HSGSA 2025-2026 Executive Nominations

See below for a list of executive profiles. The candidates names are listed below in alphabetical order by first name and are sorted by the position they have applied for, with their slate name in bold. The election takes place solely online and you will receive a link in your University of Manitoba email account that will connect you to your ballot.

President

Ashraf Kadar Shahib

Vice-President (Internal)

Deanne Nixie Miao

Mohd Sarim Siddiqui

Vice-President (External)

Kibii Belindah

Vice-President (Academic)

Anam Ara

Vice-President (Marketing and Events)

Mohammed Abrar Basha

Andy Van Domelen

Vice-President (St. Boniface)

Roni Armon

President:

Ashraf Kadar Shahib (Biochemistry and Medical Genetics)

Hi everyone! I’m ASHRAF KADAR SHAHIB, a PhD student from the Department of Biochemistry and Medical Genetics. I’m honored to present myself as a candidate for the esteemed role of President in the upcoming HSGSA elections. With my passion for creativity, leadership, and community engagement, I’m excited to contribute my skills and experience to enhance our student experience.

Throughout my academic journey, I’ve actively participated in various extracurricular activities that have honed my organizational skills, creativity, and teamwork abilities. As a dedicated member of the BMG Student Council, I’ve gained valuable insights into strategic planning and event management, conducting various events since last September. My most recent work includes being part of the planning committee for the BMG Research Day.

In my previous roles, I’ve demonstrated my ability to lead with integrity, empathy, and purpose. As Head of the Creativity and Events committee of AUSEC (2022-23), I successfully organized several high-profile events that received positive feedback from students and faculty. Serving as the Vice-President of Biotechcellence (2022), a national-level technical symposium, further enhanced my experience.

Most importantly, I’m currently serving as the Vice President of Marketing and Events for this year’s HSGSA. In this role, I’ve organized various extremely successful social events, including the Culturo-Fest, TGIF, Summer event, and the upcoming Winter Gala. These events have been great successes, attracting impressive numbers of student attendees and fostering a strong sense of community among our graduate students.

If elected as President of HSGSA, I have several exciting plans to implement, some of them include:

  • Continue to enhance student engagement through a comprehensive program of diverse events and activities.
  • Improve communication channels between the student council and the student body.
  • Organize professional development initiatives, including workshops and networking events.
  • Focus on mental health and wellness by implementing supportive programs and resources.
  • Foster collaborative projects with other departments to create interdisciplinary opportunities.

My attention to detail, strong communication skills, and ability to think outside the box have been key to my past successes. I’m dedicated to serving our student body with integrity, passion, and a relentless commitment to excellence. I aim to reach every single graduate student and provide my utmost service.

With your support, I’m confident that together we can achieve great things and positively impact our fellow students’ lives. Thank you for considering me for the position of President of HSGSA. Let’s work together to create unforgettable experiences and lasting memories for our student community.

Vice-President (Internal):

Deanne Nixie Miao (Biochemistry and Medical Genetic) (Mosaic)

Hello! My name is Deanne Nixie Miao, and I am excited to run for Vice President Internal of HSGSA as part of Mosaic – a team of passionate and diverse individuals dedicated to creating a stronger, more inclusive graduate student community.

As a PhD student in the department of Biochemistry and Medical Genetics (BMG), I bring extensive experience in financial oversight, event coordination and student advocacy. Through my leadership in student governance (e.g., BMG-Graduate Student’s Association [BMG[1]GSA] and Filipino’s Advancing Research in Health Sciences [FLARES]), and participation on various committees (e.g., Organizing Committee for 25th BMG Anniversary, Science Rendezvous Planning Committee, and the Canadian Society of Pharmacology and Therapeutics Awards Committee), I have gained a strong understanding of the financial and administrative needs of graduate students. Building on these experiences, I am committed to ensuring that HSGSA’s resources are managed fairly, responsibly, and transparently.

