Platforms
Hey HealthSci! Below you will find all candidates running for executive positions in our spring 2025 bi-elections, along with their respective platforms.
President(s)
Kylie Rivest and
Jacob Lam
Hey HealthSci! We’re Kylie and Jacob, 3rd-year Bachelor of Health Sciences students, and we’re excited to be running as co-presidents for the 2025-2026 academic year.
With a combined five years of experience on the HSSA, we’re confident that we have the skills, knowledge, and passion to effectively lead and represent you. We have filled various executive positions within the association, such as VP of University Affairs, Director of Marketing, and Chief Information Officer. These roles have not only equipped us with valuable experience and insights into our student association but also highlighted areas where we can make meaningful improvements.
If elected, we promise to:
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Improve transparency between the students of our faculty and the executive team, fostering a more open and collaborative environment.
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Advocate for your needs by ensuring that your voices are heard in all important decisions and that we create accessible communication channels.
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Create more events and opportunities that reflect the diverse interests of our student body, from workshops to social gatherings that everyone can enjoy.
We are committed to making your experience as a student not just memorable, but truly fulfilling.
If you vote for Kylie and Jacob, we aim to do just that!
VP Social
Tamara Watkins
Hi everyone! My name is Tamara Watkins and this year I am excited to be running for VP Social!
As the current JVP Social, I’ve had the privilege of working under our current VP Social, Grace
Skinner, gaining firsthand experience in planning and executing events. I have helped organize
our HSS formal, the recent JVP Trivia event, and have been guided in preparing for 101 week
(freshman orientation). I am confident that this has given me the necessary qualifications to
achieve the best results as VP Social. I have worked closely with the current HSSA team, and
have made meaningful connections that have honed my ability to work effectively, as well as
having the best network for future events/activities.
If elected, I plan to bring fresh, new ideas, while keeping the students’ interest in mind. I aim to
have an organized and thoroughly planned 101 week for new/returning guides and incoming
students, and to continue the tradition of a successful formal! My goal is to enhance the student
experiences while maintaining a welcoming environment for English and French students alike.
For more information, or to ask me any questions about my campaign, feel free to visit me on
instagram @tamar.bear! Thank you for your support, and best of luck to all candidates :D
Hilary Siriski
Hi there, my name is Hilary Siriski. I am a second year Bachelor of Health
Sciences student at the University of Ottawa, and I am bilingual in both English and
French. I am running for Vice President of Social Affairs for the upcoming 2025-2026
school year. Here at uOttawa, I play intramural ice hockey and soccer, and I am a part
of the uOttawa field hockey club. As Vice President of Social Affairs, I plan to create an
inclusive and engaging community where everyone feels welcomed and connected. I
will work to make our campus more engaging, inclusive, and fun! I believe that social
events should bring people together, foster friendships, create lasting memories, and
enhance the overall student experience. My goal is to organize innovative events that
cater to all interests. I will prioritize student input, ensuring that our events reflect the
needs and preferences of our community. With experience in organizing sport
fundraisers and employment social events, I am prepared to bring fresh ideas and
better communication to every initiative. If elected, I will work to make our social
calendar more dynamic, accessible, and memorable. Let’s build a stronger, more
engaged student body together!
Amaturraheem Salam-Alada
Hi Geegees!
My name is AmaturRaheem Salam-Alada, and I’m a 3rd year Health Science Student. I’m
running for Vice President Social Affairs of your Health Science Student Association in the
spring 2025 bi-elections.
Should you elect me to be your VP Social Affairs, I plan to serve you in the following ways:
1. Non-Alcohol Events: For HSSA events to be accessible to those who do not drink alcohol
for any reason, I promise to offer dry events alongside drinking ones.
2. Professional Development: In collaboration with the HSSA and faculty members, I will
organize events that give Health Science students a better understanding of the many
career pathways open to them.
3. Encouraging Participation: I plan on ensuring that our events create an environment
where health science students feel a sense of connection and belonging within our
faculty.
To provide you with the best university social experience, I will draw on my past experience as a
Professional Development Coordinator for the Ontario Student Trustee Association and VP of
Events for UOttawa Health For All. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to me
@amaturraheem4socialaffairs on Instagram.
