Elections

Campaign period officially opens on Monday, March 2nd from 9:00 am, and runs until the end of voting period, on Thursday, March 12th at 6:00 pm. Candidates are only allowed to engage with campaigning practices such as outreach and postering during that time.

UTMSU’s Spring Elections 2026 candidates are listed at the bottom of the page. To learn more about each candidate’s campaign, view their candidate statements online or visit the following buildings on campus to check for in-person outreach or posters:

• William G. Davis Building (DV)
• Communication, Culture, and Technology Building (CCT)
• Instructional Centre (IB)
• Deerfield Hall Building (DH)
• Maanjiwe Nendamowinan (MN)
• Kaneff (KN)

Voting days are from Tuesday March 10th to 12th, and polling stations are open from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm every day. All UTM undergraduate students, including students at the Mississauga Academy of Medicine, are eligible to vote. 

Polling stations will be open in:

• William G. Davis Building (DV)
• Communication, Culture, and Technology Building (CCT)
• Instructional Centre (IB)
• Deerfield Hall Building (DH)
• Kaneff (KN)

You must bring your T-Card or a piece of government issued ID to the polling station.

Voting is only done via paper ballot at polling stations.

The UTMSU Spring Elections Candidate Forum is a space for students to get to know the candidates’ platforms and ask them questions regarding their plans for the year, if elected.

At the Candidates Forum, you’ll meet the Spring 2026 Election candidates for board and executive, and will get a chance to ask questions to executive candidates after they have introduced themselves.

Date and Time: Thursday, March 5th from 12 -2 PM
Location: The Blind Duck

Question Form for Candidates: To be updated.

​​Executive Positions

President (1 Vacancy)

Adam El-Falou

Hi everyone! I’m Adam El-Falou, and I’m running to be the next UTMSU President with IgniteUTM. This past year, I served on the UTMSU Board of Directors and as the UTM Muslim Students Association’s Advocacy Director. From installing bidets in the Student Centre, supporting the establishment of the Palestine Committee, and organizing major humanitarian fundraisers and initiatives, I’ve proven that advocacy must translate into policy. 

These experiences reinforced a simple truth: meaningful change requires coordination, persistence, and institutional follow-through. Advocacy must translate into policy, and student concerns must move beyond discussion into action.

Vote IgniteUTM March 10-12!

 

Xinchun (Oliver) Wang

Hello Everyone! I am Oliver, a first year student in Political Science & Economics running for the president position of the UTMSU. When I was in high school, I managed to create a social science club with 40 people in order to change the depressing atmosphere there. At UTM, academic pressure has been high, and the relationship between people have been fairly distanced. So I am going to make the Student Union work according to your needs, to build a close-knit community on campus by expanding services to you, and to build a sense of belonging through this process.

 

Vice-President Internal (1 Vacancy)

Xingyi (Freya) Gao

Hi everyone! My name is Xingyi (Freya) Gao, and I’m running for Vice President Internal with IgniteUTM. My passion lies with financial transparency, fairness, and equitable opportunity for all students.

I’ve served as a First Year Representative on the Board of Directors, VP Internal Associate, and the WeChat Coordinator, strengthening my understanding of the UTMSU and Internal portfolio. As an international student, I value inclusion and accessibility. Through organizing events, I’ve built strong planning, collaboration, and leadership skills. 

As VP Internal, I’ll promote transparency, inclusivity, and better communication to create a supportive, connected community. 

Vote IgniteUTM March 10–12!

 

Manal Ali

Voices are heard, but how many are understood? Hello, my name is Manal, and I am running for VP of Internal Affairs. As a volunteer for many groups, including my local hospital, schools, and charities, I have seen how teams fall short, how communication frays, and the effects of no accountability. I believe that improving systems only comes with the knowledge and experience of poor management, as well as proactivity. Through my experiences and commitment, I will implement what the community wants into our systems and how we spend our resources, such as improving campus life and fighting Bill 33.

 

Vice-President Equity (1 Vacancy)

Tiffany Da Silva

I’m Tiffany Da Silva, and I’m running for Vice President Equity with IgniteUTM. As Co-President of Caribbean Connections and mentor within the CSE and Black Students’ Association, I’ve dedicated my campus involvement to building inclusive spaces where every student feels empowered. Through my commitment, I received the UTM Leadership Achievement Award in Advancing Black Excellence & Inclusion last year. 

