My name is Edlira Ballaj, and I’m entering my fourth year at Queen’s University, where I study Political Studies and Life Sciences. I currently serve as the Commissioner of External Affairs for the Alma Mater Society (AMS), where I lead student advocacy efforts at the institutional, municipal, provincial, and federal levels. From discussing housing rights to advancing reforms in academic support services, I’ve learned that meaningful change happens when students are given both the tools and the space to lead it themselves.
Before stepping into my current role, I served as an Undergraduate Senator at Queen’s and as the Deputy Academics Commissioner (Supports & Resources) with the Arts and Science Undergraduate Society (ASUS), where I focused on strengthening academic resources, amplifying student voices, and pushing for greater institutional transparency.
I first discovered OUSA through my work in student government and was immediately drawn to its collaborative spirit, research-driven policy work, and deep commitment to student-centred advocacy. I’m incredibly honoured to now sit on the Steering Committee and contribute to policy that reflects the real, lived experiences of students across Ontario.
As the daughter of immigrants and someone who’s worked throughout university, I’ve seen firsthand how systems meant to support us can fall short. That lived experience is what brought me to student advocacy—and what continues to ground my work today. For me, this work is more than representation. It’s about making sure no student is forced to choose between rent and tuition or left to navigate broken systems alone. Through OUSA, I hope to continue challenging institutions to be more equitable, accountable, and responsive to student needs.
Outside of advocacy, you can probably find me sipping coffee at the JDUC, studying with friends, or watching Love Island. I’m always open to fantasy book recs—so feel free to send a few my way!