GSA General Elections 2026
Election Timeline
Nomination Period: March 23 – April 1 (4 PM)
Executive Duties Event: March 31 at 2:30 pm. Pizza event
Campaign Period: April 2 – April 12
All Candidates Meeting: April 2 (mandatory)
All Candidates Forum: April 9 ( Zoom Link )
Voting Days: April 13 – 14 (Online)
All Candidates Forum Recording (April 9, 2026)
Watch the recorded All Candidates Forum for the 2026 GSA Elections.
Additional Information
Please review the responsibilities associated with executive roles:
Download Executive Duties (PDF)
Subject to change based on operational needs and compliance with the Ontario Not-for-Profit Corporations Act (ONCA).
Learn more about the role and responsibilities of Senators:
Senate and Role of Senators
Representatives must include at least:
Two doctoral students
Three master’s students
At least four must be full-time students
Council Terms of Reference
Candidates must be from the Faculty of Public and Global Affairs
FPGA By-Laws
(need to be faculty of public and global affairs)
Application Checklist
To complete your nomination, please prepare the following:
- Carleton Student Number
- Carleton Student Email
- Affiliation Information
- Candidate Photo
- Candidate Biography (250 words max)
- Signed & Completed Nomination Form
- Certificate of Enrollment from Carleton Central
- Copy of Carleton student ID
Meet the Candidates
President Candidates
Saivani Sanassy
(Student Voice Alliance)
Saivani Sanassy is a Master’s student in the School of Canadian and Indigenous Studies at Carleton University, specializing in Indigenous art and decolonizing museum and gallery spaces. A graduate of Carleton’s combined honours program in Human Rights and Social Justice and Indigenous Studies, Saivani’s academic and professional work is grounded in accessibility, and community-centered advocacy.
Saivani currently serves as a Student Accessibility Coordinator at MacOdrum Library, where she supports students with diverse accessibility needs by improving access to academic resources and fostering inclusive study environments. Alongside this role, she works with the Carleton University Art Gallery as an Ambassador and Workshop Facilitator, where she develops and leads community-based programming, collaborates with artists, and has created workshops focused on activism and social change.
Her previous experience includes facilitating art education programs at the Ottawa Art Gallery and coordinating frontline harm reduction and employment initiatives at the Causeway Work Centre. In these roles, she supervised large teams, delivered workshops, and supported marginalized communities through employment, housing, and mental health resources.
As the Founder and President of archived Carleton University club Global Promise, Saivani demonstrated strong leadership by organizing campus initiatives, managing operations, and authoring a comprehensive policy report on prison labour. Her work consistently reflects a commitment to social justice, anti-oppressive practices, and meaningful student engagement.
Saivani brings a collaborative, solutions-based approach to leadership and is dedicated to amplifying student voices, strengthening community connections, and advancing equity and accessibility within the graduate student experience.
Diana Tutkishbayeva
(Voice)
My name is Diana Tutkishbayeva, and I am a PhD student in Environmental Engineering at Carleton University, specializing in air pollution modelling and data-driven solutions to environmental and public health challenges. My academic journey, from Kazakhstan to Hungary and now Canada, has shaped a global perspective and a strong ability to connect with diverse communities.
I bring a combination of analytical expertise and people-centered leadership. Before starting my PhD, I worked as a Study Abroad Director, where I not only led teams and managed complex programs, but also personally supported students through their journeys of studying abroad. I guided them through every step, from applications to relocation, helping them navigate challenges, adapt to new environments, and achieve their goals with confidence. Supporting students and ensuring their well-being and success was at the core of my work.
This experience strengthened my ability to lead with empathy, communicate clearly, and deliver meaningful outcomes. Alongside this, my research and laboratory work have developed my skills in data analysis, critical thinking, and translating complex information into clear, actionable insights.
As an international student, I understand firsthand the importance of feeling supported, informed, and connected. I am committed to building on the strong work of the GSA by making its impact even more visible, accessible, and effective for all graduate students.
I am running to be a clear, reliable, and results-driven voice for our community.
Ossama Hafeez
(Grads For Grads)
I am Ossama Hafeez, a PhD candidate in Mechanical Engineering at Carleton University, actively engaged in research, teaching, and student support initiatives. Through my experience as a graduate student, I have developed a strong understanding of the challenges we face, including funding limitations, research pressures, and the need for stronger representation within the university.
