To lead is to light the way for others.
Student advocates are kind of like the behind-the-scenes heroes of campus life. But what is a student advocate, really?
Think of them as your go-to voice, your backstage pass to the decision-making table and your unofficial spokesperson when things on campus need to change for the better.
Whether you’re at Humber Polytechnic or the University of Guelph-Humber, student advocates are the bridge between the student body and the institution’s higher-ups.
They don’t just pass along complaints—they dive into meetings, sit on important committees and speak up about things that range from Work Integrated Learning to sustainability to food vendor choices. Basically, if it impacts students, they’re on it.
They create real connections between students and staff, build trust and open up channels of communication that make student life smoother, fairer and just a little more awesome.
Today, we’re giving a massive shoutout to two of IGNITE’s very own rockstar advocates—Isabella Vergara Bedoya and Naisha Suthaharan—as they wrap up their terms.
Let’s hear their experiences, lessons learned and advice for future student leaders.
Growing through advocacy
Isabella Vergara Bedoya, a bachelor of public relations student, remembers it was a big challenge when she first stepped into the advocate role.
She quickly realized that being a student advocate meant more than just representing herself—it meant uniting the diverse voices of the entire student body.
This responsibility required her to be strategic and thoughtful, especially when bringing sensitive or complex issues to the table with faculty and staff.
“Advocacy pushed me out of my comfort zone. It taught me to speak up with confidence, navigate difficult conversations with empathy and communicate professionally,” Bedoya said.
Through these experiences, she grew significantly, strengthening her communication and listening skills, boosting her confidence and learning how to handle resistance with grace.
For Bedoya, advocacy was not just about making noise, but about listening and speaking with purpose. “You don’t have to be the loudest voice in the room to make change, just the one that listens and speaks with purpose,” she said.
Sharing words of wisdom
To future student advocates, Isabella’s advice is loud and clear.
“Your role is very powerful. If you were selected, it’s because you have what it takes. Always trust your potential, show up with empathy and don’t be afraid to ask questions or for help. You’re not just speaking for yourself; you’re shaping a better student experience for everyone. Even small actions can lead to meaningful change. Stay focused on your goal, be bold and always listen before you speak,” Bedoya said.
She plans to continue using her voice to represent others and drive positive change. “I’ve learned that my voice can make a difference, and I plan to keep using it with purpose and integrity,” she said.
Looking ahead, Isabella hopes to carry everything she’s learned into her next chapter.
Embracing the adventure of advocacy
Naisha Suthaharan, a student majoring in justice studies, admits that before joining IGNITE, advocacy was a new territory for her.
“I’ve never been involved in advocacy on such a big spectrum before,” she explained.
But through her roles on the Board of Directors and as a student advocate, she quickly learned that mistakes and growth go hand in hand.
“Advocacy challenged me to think outside the box and reach for the highest of the highs, but also showed me that sometimes simple is a lot more,” she said.
Her experience introduced her to different aspects of change and allowed her to discover new things about herself. It was a journey filled with learning, gaining new skills and building confidence.
She hopes to apply these lessons as she moves forward—whether that’s in graduate school or in her future career.
“I gained a lot from this job, especially in collaboration, initiative and practical skills, so I look forward to using this experience in my next steps,” Suthaharan mentioned.
A message to future leaders
To future advocates, Suthaharan offers a heartfelt message.
“You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem and smarter than you think,” she said, quoting from Christopher Robin in Winnie the Pooh.
“Sometimes you need to fall in order to get back up, but never stop believing and always shoot for the moon! We won’t always get it right the first time, but with practice and comfort, we can all achieve what we want. Live in the moment, savor each step, have fun and don’t be afraid to fall because that’s how we learn,” she said.
For her, advocacy was full of exploration, fun moments, new friendships, successes and personal growth. It was an amazing experience that gave her a sense of balance and collaboration she cherishes deeply.
Best wishes for the journey ahead
As they conclude their terms as student advocates, IGNITE wants to extend a heartfelt thank you for everything they’ve done.
Their commitment to amplifying student voices and driving positive change has helped shape a stronger, more inclusive student experience for all.
Their dedication and leadership have been invaluable. Whether it was through the ‘Time is Money‘ campaign or ‘Dare to Be Yourself‘, their energy, insight and unwavering support made a lasting impact.
To Bedoya and Suthaharan, thank you for your hard work, your courage and your empathy. IGNITE wishes you all the best as you embark on new adventures.
Good luck in everything that lies ahead—we know you’ll continue to make a difference wherever you go!
Feature image courtesy of IGNITE
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