meet the team title header with the year 2022 and 2023 - image contains a semi transparent background with a photo of the BIDE team behind in the background

Meet the 2023/2024 Team

Meet the Team

The BIDE Institute is built on the experiences and struggles of our underrecognized communities on the University of Windsor campus. Our team reflects the demographic of students we represent with a diverse staff from all ends of the spectrum. Each member of our team brings in a unique perspective and experiences that have shaped them into who they are, and BIDE into what it is.

"BIDE is built by the students, for the students,"

Scroll down to book some time with a member of our team! If you are seeking some support, advice, or just want to chat with someone who can relate to what you are going through- chances are someone on our team has been there! We are here for you- let's meet!

Dr. Phebe Lam, BIDE Institute's Faculty Lead,
Dr. Phebe Lam oversees all staff in the BIDE Institute. The BIDE Institute operates out of Suite B-91 within the CAW Student Centre where Dr. Lam worked closely with the Institute over the course of its development  providing support and guidance to the coordinators as they worked on the mission and initiatives. 

​Created with intention, compassion, and awareness, BIDE will be an essential part of every UWindsor student's journey. We are grateful for the support of UWindsor and the community; together, we will move forward in creating supportive and inspiring space for all.  

Hussein Samhat, Executive Director of Finance & Administration & BIDE Co-Founder,

With an honors degree in Drama Education and Community, a Bachelor of Education, and currently pursuing a Master of Education in Critical Policy, Equity, and Leadership studies at the University of Western, Hussein brings various lived and learned experiences to the table with respect to equity, diversity, inclusion, and decolonization efforts. With his undergraduate thesis and research focusing on culturally responsive pedagogy and EDI&D practices within Canadian post-secondary institutions laid out the foundational framework of the BIDE Institute. 

Hussein’s passion lies in mentorship, student advocacy, and policy building. His background in non-profit and student organizations dates to his involvement with the University of Windsor Student’s Alliance where he served as Board Director, Student Senator, Board Chair, co-Chair of Senate Student Caucus, and finally as Vice-President Finance and Operations, his time with the UWSA allowed him to grow a deeper appreciation for student advocacy and post-secondary processes. Hussein also served as the President of the Arts Council Windsor and Region, where over the course of his term led the development of the organization’s strategic plan, implemented EDI&D representations and policies, and created opportunities for underrecognized artists in the community to showcase their work. Additional community work includes being the Program Coordinator for the Changing the Odds Summer Youth program, Arts Educator through Arts Can Teach, and more. When he is not leading the day-to-day of BIDE, Hussein is always trying out new recipes, attending hot yoga classes, and catching up on Netflix. 

Aya El-Hashemi, Executive Director of Communications & Outreach, 

With an honours degree in Biomedical sciences and Biochemistry (health stream), and a Masters in Translational Health Sciences with her central research exploring the “Health Treatment of Migrant Workers within Southern Ontario,” Aya El-Hashemi is a driven academic and advocate. Aya continuously seeks ways to integrate her love for EDI&D work in her highly scientific realm of study.  

Aya’s continuous passion for student-led work, advocacy, and science led her to working within multiple on and off campus groups celebrating such. From organizing social justice forums in high school, she found that there is always more to learn and do within EDI&D. From there she served multiple terms as the VP of Student Advocacy for her faculty. This allowed her to gain a deeper appreciation for what it means to be an ally and create a safer and braver space for students within academic institutions. Acting as an inaugural member in the establishment of the EDI Taskforce within the Faculty of Science reformed her views on the fluidity and vast scope of EDI&D. Her time with the taskforce as the Social Media Coordinator, Student Working Group Lead, and a research assistant within the taskforce allowed her to explore the academic climate for underrecognized populations in Science and Ethnic diversity, cohesion, and persistence in research groups/lab contexts. In joining the BIDE Institute during her time as a master's student delving into “Health Treatment of Migrant Workers within Southern Ontario,” she was able to redefine learning inside and outside of the classroom for herself. Outside of BIDE hours, Aya loves to take part in casual sports, create art, and attempt to become a runner. 