Sincerely,
AmaturRaheem
VP Internal
Grace Skinner
Hi Everyone!
My name is Grace Skinner, I am a third-year Health Sciences student. This past
school year I have worked as the HSSA Vice President of Social Affairs and I'm
excited to be running for Vice President of Internal Affairs for the 2025-26 school
year. With my previous roles in HSSA, alongside active involvement in the Centre
for Child Language Research at the UOttawa Living lab, I feel well-equipped for
this position.
I believe it is very important in this position to develop strong relationships with
professors to find more research opportunities and discover more valuable
hands-on experiences in many different health science fields for all students.
Volunteering experiences are very valuable and hard to find the right fit at times. I
would like to personally offer aid in finding and completing volunteering
applications while also streamlining which fields are going to be best suited for
each student.
Last school year as the Vice President of Social Affairs I developed many
important networking and organization skills I look forward to putting to use and
contributing to the student community once more. Being elected as the Vice
President of Internal Affairs role allows me to deepen my understanding of student
politics and continue supporting peers effectively.
I hope I can count on your vote!
Kaitlyn Wong
Hey! My name is Kaitlyn Wong and I’m a first year Health Sciences student running to be your VP of Internal Affairs for the 2025-26 school year. Being a team player and staying organized has always been a priority to me and I believe that I have the skills to help the HSSA give you the best school year possible!
As the “mom friend” and a karate sensei out of school, I help out with administrative responsibilities that match the tasks of the VP of Internal Affairs, such as managing records, carrying out a clothing order, creating schedules, and supplying office supplies when needed. This hands-on experience has given me the organization, efficiency, and leadership needed to take on the responsibilities of VP of Internal Affairs with confidence. If elected, I will ensure that everything behind the scenes runs smoothly, ensuring that events, initiatives, and day-to-day operations are well-coordinated for both students and the HSSA team.
I’m excited to find volunteer and job opportunities for HSSA students, as I know how difficult and overwhelming it can be to find and apply for positions. If I become your VP of Internal Affairs, I will actively search for relevant opportunities, compile detailed information and ensure students are well-informed. My goal is to make it easier for students to gain valuable experience, build their resumes, and get involved in meaningful ways that align with their academic and career aspirations.
If you have any questions or ideas, please feel free to reach out to me on Instagram @kaitlyn.wonggg or if you see me around on campus, I’d love to hear from you!
VP Finance
Owen Chrysler
Hi, my name is Owen Chrysler, and I’m running to be your next Vice-President of Finance for the Health Science Student Association (HSSA).
As a first-year student and the current Junior Vice-President, I’ve gained valuable hands-on experience, from managing merchandise sales to organizing the winter formal. Working closely with the current Vice-President of Finance, Erika, who has endorsed me, has provided me with the knowledge and skills needed to seamlessly take over the role. I’m confident that my experience has fully prepared me to step into this position.
I believe it’s crucial to have a Vice-President who is open, transparent, and committed to using our finances in a safe and responsible way. If elected, I will make sure our funds are managed wisely, while ensuring we have a solid financial foundation for future events and opportunities. My priority will be to ensure that every dollar spent benefits our student body.
Additionally, my strong connections with other Vice-Presidents allow me to work efficiently as part of the team, ensuring fluid collaboration and effective decision-making.
I’m excited to continue serving our student body and would love your support! Follow me on Instagram @owen4vpfinance or @ofc1120 for updates on my campaign. Thank you for your consideration!
Luke Lamanna
Hey everyone! My name is Luke and I’ve got a plan to put more money back into your pockets
and enrich your uOttawa health sci experience. As your VP Finance, I will commit to 100%
transparency by providing a beginning-of-year breakdown of the HSSA budget to show you
where your money is going. I’ll also establish an open feedback portal to ensure that every dollar
spent is put toward your interests. I’ll also cut HSSA spending by eliminating unnecessary fees
and redirecting the remaining funds to bring you more workshops, guest speakers, and other
opportunities to enrich your uOttawa health sci experience. As the current head of the UNICEF
uOttawa Finance Committee and former Student Council Treasurer, I have plenty of experience
handling money, developing budgets, and working with others to see my vision through. While I
am only one candidate, I will speak on behalf of ALL health sci students to bring you the
student-driven budget and program that you deserve. In my short time here, I’ve become proud
to call myself a uOttawa health sci student. But I know we can do better. Let’s reach our
potential together everyone! Vote Luke Lamanna for VP Finance!
