Our General Election is officially underway and we are excited to share the candidates with you! We are sharing the candidate profiles on our website and social media accounts to create awareness about our General Election and to encourage students to vote. The Students’ Association remains impartial and does not endorse any of the candidates.

Candidate profile & photo requirements: Maximum of 150 words for social media and a maximum of 500 words for the Students’ Association blog. If the maximum word count is exceeded, profiles will be cut off at the maximum allotted. Candidates must submit a photo and completed Consent for Use of Personal Image, Video, and Information by 4:00pm on February 25. Profiles are not edited by the Students’ Association.

VOTE ON YOUR myRDP ACCOUNT
March 3 – 6

Student Council Candidates

*profiles shared in alphabetical order by last name*

Bridget Anderson

Vote Bridget for Student Council: Let Us Shape the Future Together!

Hey Students!

I am Bridget Anderson, and I am running for Student Council because I believe in the power of every student’s voice. I have been on the student council since fall 2024 and am committed to advocating for you. As we look toward the future, the decisions we make today will shape the kind of school we will have tomorrow. That is why I am committed to making sure your ideas, opinions, and concerns are heard and taken into consideration.

If elected, I will be a leader who listens. My main focus will be to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to contribute to making our school the best it can be. Whether you have ideas for improving events, suggesting new beneficial ideas, or even voicing concerns about school policies, I’m here to ensure your voice is heard.

Some of my key goals as a Student Council member will be to focus on advocating for lower costs for students and more student resources, to ensure students have the most resources possible at their disposal. Understanding that all student’s experience is different, I am committed to listening to everyone and advocating for each student’s success, in every program from trades to academic students. Everyone’s voice matters and deserves to be heard.

Our school community is made up of diverse individuals, each with unique ideas and talents. Every one of us must have a seat at the table, regardless of our program, background, or interests. I want to create an environment where every student feels comfortable speaking up and participating in the decisions that directly impact us all. It is not just about my vision for the future—it is about our collective vision. Together, we can create a school that reflects the diversity and creativity of all its members.

It is time to embrace change and focus on the future. The world is constantly evolving, and our school should be too. Let us make sure that we are not just reacting to changes but actively shaping them. By listening to each other and working as a team, we can pave the way for a brighter and more dynamic future for RDP. The future is full of possibilities, and I am ready to help turn our dreams into reality.

Together, we can build a school that reflects the hopes, ideas, and dreams of every student. I am excited about the opportunity to serve as your voice, and I hope you will trust me to represent you. Let us make sure that the future of our school is one where we all thrive, grow, and succeed together.

I am asking for your vote because your voice matters. Let us make the future of Red Deer Polytechnic something we can all be proud of.

Vote Bridget for Student Council on March 3rd

Vishal Arora

Hello RDP students,

I am Vishal Arora, and I am excited to run for Student Councillor, An international student who has been in Canada for more than a year, graduated from SAIT last year, and is now enrolled in an Administrative Professional Certificate at Red Deer Polytechnic, I am aware of the difficulties that both domestic and foreign students encounter. I want to speak up for all students because I have personal experience with the difficulties they face, from acclimating to a new environment to scheduling employment and school.

I’ve always thought it’s important to help others around me. I like to make a difference, whether it’s by teaching students in the library after class or assisting peers with their assignments. Working as a store manager in Calgary and graphic designer for numerous international companies and teams helped me develop my managerial and leadership abilities. These experiences taught me the value of organization, communication, and other problem-solving skills that are critical for student leadership.

If elected, my focus will be on:

  • Creating an inclusive campus – Every student should feel valued and heard, regardless of their background. I want to ensure that student concerns are been addressed, and they feel comfortable sharing their concerns at Students’ Associations and that RDP continues to be a welcoming space for all.
  • Improving academic support – Many students struggle with coursework, and I will advocate for better resources like peer tutoring, study groups, and mentorship programs to help students succeed.
  • Bridging the gap between student communities – Domestic and international students should have more opportunities to connect. I will push for more events and initiatives that bring students together, fostering a stronger, more united campus.
  • Encouraging student networking – Building connections is key for future success. I want to create more opportunities for students to meet, collaborate, and grow both academically and professionally. I would focus on students to connect socially, especially on LinkedIn which could help them further in getting their dream jobs by having some awareness campaigns with useful features of LinkedIn.

I believe that student leadership is about listening, taking action, and working together to create meaningful change. As your Student Councillor, I will always be approachable and ready to hear your concerns. My goal is to ensure that every student at RDP has a voice and feels supported in their journey, I aim to make sure that your college experience is fulfilling and enriching. With your support, we can make a campus community where every student thrives and has a voice.

Vote for Vishal— Your Voice will be Heard!

Nicholas Baker

Dedicated to Advocacy. Committed to Community. Focused on You.

Red Deer Polytechnic is more than just a place of learning—it’s a community. As students, we deserve strong representation, meaningful opportunities, and a voice that truly advocates for our needs. I am running for a position on the Red Deer Polytechnic Students’ Association Council because I believe that together, we can strengthen student life and create a campus where everyone feels supported.

