical Studies Mandate. The reason why I chose this mandate is that I noticed that not a lot of individuals in this field were providing any feedback for SUS. I have many friends in this area and so I thought that I could be the one to raise any concerns for the individuals in this field. I believe I can not only raise students' concerns related to this field specifically, but also concerns related to the Chilliwack campus, as that is where these students are usually present.

What is your favourite thing about your role and your work for SUS? One of my favourite aspects of working with SUS is being part of an organization that plays a significant role in advocating for students and enhancing their overall experience. SUS has allowed me to connect with students and be a voice for them and their concerns.

Is there anything that your colleagues would be surprised to know about you? Most people would be surprised to know that I am quite an introvert. When it comes to social interactions, I am really shy and I tend to avoid them if or when possible.

Who or what has been the biggest influence in your life? My biggest influence has been my family. They’ve always emphasized the importance of community, compassion, and perseverance, which has shaped the way I approach both my academic and extracurricular life. I don’t think that I would be who I am without my family.

What was your first job? My first job was as a Produce Worker at the Real Canadian Superstore. It was a great place to start and learn about taking on responsibilities, such as managing finances, having a schedule, and following tasks. Not only that, but I was able to gain experience in customer service, which allowed me to learn a lot about communicating with others and being able to have a good conversation.

If you could do anything in the world, what would it be? If I could do anything, I would love to be a part of initiatives that combine healthcare, education, and community outreach. Making a meaningful difference in people's lives through inclusive access to care and opportunity is something I am quite passionate about. This is also the reason I am pursuing a career in the medical field.

What is the most useful advice you would give other students from your experience? Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone. It can seem quite uncomfortable to do something that you would not usually do. However, once you have taken that first step, you will realize all of the benefits of the choices you have made. It opens up a whole new world that provides experiences that will stick with you for the rest of your life.

+ Read Tanvir's Bio

What is your favourite thing about your role and the work you do for SUS?

I am currently pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science. What led to my pursuit of this field was an interest to learn more about politics, government,and effective advocacy. I hoped to learn about effective methods of advocacy that would benefit the political, economic, and social state of countries by appealing to its’ constituents.

What motivated you to join our organization's board?

I was motivated to join the UFV SUS board to address services and programs that I believed would benefit UFV and its students. I believe my desire to give back to the community has always been evident through the various work and volunteer commitments I have partaken, and this was another way to continue doing that work. I look forward to doing my part as a board member to support the improvements that are to come to UFV!

+ Read Nichaela's Bio

What is your favourite thing about your role and the work you do for SUS?

I am currently pursuing a major in psychology with a double minor in organizational studies and communications. I was inspired to choose this field due to the unique nature of analyzing workplace dynamics and how I can work to improve consensus within organizations.

What motivated you to join our organization's board?

When choosing to run for a position on the board, I wanted to be an advocate for students to have their voices heard in hopes of making changes across campus.

+ Read Prabcharn's Bio

What area of study or research are you currently pursuing, and what inspired you to choose this field?

I am currently pursuing a degree in Kinesiology, driven by a deep-rooted passion for helping others improve their physical well-being. My journey into this field is profoundly influenced by my background in sports, particularly hockey, and my volunteer work with the Special Olympics.

Engaging in hockey has given me firsthand insight into the physical demands and challenges athletes face, while volunteering with the Special Olympics has allowed me to witness the importance of physical activity on individuals with diverse abilities. These experiences have ignited my desire to contribute to the field of kinesiology, where I can use my knowledge to support and enhance others’ physical health and performance.

What motivated you to join our organization's board? My motivation to run for a board position stems from a commitment to understanding and addressing the issues and successes within our faculty. I believe that being well-informed is crucial for effective decision-making and advocacy. By serving on the board, I look forward to ensuring that the concerns of our faculty are heard and that our collective achievements are recognized and built upon.

+ Read Gagan's Bio

What is your favourite thing about your role and your work for SUS? I love how I can directly influence student advocacy projects and create tangible change in my local community! I’m privileged to have a platform to voice a greater experience for students, I also really enjoy how a short conversation with a student can leave a legacy beyond my time.