Currently, I serve as President of BMG-GSA, where I lead financial and logistical planning for student initiatives. One of BMG-GSA’s goals this year is to strengthen student connections, especially since our department is spread across four locations in Winnipeg: the BMG building, St. Boniface Research Hospital, Paul Albrechtsen Research Institute – CancerCare Manitoba, and the John Buhler Research Centre. We’ve worked hard to bridge these gaps, and as part of Mosaic, I am excited to extend these efforts across Health Sciences graduate students.

Beyond financial management, I am deeply passionate about mentorship, community engagement, and student representation. I have mentored students through the BMG Mentorship Group, Welcome Mentors Group, New Student Peer Mentorship Program, and the Undergraduate Microbiology Student Group’s Mentorship Program, helping students grow both academically and professionally. I also co-founded FLARES to support and increase representation for Filipino students in research.

If elected as Vice President Internal, I will focus on:

• Ensuring HSGSA’s financial sustainability through responsible budgeting and resource management,

• Expanding funding opportunities for student-led initiatives and professional development, and

• Enhancing financial transparency and accessibility to funding for all Health Science graduate students

I believe that HSGSA should be a resource that truly serves students, and I’m dedicated to making sure that every dollar spent benefits our graduate student community. Thank you for your support!

Mohd Sarim Siddiqui

Who I Am: I’m Mohd Sarim Siddiqui, running independently to be the synapse that bridges our ideas, resources, and community as your VP (Internal). I’m a master’s student and research assistant in Physiology and Pathophysiology at the University of Manitoba, exploring the molecular mechanisms of synaptic development and plasticity. In simpler terms, I study how brain cells connect to unlock pathways for therapies targeting brain disorders. My work has earned me the UMGF, Research Manitoba, and RFHS awards, and I’ve showcased it at the MSHRF and MNN events.

Leadership That Fits the Role: From organizing events for differently abled individuals to managing finances for NGOs supporting those in need, I’ve sharpened my skills in budgeting, transparency, and teamwork—core duties that are required for the VP (Internal). In 2021, I successfully managed a significant budget for a cultural event, ensuring every detail was covered. In the lab, I meticulously maintain order sheets, ensuring everything runs smoothly, a habit I’ll bring to overseeing HSGSA’s financial records. With a mentorship program, I’ve guided students to secure fully funded studies abroad, proving I can foster collaboration and support—a perfect match for managing committees and building our grad community with unconditional mentorship.

Beyond the Lab: I’m a curious soul who dives into geopolitics, tracks stocks and crypto, and enjoys playing game of billiards or badminton. These interests keep me sharp and relatable, ready to connect with you outside the academic grind.

My Vision for HSGSA: As VP (Internal), I’ll make full transparency your front-row seat to how HSGSA operates—not a backstage whisper. I’ll post detailed financial updates on the HSGSA website and send you a quick email nudge to check them, so you’re never left wondering where your fees go. I’ll bring in tax filing experts to handle your taxes on a large scale under HSGSA, free of cost for a few days—no need to go anywhere or pay high fees—helping you cash in on returns with confidence; most students get money back, and I’ll make sure you do too. I’ll ensure smooth processing of budget allocations for council members with elegance and efficiency. I’ll launch a suggestion portal where your event ideas don’t just pile up—I’ll champion the best ones at HSGSA meetings and turn them into reality.

Picture this: a grad community where you’re not just a bystander but the pulse of every decision. I’m not here to toss around vague promises; I’m here to deliver a system you can see, question, and trust. Transparency with me isn’t a checkbox—it’s a live feed you can count on, month after month. Your voice won’t just echo; it’ll steer the ship. With me as your VP, you’re not voting for a title—you’re voting for a partner who’s got your back and your ideas in the spotlight.

