Hey there! My name is Zamir Fakirani and I’m beyond excited to be joining the OUSA team as this summer’s Research Intern.
My passion for the post-secondary student experience arose from my time working at the Ministry of Training, Colleges, and Universities. Here, I was able to witness first-hand how the relationship between students, post-secondary institutions, and the various levels of government interact to influence students’ academic and interpersonal wellness. My time at the Ministry affirmed my commitment to student advocacy and I have been passionately involved ever since.
Today, I attend Western University where I study Politics, Philosophy, and Economics and a minor in Refugee and Migrant Studies. I am fortunate enough to serve as the President of my university’s Social Science Students’ Council and Vice-President, Operations of our Student Energy chapter. I have a rich experience in student governance and advocacy, having served as a Councillor on Western’s University Students’ Council (where I sat on the Advocacy Standing Committee and chaired the Anti-Oppression Working Group), and as an executive for both my student association’s allyship and environmentalism initiatives.
At the core of all my research and advocacy is a recognition for the importance of student voices. As a member of various underrepresented communities in post-secondary leadership, I recognize the importance of equitably amplifying diverse students’ experiences. I am excited to join OUSA because it shares my appreciation for this principle and works towards a more accessible,affordable post-secondary student experience for all Ontario students.
Please don’t hesitate to get in touch! My particular research interests concern the experiences of racialized and religious students, as well as sustainability, affordability, and violence prevention. Let’s talk shop on Twitter @ZamirFakirani or shoot me an e-mail at [email protected]. Looking forward to hearing from you!