Meet Our Executive Team 2024-2025

Damola Dina

President

3rd Year; Political Science Major, Double Minor in African Studies and History

I grew up in Lagos Nigeria (proud Yoruba girl) and I love meeting and connecting with new and interesting people. I'm not sure what I want to do in the future yet but I hope to bring some value to the world and people's lives. I want to be a better advocate for ALL human rights and I'm very passionate about supporting my community.

I love to read. I'm a huge bookworm so I'd love to hear about your favourite books and I'm a huge fan of musicals!

I joined the BSA to meet other Black people and be part of a club but it has evolved into so much more. I have found community and family within the BSA and a platform to do good work in the university.

Fun Fact: I can speak a code language called Back-slang!


Mesai James

Vice-President Internal

3rd Year; Double Major in Neuroscience and Immunology

Bonjour! I am a third-year student studying neuroscience and immunology. Born and raised in Toronto, I come from a diverse household. My father is Jamaican, while my mother is half St Vincent and Metis. This background allows me to have a multi-layered perspective on the world, which I hope to apply to the BSA as VP Internal. In my spare time, I love to draw. I also enjoy watching TV shows. However, I dislike Grey’s Anatomy, although I want to pursue the medical field at some point in my career.

I joined the BSA as I have been to numerous of their events and collaborated with some of the events, including Building Futures as a Black Student Engagement Assistant. Overall, I enjoy the positive energy they bring towards the University of Toronto through an extremely diverse range of events and hope to host one. I am grateful for this opportunity to hear the Black voices within the community and make a change!

Fun Fact: I have gotten four teeth pulled and none of those were my wisdom teeth


Nkem Enuma

Vice-President External

4th year; Double Major in Global Health and Cellular & Molecular Biology, Minor in Sociology

I am proudly Nigerian, Igbo specifically, with hopes of becoming a paediatrician or a family physician within my community, o r working institutionally to revolutionize public health. This being my second year on the BSA team, I am elated to be the Vice President External and I know that this year, I will continue to be a catalyst for change within the BSA community and the University of Toronto as a whole. You can often find me watching movies and anime (Castlevania and Attack on Titan has me in a chokehold), reading, makeup and fashion, and more recently, crocheting hats that look like socks.

The BSA isn't merely an organization; it's a catalyst for change and a platform for amplifying marginalized voices. Through planning and participating in BSA events, I've witnessed firsthand how these initiatives can shift perspectives and foster meaningful connections. The sense of unity and solidarity within the BSA is unparalleled, providing a space where individuals can find acceptance, empowerment, and inspiration. This year, I rejoined the BSA to continue to build this space through events and initiatives, all while having fun.

Fun Fact: I'm a sweet tooth, and the way to my heart is chocolate cake!


Rayan Awad-Alim

Equity Officer

5th Year; Computer Science, Bioinformatics, Minor in Statistics

I love all things Science and I am a naturally inquisitive person- you’ll probably find me going down the rabbit hole that is the internet trying to find the answer of some random question. I also enjoy urban exploration, travelling, watching documentaries, visiting art shows, gaming, photography, fashion, poetry and generally creative/ art-sy stuff. I place a big emphasis on participating in youth advocacy initiatives and community leadership. From being an ambassador at the World Youth Parliament for Water to a media lead at the Toronto Youth Cabinet, I thoroughly enjoy working on meaningful projects. I am also a huge blockchain enthusiast and you can find me doing funky stuff with Cryptochicks- a Toronto-based non-profit that teaches youth and women how to leverage blockchain, financial literacy and entrepreneurship to transform their lives and communities.

I joined the BSA as I wanted to highlight the Black community at UofT not just internally, but also externally. This is so that when the next university application cycle starts, and the next Black high school applicant who might be hesitant about applying to UofT and is questioning their place here due to the lack of representation, finds the BSA and knows that we are here and this gives them the push to go forward and know that they too belong at "prestigious" institutions. I want all Black students- present and future to know that they will always have a safe space at the BSA.

Fun Fact: I've lived in 4 continents!


Favour Adegboro

Equity Officer

2nd Year; Life sciences

Hello, my name is Favour. I am an incoming second-year life science student with a strong passion for genetics. I am Nigerian and relocated here three years ago. Some of my hobbies include reading manga, watching UFC, and baking.

