Conference Team

ChairPerson

Maeva Guyonnet

Maeva Guyonnet, is a second-year student in the Master of Sustainable Leisure Management, originally from Toulouse, France. Since her first semester, she has been actively engaged with the Office of Co-Curricular Engagement and Learning (OCCEL). Maeva is deeply passionate about sustainability and is focusing her thesis on the impacts of tourism on local communities. She also has a strong interest in event planning and enjoys building connections with key community partners to create meaningful and enriching experiences.

Vice-Chairperson

Mufiz Ahmed

Community, Connections, and Volunteering are what define Mufiz Ahmed. She views volunteering as a meaningful way to connect and strengthen networks. She is a Human Resource professional currently in her second year of an MBA at Vancouver Island University, where she has earned a place on the Dean’s Honor List and was featured as a Spotlight Student for her achievements as a standout MBA student from the 2023-2025 cohort. She manifested her first job in Canada through the rewarding experience of volunteering and networking. Her favorite experience is working with the Nanaimo Chamber of Commerce, for the signature event of Commercial Street Night Market. Outside of her work and studies, she enjoys relaxing through cooking and finds joy in the positive energy of her crystal collection.

Engagement Coordinator

Stephen Leynard

Stephen is a third-year psychology student at VIU and this year’s Engagement Coordinator for the Vancouver Island Leadership Conference (VILC) 2025! With a passion for fostering connection and participation, Stephen is dedicated to creating an engaging and memorable experience for all attendees.  
Outside of his studies, Stephen works as a Behavioural Interventionist, supports neurodivergent children, and coaches youth in five-pin bowling. In his free time, you can find him playing piano, studying Japanese, conducting research, hiking, or reading a great book. Stephen can’t wait to connect with you at the conference this March!

Marketing Coordinator

Minkle Nanwani

Minkle is pursuing her MBA at Vancouver Island University and is in her third semester. Combining her academic journey with real-world expertise, she is an Operations Consultant at Sephora, bringing a wealth of knowledge from the fast-paced industry. As the Marketing Coordinator for VILC 2025, Minkle channels her creativity and leadership skills to create impactful campaigns and unforgettable experiences. She is dedicated to connecting ideas and people, ensuring the conference stands out as a hub of inspiration and collaboration. Beyond her professional achievements, Minkle is a firm believer in balancing ambition with mindfulness. When she’s not busy transforming ideas into reality, you can find her embracing the peacefulness of nature, recharging amidst lush landscapes, or enjoying serene walks with a cup of tea. These moments fuel her creativity and keep her grounded in the midst of her bustling life. Minkle is passionate about building networks, fostering innovation, and making a lasting impact. 

Sponsorship Coordinator

Rhea Singh

Rhea is in her 3rd semester of the MBA program at VIU and is serving as the Sponsorship Coordinator for the Vancouver Island Leadership Conference (VILC) 2025! Rhea believes in the magic of connection; everyone has a story to tell and an experience to share. She is thrilled to meet and engage with all the stakeholders at this year’s event!  
Beyond her MBA journey, Rhea enjoys watching movies and documentaries, traveling to the mountains, learning French, journaling, and volunteering to bring smiles to others.

Volunteer Coordinator

Sahil Srivastava

Currently in his 3rd semester of the MBA program at Vancouver Island University, Sahil brings a passion for collaboration and organization to the Vancouver Island Leadership Conference 2025. Dedicated to building a strong volunteer team, Sahil ensures that every moment of the conference is supported by enthusiastic and skilled individuals. Beyond academics and leadership, Sahil is an avid photographer with a deep appreciation for the natural beauty of Vancouver Island. Whether exploring hiking trails, capturing breathtaking sunsets, or soaking in the serenity of the outdoors, nature inspires both Sahil’s lens and life.
Excited to foster connections, inspire volunteers, and make this year’s conference unforgettable, Sahil can’t wait to meet you at VILC2025!

Social Media Coordinator

Daniela Guevara

Daniela is the Social Media Coordinator for VILC 2025, where she will be sharing exciting updates and engaging with the amazing audience online! She is a 4th-year Digital Media Studies student at VIU and an international student from Quito, Ecuado. Daniela works with VIU’s marketing department as a Social Media Content Creator, filming and editing TikToks and Instagram Reels. She also hosts The NAV’s podcast. In addition, she has volunteered as the host of CHLY’s VIU Meter for the past two summers and now serves as their student representative.
Passionate about music, Daniela loves singing and has performed at multiple events in both Ecuador and Canada. She occasionally plays the violin. Spanish is her first language, and she’s currently learning French. Last April, she proudly shared her story Ecuador’s Exceptional Beauty in VIU’s Portal magazine, where it was featured in the Portfolio Spotlight. As a Peer Helper, Daniela loves connecting with students from around the world, building friendships, and fostering cultural connections. Daniela finds inspiration in everything she does.

Registration & Logistics Coordinator

Roshani Soni

Roshani is currently pursuing an MBA at Vancouver Island University and is honored to serve as the Registration and Logistics Coordinator for the Vancouver Island Leadership Conference VILC 2025. With over a decade of experience in HR and payroll management, Roshani is passionate about leadership, collaboration, and fostering meaningful connections. This year’s conference theme, “Navigating Sustainability,” deeply resonates with her, as it focuses on guiding individuals and organizations toward responsible practices, innovation, and lasting impact.  
Roshani is thrilled to work alongside an exceptional team to organize a meaningful event. She looks forward to welcoming and empowering student leaders to navigate sustainable solutions at the conference.