Alex Anderson
Hello Health Science Students!
My name is Alexander Anderson, and I am a third year Health
Science student, with a minor in accounting, looking forward to
running for the Vice-President of Finance position. While pursuing
my minor with the Telfer School of Management, I have developed a
fortified understanding of financial accounting and aim to contribute
those skills towards the common objective of student opportunities
and empowerment.
As VP Finance I will actively pursue...
Healthy Work Environment
It is crucial for all VPs to feel as though they are in a healthy and
productive environment where they can share their goals and objectives for their respective
positions. As VP Finance, I will ensure we establish that environment to optimize open
communication with regards to budgeting, as it will allow for efficient recording of our
transactions, expenditures, and sources of revenue.
Optimal Budgeting
The faculty of Health Science’s finances should be adequately put towards the faculty
of Health Science’s students. My goal is to make sure that in addition to the maintenance of
our budget, I will be ready to ensure that funds are properly allocated for events and
programs that directly meet student demands.
Uchechukwume Dogo
Hi everyone! My name is Uchechukwume Dogo, and I’m excited to run for VP of Finance for the Health Science Student Association in the 2025-2026 school year.
As a former Student Council President, I have firsthand experience in managing budgets, leading teams, and ensuring that student needs are met. Now, I’m ready to bring that same dedication to the Health Science community by optimizing financial resources to create more opportunities for students.
If elected, I will focus on:
Transparency & Smart Budgeting – Ensuring that student funds are managed effectively and spent on initiatives that truly benefit students. I will also provide regular updates so everyone knows where our money is going.
Securing More Funding & Sponsorships – Actively seeking partnerships and sponsorships to increase our budget, making more room for professional development events, networking opportunities, and student support programs.
Maximizing Student Benefits – Allocating funds toward affordable and accessible workshops, academic resources, and wellness initiatives to enrich student life and career growth.
With my leadership experience, financial responsibility, and passion for student success, I am committed to making this year impactful for every Health Science student.
Vote Uchechukwume Dogo for VP of Finance – because your success deserves the best investment!
#UcheForFinance #SmartBudgeting #StrongerHealthSci
Sitharth Partheepan
Hello everyone, my name is Sitharth and I am a second-year student in Health Sciences who
will be among some of the other candidates running for VP Finance. I have thus far had a very
accomplished record as an undergraduate working as VP events for uOAXIA, working as a
researcher for the Hemmer Research group in discovering new opto-magnetic nanoparticles
(Google me), and in conducting audits for various departments while representing the Office of
Campus Sustainability.
Despite not having much professional experience in managing finances, outside of university I
am well-versed in financial literacy. With understanding and effectively using the various tools of
finance such as the stock market, credit products, and all while managing a student budget. And
what I can say needs to be adjusted with the next year’s budget for the HSSA, is its use to
create quality and lasting events. As more than quantity of spending, quality must be looked at.
If elected VP Finance, I will look into using the budget to create memorable events, and I will
manage the upcoming budget with the same professionalism and commitment I have put
towards other aspects of my career.
VP University Affairs
Issachar Wureta
As Vice President of University Affairs, I will work tirelessly to strengthen communication between students and faculty, ensuring your academic concerns are heard and addressed. I will advocate for more accessible professor-student interactions, including networking opportunities with Faculty of Medicine professors for those interested in research and thesis projects.
I will organize academic events such as Cocoa & Cram and Wine & Cheese, allowing students to network with professors and peers. Additionally, I will ensure timely communication about academic policies, curriculum changes, and opportunities through regular updates.
Your feedback matters. I will create accessible platforms for students to share academic concerns and bring them directly to course coordinators and advisors. I will also work with the University Affairs Round Table to improve the BHSc experience.
