When Ishant Goyal first set foot on Kwantlen Polytechnic University’s campus, he was nervous, excited, and countless questions: “Where do I belong? How can I make a difference? Who will I become over the next few years?”
Little did he know that he would soon find himself stepping into roles he never imagined: Associate President of the Kwantlen Student Association (KSA), Student Representative on KPU’s Board of Governors, and Student Representative on the KPU Senate.
Each position shaped his journey in unique ways. As Associate President of the KSA, he learned that leadership involves representing others and understanding their needs. One day, he discussed mental health initiatives for stressed students; the next, he brainstormed ways to ensure clubs and events were inclusive for everyone—especially for students from marginalized communities. This role taught him how to balance serious advocacy with the daily tasks that maintain a vibrant and welcoming student life.
“My role on the KPU Board of Governors has been equally transformative,” Ishant said. “Picture me, once a nervous first-year student, now sitting in a boardroom with seasoned professionals—all focused on shaping KPU’s future. Decisions about campus infrastructure, tuition, and academic priorities suddenly landed on my plate. It was challenging at first—yet I realized that the most powerful thing I could do was bring authentic student perspectives to each discussion. I’d speak up if the campus café needed more affordable meal options. I’d argue for more counselors if mental health funding were available. My seat at that table became an incredible opportunity to ensure that students, especially those who often go unheard, were no longer an afterthought.”
Then there’s the KPU Senate, where their policy and curriculum take center stage. It is also where they launch new programs, redefine the grading systems, and raise their academic standards.
“It’s incredible how a single decision in the Senate can impact thousands of students and faculty,” Ishant said. “Whether we’re examining a proposal for a new sustainability course or revisiting the academic appeals process, I ensure my voice represents students balancing part-time jobs, managing family responsibilities, or facing other unique challenges. Higher education shouldn’t be a one-size-fits-all experience—our policies and curricula must reflect the diverse realities of our student body.”
Ishant’s growth isn’t solely about official titles. Volunteering has been central to his experience there, reminding him why he first entered leadership. As an Orientation Leader, he guided new students through the chaos of first-day jitters, connecting them with resources and friends and offering simple reassurance that they belong. As a Guard.me Cares Ambassador, he focused on supporting international students to ensure they don’t feel lost in a new culture—something he relates to profoundly. Collaborating with local initiatives at the Surrey Crime Prevention Society and St. John Ambulance, he has remained engaged with the multicultural community beyond the campus boundaries.
All these pieces fit together, forming a patchwork quilt of experiences and lessons learned. It taught Ishant that leadership is never a solo act; it’s a symphony of listening, collaborating, and stepping up when it counts.
“I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished so far, but even prouder of how these roles have opened doors for other students and community members,” Ishant reflects. “Whether it’s updating a policy in the Senate or offering a warm hello to a newcomer at orientation, I’ve realized that small actions can spark significant change. I’m excited about what lies ahead. Perhaps I’ll continue advocating for expanded mental health services. Maybe I’ll work toward more inclusive policies or push for greener campuses. Whatever path I choose, I’m ready to keep transforming those first-year nerves into a leadership style that’s collaborative, empathetic, and always motivated by the belief that when we lift others, we all rise together.
Ishant, a South Asian name representing resilience, determination, and success, genuinely embodies these admirable qualities, much like a singing robin that spreads the joy of springtime.
Ishant Goyal is undoubtedly a champion of goodwill.
