Meet Your MTSA Team

2022 - 2023

Meet Your MTSA: Team Members

Ruqayyah Alibhai

President

I come from a background in Kinesiology and Phys Ed, where I was inspired to become a teacher (and guidance counselor hopeful). My passion project is making HPE more inclusive, by including queer pedagogy and developing a more comprehensive health and sexual education curriculum. I am looking forward to meeting as many people as possible in person this year, and I look forward to representing all MT students. I am very excited for all the things we have planned for this year, and to make the most of your time in this program with the rest of the wonderful humans on the MTSA this year. Other than that, I am a huge fantasy/sci fi nerd, I am addicted to flaming hot cheetos, and usually end up stress baking instead of working on my assignments

Aasiya Ashraf

Director of Outreach and Communications

Hello all! I’m a second year teacher candidate in the primary/junior division. Prior to this program, I completed my undergraduate degree at Uoft with a major in Sociology and a double minor in English and Education. I’m a caffeine addict and won’t ever say no to a cup of coffee! I love surrounding myself around family and spending time with friends. I’m excited to work within the MTSA this year, and I truly want to make this year special for all of you! Feel free to reach out to me with any concerns and questions you have about the program, and I will do my best to address them :)

Angelle Tawadrous

Director of Professional Development

Teaching is my second career. I’m also been a registered nurse for a little over 10 years. My experience has taught me that professional development (PD) is not only helpful for resume building and career advancement – it is also essential for keeping our practice current, maintaining professional accountability, and broadening our skill set. I have found that meaningful PD has supported me in maintaining a passion for the work I do and ward off burnout.
I look forward to hearing from my fellow MT students about your experiences, concerns, needs, and interests – especially as they related to PD and transitioning into the workforce. Working with the rest of the MTSA team and MT leadership, I want to ensure your voices are represented when planning and organizing PD opportunities. It is exciting to look ahead to life after graduation. Don’t hesitate to reach out to me by email or stop me on campus if you see me around.

Danielle Maclean Gové

Director of Academic Development

I worked for the past decade as a DECE and an EA for a local school board. After completing my undergraduate degree majoring in Disability Studies I felt like the MT program was the best place for me to pursue my teaching qualifications. I LOVE research! I look forward to helping MT students have access to meaningful workshops and highlighting existing resources available to U of T students. I love spending time outdoors and feel passionate about ESE and Climate Action work.

Silvya Sidarous

Director of Finance

I completed my undergraduate degree in Biomedical science. During my last year, I had a great experience doing my honours thesis and it allowed me to explore my love for research and teaching! My MT research focus is on the use of Culturally relevant Pedagogy in STEM education. I love baking, hiking, reading, and swimming! I look forward to meeting new people at all the events we have planned this year!

Sonya Madan

Director of Social Engagement

Emma goes by she/her pronouns and is in the Intermediate/Senior division. Emma supports the MTSA by managing the budgeting and financing in order to fund workshops, resources, and events geared towards students' interests and needs throughout the year. Her teachable subjects are Vocal music and French as a second language. In her spare time, Emma enjoys reading, listening to music, practicing calligraphy and spending time with friends and family. Feel free to contact Emma if you have any questions.