By keeping the HSSA constitution up to date and working with faculty committees, I will ensure transparency and accountability. I am committed to helping you succeed academically and professionally by fostering an inclusive and connected student-professor environment.
Vote Issachar Wureta for VP University Affairs—because your voice deserves to be heard!
VP Equity and Activism
Nadia Sani
Hello Geegees,
My name is Nadia and I am a third-year Health Sciences student. I look forward to campaigning for the role of your Vice-President of Equity and Activism in the upcoming spring 2025-26 bi-elections!
The key initiatives of my platform, as your VP of Equity and Activism are as follows:
1. Equity-Focused Events: I plan to collaborate with the VP of Social Affairs to organize equity-focused events that promote inclusivity and awareness.
2. Representation and Leadership: I am committed to actively promoting the representation and interests of marginalized HSS students.
3. Liaison Role: I will serve as a liaison between marginalized students, the HSSA executive team, the student union, and the uOttawa admin to ensure that any of your equity concerns are heard.
Most recently, I have acted as Co-President of the uOttawa Association of Black Aspiring Physicians. I have also previously volunteered as an HSSA 101-week guide and served as a Black Youth in STEM Partnership Lead.
If you have any questions about my campaign, please DM me @nadia4equity on Instagram prior to the start of the voting period. Looking forward to the opportunity to create a more equitable campus for my fellow HSS students!
Sincerely,
Nadia Sani
Melvin Hinson
As your VP of Equity and Activism, I am committed to amplifying the voices of underrepresented
students and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to thrive within our faculty. I have been
in positions where implementing fairness for all was of utmost priority, and I understand the
importance of creating safe spaces. My platform focuses on three key areas:
- Action Against Discrimination: I will advocate for stronger policies and initiatives that
eliminate barriers, harassment, and discrimination, creating a safe space for all students.
To ensure this, I will actively collaborate with the Women's Resource Centre, Pride
Centre, Centre for Students With Disabilities, and other key groups.
- Amplifying Marginalized Voices: I will host regular forums and feedback sessions to
ensure the concerns of women, LGBTQ+ students, students with disabilities,
international students, and racial minorities are heard and addressed. Your input will
directly shape the events and initiatives I implement.
- Equitable Event Planning: My commitment is to ensure HSSA events will be designed to
be inclusive and accessible, ensuring that no one is left out. I’ll work with other
executives to prioritize diversity in event programming.
Your voice matters! Please share your concerns or ideas with me at
equityforall.hssa@gmail.com
Naomi Yoo
Hi! I’m Naomi Yoo, a second-year Health Sciences student running to be YOUR VP of Equity and Activism. For me, equity has always been a genuine passion, and I deeply value creating spaces where everyone feels supported. University can be challenging without a sense of belonging, and I’m committed to ensuring all students feel included, heard, and valued.
As the two-time consecutive JVP of Equity and Activism on the HSSA, I’ve gained invaluable experience advocating for students, organizing initiatives, and engaging in meaningful conversations on equity-related issues. Now, I’m hoping to have the opportunity to transform those skills into impactful, long-term change as the new VP of Equity and Activism with your help!
My platform:
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Advocating for accessible funding and support systems, including new bursaries, to support Health Sciences students facing financial and barriers that impact their education, research opportunities, and career development
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Creating events that celebrate diverse groups, prioritize student mental health, and provide safe, engaging spaces for students to connect, share experiences, and access meaningful support
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Organizing events that connect students with diverse professionals to explore career paths and mentorship opportunities
With your support, I truly believe we can make OUR program a model of inclusivity.