Mariam Dabaja, BIDE Executive Assistant of Finance & Administration,
Get to know Mariam:
I hold a Bachelor's degree in Social Work from the University of Windsor, where I developed a deep understanding of the challenges faced by marginalized communities and the importance of creating spaces that foster a sense of belonging. Currently, I am pursuing my Master's degree in Social Work, furthering my knowledge and expertise in creating inclusive environments within student life.
 
What does the B in EDI mean to you?
It means creating an atmosphere where each student feels accepted, valued, and heard. It involves breaking down barriers, celebrating diverse perspectives, and cultivating a sense of community that embraces all individuals.
 
What are you most looking forward to in being a part of the team?
What I am most excited about is joining forces with the incredible individuals at BIDE to create a vibrant and inclusive student community. Together, we can build a space where all students feel a profound sense of belonging and have the opportunity to thrive. I am eager to collaborate with team members to develop initiatives that celebrate diversity, amplify student voices, and advocate for social justice.
 
What can students reach out to you for?
Students can reach out to me for various reasons. Whether you have questions about financial matters, require administrative support, or seek guidance on issues related to BIDE, I am here to provide assistance. I strongly believe in the power of collaboration and look forward to engaging with students, listening to their concerns, and working together to address challenges and foster an environment where everyone can thrive.

Alyssa Miskov-Wilhem, BIDE Executive Assistant of Communications & Outreach,
Get to know Alyssa:
My name is Alyssa! I am currently the Executive Assistance, Communications and Outreach. I am in my final year of the Concurrent History program at the University of Windsor.
 
What does the B in EDI mean to you?
The B in EDI, standing for belonging, adds an additional layer of impact that the principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion may have on a community. A sense of belonging ensures not only that all UWindsor students feel that they are in an institution that values inclusion, but also that these students have a place and voice within this institution. Belonging ties three principles of BIDE together.
 
What are you most looking forward to in being a part of the team?
I am most looking forward to helping host events for cultural holidays. The Lunar New Year and Diwali celebrations during the 2022-23 school year were extremely successful. I hope to be apart of more initiatives like these!
 
What can students reach out to you for?
My role at BIDE will be more behind-the-scenes, working on social media. That being said, if students have any inquiries please do not hesitate to forward them to me and I can point them in the right direction. I look forward to interacting with students at events!
 
 
Zaynab Samhat, Director, Belonging, 
TBA
 
 
Ryan Yim, Student Leader, Belonging, 

Get to know Ryan:
Hi my name is Ryan I am a first year student completing my degree in Human Kinetics Movement Science. In my free time I like to play tennis and exercise. I plan to be involved with initiatives involving creating wellness spaces for students to study in and I am looking forward to working with everyone at the BIDE Institute.

What does the B in EDI mean to you?
To me the B in EDI means belonging. It means that no matter who you are or the circumstances you may find yourself faced with there is always a place where you can belong and feel supported.

What are you most looking forward to in being a part of the team?
I am most looking forward to meeting more of the students from different faculties and hoping to be able to connect with them more and make their university life more enjoyable. I am also looking forward to collaborating with other team members to promote a more positive atmosphere on campus.

What can students reach out to you for?
They can reach out to me if they every want someone to talk to or if they just need someone to listen to them.

 
 
Grace Taylor, BIDE Belonging Student Leader, 
Get to know Grace:
I am a second-year student at the University of Windsor taking a combined degree in history with criminology as my second field of study. Thus far, while ensuring that I uphold my obligations as a university student, I have dedicated my time at the University to volunteering, researching, and fulfilling my duties in the programs and clubs that I am a part of. This will be my second year working with BIDE, and I promise to honour my role and responsibilities as a team member and student leader.
 
