Candidates who have provided bios may have them displayed here as per the GSA electoral rules. Please note that students will be able to vote Yes/No for position where a candidate is running unopposed. Slate affiliations for executive candidates are indicated (parenthetically) after their names.
Candidates for President:
Chinyere Aliozora-Nwaonye
Chinyere Aliozora-Nwaonye 📍 Business Consultant | Digital Transformation Strategist |
Inclusive Leader
A dynamic business consultant and digital transformation expert with over a decade of
experience in business operations, project management, and strategy development across diverse
industries. She has a proven track record of optimizing processes, driving organizational growth,
and leading digital transformation initiatives that enhance efficiency and profitability.
Currently pursuing a Master’s in Digital Transformation and Entrepreneurship at Carleton
University, I combine global experience with deep market insights, having successfully managed
multimillion-dollar assets and executed high-impact projects in telecommunications and
advertising. A Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP) with an MBA, she specializes in
business innovation and digital strategy.
I am currently running for President of the Graduate Students’ Association (GSA) at Carleton
University, championing a vision of inclusivity, advocacy, and community building to create a
thriving, supportive, and diverse graduate student experience.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/chinyere-aliozora-nwaonye/
Divyesh Rajeshbhai Rathod
I represent Indian culture at Carleton University, subtly influencing the vibrant, diverse atmosphere of our academic community. I am an engineer and current TA with a passion for fostering a supportive and innovative environment. As a candidate for President in the upcoming GSA election, I am dedicated to representing the interests of our technical professionals and educators. My firsthand experience as a TA has shown me the daily challenges we face, and I am committed to advocating for improved support, resources, and recognition for all teaching assistants. I believe that by working together, we can create a community where every member’s expertise is valued and their needs are met. I look forward to collaborating with you to drive meaningful change and elevate our community to new heights.
Hridesh Kapur (United)
I’m Hridesh Kapur, and I’m running for GSA President because I firmly believe that the GSA is FOR the students. This means fostering open communication, transparency, and a platform where every graduate student feels heard and valued. I’m committed to improving the connection between GSA and students, ensuring that your concerns, ideas, and feedback are always a priority.
Having organized events like Holi, Nowruz, and Lunar New Year, among others, I’ve worked to create spaces where all cultures and nationalities are celebrated. I bring an inclusive mindset that values diversity and aims to make every graduate student feel like they truly belong at Carleton.
If elected, I will focus on creating an environment where communication is clear, decisions are transparent, and the graduate student experience is enriched. Together, we can build a GSA that truly represents and serves you.
Rouf Chowdhury
Rouf Chowdhury is a Master of Engineering student in Technology Innovation Management
(TIM) at Carleton University and currently serves as the official TIM Ambassador under the
Sprott School of Business. With 10 years of corporate experience, including 4 years as a team
lead in multinational companies, he has received multiple Best Employee awards for outstanding
leadership and performance.
Rouf previously served as campus chair for international organizations such as SLSD and the
Open Access Research Organization, leading impactful student-driven initiatives. He is a
founding initiator of the Carleton Engineering Graduate Student Association (CEGSA). He has
successfully organized several events connecting graduate students with alumni for academic
and professional growth. He is also a Hatch participant in Carleton’s Innovation Hub Incubator
program.
Currently pursuing research in Human-Computer Interaction, Rouf is passionate about
innovation and creating real-world impact. Through GSA, he aims to amplify student voices,
foster inclusion and create meaningful opportunities across the graduate community.
Zeina Al Attar
My name is Zeina Al Attar, and I am a PhD candidate in Anthropology with a specialization in Political Economy. I also hold a Master’s degree in Migration and Diaspora Studies from Carleton University. Over the past few years, I have been deeply involved in student advocacy and community building, serving as a Graduate Peer Mentor and participating in the Sociology and Anthropology Graduate Student Caucus. I have organized workshops focused on research, academic writing, and student wellness, all aimed at making graduate school more supportive and inclusive. Throughout this work, I have witnessed how academic pressures are often compounded by the intersectional challenges many of us face, which is why I am committed to creating spaces where all students feel seen, heard, and supported. I will continue to advocate for stronger resources, amplify student voices, and foster meaningful opportunities for connection and collaboration across our graduate community.
