Yamin Raza, 2021 AWSN Scholarship Recipient

Yamin Raza is a fourth-year student at the University of Lethbridge, currently majoring in Biological Sciences. She has been involved in research throughout her undergraduate degree, which is largely attributed to the Research Internship Concentration (RIC) – a cohort of top caliber students selected to learn and engage in experiential research. Through this experience, she is now conducting an honour’s thesis under the supervision of Dr. Steve Wiseman and is studying the effects of ultraviolet-stabilizing chemicals on zebrafish reproduction. In addition to research, Yamin believes in the importance of serving and improving the lives of underprivileged and marginalized communities. For the past three years, she has been a coordinator for the Target Hunger citywide food drive in Lethbridge, where volunteers pick up donations from every household in the city. Moreover, as a second-generation immigrant, Yamin has seen first-hand the hardships that ensue following moving to a new country. Because of this, she has developed a passion for supporting refugees and immigrants. This is exemplified by her involvement as a “English as a Second Language” tutor and as president for World University Service Canada ULeth Local Committee – a club aimed to sponsor refugee students to study at the University of Lethbridge. Yamin also works to address declining mental well-being on campus as a Student Wellness Ambassador, where she plans and coordinates wellness events and initiatives, as well as hosts peer-support group sessions. In her free time, Yamin enjoys having a creative outlet whether that be making art, playing instruments, or pursing videography. In the future, Yamin’s goal is to pursue a career in the medical field and work with marginalized communities.