I bring proven leadership and management experience to this role. I previously served as President of two engineering student societies, where I led initiatives focused on student engagement and academic support. In addition, I worked as a Project Manager in Dubai, leading a multidisciplinary team of over 200 individuals. These experiences have equipped me with the organizational, leadership, and decision-making skills necessary to effectively represent and advocate for graduate students.
I am running for President of the Graduate Students’ Association to advocate for meaningful and practical improvements in graduate student life. My priorities include increasing funding opportunities, strengthening support for TA and RA positions, improving transparency, and enhancing communication between students and university administration.
As a teaching assistant and researcher, I have worked closely with students from diverse backgrounds, strengthening my ability to listen, understand, and act on student concerns. My goal is to build a more supportive, inclusive, and effective graduate student community.
With your support, I am committed to delivering real and impactful improvements for graduate students at Carleton University.
Vice President Finance
Dapo Odumosu
(Voice)
Hi! I’m 'Dapo Odumosu, a PhD candidate in Economics at Carleton University, and I’m seeking re-election as your Vice-President Finance of the GSA. I came to Canada from Nigeria as an international student and have since completed both my BA and MA in Economics at Carleton. Now a domestic student, I bring a lived understanding of the challenges facing both international and domestic graduate students. Professionally, I’ve worked as Manager, Research and Analysis at the Chamber of Marine Commerce, leading work on trade, regulatory policy, and economic analysis.
Over the past year as VP Finance, I have worked to strengthen how the GSA manages and delivers support to graduate students. I led reforms to the Grants and Awards process to make it more transparent, efficient, and accessible. We improved turnaround times and ensured that funding reaches students when they need it most. By the end of this year, we will have delivered a record level of financial support through grants, awards, and scholarships.
I have also maintained strong financial oversight of the GSA’s budget. Despite fiscal pressures, we have managed resources responsibly and stayed within our projected deficit while expanding support for students.
If re-elected, I will continue strengthening transparency, improving processes, and ensuring that every student dollar works harder for you.
I would be honored to continue serving you.
Vice President Academic
Alberto Hernandez
(Student Voice Alliance)
Alberto Hernandez is a graduate student currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Canadian Studies with a concentration in Heritage Planning and Studies, alongside a Diploma in Curatorial Studies at Carleton University. His academic foundation includes a Bachelor of Architecture from the Autonomous University of San Luis Potosi and a Bachelor of Interior Design from Algonquin College, reflecting a lifelong commitment to the intersection of built environments and cultural identity.
With over 12 years of international experience, Alberto has managed workplace interiors, institutional, and historic preservation projects. His professional portfolio includes significant work in Toronto and Mexico. This practical expertise is complemented by his current role as a Teaching Assistant at Carleton, where he facilitates critical discussions on memory and cultural history.
Beyond his studies, Alberto is a passionate advocate for intangible heritage. He has represented Mexican and Colombian traditions as a folk dancer at international festivals in cities such as Osaka, Barcelona, Dubai, Bangkok, and Buenos Aires, among others. In his free time, he also works as a hairstylist, where his attention to detail and creativity allow him to connect personally with his community. Whether volunteering for Indigenous causes or designing cultural workshops, Alberto is driven by a mission to foster cross-cultural understanding. He seeks to bring this multidimensional perspective to the Graduates Association, focusing on initiatives that celebrate diversity, education, and the preservation of shared heritage.
Saba Pourhanifeh
(Voice)
I am a graduate student in Computer Engineering at Carleton University, pursuing a thesis-based program in the field of telecommunications security. Throughout my academic journey, I have developed a strong passion for supporting and connecting with my peers in the academic community.
My experiences at Carleton University over the past two years, as a research assistant, a teaching assistant, and a graduate volunteer for the Graduate Council, have given me valuable insight into both student concerns and academic decision-making processes. More importantly, these experiences have strengthened my ability to listen, communicate effectively, and advocate for students in a constructive and approachable way.
I strongly believe that a supportive academic environment is key to student success. As a candidate for Vice President Academic, I am committed to helping create an environment where graduate students feel heard, supported, and empowered to achieve their goals, both during their studies and beyond graduation. I want to ensure that students are not only academically successful, but also well-prepared for the real world.
I am particularly interested in supporting the development of high-quality, practical learning opportunities, such as short, focused courses or workshops that can fit within a semester. These could include peer-led or expert-led sessions where students share their knowledge and skills, helping others gain relevant, real-world experience alongside their academic training.
