Onella for VP
My Story
From a young age, I have always had a passion for helping others. From debating politics at the kitchen table with my father to setting my sights on a legal career, advocating for others is a principle I continuously aim to develop.
​
Until recently I naively believed that I couldn't make real change until I was well out of University, and in the 'real world'. Yet, my recent experiences with WUSA have made me realize that there is no better time than right here, right now!
​
Truth be told, I didn't know what WUSA even did a year ago, but after spending 4 great months working within the organization, and under the management of our current VP Arya, I saw firsthand the change student leaders can make.
​
So, my goal is simple and clear... I want to help and do right by students! I truly believe that if given the chance, you won't find a candidate more willing to fight for you than me!
​You don't have to believe me yet, just let me prove it to you!
​
​
Get to Know Me Better
Hey!
Thanks for considering me to be your next VP! I know it can be weird voting for a stranger, so let me fix that and tell you a bit about myself.
​
I'm in my 3A term of the Arts & Business Program (ARBUS ), majoring in Psychology with a minor in Legal Studies. Thanks to UWaterloo's comprehensive co-op program, I'm able to apply for amazing opportunities like VP as part of my education.
​
Housing
1st year: St. Jerome's
2nd-present: Off Campus
Like most students moving away from home for school, I moved into St. Jerome's Residence, where I met 4 amazing women. Together, we found a house off-campus that we now call home.
During my last co-op as Stakeholder Relations Assistant at WUSA, I was lucky to attend the OUSA (Ontario Undergraduate Student Alliance) Student Advocacy Conference at Queen's Park with our current VP. There, I, lobbied various student issues to our provincial government, including student financial aid. ​
Student Financial Aid
From attending events as a student, to helping organize them as a staff member, student engagement​ has proved to be a vital part of the student experience.
​
As an undergraduate student, I often take advantage of on campus activities like going to volleyball games with my roomates which are free to us students (shout out to WUSA & UW!).
​
Whether I'm helping hand out hot chocolate and cupcakes in the SLC or aiding in You of Waterloo day, I'm always willing to listen to what you have to say, both the good and the bad. And, if chosen to be your next VP, I will strive to apply this mentality wherever I can to ensure your voices are not only being heard but amplified.
Student Engagement
I grew up in Pickering, Ontario with my parents and older sister, who also attends UW (I swear, I didn’t copy her!). My parents immigrated from Sri Lanka, and like many first-generation Canadians, embracing new opportunities is part of who I am.
​
When I’m not studying, I enjoy reading, writing, cooking, crocheting, and playing COD Mobile with my roommates. I’m also working through the Oscar nominations for Best Picture with them—movie nights are definitely a highlight.
​
I’m passionate about ensuring that all students feel supported, heard, and empowered at UW. As VP, I want to continue fostering a sense of community, advocate for student needs, and work towards making our university a place where everyone can thrive.
​
