BEEDIE LUMINARIES — Just four years ago, Nimmy Sebastian and Naailah Shah were high school seniors who received some life-changing news: they were accepted into the 2020 Cohort of the Beedie Luminaries Program. Fast forward to September, and they were starting their first year at the University of British Columbia. But instead of bustling lecture halls and lively campus events, they found themselves navigating a new world shaped by the pandemic—a world of meticulously scheduled Zoom meetings and virtual introductions. It wasn’t the experience they imagined, but they faced it with determination and eagerness to make the most of it.
Amid the uncertainty, Nimmy and Naailah were driven by the shared goal to find community and purpose. Joining a university club became their way of making that happen, and it turned out to be a game-changer. Not only did this decision fuel their personal growth and leadership skills but it allowed them to leave a meaningful mark on their campus.
As they speak to us in this article, both Nimmy and Naailah agree that the simple decision to join a campus club was one of the best choices they made. Moreover, it was this one choice that set them up for success in ways they never could have imagined.
Getting Started Isn’t Always Intentional. Just go with it.
Sometimes we dive headfirst into the unknown, ready to make the best of whatever comes our way. This was the reality for many students starting their post-secondary journeys during COVID. Along the way, many of us discovered joy in happy accidents—the unexpected silver linings that emerged from what might have seemed like setbacks.
Nimmy’s university journey began with a simple click during COVID-19 when in-person club days were cancelled. The first Zoom link she chose led her to the Friends of Doctors Without Borders Club (FoMSF), an organization supporting Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF). Nimmy was immediately drawn to the club’s mission of providing medical care where it’s needed most, and the welcoming atmosphere made her feel at home.
As for Beedie Luminary Naailah, in her first year, she virtually attended over 15 club booths. She ultimately decided to join FoMSF UBC because she had never seen a humanitarian organization as transparent as MSF that treated their clients as humans–even in how they are photographed.
Calculated or not, Nimmy and Naailah found themselves in the same club and began writing their futures side-by-side.
Learning More about MSF
MSF’s core principles are impartiality, neutrality, and independence. It is through these principles that they provide medical care to everyone, regardless of their nationality, race, religious beliefs, class, or political opinion, all while remaining neutral in political conflicts. MSF can provide care with such a quick turnaround and based on needs alone because they receive their funding from private donors, allowing them to be financially independent. While volunteering at an MSF donor event, Naailah recalls a story told by the former MSF Canada Director.
“While on an assignment in a conflict zone, he saw soldiers outside of the treatment tent stripping off their uniforms and surrendering their weapons. They were ensuring that once the soldiers entered the tent, no one would be able to tell which side of the conflict they belonged to. This allows MSF to provide medical care to everyone, regardless of their political stance. It was a beautiful image.”
Taking On More: The Journey to Co-Presidency
As semesters passed, Nimmy and Naailah stepped into increasingly significant roles within the club, pushing themselves outside their comfort zones. ‘I wasn’t really that social before,’ Naailah admits, ‘but the club pushed me to connect with people from different faculties and walks of life.’ By their third year, both had become integral to the club’s operations. When the opportunity to become co-presidents arose for the 2023/2024 school year, they both agreed without hesitation.
Throughout their tenure as co-presidents so far, the club has raised over $2,500 for MSF and held numerous successful events. They purchased a number of MSF’s safe water supply kits from the funds raised from their Water Walk, an event that aims to raise awareness for safe water, sanitation, and hygiene efforts in regions that would otherwise not have access to clean water. Their annual panel event sparked lively discussions on ethics and culture in humanitarian aid with UBC professors and MSF expats.
While Nimmy and Naailah upheld the club’s traditional events, they also embraced fresh ideas. They organized a trivia night at a local restaurant, where attendees enjoyed food and drinks while answering humanitarian and MSF-themed questions. For Valentine’s Day, the club sold flowers provided by a local sponsor. The team also bonded over baking, raising over $200 from selling their homemade goods. In the end, Nimmy and Naailah attribute this success to the dedication and hard work of their incredible team.
So, advice for students thinking about getting involved on campus? Just do it.
Nimmy’s advice is simple: “don’t hesitate to try something new”. Their story is a reminder that every student has the potential to discover their passion and make a difference. It all begins with one small decision—whether it’s joining a club, attending an event, or trying something outside of your comfort zone. Remember, it only takes one “yes” to change the trajectory of where you’re going.
To help you get started, here are some essential tips:
Start with your interests: Reflect on what you’re passionate about or curious to explore. Whether it’s volunteering, sports, arts, or academics, look for clubs or groups that align with your interests and values.
Be open to new experiences: Embrace the chance to step out of your comfort zone. Trying something new can lead to unexpected opportunities, new friendships, and personal growth that you might not have anticipated.
Commit and stay consistent: Invest your time and energy into the activities you join. Attend meetings regularly, actively participate in events, and contribute to the group’s goals. The more effort you put in, the more rewarding your experience will be.
Build connections: Take the time to get to know fellow members and leaders. Networking within your club can lead to valuable relationships, mentorship opportunities, and a deeper sense of community.
Seek leadership opportunities: As you become more involved, look for ways to take on leadership roles. Whether it’s organizing events or leading a project, these experiences can develop skills and confidence that will benefit you in all areas of life.
Thank you for sharing, Nimmy and Naailah! Read more about Luminaries like them here.
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