Mohadese Heydari
My name is Mohadese Heydari, and I am running to be your next Vice President Academic. As a graduate student currently engaged in advanced mathematical and statistical research, I have an intimate understanding of the dedication required to succeed at Carleton—and the institutional complexities that can sometimes stand in our way.
The role of the VPA is to be a persistent advocate for our academic rights. I am committed to clear communication and making sure the GSA is accessible to everyone. I believe that every graduate student, whether full-time or part-time, deserves a clear path to success, fair treatment in research environments, and strong representation to help you navigate academic conflicts or policy changes.
If elected, I will focus on:
1. Strengthening Communication: Ensuring students are fully aware of their academic rights and the resources available to them through the GSA.
2. Policy Advocacy: I will be your voice in university meetings, making sure our needs are supported by facts and student feedback.
3. Fair Support: Creating systems that recognize the diverse challenges faced by international students, teaching assistants, and student researchers.
I am committed to ensuring that the GSA remains a dynamic partner in your academic journey, solving problems before they become barriers. I would be honored to earn your vote.
Fatemeh Mohammad Zamani
(Grads For Grads)
My name is Fatemeh Mohammad Zamani, and I am a PhD student in Aerospace Engineering. I am running to serve as your Vice-President Academic at the GSA.
Throughout my academic journey, I have seen how important it is for graduate students to feel truly supported, heard and represented in their academic life. Graduate studies require dedication, and students should be able to focus on their work without being held back by avoidable academic or personal challenges.
As Vice-President Academic, I will actively advocate for improved academic resources, clearer and more transparent communication, and stronger collaboration between students, faculty, and university. I want to make sure that student concerns are not just heard, but also followed by real action.
It has been my honor to serve as Vice-President Operations over the past year, where I’ve had the opportunity to stay in touch with many of you and learn what can I do to be useful for my Carleton community. It has shown me how important it is to support one another and build a community where everyone feels they belong.
If I am elected as Vice-President Academic, I will have the opportunity to continue this attitude by supporting our community, listening to your concerns, advocating for your needs, and doing my best to make a meaningful and positive support in your academic experience.
Tayebeh Ataei
I am a graduate student at Carleton University with a background in architecture and a growing focus on data-driven innovation and problem-solving. Through my academic journey, I have developed a strong understanding of how systems work—and more importantly, where they can be improved to better support students.
As an international student, I have personally experienced the challenges of adapting to a new academic environment, accessing resources, and making my voice heard. These experiences motivate me to advocate for a more transparent, inclusive, and responsive academic system where every student feels supported and represented.
I believe that student voices should not only be heard, but actively included in shaping academic decisions. My goal is to strengthen communication between students and faculty, promote fair access to opportunities, and ensure that important academic processes are clear and accessible to everyone.
I am committed to building a more engaging and equitable academic community—one where students are informed, empowered, and confident in their educational journey. By combining a practical mindset with a strong sense of responsibility, I aim to represent students effectively and bring meaningful, positive change.
Adnan Khan
Adnan Khan is a third-year PhD candidate in Computer Science at Carleton University, specializing in Generative AI for healthcare and accessibility. With a deep-rooted passion for fostering inclusive and resilient academic environments, Adnan brings extensive experience in student leadership and high-level university governance to the role of Vice-President Academic.
Throughout his time at Carleton, Adnan has served as a dedicated Teaching Assistant and Library Student Assistant, gaining a direct understanding of the diverse academic and resource-based needs of the graduate community. His leadership record is distinguished by his tenure as Vice President of the Graduate Student Council at MBZUAI, where he advocated for student interests and coordinated with university administration. Additionally, as the Co-Founder and President of The Carleton High Tea Society, he has demonstrated a proven ability to build community and lead strategic initiatives that prioritize equity and inclusion.
If elected, Adnan is committed to fulfilling the duties of the VP Academic by chairing the Graduate Academic Caucus and serving as a strong, evidence-informed voice on the Carleton University Senate and the Graduate Faculty Board. He aims to provide robust support for students navigating departmental challenges and to ensure that graduate voices are central to the university’s academic decision-making. Adnan’s blend of technical foresight and empathetic leadership makes him a prepared and passionate advocate for all graduate students at Carleton.
Vice President External
Dami Omotuyi
(Voice)
My name is Dami Omotuyi. I am a graduate student in Sustainable Energy Engineering at Carleton University. Through my time here, I’ve become very interested in how graduate students access opportunities, stay informed, and connect with the broader university community.