What does the B in EDI mean to you?
To me, the “B” in EDI, which stands for belonging, represents the environment that BIDE is commited to upholding; a place where everyone feels represented and heard. The unique inclusion of the letter “B” in BIDE emphasizes the idea that through the promotion of inclusivity, diversity, and equity, we can create a campus and a community where everyone feels they belong. Thus, the “B” in EDI holds great significance, as belonging to a community, in this case our university community, means ensuring everyone feels included and welcome.
 
What are you most looking forward to in being a part of the team?
Having worked with BIDE last year, I know what amazing opportunities this institution creates and promotes. I look forward to being part of a team that has such a positive influence on campus and on the student experience, and I look forward to working for an institution that celebrates and values Belonging, Inclusivity, Diversity, and Equity. I also look forward to being a part of what great things the BIDE team creates this year.
 
What can students reach out to you for?
I encourage students at the University to reach out to me for anything they need. Not only do I welcome any suggestions on how to better the student experience, but I can also be someone to talk to about student life. I follow a positive, welcoming, judgement-free conversational approach, and I would love to talk with anyone who reaches out to me.

 

 

Chitra Bildon, Director, Inclusivity,
Get to know Chitra:
My name is Chitra Bidlon, and I am going into my 4th year of Biological Sciences. I love getting involved on campus because it is the best way to not only do I get to grow more as a person but I also get to meet different people and broaden my horizons. In my free time, I love spending time with my friends and family and spending time out in nature.
 
What does the B in EDI mean to you?
To me, the "B" in BIDE means every student feels that no matter what their background or beliefs are, they feel that they are accepted and belong as a valued member of our campus community. All students are secure in knowing that they are accepted for who they are and they feel confident in striving for any opportunity that they could want. This is a critical requirement of our school environment so they students can have the best experience from which they can grow and become leaders.
 
What are you most looking forward to in being a part of the team?
The BIDE Institute's work on campus is so important, and it can change the experience that thousands of students have on campus for the better. I want to support BIDE with the important work that they do everyday towards making our campus a safer place for students. I believe that students should never stop growing as leaders and on the BIDE team, I am looking forward continue to learn how I can become a better advocate for instilling the key pillars of BIDE on campus.
 
What can students reach out to you for?
I love to talk and get to know new people as well as share my own experiences through out undergrad, so if anyone wants some advice on anything or simply just wants to chat I am always available! Additionally, if anyone has any support that they require or any resources that they would like to see on campus, feel free to reach out to me and share your ideas.

Karm Joshi, Student Leader, Inclusivity
Get to know Karm:
Hello everyone, I am a computer science student going in my 3rd year. I like to be actually so I am always volunteering or working on campus. My hobbies include Esports, acting, Chess but reading and travelling tops them. This is my second year at BIDE and I am really excited to work with the whole team!
 
What does the B in EDI mean to you?
To me, B which is Belonging, means that anyone and everyone is treated equally no matter what the circumstances are! It means that everyone is welcomed everywhere. It requires constant support from the whole community but I feel BIDE has lead it from the front on campus.
 
What are you most looking forward to in being a part of the team?
I am really excited to work with my team to bring along all the initiatives that I have brainstormed to life. I feel BIDE gives us the creative freedom that we want which helps us to create events which are larger than life and initiatives which are beneficial for all. BIDE provides the opportunity to collaborate with different groups and clubs across the campus, which i feel gives us the opportunity to learn from professionals from different fields.
 
What can students reach out to you for?
Students can reach out to me if they want to talk to someone or someone to just listen to them. They can reach out to me if they want to know anything about BIDE and its initiatives. If someone wants to get involved in campus activities, or they have some ideas that they want to share, i can surely guide them! Other than that, if you see me around the campus feel free to come and talk with me!

Floretty Etienne, Director, Diversity, 
TBA. 

