WUSA Volunteer Appreciation takes place every semester and recognize the top Clubs, Executives, Presidents, and Volunteers for their hard work and dedication. For those who are interested taking the time to get involved through clubs, societies, and volunteer positions is a great way to have fun, meet new people, and to give back to the university community. Congratulations to all the Winners and Runners up, and as always, we want to take the time to highlight some of the amazing work that is being done.  

This semester was full of fun activities, events, and volunteer opportunities. We thank everyone for an amazing spring term and look forward to seeing everyone in the next semester!

Here’s our winners this term:

President  

Nominees:  

• Dylan Ellingson – dylan.ellingson@uwaterloo.ca  

• Harleen Soh – h3sohal@uwaterloo.ca  

• Amir Hamadache – ahamadac@uwaterloo.ca  

Winner – Amir Hamadache:  

Amir Hamadache achieved remarkable success, significantly enhancing the MSA community and expanding its impact during his term as President of the UWMSA in Spring ’24. He spearheaded innovative projects such as the inaugural inter-MSA Soccer Tournament and the TaqwaCon Convention, which brought together over 700 attendees from across Ontario and generated substantial revenue, ensuring the event’s sustainability. Amir introduced new UWMSA merchandise, upgraded marketing equipment, and launched a dedicated MSA app. His leadership extended to improving community safety and wellbeing, expanding programming, and fostering a collaborative team environment. By addressing critical issues, advocating for student needs, and enhancing the association’s visibility and professionalism, Amir’s contributions have left a lasting legacy on both the University of Waterloo and the broader community.  

Runner Up – Dylan Ellingson:  

Dylan Ellingson revitalized student engagement post-Covid-19, achieving record-breaking attendance at events and reintroducing traditions like the bus push during his 16-month term as President of one of the largest student societies. His commitment to student welfare and active involvement, despite the lack of compensation, set a strong example, encouraging greater student participation in governance and leadership roles. By managing a complex balance of academic responsibilities and presidency, reintegrating a committee for bylaw review, and fostering a culture of support and independence among his team, Dylan demonstrated exceptional leadership, decisiveness, and dedication to both the society’s spirit and its operational effectiveness. 

Runner Up – Harleen Kaur Sohal:  

Harleen has excelled as president of the University of Waterloo Sikh Student Association (SSA) through her exceptional dedication and leadership. She has significantly contributed to educating students about Sikhism by organizing events, guest speakers, and educational classes like Gurmukhi, Santhiya, and Kirtan. Her commitment extends to the Kitchener Gurdwara, where she assists with langar preparation and maintains the premises. Notably, Harleen successfully hosted Asa Di Vaar at Waterloo Park, demonstrating her innovative approach and organizational skills. Her positive attitude, compassion, and ability to handle challenges with a smile make her a remarkable role model and leader, consistently inspiring and encouraging those around her.  

Executives  

Nominees:  

• Eshitaa Behal – ebehal@uwaterloo.ca  

• Grace Marshall – g4marshall@uwaterloo.ca  

Winner – Grace Marshall:  

As the VP Academic of the Engineering Student Society, Grace Marshall has been a tireless advocate for students at Waterloo, representing their voices on multiple councils, including the Academic Affairs Advisory Committee and the Engineering Faculty Council. Her significant achievements include securing faculty funding for first-year engineering coveralls to foster community spirit among students. Grace’s approach to advocacy stands out for its flexibility and commitment to a student-first mindset, as she diligently engages with a broad range of students and utilizes surveys to ensure comprehensive representation. Her dedication to improving academic, co-op, and accessibility initiatives underscores her exceptional service to the engineering student body.  

Runner Up – Eshitaa Behal:  

Eshitaa Behal has demonstrated outstanding leadership and commitment as an executive for the Mock Trial team. Her exceptional efforts in developing and implementing a comprehensive training program have significantly boosted the team’s performance and cohesion. Eshitaa’s hands-on approach, including organizing mock trials in real courtrooms and providing personalized coaching, has greatly enhanced the team’s skills and confidence. Her dedication to fostering a collaborative environment, coupled with her strategic problem-solving and effective communication, sets her apart as a leader. Eshitaa’s genuine care for her team and her relentless pursuit of excellence make her a deserving recipient of this award, as she continues to inspire and support her fellow members in their pursuit of legal careers.  

Volunteer  

Nominees:   

• Raven Shulist – rshulist@uwaterloo.ca   
• Daiphy Lee – d38lee@uwaterloo.ca   

Winner – Raven Shulist:  

Raven Shulist has consistently exceeded expectations as a volunteer at the Women’s Centre, demonstrating extraordinary dedication despite her full-time student and varsity athlete commitments. Over two terms and beyond, she has been a reliable and proactive presence, never missing meetings or shifts and eagerly volunteering for events. Raven’s most significant achievement was stepping up to organize and run a critical event on short notice when other leaders were unavailable, showcasing her exceptional problem-solving skills. Her commitment to advocacy and community, coupled with her ability to handle tasks with utmost dedication and without seeking recognition, makes her an invaluable asset to the Women’s Centre and a standout volunteer.  

Runner Up – Daiphy Lee:  

She is an outstanding and hardworking member of various clubs, including the Mathematics Society and the Underwater Hockey Club, demonstrating remarkable dedication and philanthropy. She has raised over $3,000 for the Arthritis Society of Canada and plays a crucial role in managing finances for multiple organizations. Her meticulous oversight ensures timely processing of cheque requests and prevents misuse of funds, keeping MATHSOC financially robust and healthy. Known for her unwavering commitment and supportive nature, she is a vital asset to the community, continuously assisting with donations and fundraising efforts across clubs.