Samira Schultz is an Honours Political Science student with a Philosophy minor at the University of Alberta whose work spans both campus and community. Through her leadership roles as VP External for Women in Political Science (WIPS) and VP of Social Impact for the U of A Black Students’ Association (UABSA), she fosters spaces centered on equity, critical dialogue, and meaningful collaboration. As the founder of Midnimo, a Black History Month initiative that brings speakers and resources into high schools, Samira is committed to reshaping how young people engage with history and allyship. She also mentors through the Boys and Girls Club, supporting youth as they navigate identity, school, and growth. Her leadership is grounded in curiosity, humility, and a deep commitment to building spaces where people feel seen, heard, and empowered.Samira’s journey into advocacy began at 17, in rooms filled with seasoned professionals where the instinct to conform was strong. At first, her voice often blended into others’ expectations, shaped by the desire to be helpful and to prove she belonged. But as she matured and took on more leadership roles, she began to understand the power of her own perspective and the value of authenticity in creating change. Instead of mirroring dominant voices, she learned to stand firm in her values—even when doing so meant challenging norms or risking popularity. She finds grounding in humility, in surrounding herself with people who keep her focused, and in allowing her emotions—grief, hope, frustration—to drive, rather than derail, her purpose. To Samira, advocacy means being anchored in what matters most, even when the work is heavy.Bridging the gap between political theory and everyday conversations is something Samira continues to explore. With a mind full of ideas from her studies, she’s aware of how easy it is to sound abstract or overwhelming. But she’s learned that slowing down, being honest, and connecting ideas to real-life experiences helps make political conversations more accessible. Whether she’s talking with high school students or peers, she resists the urge to be “the expert,” instead choosing to create open, respectful spaces where learning happens together. Drawing from her experiences in WIPS and UABSA, she emphasizes that political discussion isn’t about winning arguments—it’s about building understanding. By focusing on real-life impacts, like the cost of coffee or access to education, she helps others realize that politics isn’t distant or theoretical—it’s deeply personal.For Samira, genuine inclusion means moving beyond token gestures and toward structural change. She draws a clear distinction between performative inclusion—like putting up a poster—and the kind of engagement that centers marginalized voices in meaningful ways. Genuine inclusion is about who gets to lead the conversation, who gets cited, and whose lived experience is recognized as expertise. Through Midnimo and her work in student organizations, Samira prioritizes projects that reflect this depth, ensuring those most impacted by histories of exclusion are not only included but centered. As her professor Dr. Andy Knight teaches, “You stand where you sit”—perspective is shaped by lived experience, and real inclusion must acknowledge and honor that. It’s not enough to invite people in; you have to restructure the space so they feel they truly belong.Samira Schultz’s leadership is a powerful example of what it means to lead with intention, integrity, and heart. Whether she’s challenging the status quo in academic settings, mentoring youth, or organizing community initiatives, her work is guided by a deep belief in the importance of listening, learning, and creating lasting change. By staying grounded in her values, embracing discomfort as part of the process, and centering the voices that too often go unheard.KEEP IT LONG TERM!

Ver todos los episodios