**Is there anything that your colleagues would be surprised to know about you? **

Because I love biology, a fun fact is that perfect pitch is actually inherited! My dad’s a music teacher, and growing up he taught me how to play tons of instruments. If I hear a song for the first time, I can play it by ear pretty well!

Who or what has been the biggest influence in your life?

Definitely my brothers, I have 3 of them and they all bring their own unique wisdom, humour, and strength to my life! They’ve mastered how to be protective older brothers while also keeping me humble. I wouldn’t be half the person I am without them.

What was your first job?

My first (actually paid job, not just working for dad), was being a certified First Responder (BLS) when I was 16. I did the course with my best friend since kindergarten and we were surrounded by big, burly firemen (we were definitely out numbered). Somehow, we persisted and in our careers we even assisted on a child birth, it was the best 3 years of my life!

If you could do anything in the world, what would it be?

My lifelong dream has always been to live simply in the farmlands of Punjab. I hope to open a free medical clinic and visit the lands that gave so much to my community. I wish to be surrounded by elders and their timeless stories.

What is the most useful advice you would give other students from your experience?

Anytime you enter a room, there is always an opportunity to learn something. I’ve taken our SUS Shuttle bus twice a day, 5 days a week for three years on the same exact route and I am always spotting something new (a pretty cow, or watching the Chilliwack corn grow, or a duck swimming with its little family). There is beauty to be found everywhere and a lesson to be learned in even the most mundane places; keep an open mind.

+ Read Hozefa's Bio

My mandate: International Students Mandate – As an international student myself, I’ve lived through the unique challenges we face—everything from housing and culture shock to figuring out where to find affordable groceries. I want to make sure international students feel heard, supported, and seen. My goal is to help make their lives just a little bit easier—because I know how tough it can get.

What is your favourite thing about your role and the work you do for SUS?

Definitely connecting with students and making their experience at UFV a little better, one step at a time. Whether it’s solving small everyday problems or just being someone students can talk to—I enjoy being that bridge between students and solutions (and occasionally snacks at events).

Is there anything that your colleagues would be surprised to know about you?

I once went an entire week surviving mostly on instant noodles—not because I had to, but because I genuinely like them. No regrets Who or what has been the biggest influence in your life?My father. His resilience, integrity, and ability to adapt in every situation taught me the value of discipline and empathy. I constantly draw from those lessons in both personal and professional life.

What was your first job?

Customer representative at a tire shop—and I still work there. It's taught me how to stay calm in chaos and smile through some seriously intense Canadian winters. If you could do anything in the world, what would it be?Skydiving! Just the idea of jumping out of a plane sounds equal parts insane and awesome. After that, maybe travel the world with a backpack and no strict itinerary.

** What is the most useful advice you would give to other students from your own experience?**

Don’t wait for everything to be perfect. Just start. Whether it’s applying for a job, joining a club, or asking for help—taking action is what gets you places.

+ Read Akshita's Bio

+ Read Olivia's Bio

What is your favourite thing about your role and the work you do for SUS?

One of the best things about working at SUS (there are many) is our team. There is a wealth of knowledge, experience and a variety of backgrounds that make being part of SUS dynamic and meaningful.

Is there anything that your colleagues would be surprised to know about you?

I am a huge Formula 1 motor-racing fan. I grew up watching the sport with my father in England and now enjoy watching every race with my husband and my young son, who is actually named after a famous F1 driver.

Who or what has been the biggest influence in your life?

I lived and volunteered in the North End of Winnipeg 2001/02. It was a particularly cold winter with many days hitting -45C after windchill. I had very little money, no phone, TV or vehicle and the work was very challenging at times. I met some life-long friends and found much beauty in unexpected places. While it was an intense character-building experience, Winnipeg will always hold a special place in my heart.

What was your first job?

My first full-time job was as a Travel Agent booking ski vacations in Europe. I continued working as a Specialist Travel Consultant for several years before attending University as a mature student.

If you could do anything in the world, what would it be?

I’m a fairly ambitious person so it is tough for me to narrow it down to one thing but I would really like to take my son to watch a live F1 race in Hanoi, Vietnam when he is a bit older.

What is the most useful advice you would give to other students from your own experience?

Tap into community. Whether it is through extra-curricular activities, joining a club, or through part-time work, a community can help you through the intensity of studying and keeps you connected to people and the world.