To me, equity is a responsibility, not just a title. As your VP, I will turn advocacy into action, ensuring policies and resources reflect the needs of our diverse student body. 

Vote IgniteUTM March 10–12!

 

Vice-President External (1 Vacancy)

Rajas Dhamija

Hello UTM! My name is Rajas Dhamija, and I am running for my second term as UTMSU’s Vice President External with IgniteUTM.

Since joining the external portfolio in 2024 as an Associate and later serving as VP External this past year, I’ve worked to improve transit and campus accessibility. Through my work, I helped secure weekend service for MiWay Route 110, advocated for better service on Routes 126 and Brampton Transit Züm 199, and a GO Bus connection to campus. 

With this newly lit fire inside, I will continue pushing for meaningful transit improvements. 

Vote IgniteUTM March 10–12!

George Maafo

Hey UTM! George here! I am a third year student in political science and I am running for the position of VP external. I am focused in the relationships between different fractions of our society. Now the OSAP cut has taken away educational opportunities from us. We are all worried and I want to take action by strengthening the ties between student unions and groups from all UofT campuses in order to take collective actions in our fight against OSAP cuts. Meanwhile, I will also lobby for more bus services on campus!

 

Vice-President University Affairs (1 Vacancy)

Dana Al-Habash

Hi everyone! My name is Dana Al-Habash, and I am running to be your next Vice President of University Affairs! As a previous ICCIT Mentor and LAUNCH Leader with the CSE, I have supported students in navigating academic transitions and accessing campus resources. Working with UTM Muslim Students’ Association, Digital Enterprise Management Association, and Women in Law Association has also exposed me to the diverse academic and professional needs of students across disciplines.

As your VP University Affairs, I will prioritize academic advocacy and institutional accountability to ensure every student feels heard and supported.

Vote IgniteUTM March 10–12!

Mariam Botros

My name is Mariam, and I am a first-year Commerce student. I am advocating for the campus with fair, student-centred academic policies, such as promoting transparent guidelines for the use of AI at the university. I believe that increasing the accessibility of educational resources and making sure that students have space to express their initiatives will positively impact their university experience. Furthermore, creating opportunities that will ensure that students have a plan once they graduate. One of the things I want to achieve is increasing career and networking opportunities available within academic societies.

 

Board of Director Positions

Division II – Board of Directors (11 Vacancies)

Xinhe (Cecilia) Wang

Hello! My name is Xinhe Wang (Cecilia), and I am running for the UTMSU Board of Directors, Division 2. I am committed to building a more inclusive and
supportive campus. I plan to promote cultural diversity by organizing events that celebrate traditions from different countries. I will advocate for improved
residence conditions, including better infrastructure and timely communication about issues such as water or power outages. I also prioritize campus safety and greater food diversity to meet various dietary needs. Together, we can create a safer, more vibrant campus. Your support truly matters!

Cynthia Tong

Hello! My name is Cynthia Tong, a second-year Accounting student. I am running for the UTMSU Board of Directors. I hope our campus can be a place where every student feels supported and included. University life can be challenging, and every voice deserves to be heard. I am committed to listening to student experiences, representing diverse perspectives, and supporting thoughtful decisions that strengthen our community and help students feel a true sense of belonging.

Chase Sandy

Hey everyone! My name is Chase and I’m running to be a Division 2 Director. I’m currently in my third year studying political science, and planning on attending law school after completing my undergrad. During my undergrad, I’ve participated as a member of Caribbean Connections as an events team member, Junior Representative, and Vice President of the Community Growth and Integration team. My previous roles have allowed me to connect with and represent a number of students here on campus, and now it is my hope to be able to do the same for the wider student body at UTM.

Laila McFarlane

My name is Laila McFarlane, and I am running for the Board of Directors to represent students with integrity, action, and care. My leadership experience has taught me how powerful student voices are when they are heard and supported. I want to strengthen that voice by advocating for fairness, responsible decisions, and meaningful opportunities for all undergraduates. I’m ready to show up, speak up, and get things done.

Sarah Gamal El-Dean

Salaam & Hi everyone, I will advocate for changes that benefit each and every student! From free food to more student resources so that you can have everything you need to thrive on campus. Because of my involvement in various student groups I’m well connected to the student body and I truly understand what students want most.

Vote Sarah because your voice matters!

