Meet the Team

Kelowna

  • Alfiya Khanum

    she/her

    Hey everyone! I’m Alfiya, a third-year BCIS student, and I’m running to be your student council member! I’m all about bringing more energy, positivity, and fun to our campus while making sure YOUR voice is always heard. From pushing for better student resources to planning events that bring us together, I’m ready to work hard for you. Let’s build a campus that feels supportive, inclusive, and exciting. Vote for Alfiya-let’s make it happen together.

  • Amy Stevenson

    she/her

    Hi, my name is Amy, and I’m in my first year at Okanagan College. With an international background, I’ve had the opportunity to experience different communities and cultures, which shaped my passion for inclusivity and connection. I’ve always enjoyed being involved in student life and previously held leadership roles at my schools. As a student representative, I want to help build a strong, supportive community where every student feels welcome, heard, and able to thrive.

  • Anna Borysova

    she/her

    As a dedicated student, I am passionate about advocating for greater access to student supports and financial opportunities. I want to encourage more students, especially INTERNATIONAL students, to get involved in campus life through clubs and initiatives on campus. Supporting student wellness is also a priority, and I plan to initiate intercultural events that celebrate diversity and inclusion. Together, we can strengthen our community and ensure that every student feel supported, connected and empowered.

  • Annabelle Lee

    she/her

    I’m running for student representative because I believe the OCSU should be truly student-driven. My priorities are improving communication so every student knows about opportunities, services, and events; connecting students with the supports they need; and collaborating with other OC organizations to strengthen campus life. Most importantly, I want to ensure student feedback is heard and acted on, so students play a real role in shaping important decisions. Together, we can build a stronger OCSU.

  • Ben Harris

    he/him

    I’m running for OCSU because I believe students deserve stronger advocacy, better support, and a more connected campus. My priorities include improving communication, expanding transportation options, and creating more opportunities for wellness and intercultural engagement. I want to ensure every student feels heard and represented through meaningful dialogue, events, and initiatives. With your support, I’ll work to build a student union that is inclusive, action-oriented, and focused on delivering real results for our community.

  • Chelsey Simmons

    she/her

    I’m a passionate student leader and advocate for Okanagan College students. Over the past few years with the OCSU, I’ve worked to make education more affordable and ensure every student’s voice is heard. I like to be involved in on campus activities, events, and advocacy as much as I can. I’m also involved with Enactus Okanagan College, where I help create student-led business projects that positively impact social and environmental change in the community. A bit more about me is I grew up on a farm and I like to spend my free time outdoors hiking, fishing, and skiing. If you see me on campus feel free to say Hi! I’d love to hear your concerns, ideas, or insights to help make sure your voice is heard across the college community.

  • Jonathan Chiweda

    he/him

    Mhoroi mese! ndinonzi Jonathan Chiweda. I grew up in Zimbabwe and moved to Canada in 2023. I’m passionate about film, and I strive to keep things fresh and original. I’m a huge extrovert and I love connecting with people. I'm a student during the week and an event host on the weekends. I’m always looking for ways to shake things up and make a difference, whether it’s in my community or my creative projects.

  • Simon Velez

    he/him

    I’m Simon Velez, born and raised in Colombia and I’m starting my second year at CIS. I’m an adventurous guy, love being outdoors and doing anything sport related. I would love to be part of OCSU so that I can contribute towards creating a memorable college experience to all students. School isn’t meant to be boring, we just need to bring some fun to it!!!

Penticton

  • Jack Rynda

    he/him

    Hello, my name is Jack (he/him). I am a neurodivergent little queer fella. On rainy days you might find me on campus saving earthworms from being crushed on the pavement; on sunny days I might be there birdwatching or taking spiders outside so they don't get squished. I am at the beginning of working toward my doctorate in psychology and want to help other students build community along the way.

  • Loki Croft

    she/her

    Hello, and welcome Okanagan College students! Allow me to introduce myself, I am Loki Croft (she/her), and I’m excitedly running for student union this semester! Enrolled in Community Research and Evaluation, my passion is connecting minority communities, creating safe places and helping folks find friends. I founded Penticton’s largest online 2SLGBTQ+ community, work with city council on the Public Safety Committee, am an enthusiastic environmentalist and activist. Let’s build something beautiful this year!

  • Rain Dotzler

    they/them

    I'm Rain, a student in the ABA-CRE program, hoping to return for my second (non-consecutive) year as campus representative. In the past, I’ve campaigned on student housing for Penticton campus, and I’m delighted to see we have construction in progress! This year, I hope to improve food security for students, particularly by exploring ways OCSU can assist students in accessing perishable foods like fruits, vegetables, eggs, and dairy - healthy, but increasingly expensive foods.

  • Sarasvaty Delgado

    Sarasvaty Delgado

    she/her

    Hello ! My name is Sarasvaty, and I’m a 3rd-year kinesiology student. I’m a friendly, social person who loves connecting with others. My goal as your future student representative is to bring us closer together, create more opportunities to make friends, and ensure that everyone has a voice.

  • Venecia McLeish

    Venecia McLeish

    she/her

    Hey, I’m Venecia but you can call me V. I’m a second year student at OC and I’m taking The Criminal and Social Justice program. I’m also a returning student of the OCSU. Being apart of the OCSU body was one of the best decisions I’ve made last year, not only was I surrounded by a group of amazing people. I was apart of something MONUMENTAL!

