Meet Your New WUSA President: Samir Sharma

As a new term approaches, students at the University of Waterloo can expect fresh energy, new ideas, and a continued focus on advocacy from incoming WUSA President Samir Sharma. A 2B Math student originally from Calgary, Samir is no stranger to campus leadership, and he’s stepping into this role with both experience and a clear sense of purpose. 

Before becoming president, Samir was deeply involved in student life. From his time in MathSoc to working with Residence Council at UWP, and most recently serving on the WUSA Board of Directors, his path has been shaped by a commitment to improving student experiences. One of his most impactful roles was serving as Chair of the Student Life Endowment Fund (SLEF), where he helped distribute over $350,000 to student initiatives. “Seeing how many students I was able to impact from a fund that almost no one knew about really opened my eyes,” he shared. 

That experience and others like it ultimately motivated him to run for president. For Samir, leadership is about more than just representing students; it’s about empowering others and building the work of those who came before.

“I see my job as a student leader to empower other student leaders… and continue to carry the torch that started over 50 WUSA Presidents ago.” 

Samir is stepping into the role at a time when students are facing significant challenges. He points to affordability and the lingering effects of COVID-19 as two of the biggest issues impacting campus life. “We are seeing a massive affordability crisis, not made easier by recent OSAP cuts,” he explained. At the same time, rebuilding the student community and engagement remains a priority. 

To address these concerns, Samir plans to focus on both large-scale advocacy and everyday quality-of-life improvements. One of his top priorities is renegotiating the UPass program, which provides students with access to local transit. He also aims to push for the establishment of rights for undergraduate TAs and RAs, an area that currently lacks formal policy protections. 

But his goals aren’t limited to big-picture advocacy. Samir is equally focused on tangible changes students can feel on campus. Whether it’s replacing aging couches in the SLC Great Hall, exploring options for tenant insurance, or tracking rent trends to better inform students, his approach blends practicality with long-term vision.

“I want students to see WUSA as fighting for them and a force to improve student life.”  

A key part of his strategy involves ensuring student voices are genuinely heard. With the introduction of a new Advocacy Committee bringing together student representatives from across campus, Samir hopes to create a stronger feedback loop between students and decision-makers. He also plans to continue using large-scale student surveys to gather input and stay informed on emerging concerns. 

When it comes to leadership style, Samir describes himself as both collaborative and strategic. He emphasizes the importance of working closely with other student leaders while also thinking ahead. “I am just here for a year, so I need to be setting up the next five Presidents for success while working on initiatives from the previous five,” he explained. 

Outside of his leadership roles, Samir keeps things grounded. He enjoys spending time with friends, skating, trying escape rooms, and occasionally getting off campus. His favourite study spot? DC Library, despite admitting it might be a controversial choice. As for a comfort meal, ML’s Diner is a top pick, and during busy weeks, you’ll likely find him reaching for a Red Bull over coffee. 

He also brings a sense of humour and relatability to the role. If he could instantly fix one student issue, it wouldn’t be something massive; it would be getting campus water fountains or Eduroam to consistently work. It’s a small but telling reflection of his awareness of everyday student frustrations. 

Looking ahead, Samir hopes students feel both empowered and optimistic. “WUSA has the power to actually make changes for students,” he said, pointing to past successes like OSAP protests and campus improvements. But he also emphasizes that meaningful change requires student involvement.

“Get involved and help drive change… and hold us accountable. Student leaders are here to serve you.” 

With a strong incoming team and a clear set of priorities, Samir Sharma’s presidency is shaping up to be one focused on action, accessibility, and student-driven impact. 

Communications Assistant 

Maliha Karim