Mekayel Omier

My name is Mekayel Omier and I’m proud to be re-running for the UTMSU Board of Directors. I had the honour of serving as First Year Representative. Last year was a STRONG one for the UTMSU, but we’re heading into a challenging and uncertain time. Student unions across the province are facing pressure from policies that impact the services students rely on every day. This year, we need steady leadership, transparency, and results. I’m running to protect what works, improve what doesn’t, and make sure student voices stay at the centre of every decision, Vote4Mekayel!

Ziyan Wang

Hi everyone, I’m Ziyan Wang, a second-year Commerce student specializing in Finance. I’m running for the Board of Directors because I want students to feel that their concerns are genuinely heard and considered. On a campus as diverse as ours, it is important that equity is taken into account when developing policies and initiatives. I hope to advocate for more transparent communication and equitable opportunities between the Board and the student community. I aim to ensure that all students feel supported and represented, to keep students at the center of decision-making, and to contribute thoughtful ideas to promote responsible decision-making.

Mohammad Mahi Ali Mukati

Hey UTM! My name is Mahi, and I’m a Muslim Canadian-Pakistani with strong passion and experience in campus leadership, advocacy, and community building. I am once again humbly requesting your vote. I believe in action: whether it’s pushing for bidets on campus, improvement in social spaces, better multifaith facilities, or international issues. Your voice, your complaints, and your opinions matter, and I’m here to amplify them ensuring UTMost transparency throughout (see what I did there).

Nabeeha Shamim

Being involved across campus, both with students and in administrative spaces, has shown me how everyday decisions shape students’ experiences, including my own. I advocate to bring a thoughtful and grounded perspective to this role, prioritizing student voices, collaboration, and stronger communication between clubs, administration, and the students’ themselves to ensure decisions reflect and support the needs of our campus community.

Marcus Lee

Hello 你好 UTM!! My name is Marcus Lee and I am running to be part of the Board of directors for the upcoming year. I am a third year Economics and Physics Major and frankly just another UTM student, who has gone through the hardships of struggling with POST and having to wait 20 minutes for another crowded bus. Hence, I am running to pursue a future where the experience for fellow UTM students is less daunting and push for more frequent and improved routes for the convenience of my fellow students. Your Voice is My Voice!

Suleyman Yusuf

Good Afternoon my name is Suleyman and here is my mission statement: I’m a Student who is committed to uplifting every student’s voice and cultivating a supportive, inclusive environment across UTM. My focus includes defending student rights, promoting safer spaces, ensuring more affordable meal choices, and uniting the diverse cultures that shape our campus. By actively listening to and acting on student input, I will strive to make sure every individual is acknowledged, empowered, and equipped to thrive. Let’s work together to create a campus that truly represents our collective needs and fosters genuine community for all.

Joud Al-Habash

Hi, I’m Joud Al-Habash, and I’m excited to announce that I’m running for Division II on the UTMSU Board of Directors.

As a life sciences student, I’ve developed a strong passion for community service and empowering student voices. Through my experiences as a mentor, volunteer, and club member, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of the importance of representation and advocacy.

Vote me for Division II- Board of Directors!

Jana Al-Mallah

Hi, my name is Jana Al-Mallah, a life sciences student, and I am happy to announce that I am running for Division II on the UTMSU Board of Directors. I am a dedicated and community- oriented individual who strives to make a change. Through my past experience as an MSA club president and my current involvement in multiple clubs. I have developed the importance of collaborating with diverse groups, and I’m hoping to reflect that in my position.

Vote me for Division II- Board of Directors!

Saad Rizvi

Hey everyone, I’m Saad Rizvi, and I want to make life easier for UTM students. I will push for better & cheaper food options on campus. I will push for more bidets to better cater towards the diverse needs of students. I will advocate for larger Multi-Faith spaces to better suit our growing population. Throughout my campaign, I will remain firm in my goals. I am willing to hear every student out for their perspectives. As a community, we will make changes that matter and empower our student life.

Sreenand (Nandy) Seshaprasad

I don’t stand for schools; I stand for and answer to the people they must aim to serve. Every dollar, every decision, and every policy must reflect our students’ success and our community’s trust. I will demand transparency, enforce accountability at every level, and refuse to let concerns be ignored or standards lowered. No issue will be allowed to linger unresolved.