VP Philanthropy
Allie Scott
Hey HSS! My name is Allie and I’m super excited to be running for re-election as your
VP Philanthropy! I’m in my third year of health sciences and I grew up in a small town
where my passion for giving back started. I have learned so much this past year; I have
had the opportunity to experience first-hand how much our monetary donations and
generosity benefit the Ottawa community. With a passion for creating mindful change
and inspiring generosity, I plan to create some new events for next year, such as a Hike
for Hospice, an Amazing Race for Charity, and Valentine’s Day Candy Grams! I will also
allocate resources into boosting our current initiatives and collaborate with other RSGs
to amplify our philanthropic efforts. My experience as this year's HSSA VP Philanthropy
and uOttawa Global Medical Brigades secretary have equipped me with invaluable
event planning skills, leadership, and teamwork to drive philanthropic initiatives. Beyond
academics, I enjoy figure skating and running, serving as the Vice-President for the
uOttawa Figure Skating Club! Feel free to reach out if you have any questions, and
don’t forget to Vote For Allie!
Adnan Nehme
I am running for Vice President of Philanthropy because I believe in the power of giving back
and uniting students to create lasting change. My leadership experience, event coordination
skills, and strong connections with faculty and researchers position me to take HSSA’s
philanthropic initiatives to new heights.
As VP of Recruitment for pre-dental events, I have successfully coordinated with dental
students, medical students, and graduate researchers, fostering meaningful collaborations. My
ability to build relationships will allow me to create impactful partnerships that strengthen
HSSA’s philanthropic outreach. Additionally, my high-level leadership in Start2Finish has given
me firsthand experience in organizing fundraising efforts, mobilizing volunteers, and leading
initiatives that directly benefit the community.
If elected, I will:
● Expand and diversify fundraising initiatives, ensuring they are engaging, sustainable, and
high-impact.
● Leverage my network of faculty and researchers to create partnerships that elevate our
philanthropic reach.
● Increase student involvement by making philanthropy more accessible and meaningful
through strategic volunteer opportunities.
With my experience, passion, and dedication, I am ready to make philanthropy a driving force
within HSSA. I would be honored to have your support!
Yours truly,
Adnan Nehme
Aimen Khan
Hello everyone,
My name is Aimen Khan, and I am excited to be running for Vice President of Philanthropy. As a first-year Health Science student, I am passionate about making a positive impact both on and off campus. My academic background has strengthened my understanding of community well-being, and I am eager to apply that knowledge to meaningful initiatives.
If elected, I will focus on hosting engaging events that raise funds and awareness for important causes. I plan to introduce creative initiatives like themed fundraising nights, collaborative events with other student groups, and volunteering opportunities that make giving back accessible to all.
I believe that small actions can create a big impact, and I am committed to fostering a culture of compassion and generosity within our community. By working together, we can make a meaningful difference.
I would be honored to have your support for VP of Philanthropy. Thank you for your time and consideration!
Anika Joseph
Hi everyone! I’m Anika Joseph, a first-year Health Sciences student minoring in law, and I’m excited to run for VP of Philanthropy for the 2025-2026 academic year. Giving back to the community has always been important to me, and I’m passionate about making philanthropy more engaging and impactful for all students in the HSSA.
Through my work with the International Students Services Organization (ISSO), I helped organize events for newcomers, coordinate outreach efforts, and manage budgets. Additionally, as a member of the Colors for Coats volunteer committee, I contributed to providing essential resources to those in need. These experiences have shown me the impact of well-organized, student-driven philanthropy, and I’m eager to bring that same dedication to the HSSA.
If elected, I’ll expand beyond traditional fundraisers by introducing hands-on volunteer opportunities, strengthening current philanthropic events, and building new partnerships with local organizations. I’ll also focus on increasing student involvement and ensuring everyone has a voice in the causes we support.
Philanthropy should excite and unite us. Let’s create meaningful initiatives and build a stronger culture of giving back!
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out on Instagram (@anikajosephh). I’d love to hear from you!
VP Communications
Andre Vezarov
Hey HSSA!
I'm Andre, a first-year Health Science student, and I'm running for VP of Communications. I love helping others and want to keep every Health Science student informed and connected to our faculty. Through my experience mentoring a robotics team and working in a hospital, I've learned the importance of clear communication, teamwork, and organization. I want to bring those skills to HSSA to make communication smoother, more engaging, and more accessible for everyone.
My goal is simple: outside of the executive team, I want to make sure you always have the info you need, when you need it - whether it's about events, opportunities, or important updates. I'll work hard to keep emails clear and easy to read, make announcements more engaging, and listen to your feedback to improve how HSSA communicates with you.