Why I’m Here: I’m a developing neuron, growing through every connection I make. Just as I’ve stayed tied to my previous alma mater through mentorship, I want to forge a lasting bond with UofM. I’m running because I’ve seen how cronyism can disconnect student government from its purpose—serving you. As VP (Internal), I’ll link students, ideas, and resources with strong plasticity, ensuring our community thrives now and beyond my time here.

Why Me? I’m running independently because I believe in direct, heartfelt service—no filters, just action. Some want power for a select few; I want progress for us all. If you want a VP who listens, delivers, and cares, vote for me. Let’s build a stronger HSGSA together!

Vice-President (External)

Kibii Belindah (MMID) (Mosaic)

Hello, fellow grad students!!!

I am Kibii Belindah, currently in my second year of PhD program at the Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Disease under the mentorship of Dr Lyle McKinnon. My PhD work focuses on immune correlates of human papillomavirus infection, clearance, and persistence. I completed my bachelor’s (microbiology) and Master’s (microbiology –natural sciences) from Jomo Kenyatta University and Wuhan Institute of Virology respectively.

My philosophy is rooted in equity and equality in diversity. When elected as the Vice President-External I envision that alongside my team we will serve the RFHS graduate students through proactive collaborations and initiatives (events, workshops, advocacy and appeals) that advocate for students’ academic, professional, wellbeing and growth.

Vice-President (Academic)

Anam Ara (Biochemistry and Medical Genetics) (Mosaic)

Hello Graduate Student,

Anam Ara is a PhD student in the Department of Biochemistry and Medical Genetics. She has been nominated for VP Academic of the Health Sciences Graduate Student Association (HSGSA), she is committed to expanding outreach opportunities that foster engagement, involvement, and inspiration among graduate students. Her vision includes organizing career panels on academia, industry, and government, as well as workshops on CV and resume building, mentorship, research presentation skills, and stress management.

Anam has previously served as a trainee representative for the CHRIM Professional Development Group, VP for her department, and a councilor representing her department. These experiences have given her a deep understanding of the needs of graduate students and what they look forward to in their academic and professional journeys.

With a strong passion for academic and professional development, Anam strives to create meaningful initiatives that empower graduate students to connect with their peers, faculty, and the broader community. She is dedicated to ensuring that students have access to the resources, support, and opportunities they need to excel in their academic and career paths.

Vice-President (Marketing and Events)

Mohammed Abrar Basha (Physiology and pathophysiology)

Who I Am:

I’m Mohammed Abrar Basha, a PhD student in Physiology and Pathophysiology with a commitment to student engagement, transparent leadership, and impactful events. My background in academic research, neuroscience outreach, and event coordination has equipped me with a practical, results-driven approach to representation. I strive to ensure our student government serves every graduate by delivering events that are meaningful, accessible, and transformative. On a personal note, I value lifelong learning, enjoy reading about new scientific discoveries, and love spending time with friends over coffee.

Why I’m Running:

I have seen how student governance can empower or uplift our student community, and I am running for VP of Marketing & Events to enhance student engagement. My goal is to break down barriers and promote transparency, ensuring that every candidate has a fair opportunity to contribute to our collective success.

What I Stand For:

· Fairness in Elections: I believe in clear, transparent processes and genuine student representation.

· Authentic & Engaging Events: I will work to organize events that are not routine but are designed to create real value and memorable experiences for our community.

· Unbiased Communication: I am committed to providing clear, honest, and open information about our association’s activities.

My Vision:

· Marketing & Event Strategy: With my leadership as Student coordinator and representative in the Manitoba Neuroscience Network, I’ve led academic and networking events that genuinely engage, educate, and inspire—creating a more meaningful experience.

· Transparent Communication: I believe in maintaining open channels and unbiased communication, ensuring every student has access to the information and opportunities they deserve.

· Independent Leadership: I represent the interests of all graduate students, promoting fairness, accountability, and a governance system where every voice matters. Reach me anytime and I’m always here to listen.

