Introducing the new IGNITE Board of Directors

Great leaders don’t take the spotlight—they shine it on others.

After weeks of campaigning, sharing their visions and connecting with students across campuses, IGNITE has officially welcomed its newly elected Board of Directors.

These student leaders are more than just elected officials—they’re your peers and your advocates when it comes to decisions that shape your student experience.

Wondering what the Board of Directors does? Think of them as the bridge between you and the administration at Humber and the University of Guelph-Humber.

They play a major role in decision-making and help set the strategic direction for IGNITE. They ensure student interests are front and center.

We wanted to give you a chance to get to know the people behind the titles.

Andrea Joy Deveraturda – UofGH

A woman is smiling while standing in front of the Humber Polytechnic Lakeshore campus. — *Picture via IGNITE*

Currently studying kinesiology, Andrea Joy Deveraturda brings a strong sense of purpose and collaboration to her role on the IGNITE Board of Directors.

Known for her enthusiasm, Deveraturda saw the board as a chance to represent students and improve campus life for everyone.

“I thought it would be amazing to be in a position where I could truly represent what students want to see and help turn those ideas into action,” she said.

One of her key goals is to tackle the high cost of food on campus. It’s a priority she emphasized during her campaign. Though balancing multiple initiatives, she remains focused on making food more affordable and accessible for all students.

“I hope to contribute to better campus life by helping explore smarter food options and ensuring that we make the best financial choices for students,” Deveraturda said.

Mark Tyshkevych – Lakeshore campus

A man is standing outdoors. — *Picture via IGNITE*

Mark Tyshkevych, an acting for stage and screen student, is no stranger to meaningful communication and impactful engagement.

With a passion for connecting with others and being part of positive change, Tyshkevych brings a thoughtful and empathetic approach to his new role.

“College is more than academics—it’s a journey of becoming,” he shared.

Looking ahead, Tyshkevych is especially focused on mental health and emotional well-being. Quoting The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, he said, “What is essential is invisible to the eye.”

He reminded us that each student has unique challenges and dreams that deserve support and understanding.

“I want to help create an environment where the invisible struggles are acknowledged and where every student knows they don’t have to face them alone,” Tyshkevych said.

Riya Sarda – Lakeshore campus

A woman is smiling. — *Picture via IGNITE*

Currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in finance, Riya Sarda has been an active part of campus life through her involvement with IGNITE and various student leadership roles.

Motivated by the power of student voices and the impact they can have on key decisions, Sarda decided to run for the board of directors to continue amplifying those voices at a higher level.

She shared that being elected felt like a meaningful opportunity to help shape a more student-focused campus environment.

As she begins her term, Sarda hopes to advocate for better mental health support, promote financial literacy and foster more inclusive and engaging spaces for all students.

“I want to help create an environment where students feel empowered to speak up and truly thrive—both academically and personally,” Sarda said.

Alexandra Rodgers – Lakeshore campus

A woman is standing in front of Humber Polytechnic Lakeshore campus. — *Picture via IGNITE*

Alexandra Rodgers, a child and youth care student, has actively advocated for equity, inclusion and student representation at Humber.

Her lived experiences navigating systemic barriers have shaped her commitment to creating a more supportive and accessible campus for all.

Driven by a passion for advocacy, Rodgers joined the board to foster positive change and amplify student voices.

Rodgers aims to amplify student voices, promote mental health support and improve communication between students and leadership.

She is committed to bringing empathy, transparency and collaboration to every conversation at the board level.

“I want to help build a campus where equity and community are at the heart of every decision and where all students have the support they need to thrive,” Rodgers said.

Natalie Vrdoljak – UofGH

A woman is standing outdoors and smiling. — *Picture via IGNITE*

Natalie Vrdoljak stepped into the role of board of directors with an open mind and a willingness to grow. What began as a simple “Why not?” quickly evolved into a meaningful opportunity to make a difference on campus.

For Vrdoljak, joining the board was about stepping outside her comfort zone and seeing where she could contribute. She is eager to use her skills in student leadership to create positive change on campus.

With a practical mindset and a collaborative spirit, she’s ready to listen, learn and lead. Her goal is to ensure student feedback is heard and actively used to shape decisions.

Beyond that, Vrdoljak hopes to help strengthen campus culture and build a greater sense of belonging for all students.

“I want to help create a campus where students feel like they matter—because they do,” Vrdoljak said.

Daniel Tarhembe – Lakeshore campus

A man is standing still. — *Picture via IGNITE*

Daniel Tarhembe, an information technology solutions, joined the board with a clear and heartfelt motivation—to make a meaningful difference in the lives of his fellow students.

Driven to create positive change, Tarhembe saw the board as the ideal platform to bring his vision to life.

“I felt I could make a difference for the better at my campus if given the opportunity,” he shared.

His commitment to improving the student experience is what drove him to step up and take on this leadership role. Whether through supporting new initiatives, addressing student concerns or helping enhance everyday campus life, his goal remains simple and sincere.

“My hope is to use this opportunity to make a real, positive impact during my time on the board,” Tarhembe said.

A group are people are standing together in a hall. — *Picture via IGNITE*

Here’s the rest of your Board of Directors for this term:

Humber North Campus

Divyam Grover
Gabriella Inko-Tariah

University of Guelph-Humber (UofGH)

Alexia Velez

These student representatives promise to be your voice on campus. They will advocate for your needs, champion your ideas and foster a supportive environment where every student feels valued.

They promise to strengthen connections across the student body, collaborate closely with faculty and administration and take purposeful action to build an inclusive, engaged and empowered campus community that reflects the diverse perspectives and aspirations of all students.

Keep an eye out for opportunities to meet them at events or share your feedback—they’re here for you.

Feature image courtesy of IGNITE

Curious about the legacy of the previous board? Check out the IGNITE Board of Directors signs off with yearbook!