Representative, Senate Student
Helen Yousif
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I will bring a geographically diverse perspective to the Board of Directors, one that is grounded in experience and strengthened by a commitment to leadership. As a first-generation Canadian daughter, I understand the challenges of stepping into an unfamiliar environment. Beginning something new, whether adjusting to a new country or embarking on a university journey, requires courage, resilience, and the steady presence of a guide. I hope to serve as that guide for students to feel supported, represented, and valued throughout their time on campus.
Leadership has been at the heart of my journey. Serving as the prime minister of my high school, I gained firsthand experience in bringing together students from diverse cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives. I learned how to unify communities, bridge differences, and ensure that every voice contributed to our collective success. My work alongside students with special needs further deepened my understanding of empathy and inclusivity, teaching me that authentic leadership means adapting to the needs of others and creating spaces where everyone feels they belong.
These experiences have shaped me into a leader who values connection, equity, and collaboration. On the Board, I will draw upon this foundation to represent my faculty and program with clarity and compassion, helping to shape a university experience where all students can thrive.
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The most important issues and opportunities facing students across the University of Windsor include ensuring that all educational programs and campus resources are accessible and effective, so that every student can thrive in their post-secondary education. Additionally, students need pathways and support to prepare for their future careers, connecting their academic experiences to meaningful opportunities beyond the lecture rooms. I would advocate for these needs through my role by actively listening to students and prioritizing their voices. Participation in campus events, meetings, and discussions would allow me to hear directly from students about their experiences, challenges, and ideas for improving our system.
Through consistent communication, collaboration, and follow-up, I would work to ensure that the initiatives and programs implemented truly reflect what students need to succeed academically, socially, and professionally. My goal would be to foster a campus environment where every student feels heard, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential, while actively contributing to decisions that shape the future of the University of Windsor.
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I will ensure accountability, transparency, and fair decision-making as a UWSA Director by leading with integrity, inclusivity, and action. My experiences in campus leadership and extracurricular involvement have taught me the value of listening, collaborating, and following through on commitments. Leadership is not just about making decisions, but about creating systems that empower students to feel heard, supported, and represented in every aspect of their university experience.
Being multilingual and culturally mindful, I am committed to ensuring that every student, regardless of background, has a voice in shaping the policies and programs that affect them. I will actively engage with students through events, discussions, and ongoing outreach to understand their perspectives and bring their priorities directly to the Board.
Through this approach, I aim to foster a UWSA that is inclusive, accountable, and transparent, one that makes decisions reflecting the diverse needs and aspirations of the entire University of Windsor community. I will work together with others and take clear actions to create a student government that listens to students and responds to their needs. This will enhance the campus experience and empower every student to succeed.
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In my view, the UWSA Board of Directors plays a critical role in shaping the student experience at UWindsor by ensuring that students have a voice in decisions that affect their academic, social, and professional lives. The Board serves as a bridge between the student body and the university administration, advocating for student needs, fostering inclusivity, and creating opportunities for engagement and growth across campus.
I want to be part of this work because I am passionate about representing students and ensuring their perspectives are heard. My commitment is to uphold accountability, transparency, and fair decision-making by leading with integrity, inclusivity, and action. My communication skills allow me to listen actively, share ideas clearly, and encourage open discussion. Furthermore, my goal-oriented and proactive approach ensures that I take initiative, follow through on commitments, and drive projects forward. Finally, being multilingual further strengthens my ability to ensure that diverse perspectives are represented in decision-making. My commitment is to contribute to a Board that not only responds to student needs but also proactively shapes initiatives and policies that foster inclusivity and empower the campus community.