She/her
Master's in Social Work
I'm currently studying for a Master's in Social Work and am expecting to graduate at the end of 2025.
I wanted to become a student representative because this is such an exciting time with the merging of two universities, and I feel like it's a unique opportunity to be part of something historic. It's a chance to contribute to creating a strong, supportive community for the students of the university, and I'm quite excited about it.
I hope that in 2025, the UniSA students continue to feel safe, welcome and happy on campus. Campus should feel like a place where everyone belongs and I hope that all new as well as returning students feel that.
I’m from the Magill campus, and my favourite thing about it is how quiet, peaceful, and green it is. It’s such a relaxing environment, which makes it a great place to study and unwind.
Have courage and be kind - University life can be so challenging, but having the courage to step out of your comfort zone and trying new things can lead to so many new opportunities. And being kind - to others and yourself - can make this journey a lot more enjoyable!
Good food and laughs from catching up with friends and family instantly put me in a good mood. It’s the little things that really lift my spirits!
If I could have dinner with anyone, it would be Sophia Bush. She’s so fierce, a fantastic actress, and a strong feminist. I really admire how she’s able to juggle her advocacy work with her career in such an inspiring way. She manages to use her platform to raise awareness on important issues while still excelling in her job, and I’d love to know how she balances it all!
I would travel. One of the most life-changing moments for me was spending a year on exchange in Canada and traveling around the country. It opened my eyes to new perspectives and experiences. I’d love to continue exploring the world, meeting new people, and discovering places that challenge and inspire me.
Hi everyone!
January was an exciting time for us at USASA as we commenced a very special and final year of the organisation as we currently know it. My first formal introduction to the association was during a session by Michael Connelly on best practices for student associations. This session, attended by both USASA and YouX (UniAdelaide’s student association) members, was insightful in setting the stage for our roles as board members and offering clarity on the collaborative journey ahead as we work with YouX to design the new student association.
Towards the end of January, I participated in the USASA Board Retreat, which was not only a valuable bonding experience but also a deep dive into our different working styles. It reinforced the importance of collaboration and laid the groundwork for strong teamwork to guide our vision for the new association.
In February, I had the privilege of serving on the Preclusion Appeals Committee. This gave me a platform to contribute both student and cultural perspectives to important academic decisions. I am especially grateful to the USASA Advocacy team for equipping me and the Mawson Lakes Representative with the tools to confidently engage in this responsibility.
The past month has been eventful, marking the first month since classes began. I had the opportunity to spend time on campus, engaging with students both during orientation and at the campus fair. These events provided valuable moments to connect with new and returning students, promote USASA services, and hear firsthand about their experiences and needs.
A considerable portion of the month was also dedicated to planning. The Magill Undergraduate Representative and I met to outline our goals for the year, with a particular focus on supporting student initiatives and enhancing engagement at the Magill Campus. Additionally, the Diversity, Equity, and Access (DEA) Committee held a meeting to begin mapping out potential activities and strategies for the year ahead.
Apologies for missing my report last month — it has been an incredibly busy couple of months juggling study, work, and board responsibilities. Despite the packed schedule, it’s been a productive time. I have three major updates to share with you:
A significant focus over the past several weeks has been working with the USASA Board on the future structure of the student association. Over the past week, we’ve worked very hard in trying to shape a governance model that reflects our values of inclusivity, collaboration, equity, and student leadership. Huge thanks to President Oliver, City West Undergraduate Representative and Vice President Yeshaiah, and Postgraduate Representative Dasuni for being absolute champions throughout this process.
Shaana (Magill Undergraduate Rep) and I have been prioritising student engagement at Magill this year. One of the key initiatives is supporting the ASR program to strengthen outreach and visibility on campus. We’ve had a couple of meetings with ASRs and plan to keep working closely with them. We’ve also received updates regarding the future of the Magill campus — posters and information are being circulated by the SEU to keep students informed.
One of the most consistent pieces of feedback I receive from students is the need for more USASA events at Magill. I’ve passed this on to the USASA team, and we hope to be able to announce the plans soon!
Every month, each member of the USASA Board writes a report on what they've been up to. Click on their names to read their reports and more.
President: Oliver Shephard-Bayly
Postgraduate Student Rep: Dasuni Imansa Jaburuthugoda Gamarachchige
Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Student Rep: Benjamin Johnston
International Student Rep: Edwin John
City West Student Rep: Haider Surka
City West Undergraduate Student Rep: Yeshaiah Varona
City East Student Rep: Meetali
City East Undergraduate Student Rep: Sasha Yildirimci
Magill Student Rep: Shefali Mhatre
Magill Undergraduate Student Rep: Shaana Sihota
Mawson Lakes Student Rep: Surya Tomar
Mawson Lakes Undergraduate Student Rep: Husan Ara
Mount Gambier Student Rep: Vacant
Whyalla Student Rep: Lilly Henwood
UniSA Online Student Rep: Lily Durkin
Have a general enquiry regarding the USASA Student Board?