As an international student, I understand how easy it is to feel disconnected, and how important clear communication and strong representation are in helping students feel supported and included.
I am running for Vice President External because I believe the GSA can be more visible, more accessible, and more effective in how it connects with students and external organizations. Many opportunities already exist, but they are not always communicated in a way that reaches students or encourages meaningful engagement.
I bring experience in outreach, coordination, and working across different groups to move ideas forward. I am comfortable building relationships and ensuring that initiatives are not just discussed, but actually delivered.
As VP External, my goal is simple: to strengthen communication, build meaningful external partnerships, and make the GSA more relevant and accessible to graduate students.
Zahra Behzad
I am Zahra Behzad, a PhD candidate in Building Engineering at Carleton University, running for Vice President External of the GSA.
As an international student from Iran, I understand firsthand the challenges graduate students face navigating a new academic system far from home. That experience fuels my commitment to making sure every student feels represented and supported.
Improving the student community has always been important to me! As an undergraduate, I led the Scientific Forum of the Architecture Faculty and have consistently looked for ways to make a difference around me.
As VP External, I will work to strengthen the GSA's relationships with the university, external partners, and the Ottawa community, with a focus on inclusion and real impact for graduate students.
I am ready to listen, show up, and deliver. I would be honored to earn your vote.
Mina Sadeghiniaraki
Mina Sadeghiniaraki is a 4th year PhD candidate in Bioinformatics and Genomics at Carleton University with over a decade of experience in biotechnology, research coordination, and stakeholder engagement. Her work focuses on understanding how conifer species respond to environmental and pathogen stress, combining large-scale data analysis with collaborative, interdisciplinary research.
Mina brings extensive experience working across academic, governmental, and international settings. Prior to her doctoral studies, she contributed to national-level biotechnology and genetic resource initiatives, where she collaborated with expert panels to evaluate research proposals, support funding decisions, and establish strategic priorities for over 10 years.
In Ottawa, she worked as a consultant with Nutrition International, a non-profit organization, where she coordinated events, supported stakeholder communication, and ensured effective collaboration across teams and external partners. This role strengthened her ability to build relationships and manage partnerships in diverse professional environments.
At Carleton, Mina has served as a Teaching Assistant in biostatistics and bioinformatics, supporting student learning and fostering inclusive academic spaces.
Mina is passionate about amplifying graduate student voices and strengthening connections between the Graduate Students' Association Carleton University and external partners, including community organizations, policymakers, and academic networks. She is committed to advancing advocacy, building meaningful partnerships, and expanding opportunities that support graduate student success.
Ghazaleh Shirvani
I am a PhD student in Computer Science at Carleton University, specializing in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence. I am actively engaged in the graduate student community and committed to representing students in a clear, responsible, and approachable way. As an international student, I understand firsthand the challenges many graduate students face and how important it is to communicate those needs effectively beyond campus.
Through my PhD and professional experiences, I have developed strong leadership, communication, and critical thinking skills. I am confident working with diverse groups and building meaningful connections. With over three years of experience as a Teaching Assistant, I have supported students from different backgrounds, addressed concerns, and learned the importance of listening carefully to represent others effectively.
I am a highly social and approachable person who enjoys connecting with people and building collaborations. My experience in content creation and active presence on social media has strengthened my ability to communicate ideas clearly, engage wider audiences, and represent initiatives in a professional and impactful way.
As Vice-President External, I will focus on strengthening relationships with external organizations, student associations, and community partners. I am committed to amplifying student voices—especially those of international graduate students—while enhancing the GSA’s visibility through strong media presence, effective communication, and high-quality publications. I will also support initiatives such as Grad Welcome Week and work to ensure the GSA is well-connected, outward-facing, and impactful.
Vice President Operations
Saeid Ghasemshirazi
I am a PhD student in Computer Science at Carleton University, specializing in Android and IoT security. I also hold a Master’s degree in e-commerce, which has strengthened my skills in organization, strategic planning, and operational management. Combined with my technical background, I am highly tech-savvy and comfortable working with systems, tools, and structured processes.
Throughout my academic journey, I have developed strong leadership, collaboration, and problem-solving skills. I have led teams in cybersecurity competitions and worked closely with multidisciplinary research groups, gaining experience in coordinating diverse perspectives and managing responsibilities effectively. As a Teaching Assistant for multiple courses, I have engaged closely with students, giving me a clear understanding of their academic needs, concerns, and expectations.