Candidates for Vice President Academic:
Ehsan Eidi
Mahya Momenzadeh Bokharaei
I am Mahya Momenzadehbokharaei, an M.Tech. Innovation Management student at Carleton University, dedicated to fostering an equitable, transparent, and student-driven academic environment. With over seven years of leadership experience in SaaS and startups, I have successfully led cross-functional teams, engaged stakeholders, and developed innovative solutions to complex problems which are skills that are essential for advocating for graduate students.
I am committed to using student feedback and data to drive impactful academic improvements, ensuring transparent decision-making, equitable access to resources, and stronger connections between students, faculty, and administration. If elected, I will introduce a student engagement platform to enhance participation, provide feedback mechanisms, and keep students informed about academic initiatives.
Oladoja Babatunde
My name is Oladoja Babatunde, a master’s student in Applied Business Analytics at Sprott
School of Business, Carleton University.
I am a naturally curious and driven individual who thrives in environments where ideas,
people, and possibilities come together. With a background that spans leadership, youth
mentorship, and music, I have learned how to connect with people, solve problems
creatively, and lead with both heart and strategy.
I am highly organized, an effective communicator, and deeply committed to growth. I
believe in the power of data, dialogue, and dedication to transform how we learn and lead. I
enjoy bringing people together, simplifying complex ideas, and building systems that work
for everyone. Whether it’s guiding a team, coordinating a project, or listening to someone’s
academic concerns, I show up with empathy, excellence, and intentionality — qualities I
now bring into academic leadership.
Sareh Mirbagheri
With over 8 years of leadership experience in academic and tech environments, I bring a strong sense of responsibility, attention to detail, and a deep commitment to student success. My background in architecture has shaped me to think critically, work collaboratively, and focus on practical solutions that improve the student experience.
I’m someone who pays close attention not just to policies, but to how they impact students day-to-day. I stay engaged and alert to the small issues that can grow into bigger challenges if left unaddressed, because I believe proactive, thoughtful leadership is key to meaningful change.
I deeply appreciate the progress already being made at Carleton, and I’m excited to build on that by advocating for academic fairness, clearer communication, and stronger student representation across all departments.
I’m here to serve with integrity, insight, and genuine care for our graduate community.
Shaghayegh Mazinani (Ava)
Hi! I’m Shaghayegh (nickname Ava), a Master’s student in Technology Innovation Management (MEng) at Carleton University, with another Master’s degree in Industrial Design. I have over 13 years of experience working in design and innovation-and even ran my own successful design company for 4 years.
I care deeply about helping students succeed in their studies, get scholarships, find jobs, and build strong networks for the future. I believe that when we listen to each other, support one another, and work together, we can all grow.
As a candidate for VP Academic – GSA, I want to make sure your voice is heard. Whether it’s about academic concerns, funding, or career support, I will be here to help and to take real action. My goal is to create a space where every graduate student feels supported, valued, and ready for success.
Let’s build a better future together.
Vote for Shaghayegh on April 9, 2025
Temuulen Turbat (Elen) (United)
Hi, I’m Temuulen Turbat (Elen), a 2nd term Master of Applied Business Analytics – Technology Innovation Management student at Carleton University. I’m excited to run for GSA VP Academics to advocate for graduate students and enhance their academic experience.
Originally from Mongolia, I believe every graduate student deserves strong support, accessible resources, and real opportunities to succeed. GSA should be a safe, inclusive, and empowering space, regardless of background, gender, or identity.
As a core member of the Mongolia Inclusion & Diversity group, I’ve led initiatives to promote fair workplaces, secure funding for social causes, and advocate for equity. Now, I want to bring that same dedication to GSA, ensuring every graduate student feels heard, valued, and supported.
