Kiah Leone
My name is Kiah Leone and my PhD experience at UNBC was unique as I was split between the Faculty of Human and Health Sciences (FHHS) and the Faculty of Indigenous Studies, Social Sciences, and Humanities (FISSSH). However, due to my background as an anthropologist, the majority of my graduate journey took place in FISSSH where I worked as a TA for the Department of Anthropology and later as a part-time Instructor in both the Department of Anthropology and Department of Women’s and Gender Studies. In addition to my teaching experience, I also worked as the Lead Facilitator for the Centre of Teaching, Learning, and Technology (CTLT) – facilitating the training of new Graduate Teaching Assistants (GTAs) at UNBC and as support staff for the Northern Medical Program (NMP). Through these roles, as well as my volunteer work on various campus projects – from the Northern Women’s Centre to the Interfaith Spiritual Care Centre – I gained a deeper understanding of the many opportunities, resources, supports, and services available at UNBC.
It was this experience, managing the academic requirements of my program while also pursuing my own personal and professional development, that encouraged me to join the Graduate Student Faculty Ambassador (GSFA) project. As graduate students, we wear many hats, which can be overwhelming – especially early on in our programs when we are less likely to know where to turn to for information or who to reach out to for support. This is what made the GSFA project so special, it recognized these challenges and developed a plan to improve graduate students’ experiences navigating these challenges along with the complexities of UNBC’s graduate ecosystem.
I encourage anyone interested in helping others, improving students’ experiences, and developing their own personal and professional skills set to become an ambassador! It has been a rewarding experience advocating for fellow graduate students and collaborating with like-minded individuals who are passionate about making a difference.
Nazanin Soroosh
My name is Nazanin Soroosh, and I am a Graduate Student Faculty Ambassador for the Faculty of Science and Engineering. I am a second-year Master of Computer Science student. Graduate studies can present unique challenges, and we understand firsthand what that journey looks like. As GSFA, I serve as a bridge between graduate students and UNBC's extensive resources and opportunities. We aim to support grad students in learning, connecting, thriving, working, and succeeding at UNBC.
Moreover, in this position we can help
- Navigate UNBC's graduate student services and resources;
- Connect you with faculty-specific opportunities;
- Provide peer support and guidance;
- Share information about academic and professional development resources;
- Help you build connections within your faculty community.
This position is a golden opportunity for graduate students because it provides tailored support directly from peers who understand the challenges and opportunities unique to your journey. As Graduate Student Faculty Ambassadors, we are committed to ensuring your graduate experience is enriched with valuable connections, relevant resources, and meaningful guidance. By leveraging this peer-to-peer network, you can enhance your academic and professional success, ultimately making your time at UNBC both rewarding and impactful.
Sama Amirkhani Ardeh
Hi! I'm Sama Amirkhani Ardeh, a Master of Health Sciences student at the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC). My research and academic interests centre around aging, health technology, and patient-centred care. For my graduate thesis, I focused on how digital communication tools can enhance emotional well-being and reduce social isolation among patients in acute care settings throughout Canada.
I’m originally from Iran, and moved to Canada because I love learning and want to understand how health systems work in different countries. I have a background in environmental health and have experience as a health and safety coordinator. These experiences helped me grow and learn both practical and academic skills.
Outside of academics, I like going to the gym, enjoying the outdoors, and spending quality time with my friends and family. I also really care about helping the community and volunteering, which is why I wanted to become a Graduate Student Ambassador in the Faculty of Human and Health Sciences.
Serving as a Graduate Ambassador has been one of the most fulfilling aspects of my academic time at UNBC. It allowed me to connect with fellow students and faculty, participate in campus events, and collaborate with peers from diverse backgrounds. Through this role, I improved my communication and leadership abilities, and it gave me the chance to support and motivate other graduate students in the Faculty of Human and Health Sciences; an experience that will always stay with me.
Jhoan Chavez Suazo
My name is Jhoan (she/her) and I was the Faculty of Environment (FE) Ambassador, supporting graduate and postdoctoral students at UNBC. I also served as a student's representative at Senate and on the NRES committee.
I am an Environmental Engineer from Peru and have completed the Master of Science in Natural Resources and Environmental Studies at UNBC. My research on agricultural waste management and pyrolysis helped to funding from industry and I am actively engaged on academic opportunities, publishing papers and representing UNBC at the Arctic Academy for Sustainability, funded by the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, and the Living Data Project, funded by the Collaborative Research and Training Experience (CREATE) grant from the Canadian Institute of Ecology and Evolution (CIEE) and Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC).
Previously, I researched Dry Forests Carbon Capture and Storage in northern Peru and worked in in-situ plant domestication and management in the Peruvian highlands, with the agrochemical industry, and within the planning and sustainability departments for different sectors. I am passionate about sustainability, climate change, adaptability and mitigation, and environmental pollution and solutions.
Independently, I am a director at large at the EcoLiving Community, leading the Gleaning Abundance Project (GAP), focused on reducing bear attractants and addressing food security in Prince George. I participate actively in other volunteer organizations like the GAV-UNIR UNALM, Join for the Planet, the Canadian Red Cross, PGPIRG, and Jack.org.
As a graduate ambassador, I have enjoyed working with multiple levels of governance at UNBC to create fair opportunities for my peers and to represent them and encouraging them to take advantage of the multiple opportunities accessible through UNBC (academic, personal development, and well-being), focus on solutions during conflicts, and promote open and clear communication.
Zeta Adjei-Bruce
Hi my name is Zeta Adjei-Bruce and as a masters student in Development Economics at the University of Northern British Columbia, I’ve had the privilege of serving as the Graduate Student Faculty Ambassador (for the Faculty of Business and Economics). This role has allowed me to engage meaningfully with incoming and current graduate students, faculty members, and university staff as a bridge between student voices and institutional support.
Throughout my time at GSFA, I have supported academic events and provided mentorship to fellow students navigating their programs. One of the most rewarding aspects of this role has been being a part of an inclusive and encouraging space for students to share their challenges and successes. Another rewarding aspect of the role was experiencing the support from the dean and other faculty members and how they appreciate students’ feedback. Collaborating with a team of passionate ambassadors across faculties has also been a highlight; we’ve shared ideas, promoted community-building events, and worked to enhance the graduate experience at UNBC.
My academic interests focus on inclusive economic development, policy analysis, and improving socioeconomic outcomes for under-served communities. My involvement in student leadership and interactions with faculty members have reinforced these interests.
Serving as a GSFA has sharpened my communication and leadership skills and deepened my appreciation for the supportive community at UNBC. I’m grateful for the opportunity to give back to the university and help shape the experience for graduate students.
Why you should become a Graduate Student Faculty Ambassador
Becoming a Graduate Student Faculty Ambassador is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have during your time at UNBC. It offers a unique opportunity to grow both personally and professionally while making a meaningful impact on the graduate student community.
As a GSFA for the Faculty of Business and Economics, I had the chance to connect with fellow students, support faculty-led initiatives, and act as a voice for graduate students within my department. This role allows you to advocate for student needs, help build an inclusive and engaging academic environment and contribute ideas that shape the graduate experience.
Beyond the impact you make, the role helps you develop key skills in communication, leadership, and event coordination. You’ll gain valuable experience working with university staff and faculty, organizing graduate events, and supporting new students as they transition into their programs. It’s also a great way to expand your network within and beyond your faculty.
The ambassador role is a perfect fit if you’re passionate about community-building, leadership, and creating a positive experience for others. It’s a space where your voice matters, your contributions are valued, and your growth is supported.
I encourage every grad student to consider applying. It’s a fulfilling way to give back to the university while enhancing your own academic journey