I was an executive member of the BSA in high-school and my first year of uni. I loved the sense of belonging I felt which motivated me join again this year. In addition to that, I want to create a space for Black students on Campus where they can feel heard, and safe.

Fun Fact: I make really good spaghetti


Irene Olayinka

Political Director

3rd year; Double Major in English and Political Science, minor in Computer Science

I am a 3rd year student who is super excited to be serving as one of the BSA's Political Directors for this year! I'm an avid reader (in a dark academia-coquette-Gilmore Girls way) and I love writing. When I'm not doing either of those things, you'll probably find me at the gym or one of those niche overpriced thrift stores on Kensington. I'm looking forward to all the events we'll be putting on this year.

The BSA has been a cornerstone of the Black community at UofT for almost three decades, and I am honoured to be a part of something that has had so much impact. I really appreciated the love and support members of the BSA showed me in my first year here, and now I'm happy to be able to do the same.

Fun Fact: I am one of 3 co-parents to August, the sweetest cat ever <3


Kafayat Adebanjoko

Political Director

4th Year; Specialist in Political Science

I was born and raised in Nigeria and moved to Canada five years ago. I'm the eldest of three sisters, and in my free time, I enjoy watching K-dramas and crime TV shows. With so many interests, I have yet to decide on a specific career path, but I'm confident I'll pursue something meaningful. I love meeting new people and dream of traveling the world someday.

I joined the Black Students' Association (BSA) to contribute to a team focused on uplifting and supporting the Black community both on and off campus. Since my second year, the BSA has been a significant part of my university journey, helping me form meaningful connections and lifelong friendships. My goal is to assist Black students who may feel disconnected on campus by helping them find a supportive community they can depend on and build lasting relationships through the BSA.

Fun Fact: I love to sleep (I can sleep anywhere)


Meme Ekhator

Financial Director

4th year; Double Major in Global Health and Sexual Diversity Studies with a Minor in Immunology

I'm from the wonderful country Nigeria, specifically Benin (and no, we don't fly in the night). I've also lived in the US and recently moved to Canada. I'm really into women's health, especially the reproductive and sexual health of Black women. My goal is to become an OBGYN one day.

I LOVE baking and cooking—you'll often find me trying out different recipes from TikTok. I'm a huge media geek too, so whether it's TV shows, movies, or books, I've probably seen it . Plus, I'm a part-time photographer, so you'll likely catch me snapping pics at various events.


I joined BSA because I really believe in what the club stands for. When I moved to Canada, my first year was tough—I was surrounded by a lot of people who didn't look, or sound like me. It made me realize how important it is to have a supportive community.

Luckily, I eventually found my community, but I think if I had found it earlier, my first year would have been easier. So, that's why I joined BSA. I want to be part of a community that fosters togetherness and supports new students. Plus, BSA throws some awesome events

Fun Fact: My first and only pet was a Horned Dung Beetle


Amara Chukwu

Media Director

1st year; Social Sciences

I love music—playing it or listening to it, I’m always looking for new recommendations (bonus if it’s afrobeats). When I don’t have on my headphones, you can find me chatting away outside (I’m always looking for the next best nature spot) or catching up with the news: human rights coverage especially.

I also love to cook and bake and I’ve made it a mission to try one dish from as many cuisines that I can squeeze in.

UofT is big, and it feels all that bigger when you don’t have that community of people who can understand certain experiences—especially those commonly experienced by Black students. To join the BSA would be to join this community and that is why I’m here: for the fun, safe, and most of all, understanding Black Students’ Association.

Fun Fact: I co-founded my high school’s BSA!


Mozelle Ofori-Atta

Social Media Director

4th year; Specialist in Architectural Studies

I was born in Ghana but lived in USA and Qatar before coming to Toronto. In my free time I love dancing, reading, and photo/videography. I only speak English fluently unfortunately, but that has motivated me to learn as many languages as I can, so I can be a polyglot one day!

I joined the BSA to create a safe space for others to create memories with people they share a connection with. The positions I hold allow me to highlight such a positive space to others, letting them know it exists for them. Being able to have such experiences with the BSA myself in first and second year is something I'm grateful for, and I hope to recreate it during my BSA executive years!

