Candidate Profiles

Rose Finlay

Rose Finlay is a single mother, student, and dedicated disability advocate committed to improving equity and accessibility across the TMU community. Currently completing her transition studies through Spanning the Gaps before beginning the Politics and Governance undergraduate program next fall. Rose brings lived experience, resilience, and a strong commitment to community care, and she aims to use her voice to ensure all students, especially those balancing disability, caregiving, work, and school, feel represented and supported.

Esther Deng is a dedicated education and communications professional currently serving as the Vice President of Governance and Academic Policy at TMAPS. With a background in teaching support, academic policy, and event coordination, she brings a collaborative and strategic approach to supporting student advocacy. Esther holds a Master of Professional Communication and a Bachelor of Applied Science in Nutrition and Food from Toronto Metropolitan University. She also has received project management, fundraising management, and adult education training and is passionate about fostering inclusive, transparent, and student-centred academic environments

Miya brings experience in working hard as the Vice President of Events and Outreach at TMAPS for the past year and in event research and planning, having worked alongside the Marketing Director of Athletics at her alma mater to explore and develop potential events. She also organized and led basketball player development camps across the GTA, gaining hands-on experience in coordination, leadership, and community engagement. Through these experiences, Miya has developed strong organizational and planning skills, as well as a passion for creating engaging opportunities for others. She is committed to designing and coordinating events that foster connection, enjoyment, and memorable experiences for students.

Julia contributes her project management and grant application skills to multiple mutual aid and volunteer organizations. Her most recent union work was with OPSEU 596’s social committee to organize the 2023 Winterfest Luncheon. She looks forward to representing the diverse interests and membership of TMAPS as a Director of Certificate Studies.

Amanda Carey is a student in the Nonprofit and Voluntary Sector Management Certificate program at the Chang School at Toronto Metropolitan University, currently completing her final course in Financial Management for Nonprofits.

Her academic focus aligns closely with her practical experience in event planning and volunteer coordination, where she has developed strong organizational and community-building skills. Amanda is particularly interested in roles that foster student engagement and connection.

She is motivated to contribute to creating inclusive, engaging opportunities for Chang School students and to support initiatives that strengthen community within the student body.

Anessa Donegan is a graduate student in the Public Administration and Leadership program at the Chang School and a candidate for Member at Large on the Board of Directors. She brings nearly nine years of experience as a social worker, with a strong foundation in advocacy, active listening, and supporting individuals through complex challenges. Her professional background has shaped her into a compassionate and accountable leader, committed to representing others with care and integrity. Anessa is actively engaged in the student community, having participated in the “Hands Off Our OSAP” rally and served as a delegate for the Canadian Federation of Students Black Caucus, where she contributed to discussions on equity and representation.