Gloria Gao

My name is Gloria Gao, and I am running for Division Two on the UTMSU board
of directors. As a student, I understand the challenges many of us face, including
balancing academics and life and accessing meaningful opportunities, and I believe UTMSU should be transparent, inclusive, and actively working in the best interests of all students. If elected, I will advocate for stronger communication between students and the UTMSU, as well as actions that support student well-being and academic success. I would be honored to earn your trust and support, and help improve our campus experience.

Maryam Zeeshan

Salaam/Hello UTM! I believe student voices deserve more than just being heard, they deserve action. Through my involvement in student advocacy and campus organizations, I’ve had the opportunity to truly listen to what students care about, from affordability and access to resources, to inclusive spaces that reflect our diverse community. I will bring those real conversations to the board table and push for decisions that prioritize transparency, accountability, and student well-being. Let’s make sure UTMSU works with students, not just for them.

Saad Hussain

Hi everyone, I am passionate about strengthening student voice and improving campus life. I am committed to transparent decision-making, responsible budgeting, and ensuring student fees are used effectively to benefit everyone.

My goal is to advocate for inclusive programming, open communication, and initiatives that support academic success, wellbeing, and community engagement. I believe strong student leadership starts with listening, collaborating, and acting with integrity.

Sun (Senna) Erxuan

My name is Senna, and I am a second year student running for Director at Large. I believe student leadership should be approachable, transparent, and accountable. As a student, I understand the everyday concerns we face, from academic pressure to campus engagement and accessibility. I want to ensure that student voices are not only heard but genuinely represented at the Board level. I am committed to clear communication, responsible decision making, and meaningful advocacy. If elected, I will work to strengthen trust between students and the Union while helping create a more inclusive and responsive campus community.

Ruotong Sun

The role of a student representative is to make sure discussions are thorough and decisions are clear. Through my involvement on campus, I have come to understand the importance of listening carefully and fully understanding the issues at hand. I believe that steadiness and a sense of responsibility are forms of respect toward students. If given the opportunity to serve as Director at Large, I will approach each discussion with openness and reason, listen carefully to different perspectives, and take full responsibility for my decisions.

 

Division III – Part-Time Directors at Large (2 Vacancies)

Onoasi Odo-Effiong 

You deserve a Union that works as hard as you do! As your Division 3 Director, my priority is simple: transparency, equity, and student needs. I will ensure that UTMSU remains accountable to you. Our decisions will align with students’ best interests, and I will represent you with the integrity you deserve. I am prepared to do the necessary work to improve how our Union functions, ensuring all Board decisions are fair, and focused specifically on the needs of the student body.

 

 Division IV – Professional Faculties Director-At-Large (1 Vacancy)

TBA

President: 

Adam El-Falou- 1501

XinChun (Oliver) Wang- 390

Abstain- 75

Void/Spoiled- 44

VP Internal: 

Xingyi (Freya) Gao- 1505

Manal Ali- 382

Abstain- 86

Void/Spoiled- 32

VP External:

Rajas Dhamija- 1520

George Maafo- 316

Abstain- 150

Void/Spoiled- 22

VP Equity:

Tiffany Da Silva- 1605

Against- 90

Abstain- 248

Void/Spoiled- 64

VP University Affairs:

Dana Al-Habash- 1551

Mariam Botros- 308

Abstain- 136

Void/Spoiled- 14

Board of Directors II:

Xinhe (Cecilia) Wang- 561

Cynthia Tong- 620

Xiuqi Ouyang- 402

Marcus Lee- 570

Joud Al-Habash- 565

Nandy Seshaprasad- 347

Saad Rizvi-489

Apreet Bhullar- 391

Nabeeha Shamim- 547

Sierra O’Brien- 538

Saad Hussain- 559

Maryam Zeeshan- 681

Suleyman Yusuf- 541

Ziyan Wang- 475

Jana Al-Mallah- 583

Mekayel Omier- 375

Laila McFarlane- 477

Ruotong Sun- 373

Sun Erxuan- 275

Chase Sandy- 476

Sarah Gamal El-Dean- 460

Ya (Gloria) Gao- 565

Mohammad Mahi Ali Mukati- 523

Board of Directors III:

Onoasi Odo-Effiong-1018 

Against- 267

Abstain- 625

Void/ Spoiled-127

The virtual Wall of Transparency is a space where candidates can see their demerit points issued by the CRO in the elections. 

The unofficial demerits will be sent to the candidates directly, and they have 48 hours to appeal to the EARC. The official demerits will be issued once the 48 hour appeal window has closed.

To be updated