In academia, thriving goes beyond just meeting deadlines. We need a balance that supports our mental health and well-being, along with resources for career development, networking, professional skill-building, and clear, accessible GSA services.
Candidates for Vice President External
Christabel Awuah-Gyasi
With over 16 years of experience in banking, customer service, and financial management, I have
worked with diverse groups to improve financial services, operational efficiency, and customer
satisfaction. My serviceable disposition has helped me break frontiers and connect with key
stakeholders who have assisted me in several meaningful ways to bring about impactful change.
I am currently pursuing my Master’s degree in Technology Innovation Management with focus on
Digital Transformation and Entrepreneurship at Carleton University.
My leadership journey comprises being a National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS) Women’s
Commissioner during my undergraduate studies, and several non-academic capacities to champion both
student and general welfare, gender equality, and community development issues.
I am committed to collaborating through effective communication with both internal and external
stakeholders, through social events, policy engagement, process improvement, or community initiatives
to have the right representation and resources and to excel academically, socially and professionally.
Faysal Halim
I am currently pursuing my Master of Entrepreneurship in the Technology Innovation Management program at Carleton University. With over 10 years of experience in business development, marketing, and relationship management, I have a strong track record of driving growth, building partnerships, and leading strategic initiatives.
Beyond my professional background, I have been deeply involved in student leadership, holding key roles in several student clubs during my undergraduate and MBA studies. These experiences have sharpened my ability to build networks, advocate for student needs, and implement impactful initiatives.
My goal is to enhance student representation and ensure that graduate students at Carleton are well-supported and connected. By fostering partnerships, collaborating with student associations, and advocating for international students, I aim to strengthen the Graduate Students Association’s presence and ensure all student voices are effectively represented.
Hadi Hefzy (Behnam) (United)
Hi! I’m Hadi Hefzy (Behnam), and I’m running for GSA Vice-President External because I’m passionate about building strong connections, both within and beyond Carleton University. As an international student from Iran (and yes, like any true Iranian, I love engaging with people, whether it’s on campus or in the city, I’m always ready to listen and help), I truly understand the challenges international students face and I’m eager to represent and support them.
I’m an active, outgoing, and communication-driven person who believes that real change comes through meaningful dialogue. If elected, I will work to strengthen GSA’s relationships with external organizations, improve outreach, and ensure every student, especially international graduate students, feels seen, heard, and included.
Mojtaba Kashani
My name is Mojtaba Kashani, and I am excited to serve as the VP External at the Graduate Student Association. As a third-year PhD student in Sociology at Carleton University, I am deeply committed to student advocacy and fostering a supportive graduate student community.
With experience as a teaching assistant and a social worker, I have developed strong leadership and interpersonal skills that help me understand the diverse needs of graduate students. My goal in this role is to expand resources for professional development, advocate for mental health support, and enhance opportunities for student engagement. I am particularly passionate about ensuring international students feel welcomed and supported during their academic journey.
This year, I look forward to working together to build a more connected, inclusive, and empowering graduate community.
Pablo Arzate
Pablo Arzate is an experienced innovator and leader with over 10 years in industrial design, entrepreneurship, and global collaboration. Holding an MDes and currently pursuing a Master in Entrepreneurship at the Sprott School of Business, Pablo has represented startups and institutions internationally. He is committed to connecting graduate students to external opportunities, strategic partnerships, and resources, driving innovation and career advancement.
Candidate for Vice President Finance (To be voted by council members only)
Dapo Odumosu
Hi! I’m Oladapo Odumosu, a PhD student in Economics at Carleton University and a candidate for VP Finance of the GSA. I moved to Canada from Nigeria as an international student and have since earned both my BA and MA in Economics at Carleton. Professionally, I worked as Manager, Research and Analysis at the Chamber of Marine Commerce, where I led research on regulatory policies, marine transportation economics, and trade. I currently serve as a GSA Councillor for the Department of Economics, sit on the GSA Board of Directors, and chair the Grants and Awards Committee. These roles have given me direct experience with the financial operations and programs that support graduate students. If elected, I’ll work to strengthen transparency, equity, and timeliness in the delivery of GSA services. I’m passionate about ensuring our student dollars are used efficiently and in ways that truly support our community.