  • Zoie Mathers

    she/her

    My name is Zoie Mathers; I am an adventurous and passionate person who works hard and loves socializing. I am at Okanagan College because I discovered my passion for social work through life events that have made me more aware of children's safety and mental health. While I am here, I want to make an impact on people and work towards my goals of helping youth and becoming a leader.

Salmon Arm

  • David Simmons

    he/him

    Hello my name is David, I am a 3rd year Associate of Science student. Outside ofcollege some of my hobbies are fishing, camping, hiking, as well as gardening and doing agility courses with my dog. Through the Student union I want to bring light to students' concerns and questions and advocating for lower tuition costs and textbooks fees. I’m very dedicated to working alongside the students, because together, positive change can really happen.

  • Jacob Simpso

    he/him

    My name is Jacob Simpso, I enjoy story writing, film making, hiking, and just being a social person. It’s my first year here at Okanagan college and it’s my goal to help my peers and community as much as possible in as many ways as possible. I believe that a happy and healthy community on top of public feedback will establish an even more comfortable and bright environment for everyone. That’s my goal.

  • Jordyn Wentworth

    she/her

    Jordyn, a first-year Okanagan College student is eager to expand her education and her role in leadership this semester. With experience in leadership and a passion for creating a positive environment for others, she believes that initiative and bravery are key to making an impact and have an influence. Driven to advocate for an inclusive and safe space for all, she looks forward to the opportunities within OCSU!

  • Malachi Gossen

    he/him

    Hi, my name is Malachi, and I am a first-year student in the associate of science program and am pursuing a career in medicine. Outside of school you can find me spending time with friends, going on spontaneous road trips, or playing hockey. I am very excited to be a part of the growing OC community and am eager to give back to the students that make the OC experience so fantastic through the OCSU.

Staff

  • Brianne Berchowitz

    Brianne Berchowitz

    EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

    Brianne (she/her) is the Executive Director of the OCSU. While her office is located in Kelowna, she travels to all campuses to help support the OCSU team. She is committed to ensuring students have the best possible experience while attending post-secondary and is always happy to connect with students, staff and faculty to make positive changes. Outside of the office you can find her enjoying the beautiful Okanagan with family and friends.

  • Alana Fraser

    Alana Fraser

    ORGANIZER - PENTICTON

    Alana (she/her) has been part of the OCSU team since 2021 and is proud to serve as an Organizer on the Penticton campus. She’s passionate about creating community and safe, welcoming spaces for all students, and she loves connecting with people every day, whether in the office or at campus events.

    When she’s off the clock, you’ll often find Alana exploring local eateries, discovering great mocktails, and enjoying live music around town.

    Be sure to stop by the office to say hello!

  • Gabby Urban

    Gabby Urban

    COMMUNICATIONS & STRATEGIC PROJECT COORDINATOR

    Gabby (she/her) has been with OCSU since 2018. Serving many roles within the OCSU on the Kelowna and Salmon Arm campus, she is now our Communications & Strategic Project Coordinator. She has a passion for building on-campus community engagement and running all things social media. When not at work you will find Gabby sending time with her kids and husband in the outdoors.

  • Jennifer Gullins

    Jennifer Gullins

    PANTRY COORDINATOR

    Jennifer (she/her) has been with OCSU since 2019 where she initially served as a rep. She is passionate about sexual violence prevention, food security and accessibility at the post secondary level. In her free time she enjoys her numerous tropical plants and her tuxedo cat named Jacob.

  • Kristen Lang

    Kristen Lang

    HEALTH & DENTAL COORDINATOR | BOOKKEEPER

    Kristen (she/her) manages the health and dental plan. She works with Green Shield to process the health and dental opt-outs and other plan inquiries. The deadline to opt out is 30 days after your program’s start date.

  • Kristina Laitinen

    Kristina (Krissy) Laitinen

    ORGANIZER-KELOWNA

    Kristina (she/her) has been with OCSU since 2018, starting at the Kelowna office’s front desk and transitioning to Organizer-Kelowna in summer 2025. Although naturally easygoing and down-to-earth, she takes her work very seriously and works hard to meet the needs of OCSU members. She has approximately one million hobbies, but her current fixations are paddle boarding and going to concerts.

  • Lindsey Loftus

    Lindsey Loftus

    ORGANIZER - SALMON ARM

    Lindsey (she/her) has been a part of the OCSU team since 2015, serving as the organizer for the Salmon Arm campus. Salmon Arm is her favorite place and she is passionate about helping grow the community and helping the people who call it home, reach their full potential. When not at work you will find Lindsey spending time with her husband and two sons.

  • Megan Gray

    Megan Gray

    ORGANIZER- ADVOCACY & GOVERNANCE

    Megan (she/her) joined OCSU when a chance employment opportunity reignited her passion for social justice. She has worked on the Kelowna and Penticton campuses in a variety of capacities, and currently supports members on all three OCSU campuses. She has a well-rounded understanding of the needs of members across the valley, and is passionate about ensuring all folks have access to post-secondary education.

  • Tia Der

    Tia Der

    OFFICE COORDINATOR - KELOWNA

    Tia (she/her) is the office coordinator for the OCSU, acting as the first point of contact for students. Her duties include helping students access the many benefits that come with being a member of the OCSU, and supporting students throughout their educational journey. Tia is passionate about the local Okanagan community, and stands strongly in solidarity with BIPOC and 2SLGBTQ+ people. Tia loves knitting and crocheting on her days off, especially in cafes or the downtown library where she can chow down on some good food!