Hello everyone, I’m Ayo Osunade (he/him), Vice President, External Affairs at Brock University Students' Union (BUSU). I’m a fourth-year Honours Research Psychology student, and I’ll be serving as Brock’s representative on Steering Committee this year.
I believe that advocacy should go beyond debates, protests and meetings. To me, advocacy means uplifting my community by addressing their needs and concerns in a positive way. It's the small things that build strong advocacy: filling out surveys, attending think tanks, and talking to our local government. For students, these small actions add up and help protect their ability to focus on their academics without external pressure or influence.
My time at Brock University has been heavily shaped by getting involved in student life. I spent a lot of time working with the Nigerian Students Association, focusing on creating a place where people could connect, share our culture, and feel a real sense of representation on campus. I was also involved with the Black Student Success Centre, where the work centred on building a community for academic support and mentorship for Black students. Being part of these groups changed how I view advocacy. I realized it is not just an abstract idea. It has to be grounded in the community and tied directly to what people experience every day.
My path into advocacy started long before I ever thought about student government. Growing up in London, Ontario, I was drawn to spaces where I could bring people together and give room for voices that often went unheard. In high school, I founded and co-led the Black Student Association at London Central Secondary School, organizing events and educating students about Black history every February. I also spent four years with the Student Athletic Association, planning pep rallies, athletic banquets, and inter-school fundraising buy-outs. Those early experiences taught me that leadership isn't about a title, it's about showing up consistently for the people around you.
That same instinct followed me to Brock. I've been an active participant in the Nigerian Students' Association and the Black Student Success Centre, spaces that gave me community, a stronger sense of belonging on campus, and a reminder of how representation shapes a student's day-to-day experience. Previously, I was an Event Coordinator with the Nigerian Association of London and Area, planning cultural celebrations, including Independence Day events and fundraisers, in partnership with local businesses, community leaders, and volunteers. These experiences have shaped my understanding of advocacy as something grounded, community-driven, and connected to people's lived experiences.
This year, as Vice-President External Affairs, I will work on issues that directly affect students, including OSAP, affordability, housing, transit, student safety, employment, and access to post-secondary education. I am especially excited to continue building strong relationships with community partners, elected officials, and student leaders across Ontario to ensure that Brock students are meaningfully represented in the conversations that shape their education and daily lives.
Outside of advocacy, I enjoy photography and nature. I also love listening to music and making beats in my free time. I am looking forward to the year ahead and to bringing that same steadiness to the table on behalf of Brock students
Feel free to reach out!