Let’s connect: linkedin.com/in/oladapoo
Reza Sohrabi
My name is Reza Sohrabi. I am a third-year doctoral candidate in Sociology, advocating for transparent activism, open dialogue, and community care. Since December 2021, I have been serving as the VP-External in the Graduate Students’ Association (GSA). In this role, I have collaborated with external organizations and communities to enhance the GSA’s efforts in supporting Carleton students’ campaigns and strategies. Subsequently, I served as an external board member of the GSA in 2022 and have been working as an office administrator within the GSA, focusing on administration and financial tasks. In 2023, I was elected as Vice President of Finance, where I am part of the team working to minimize the GSA’s operational costs. Over the last year, I initiated three key plans: establishing the GSA food hamper, increasing the GSA grants and scholarships, and decreasing the GSA’s operational costs.
Candidate for Graduate Faculty Board:
Hamidreza Aghamiri (United)
Hamid Reza Aghamiri is a PhD candidate in Computer Systems Engineering at Carleton University, specializing in artificial intelligence and mathematics. His research focuses on function approximation techniques to improve machine learning algorithms. Hamid has extensive experience as a research and teaching assistant, contributing to courses on software development and algorithms.
With a strong background in machine learning, signal processing, and image processing, Hamid has worked on impactful projects, including developing real-time object tracking systems and enhancing satellite imaging technologies. He is also an active contributor to academic research with multiple publications in AI and image processing.
Hamid’s technical expertise, leadership experience, and commitment to fostering collaboration make him a strong candidate to represent graduate students on the GSA Graduate Board.
Jia Shao (United)
Hi, I’m Jia Shao, I am running for the Faculty Board because I believe in the power of student voices in shaping academic policies and improving students experience. As a strong listener and advocate, I want to ensure that the perspectives of students are not only heard but also meaningfully reflected in policy-making decisions.
Originally from Shanghai, China, I bring a global perspective and a deep appreciation for cross-cultural exchange. My experience in process optimization, negotiation, and communication has equipped me with the skills to drive efficiency and promote transparency within the academic framework. Integrity is my guiding principle, and I am committed to fostering a fair and inclusive environment.
If elected, I will:
- Amplify graduate student voices in decision-making processes
- Promote transparency in policies and regulations affecting students
- Drive efficiency in academic procedures
- Foster an inclusive community
Together, we can create a more responsive, transparent, and sustainable academic environment.
Mohammadreza Sherkati (United)
Mohammadreza Sherkati is a second-year PhD student in the Systems and Computer
Engineering Department at Carleton University. Originally from Iran, he earned his MSc and BSc
in Computer Engineering before moving to Canada for his PhD. He has a strong background in
technology and engineering. In his free time, he enjoys playing soccer and ping pong, watching
movies, and cooking.
Pasca Sugijarto (United)
I’m Pasca Sugijarto, running for the Graduate Faculty Board. I want to work with Graduate Faculty members to push agendas on student support system & bring more policy transparency.
I come from a small city in Indonesia and brought my small white dog, Bamse, to Canada. He’s been my champion through winter and every challenge I’ve faced as an international student. I believe in creating family wherever I go—celebrating milestones, supporting each other, and sharing good food. Life has ups and downs, but true friends carry each other through.
I want to build a supportive, inclusive graduate community where students feel valued, empowered, and connected. I will advocate for mentorship, peer support, and emotional well-being. If elected, I’ll support academic guidance, financial aid, mental health services, transparency in GSA processes, and community-focused activities—including using art for stress relief. No one should navigate graduate school alone.
Saba Pourhanifeh (United)
My name is Saba Pourhanifeh and I will be running for the Graduate Faculty Board because I believe in creating an academic environment where every graduate student’s voice is heard and their needs are addressed. As a Master’s student in Electrical and Computer Engineering with a focus in Software Engineering, I understand the unique challenges faced by engineering students and want to ensure our perspectives are represented within the GSA.