Muhammad Musaib Nagani, Student Leader, Diversity, 
Get to know Musaib:
I'm Musaib Nagani, a Third year Computer Science Honors student with a passion for soccer and event organizing. As I approach the final year of my bachelor's degree, I'm looking forward to making the most of my time at university. For me, it's not just about the academics; it's about creating lasting friendships and unforgettable memories. So here I am working towards every and any opportunity I get to be a part of the university in a unique way. PS: Hate my degree lmao.
 
What does the B in EDI mean to you?
I mean we all know B stands for Belonging in BIDE but I feel everyone has unique perspectives. For me B also stands for Believing as I Believe that once a person actually starts "Believing" in something or towards something then achieving it is just a matter of time. 
 
What are you most looking forward to in being a part of the team?
I'm most excited about the opportunity to create lasting memories while working together towards organizing fun and exciting events. I am eager to learn from my teammates as they have different experiences and perspectives. Most of all, I just want to enjoy every moment and have a great time while working and being part of the team. 
 
What can students reach out to you for?
Students can reach out to me regarding any questions about the computer science degree. They can ask me anything I will try my best to either answer or guide them to the person/resource that might be accurate. 
 
 
Anmol Nagra, Director, Equity, 
Get to know Anmol:
My name is Anmol and I’m a third-year biology student. I’m very passionate about getting involved in my community, both on and off campus. This is my second year on BIDE and I’m excited to bridge gaps and support students through hands-on initiatives to give students the power to be the catalysts for change!
 
What does the B in EDI mean to you?
BIDE incorporates Belonging into EDI, which highlights the need to foster braver and safer spaces to provide students with a place where they are comfortable, safe, and accepted. Before BIDE, students may have felt hesitant to participate in university life due to the fear of judgment or bias. By giving students an environment where they feel a sense of safety and belonging, BIDE gives the power back to the students who may have felt silenced or discouraged by the institution. Integrating Belonging into Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion allows BIDE to explore the intersections between these topics in order to create a fair, welcoming, and supportive environment.
 
What are you most looking forward to in being a part of the team?
In being part of BIDE, I am most looking forward to facilitating long-lasting and meaningful change through the creation of initiatives, services, and platforms for underrepresented and marginalized groups. I hope to do this by using the lived experiences of students to guide projects that will create a significant impact in their lives. I am also looking forward to helping a greater number of students achieve academic and professional success, feel safe and comfortable in their learning and social environments, and bridge gaps to create sustainable change.
 
What can students reach out to you for?
Students can reach out to me to learn about projects and initiatives that are being undertaken by the Equity Pillar or to discuss gaps that they have witnessed or experienced themselves on campus. The Equity Pillar strives to address disparities to reduce disproportional barriers that marginalized and underrepresented students face. Also, if students have ideas for events or initiatives that are related to Belonging, Inclusivity, Diversity, or Equity, they can pitch them through the Equity Pillar’s Culture Lab!
 
 
Mariam Morra, Student Leader, Equity, 

Get to know Mariam:

I am going into my fourth year of Honours Psychology with Thesis. I love being in nature and reading. It brings me great joy to be there for someone in times of need and support them mentally, emotionally, and physically. Furthermore, I enjoy going out and trying new restaurants around the city when I can!

What does the B in EDI mean to you?
Belonging is having a sense of identity in a community I identify with. It is crucial to have a sense of security that my voice is heard, and my opinion matters. The B in EDI requires support, teamwork, and positivity because no matter what happens, that sense of trust engraved in a community I belong to will always push me to do better.


What are you most looking forward to in being a part of the team?
I'm really excited to spread the message behind BIDE across campus and in the Windsor-Essex area, and collaborate with other pillars to do so! Making the BIDE initiatives and goals come to life is something I am looking forward to. I'm also excited to meet the team and make new friends!

What can students reach out to you for?
Students are able to come to me with any concerns they may have, or any ideas they believe would enhance the BIDE Institute. I am a listening ear and want to support students in any way I am able to, so giving them a voice to share their opinion matters to me. If students have any inquiries regarding my pillar or BIDE in general, I will do my best to assist them!