Institute of Medical Science Students’ Association Exemplary Leadership Award
The Institute of Medical Science Students’ Association Exemplary Leadership Award (IMSSA ELA) is a prestigious award presented by the core executive team of IMSSA to recognize an outstanding member who has demonstrated exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to the association. This award celebrates an individual who has gone above and beyond in their dedication to IMSSA and student engagement, making significant contributions to enhance the experiences of IMS students. Through their hard work, passion, and innovative spirit, the recipient of this award embodies the values and mission of IMSSA, setting a remarkable example for others to follow.
2024/2025 IMSSA ELA Winner
Evelyn Lola Ajayi
Director of Community & Outreach
Evelyn is a first-year master’s student, supervised by Dr. Jennifer Crosbie, studying the effects of built and social environments on neurodevelopmental disorders. She has had the privilege of managing several events and projects as the IMSSA Director of Community and Outreach (with assistance from Deputy Director Maria), including the annual Warm Hands for Cold Streets, Donation Drives, Stem Cell Drive, Fundraisers , and more. Evelyn attributes the success of her events and projects to a dedicated and diligent subcommittee team, the direction provided by the IMSSA executive core team, as well as committed volunteers and collaborators 💙. As Evelyn Ajayi collaborates with Jasmine Amini for Co-Presidents in the 2025–2026 elections, she is excited about the prospect of continuing to work with IMSSA in the following year! ✨
Nafia Mirza
Director of Academic Affairs
Nafia is a first year PhD student at the Centre for Addictions and Mental Health. During her time with the Institute of Medical Science Student Association (IMSSA), Nafia played a key role in advancing academic and community initiatives. As Director of Academic Affairs (2024–2025), she launched the IMSSA Peer Review Program and co-led a collaborative workshop series focused on grant writing, thesis defense, and professional development. She also served as a Peer-to-Peer mentor and organized major events such as the 3-Minute Thesis competition. Her contributions reflect a strong commitment to student mentorship, academic support, and building a connected graduate student community.
Previous Winners
2025/2026 Winner
TBD
2024/2025 Winner
Nafia Mirza
Evelyn Lola Ajayi
2023/2024 Winner
David Ari Rubenstein