I'm passionate about getting involved, taking on new responsibilities, and making a real difference for our student body. I would love the opportunity to serve as your VP of Communications and do my part to make next year even better for all of us!
Keshav Gosain
As a second-year Health Sciences student with a strong background in leadership, advocacy, and communications, I am eager to take on the role of VP Communications to improve transparency, engagement, and accessibility within the HSSA.
Through my experience in crisis response, healthcare advocacy, and digital outreach, I have developed strong communication and organizational skills that will allow me to keep students informed and involved. If elected, I will:
Make Communication Clear & Accessible – Timely updates via newsletters, emails, and social media, ensuring every student stays informed.
Strengthen Bilingual Accessibility – High-quality translations so that all students, regardless of language, can easily access HSSA updates.
Enhance Digital Engagement – A stronger online presence with better social media strategies to keep students connected and involved.
Streamline Internal Communications – An organized and up-to-date email list, ensuring smoother coordination within the Executive team.
Be Financially Responsible – A cost-effective approach to communication that maximizes impact without unnecessary spending.
My passion for student representation, combined with my experience in effective communication, makes me a strong candidate for this role. I look forward to the opportunity to serve and contribute to a more connected and informed HSSA.
Follow me on Instagram for updates: @votekeshav
VP Bilingualism
Desiree Okpiaifo
My name is Desiree, and I am excited to run for VP Bilingualism for the HSSA! As a passionate advocate for inclusion and a dedicated student in health sciences, I believe I am fit for this role. I have been in positions where I have used my bilingualism to service francophones in need and I want to apply this ability to strengthen the francophone community within our faculty.
Here’s what I plan to accomplish:
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Enhancing Access to Bilingual Resources by ensuring that important academic and extracurricular resources, including event promotions, study materials, and association communications, are available in both French and English.
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Increasing Francophone Representation by advocating for more French-speaking guest speakers, workshops, and networking opportunities to better support francophone students in their academic and professional journeys.
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Creating Inclusive Community Events by working with other executive members on the team and francophone clubs to organize fun, bilingual social and academic events that celebrate and promote francophone culture while fostering connections between French and English-speaking students.
Being fluent in French and English, I understand the importance of ensuring that every student—francophone and anglophone alike—feels represented in our faculty. With your support, we can build a more inclusive and bilingual student community!
VP Media
Alma Sannoufi
Hello everyone! My name is Alma, and I am a first-year student running for the position of VP of Media. I understand that media is a crucial link between the HSSA and the student body, and I am eager to create an engaging and interactive platform.
My background in media and marketing includes serving as the Head of Media on my high school student council, where I honed my communication and engagement skills. I also served as an editor and marketer of my high school yearbook for two years, and I currently hold the position of Co-Head of Marketing for a uOttawa club.
I value student input and plan to introduce feedback mechanisms like surveys and polls to ensure that we address the topics that matter most to our peers. Additionally, I will use various multimedia formats, including videos and infographics, to present information in a dynamic way that makes it easier for students to connect with our content. Lastly, I am committed to being a supportive and communicative team member within the HSSA, collaborating closely with my peers to achieve our goals together.
Thank you for your support, and best of luck to everyone running in this election!
Maira Gangji
Hey Health Sci! My name is Maira, and I’m a second-year Health Sciences student running for re-election as your VP of Media for the 2025-2026 school year. Having been a part of the HSSA since the beginning of my university career, I have not only witnessed all the hard work that goes into supporting the student body, but I have been a part of it firsthand. As JVP of Communications during my first year, I redid the graphic design of the newsletter, assisted with the monthly writing and editing of the newsletter, and ran some of the HSSA social media platforms such as TikTok and Instagram. This year, as VP of Media, I have been making sure to capture the special moments at all of our events, creating content to promote student engagement, and ensuring that the student voice is being heard. As VP of Media for the 2025-2026 academic year, I would continue doing what I have been doing and use my prior experience to further improve myself within this role, with my top priority being to amplify students’ voices and foster a welcoming community within the Faculty of Health Sciences through creative uses of media platforms.