I am originally from Iran and moved to Canada just one year ago to pursue my Master’s degree. This journey has given me firsthand experience with the challenges international students face such as: adapting to a new culture, studying in a second or third language, and building a new life far from family and familiar support systems. These experiences have shaped my understanding of what graduate students need to thrive academically and personally.
Candidate for Senate:
Fatehyaab Alam (United)
Fatehyaab Alam is a Master of Finance student at Sprott School of Business, with a unique blend of technical and strategic expertise, holding an undergrad degree in engineering and business. With a keen analytical mind and a passion for student advocacy, he is committed to amplifying graduate student voices in the Carleton GSA Senate.
Bringing a problem-solving mindset from engineering and strategic acumen from business, Fatehyaab understands the challenges graduate students face – whether academic, financial or professional. If elected, he aims to enhance transparency, improve funding opportunities, and foster a much more inclusive academic environment. Beyond the numbers and policies, he values collaboration and meaningful dialogue, ensuring every student’s concerns are heard and addressed. As an active member of the Carleton community, he’s dedicated to making a lasting impact on the overall graduate student experience. Vote for Fatehyaab Alam – because strong representation starts with strong leadership!
Kishan Patel (United)
My name is Kishan Patel and I am honoured to stand before you as a candidate for the University Senate position. As a graduate student from India, I understand the challenges we face—whether it’s securing funding, navigating academic standards, or ensuring access to quality supervision and campus resources. These are not just issues; they are opportunities for meaningful change.
If elected, I will work towards improving outreach and raise awareness about the valuable services and activities offered by our Graduate Student Association. I will maintain open communication with all of you, gathering your feedback and championing your concerns at the Senate table. Together, we can help shape educational priorities and initiatives that truly enhance the graduate student experience.
Collaboration is key. I will work closely with senators, university administrators, faculty, and external stakeholders to foster a supportive environment where your voices are not just heard but acted upon.
Mahnaz Talebi Dastenaei (United)
Hello, this is Mahnaz, and I’m running for the GSA Senate position. I am familiar with the challenges that graduate students, especially international students, face. If elected, I will be an advocate for policies that support and benefit graduate students. My priority is to push for increased funding opportunities for Carleton students, particularly international ones, while also ensuring their voices are heard. I will actively listen to concerns and work toward meaningful solutions. Additionally, I am passionate about fostering strong connections within Carleton University and beyond to create a more supportive and inclusive academic environment.
Makhan Lal Roy
I am Makhan Lal Roy, and I am proud to declare my candidacy for the Senate position in the
Graduate Students’ Association (GSA) at Carleton University. I am a seasoned IT professional with
over 18 years of experience in corporate IT infrastructure management, process automation, and
cloud platform integration, I bring a wealth of knowledge, leadership, and problem-solving
expertise to this role.
Currently pursuing a Master of Engineering in Technology Innovation Management at Carleton
University, I am deeply committed to fostering innovation and collaboration within our academic
community.
I have successfully developed innovative solutions, led global IT initiatives, and educated varied
teams to attain operational excellence throughout my career. My capacity to think strategically,
overcome difficult obstacles, and produce significant outcomes has been refined by these
experiences, and I am excited to use these abilities in my role as your senator.
Mohammad Vatankhah
I’m a graduate student in Civil Engineering at Carleton University with over four years of experience in the construction and infrastructure industry. My academic and professional journey has equipped me with strong project management, teamwork, and communication skills—key qualities I aim to bring to the Graduate Student Association. During my undergraduate studies at Kashan University, I actively served in the Civil Engineering Student Association, where I collaborated on student-led initiatives, organized academic events, and promoted peer engagement.
I’m passionate about representing diverse voices, fostering collaboration across departments, and helping build a more supportive and connected graduate community. As an international student, I understand the challenges of adapting to new environments and am committed to making the student experience more inclusive, empowering, and engaging for everyone. I look forward to the opportunity to serve and advocate for the needs and aspirations of fellow graduate students.