Fun Fact: I've got a YouTube channel! @MozelleOnTheScene (go subscribe <33)



Chimdi Kingsley-Emereuwa

Education & Outreach Director

2nd year; Sociology

My name is Chimdi, 19 and a law aspirant. I am currently study social science at UofT. I love God, creative arts and family. I am a big advocate for change and a lover of life. I love learning languages and cultures and hope to explore the world someday, until then I will stick to reading and writing melodies about the beauty that exist within us.

I joined the BSA to part of an organization that prioritizes and celebrates Black culture and everything in between. I have envisioned the realm of possibilities for black youths when given the right tools to succeed and hope to be part of that change through BSA.

Fun Fact: I can flip my eyelids inside out


Doyin Adeoya

Education & Outreach Director

4th year; Double major in Cell and molecular biology, health and disease and immunology minor

I recently finished my third year and I am currently on my coop placement. I am an international student from Lagos Nigeria and as an international student I am grateful for the special experiences that I have gained while being at UofT. In my free time I love listening to podcasts, music and reading.

I am excited to work with the other Education and outreach directors and execs, I joined BSA to expand my network while bringing people in the community together to experience the unique resources that we can offer. I am particularly excited to help bridge the connections between black high school students through education and outreach experience.

Fun Fact: I love cake!


Eleanor Bouzi Laryea

Education & Outreach Director

2nd year; Double Major in Health Studies & Sociology, with a Minor in Women & Gender Studies

As the eldest sibling of 3, I have always had an interest in childcare and education. That said, more or less everything I do goes back to those passions. Having parents who are labour and human rights activists has always inspired me to speak up, and not remain silenced/unheard. Through leadership positions such as Camp Director, and volunteering with a Black women-led non-profit, I’ve been able to put all these parts of my life together, giving back and providing youth and children with opportunities to learn, striving to make change within systems that have not necessarily been built for us.

I joined the BSA because I believe it is important to surround yourself with people who not only understand but have also experienced every-day situations similar to your own. Being a part of the BSA allows me to connect with peers who live through the complexities of navigating educational systems as Black individuals, and also make it a fun and safe environment. I wanted to contribute to creating a more inclusive and supportive space for Black students on campus, as well as those who plan to join us in future years.

Fun Fact: I am an avid concertgoer and cannot study without music!


Khalid Osman

Education & Outreach Director

2nd year; Life Sciences

I am a Toronto native and here at UofT I am studying Life Sciences and I hope to specialize in Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology. Outside of school I love to watch soccer and I am a Bayern Munich fan.

I joined the BSA in order to contribute to supporting the diverse community at UofT. I look forward to my role as Education Director and the opportunities it will provide me to promote academic success.

Fun Fact: My favourite movie is Inception


Femi Oludairo

First Year Representative

1st year; Social Science

I'm Nigerian and I lived there for 6 years before moving here in 2017. I love to read, shop, go to the beach, volunteer at events, and do fun activities with my friends and family. My favourite music genres are Afrobeats and R&B and my favourite artist at the moment is Wizkid. After I'm done with school, I hope to become a lawyer.

I joined the BSA because I believe it will be a great opportunity to connect with other Black students on campus, while engaging in enriching and exciting events. I love to learn about culture and diversity also, and this will be a great place to do that!

Fun Fact: I've attended a roundtable discussion with the Prime Minister!

PAST BSA EXECUTIVE TEAMS

We pay tribute to the past and present BSA executives who are the backbone and pillars of the club and who have dedicated themselves to advocacy for their fellow Black students. I acknowledge the BSA membership, who, despite the hurdles that they may encounter on a daily basis, are constantly supporting the BSA’s endeavours and are truly the heart of the club.
This is also not to forget the BSA alumni, whose unparalleled struggles for equity measures have paved the way for the current and next generation of Black students here at the university, and whose efforts are never forgotten.
— Cindy Njoki Kamau, President of the BSA 2020-2021
 


Executive Team
2019-2020


Executive Team
2015-2016


Executive Team
2011-2012




Executive Team
2014-2015


Executive Team
2010-2011




Executive Team
2013-2014


Executive Teams
2000-2010



Executive Team
2016-2017


Executive Team
2012-2013


Executive Teams
1990-2000