A History of Leadership & Advocacy

My passion for leadership and advocacy began early. I served in my high school’s Student Union for six years, spending four of those as President. In this role, I worked closely with administration to review policies, secure sustainable funding, and reinvest in student services. These experiences helped me develop strong leadership, negotiation, and problem-solving skills—skills that I have carried into my work at Red Deer Polytechnic.

Building a Stronger Student Community

At Red Deer Polytechnic, I continued my commitment to student advocacy by serving as President of the Nursing Society. In this role, I focused on increasing student engagement,

providing professional development opportunities, and fostering a supportive environment for nursing students. I also serve as a Students’ Association Councillor, where I advocate for students at the institutional level, ensuring that our voices are heard in key decision-making processes.

Why I’m Running

Having lived on campus year-round, I understand the unique challenges students face, from financial pressures to academic stress and the need for a more connected student community. I believe that a strong student body is built on inclusivity, advocacy, and action—and that’s exactly what I will bring to this role.

If elected, I will:
✔️ Advocate for better student support services and resources.
✔️ Push for increased funding and opportunities for student-led initiatives.
✔️ Work to create a more inclusive and engaged student community.

Your Vote Matters

I am running because I believe in the power of student voices. With your support, I will work to ensure that Red Deer Polytechnic continues to be a place where every student has the opportunity to thrive.

Vote March 3-6 by 5 PM on the MYRDP website.

Vote for leadership that listens. Vote for a stronger student community. Let’s make a difference—together!

Griselda “Selda” Co

Hello! My name is Criselda “Selda” Co, and I am currently enrolled in the Human Resources Management Program. I am passionate about event planning and volunteering work during my free time. I’m running for the position of Councillor in the Students’ Association because I want to be a part of creating a more connected and diverse campus environment for all students in Red Deer Polytechnic.

I’m running for this position because I believe every student deserves a voice, and I’m committed to ensuring that voice is heard. As someone who truly cares about improving campus life, I want to focus on addressing the daily challenges of students—from improving student resources to creating more inclusive events and activities that everyone can enjoy. Your concerns will be my priority, and I’ll always strive to ensure that decisions made will reflect the needs of the entire student body. At the end of the day, your experience and recommendation matter most.

If elected, my goal is to ensure that the voices of students are always at the center of every decision. I aim to create a more inclusive, supportive, and collaborative environment where every student thrives. I will work closely with the Students’ Association to address concerns, improve campus resources, and enhance the student journey in ways that are meaningful and impactful.

What sets me apart is my sincere desire to listen and act. I’m not just here to represent the members, but I will make things happen. I want to ensure that the decisions made in the Students’ Association will reflect the needs and concerns of our diverse student body at Red Deer Polytechnic. Whether it’s advocating for better campus facilities, organizing events that foster student engagement, or tackling relevant student issues like mental health and inclusivity, I will always put your interests above my own.

As your Councillor, I will make sure you are kept informed about what is happening within the association and proactively seek your feedback. I will focus on tangible changes that directly benefit you. I am committed to being transparent, approachable, and collaborative.

Let’s make our student experience stronger, more connected, and more fulfilling. I am hoping for your vote, and together, we will make our campus the best it can be, where all students feel valued and supported. #VoteSeldaCo #StudentVoice

Lyan Farjardo

Hello, everyone! My name is Lyan Jazzleen Farjardo, and I am a first-year student in the BA Psychology program. It has always been a passion to bring a positive change to the campus. Running for Student Council excites me because I feel that more can be done by our college to create a feeling of belonging for all students.

Since the beginning of this fall semester, I’ve met many students, including both local and international students, who feel isolated on campus. College is more than just academics; it is about forming friendships, sharing experiences, and creating support for each other. For this reason, I want to focus on the creation of a “third space” for the campus where students would unwind from academics during a long day of lectures and libraries, meet and interact. To that end, I will propose volunteering, social events, and field trips to connect people and make life on campus even more enjoyable.

My experience as an immigrant and as a queer nonbinary student has given me my own vantage point on the difficulties of finding truly inclusive spaces, and this very challenge thereby fuels my passion to create them for all students. Representation matters, and I want to be an advocate for those who often do not have any say. I will make sure that we lay the welcome mat for our international students and that our discussion understand and speak back to marginalized voices.

In this way, beyond strengthening campus community bonds, I want to facilitate interactions for students with the outside world. I understand life experiences create this sense of separation due to the weight of our course requirements and personal responsibilities; therefore, I am committed to creating platforms for us to come together again as a community.

If elected, I will work to:

  • Advocate for a designated “third space” on campus for students to gather and build connections.
  • Organize more student-led events and volunteer opportunities to strengthen our sense of community.
  • Encourage student involvement in initiatives that help communities outside of campus.
  • Listen to students’ concerns and be a voice for those who feel unheard.

