TMAPS 2025 Board & Executive Candidates

Maya Taylor

Hi everyone, I’m a part-time psychology student completing the Mental Health and Addictions certificate. I first got involved with TMAPS by joining the Bylaw and Policy Committee over three years ago. I have learned so much with the union since then, both as Vice-President Governance and Academic Policy and as President. 

I’m passionate about advocating for fairer and clearer policies for students, and for including student voices in decision-making spaces. I hope to continue some projects started by the outgoing Board, such as thoroughly revising internal bylaws and policies, building a campaign that advocates for access to mental health support for part-time students, and exploring ways to help address food insecurity. I’d also be excited to support initiatives led by new Board members. I’d aim to ensure smooth internal operations and to facilitate student engagement with TMAPS services and committee. 

Getting feedback from community members and hearing ideas is important to me. I encourage you to attend the elections forum at the Annual General Meeting on April 3rd, or feel free to reach out by email at maya.taylor.election@gmail.com.

Esther Deng

I am excited to apply for the Vice President of Governance and Academic Policy position with TMAPS to support and advocate for learners at Toronto Metropolitan University. Since joining TMU in 2018 as an undergraduate student, then completing my master’s, and now as a part-time student, I have developed a strong connection to this academic community. My educational journey and professional experiences in education and communication have shaped my passion for student advocacy and governance.

As Teaching Support Services Coordinator at the G. Raymond Chang School of Continuing Education, I work closely with faculty and administrators on policy implementation, faculty engagement, and professional development. My experience as a teaching assistant and writing skills initiative leader has reinforced my dedication to fostering student success and support.

This role aligns perfectly with my policy analysis, communication, and organizational leadership skills. I am eager to develop my knowledge of Senate bylaws and governance further while leveraging my experience in public speaking, stakeholder engagement, and academic policy. If elected, I will advocate for transparent policies that enhance the student experience and ensure fair academic governance for all learners.

Divya Sharma 

Hi everyone, I’m currently studying engineering while also getting a certificate in Data Analytics, Big Data, and Predictive Analytics through the Chang School. I’m running for Vice President of Finance and Services because I want to help students access the support they need to thrive, both academically and personally.

In my academic and professional work I’ve been involved in projects that focus on planning, organizing, and delivering student-focused services and educational resources. I’ve worked with teams to help launch university-wide programs, supported service delivery for large groups of students, and collaborated with others to make learning tools and information more accessible. These experiences have shaped my interest in working behind the scenes to make systems run more smoothly and effectively.

I would be honoured to support the TMAPS community by making sure services are more visible and easier to navigate. I also want to explore new ways we can connect students to support; whether that’s through improved outreach or new initiatives that reflect the needs of the students. Lastly, I will continue the financial transparency and advocacy efforts laid out by previous TMAPS executives. I’m committed to listening and being responsive to what matters most to you.

Miya Williams

I am currently completing computer science courses. I am currently running for the Vice-President role of Events and Outreach position. I want to run for this position as I have experience researching potential events alongside the marketing director of athletics at my alma mater. I also hosted and ran basketball player development camps throughout the summer last year in the GTA. I have learned a lot about this experience and I would love the opportunity to plan, coordinate volunteer events for students to enjoy and make memories.

Hermela Geremew

My name is Hermela Geremew. I major in computer science at TMU, and I’m running to be the vice president of campaigns & equity for part-time students.

Students come from all sorts of backgrounds, each bringing their own unique responsibilities and experiences. I’m running because I truly believe that every student, regardless of their situation, should feel acknowledged, supported, and included in the daily life of our campus.

I’ve had the honour to meet students with diverse backgrounds and help implement meaningful changes during my time as a student leader and volunteer. I learned the importance of advocacy and creating environments where every voice matters. For this reason, I want to advocate for better access to co-op and internship opportunities for part-time students, make sure resources are easier to reach, and work with other student executives to build a campus culture that truly reflects all of us here at TMU.

Julia Pyryeskina

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 for a second term.