Beyond academics, I am actively involved in student life. I regularly participate in events across campus, including residence activities and initiatives organized by departments, student groups, and the GSA. These experiences have helped me connect with a diverse student community and better understand their day-to-day challenges.
As Vice-President Operations, I aim to ensure efficient and well-organized internal operations within the GSA. I am committed to supporting effective Council coordination, maintaining clear and timely records, and ensuring smooth execution of initiatives such as Grad Welcome Week. I also prioritize addressing key concerns such as graduate student housing, while contributing to a responsive, transparent, and well-structured student organization.
Sara Beth Lyons
(Student Voice Alliance)
Sara Beth Lyons is completing her first year of a Master's degree in Music and Culture at Carleton University. She completed her Bachelor's in music performance at the University of Iowa in 2025. She has held the positions of vice president of the University of Iowa Trumpet Guild and social media manager. Currently, Sara Beth serves on the board of the Graduate Student Association at Carleton University. Sara Beth believes in serving as a transparent resource for graduate students and aligns herself with progressive ideals.
Elahe Moazzen
I am a graduate student at Carleton University with a strong interest in improving the academic and everyday experience of graduate students through effective organization, communication, and support systems. Through my academic work and collaborations with external partners, I have developed skills in coordination, problem-solving, and managing complex tasks in a structured and efficient way.
I am particularly interested in the role of Vice-President Operations because of its direct impact on how smoothly the GSA functions. I value transparency, timely communication, and well-organized processes, and I aim to contribute to improving these aspects within Council operations. I also understand the importance of ensuring that resources, information, and support are accessible to all stakeholders, including students, staff, and committees.
I have experience coordinating with different groups, managing data and reporting processes, and supporting project implementation. These experiences have strengthened my ability to stay organized, meet deadlines, and ensure that responsibilities are handled efficiently.
If elected, I will focus on maintaining clear communication, supporting Council operations, and helping create a well-structured and responsive GSA environment for students. I am committed to representing graduate students responsibly and contributing to a positive and inclusive community.
Fayssal Yatim
(Voice)
I’m Fayssal Yatim, an international PhD candidate in Anthropology. My research looks at migrant labor in Kuwait, focusing on informal economies, Islamic theology, and how workers navigate uncertainty and risk in their everyday lives.
Beyond my research, I’ve been previously involved in student life on campus as a Welcome Weeks Coordinator and currently as an Office Administrator at the Graduate Students’ Association. I’ve helped organize events, support communications, and create spaces where graduate students can connect. I enjoy bringing people together and making sure things run smoothly behind the scenes.
I’ve also worked with nonprofits and international organizations, including UNHCR in Kuwait and Toronto as well as Capital Rainbow Refuge in Ottawa, where I supported LGBTQIA+ refugees as a volunteer coordinator. As a trained architect, I worked on designing and building a shelter unit for refugees in my home country, Lebanon. Through this work, I’ve been involved in supporting people both locally and abroad, especially those navigating difficult and vulnerable situations, in practical and meaningful ways.
I’m aware of how power dynamics shape institutions and how decisions affect people differently. As such, I’m not interested in holding a position for its own sake, but in contributing in a way that is thoughtful, accountable, and grounded in the needs of graduate students.
As VP of Operations, I hope to build on the work of the current executive and contribute my experience to support the GSA’s ongoing efforts to better serve graduate students.
GSA Board
Kedar Joshi
My name is Kedar Pankajkumar Joshi, and I am a Master of Engineering student in Sustainable Energy at Carleton University. As an international student with a background in Agricultural Engineering, I bring a multidisciplinary perspective that connects sustainability, policy, and real-world problem solving.
Throughout my academic and professional journey, I have developed strong communication, organizational, and leadership skills. I previously worked as a Customer Service Representative supporting global clients, where I learned the importance of listening, resolving concerns efficiently, and representing diverse voices. At Carleton, I have actively engaged in student initiatives and community activities (PMC Volunteer Note Taker), contributing to collaborative and inclusive environments.
I am particularly passionate about improving graduate student experiences in areas such as academic support, career development, affordability, and mental well-being. As someone who has personally navigated the challenges of adapting to a new academic and cultural environment, I understand the importance of accessible resources, transparent communication, and strong student representation.
If elected, I am committed to being an approachable and proactive representative who listens to students’ concerns and works towards practical, inclusive solutions. My goal is to contribute to a stronger, more connected graduate student community where every voice is heard and valued.