And how about we start by getting to know each other? I’m Lyan, and I love music! I enjoy learning new instruments, though currently I’m struggling with the electric bass guitar. I love biking around Sylvan Lake when it’s not cold, and fashion fuels my dopamine. My favourite artist? I love Gret Peres, have you heard of him?

Being open with each other is the first step to creating real connections. Communities don’t always have to be big or meaningful. Sometimes, they start with just a conversation. Let’s build something together. Vote for me! Vote for Lyan!

Heaven Houle

No bio submitted.

Yiri Olueh-Matimi

Hello, my name is Yirioritse Yolanda Olueh-Matimi, but most people call me Yiri. I am from Nigeria and a dedicated Practical Nursing student with a passion for aiding others, which has inspired me to run for Councillor. My enthusiasm for interacting with people comes naturally—one might say I have the energy and friendliness of a golden retriever!

As an international student, I understand the importance of cross-cultural understanding, inclusivity, and diversity. My goal is to ensure that student voices are heard, and our school community remains welcoming and supportive.

I am very chatty when most people see me, and I thrive on building connections. When I’m not studying, I’m either reading, listening to music, or laughing with friends. I am excited to use my background and positive energy to advocate for students and help foster a strong, inclusive, and engaged school community.

Esther Owolagba

Hi, I’m Esther Owolagba, and I’m excited to run for student council. As a 2nd year LPN student from Nigeria, I’ve been living in Canada as an international student for the past 5 years. I genuinely care about our school community and want to make a difference. My experience in leadership roles has shown me the importance of advocating for mental health, inclusivity, academic support, and student engagement. Everyone deserves to feel welcome and supported at school. I’ll work to create an inclusive environment for all students, provide academic assistance, and organize events that bring us together.

Beyond my academic and leadership pursuits, I love singing, playing tennis, and cooking. These hobbies have taught me the value of teamwork, creativity, and perseverance. I want to be a council member to ensure that every student feels heard and valued, to enhance our school’s resources and support systems, and to foster a strong sense of community and school spirit. Vote for me, Esther Owolagba, and together let’s build a better future for our school community!

Varun

Hello everyone! My name is Varun, and I am an international student from India currently pursuing a Computer Programming Diploma at Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP). I am in my second semester, and like many of you, I understand the challenges of adapting to a new environment, balancing studies, and making the most of student life.

Since arriving at RDP, I have been passionate about fostering a strong and inclusive student community where everyone—whether local or international—feels supported, heard, and empowered. That’s why I am running for the position of Counselor in the upcoming RDP elections!

Why I Am Running

 As a student, I have experienced firsthand the struggles many of us face—whether it’s navigating academics, dealing with financial stress, or simply adjusting to life in a new country. I believe that our student council should be a platform for real change and not just a formality.

I want to be a strong representative for all students, ensuring that your concerns and ideas are taken seriously. Whether it’s enhancing academic support, creating more networking opportunities, or making student life more engaging, my goal is to bring practical solutions to the table.

My Vision and Key Goals

If elected as Counselor, I will focus on the following key areas:

  1. Support for International & Domestic Students
    • Advocate for better guidance and resources for new students.
    • Organize mentorship programs where senior students can help newcomers.
    • Work on solutions to make campus life smoother and more enjoyable.

  1. Enhancing Technology & Innovation in Education
    • Push for better access to programming labs and advanced software tools.
    • Organize coding workshops, hackathons, and networking events to help students improve their skills and career prospects.
    • Collaborate with faculty to bring more internship and co-op opportunities.

  1. Student Engagement & Well-being
    • Promote mental health awareness and advocate for better support systems.
    • Organize cultural events to celebrate diversity and bring students together.
    • Introduce more recreational activities to maintain a balance between studies and social life.

  1. Transparency & Effective Communication
    • Ensure student concerns are regularly collected and addressed by the council.
    • Create open forums and feedback sessions where students can share their ideas.
    • Provide clear updates on what the student council is doing for YOU.

Why You Should Vote for Me

I am dedicated, approachable, and committed to making a difference. As an international student, I understand the struggles of adapting to a new academic and social environment, and I want to make that journey easier and more fulfilling for everyone.

By voting for me, you are choosing a leader who listens, acts, and fights for your best interests. Let’s work together to improve our student experience, create new opportunities, and build a stronger RDP community.

Call to Action

Your voice matters, and your vote counts! Support me in the RDP elections, and let’s shape a better future together. If you have any questions, ideas, or suggestions, feel free to reach out to me. Let’s make RDP a place where every student thrives!

Vote Varun for Counselor…

Candidate profile & photo requirements: Maximum of 150 words for social media and a maximum of 500 words for the Students’ Association blog. If the maximum word count is exceeded, profiles will be cut off at the maximum allotted. Candidates must submit a photo and completed Consent for Use of Personal Image, Video, and Information by 4:00pm on February 25. Profiles are not edited by the Students’ Association.

Questions about the Elections? Contact Martin Cruz, Chief Returning Officer at cruz-martin@outlook.com.