Innovative Goals in a Nutshell:

· Bridge Academia & Industry: I aim to host mixers, alumni meet-ups, and interdisciplinary events so you can meet peers, faculty, and industry professionals. Arrange to practical guidance and mentorship to help students transition smoothly from academia to industry.

· High-Impact Networking: Organize exclusive events—such as industry retreats, summer camps, and interactive workshops—that connect students with influential industry leaders.

· Impactful Events: Advocate for dynamic, multicultural events with lots of fun entertainment, multi-cuisine potlucks and mainly advocate for redirected funds to increase student awards.

Join the Movement for Change:

This campaign isn’t about me—it’s about all of us. If you believe in transparency, genuine engagement, and events that truly benefit students, join me in creating a future where every voice is heard, and real change prevails.

Andy Van Domelen (Biochemistry and Medical Genetics) (Mosaic)

“Hi, my name is Andy. What student events do you want to see next year?”

This is the question I hope to ask every HSGSA student before the upcoming election. Although I have many ideas for student events for the next academic year, I recognize that each graduate student brings to campus their own unique needs and perspectives. As Vice President of Marketing and Events, it is my goal to understand your personal vision for your own graduate school experience and tailor HSGSA events to bring that vision to life.

I am also committed to forging stronger partnerships with department student leaders. Having served as an undergraduate club President and as a current departmental Events Representative, I’ve seen firsthand how collaboration can create memorable, fun, and inclusive events. By working closely with each department, I’m confident we can deepen the connections between HSGSA and our diverse academic communities across all three campuses.

As Vice President of Marketing and Events for the HSGSA, I’m excited to not only to continue our popular gatherings like the Winter Gala and Culturo-Fest, but also to explore new events shaped by every student’s input and each department’s collaboration.

It all begins with the simple question: “What student events do you want?”

Vice-President (St. Boniface)

Roni Armon (Pharmacy) (Mosaic)

Hello everyone! My name is Roni Armon, and I am running for the position of HSGSA Vice-President Saint Boniface. I am a 2nd year Ph.D. student in the College of Pharmacy, working under the supervision of Dr. Hope Anderon. My research focuses on elucidating the protective mechanisms of cannabinoid receptor signaling in atrial fibrillation.

From a young age, I was drawn to the medical world and started volunteer work as a first aid provider on ambulances at the age of 16. After high school, I sought a profession that would be both impactful and aligned with my interests, choosing to become a paramedic. Due to my fascination with the depth of knowledge and opportunities that higher education provides, I pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Emergency Medicine and, subsequently, a Master’s degree in Emergency Medicine and Crisis Management. This academic path not only deepened my expertise but also solidified my commitment to further study.

Beyond academics, I have actively engaged in leadership roles that have shaped my professional and personal growth. First and foremost, I am a paramedic. As a paramedic, I am responsible for leading both my team and my patients in high-stress situations, which has equipped me with strong leadership skills that are vital in any environment. In pre-hospital care, I manage critical situations by staying composed, making quick decisions, and coordinating with others to ensure the best outcomes. This experience has taught me how to lead with both empathy and confidence, balancing tough decisions with compassion.

I believe these leadership abilities make me the ideal candidate to represent the students’ interests. As an HSGSA executive, I would bring my problem-solving skills, commitment to collaboration, and dedication to advocating for the well-being of my peers. I’m passionate about enhancing student life, whether it’s through organizing events, supporting student health and wellness, or pushing for more opportunities to connect and grow together. I’m ready to lead by example and ensure that every voice is heard, creating a vibrant and supportive environment for all students. I want us to become a true community. While the academic journey can sometimes feel isolating, it doesn’t have to be. We are all on this path together, and by fostering a sense of connection and support, we can lift each other up and thrive. A strong, united community will not only make us better students but better individuals, creating an environment where everyone has the opportunity to succeed, grow, and feel truly valued. Together, we can make student life more fulfilling, rewarding, and connected than ever before.