Why are We Called U&Me?

President

Ciana Dawydiuk-Clozza

Ciana is entering her final year of a Mechanical Engineering degree with a Biomedical specialization at the University of British Columbia Okanagan. As a member of the UBCO Women’s Soccer team, she combines her athletic background with her academic interests to pursue work at the intersection of engineering and healthcare. She has completed three co-op terms with BC Children’s Hospital, Interior Health, and the BC Ministry of Health, gaining diverse experience in research and healthcare systems. Passionate about supporting young athletes recovering from ACL injuries, Ciana is currently contributing to a mental health support initiative at BC Children’s Hospital.

Founder

Mya Bal

Mya is a first year medical student at UBC and the Founder of U & Me. Being the first person her my family to attend university, she went into it blind. By the end of first year, Mya had learned a lot, and wants to share the wisdom  gained with all high school students. These days, Mya spends quite a lot of time studying, but when she is away from flashcards, she enjoys cycling around town, reading the Picture of Dorian Gray for the 100th time, and volunteering at organizations that support her passions: science communication, mentorship, and women’s health.

Director of Mentorship​

Asha Octoman

Asha recently graduated from the University of British Columbia with a degree in Honours Microbiology and Immunology, where she loved being part of different community initiatives and learning about the exciting world of research. She is now pursuing her MSc in Microbiology and Infectious Diseases at the University of Calgary, studying the early childhood microbiome. Asha is passionate about gut microbiome research and its potential to improve health outcomes, as well as mental health advocacy and creating supportive communities for students. In her free time, she enjoys being outdoors, running, and trying out new recipes!

Director of Mentorship​

Samantha Donato

Samantha is a third year Microbiology and Immunology student at UBC. She is interested in entering the pharmaceutical industry in the future and possibly working as a Medical Science Liaison. Her hobbies include hip-hop dancing, ultimate frisbee and volleyball. As a former U&Me mentee, now Co-Director of Mentorship, she is excited to help the next cohort of students reach their goals.

Director of Outreach

Harnoor Dhaliwal

Harnoor is an undergraduate student pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree at the University of British Columbia. With a variety of academic interests, she brings extensive research experience spanning clinical and wet lab work, as well as public health projects. As an employed tutor for an advanced scholarly research and writing course at UBC, Harnoor helps students strengthen their academic communication skills. Outside of academics, Harnoor is passionate about mental health advocacy.

Director of Ambassadors

Daniel Koo

Daniel is currently in his second year at UBC, majoring in Cellular, Anatomical, and Physiological Sciences (CAPS). He first joined University & Me as a student ambassador in high school, and is honoured to now serve as the Director of Ambassadors for the 2025/2026 academic year. He is excited to work with a new crew of passionate ambassadors to plan initiatives that will support and empower high school students in all aspects of their high school endeavours. Outside of academics, Daniel can be found learning new languages or spending time outdoors with his friends.

Director of Content

Emma Lo

Emma is a fourth-year Biochemistry student at UBC, who is passionate about peer programs, science communication, and scientific research. She is excited to be working with U&Me to provide informative and relatable resources for high school and undergraduate students. When not at work, studying, or volunteering, she can be found at difference cafes trying to find the best matcha latte in town. 

Content Writer

Taranveer Dosanjh

Taranveer Dosanjh is entering her first year at the University of British Columbia, with aspirations of pursuing a career in either medicine or law. In high school, she was actively involved in multiple non-profit organizations and is now in her second year with the U&Me Association, where she contributes as a content writer. Alongside her academic and volunteer commitments, Taranveer has a strong musical background, having participated in several choirs and bands over five years, while also serving as a flute section leader. She is passionate about combining creativity, leadership, and service to support and inspire students.

Content Writer

Elizabeth Fung

Elizabeth is an undergraduate student at the University of British Columbia. She is passionate about supporting the program’s mission of mentorship by guiding individuals and empowering personal growth among students. Through her role as a content writer, she hopes to inspire and inform others by sharing experiences and resources. In her free time, Elizabeth enjoys exploring new places and spending time with family and friends.

Graphic Designer

Rayan Shaya

Originally from Calgary, Rayan Shaya is a student at the University of Alberta, pursuing a major in Biochemistry. With a strong interest in the sciences, he is eager to explore the foundations of molecular biology and its applications in research and healthcare. Outside of academics, Rayan Shaya enjoys spending time with friends, hiking, and discovering new hobbies, from learning guitar to experimenting with new recipes. Always curious and open to new experiences, he brings a balanced and enthusiastic approach to both their studies and personal life.