Leading by Example: Adam Shambemiradam’s Impact On and Off the Field
For Adam Shambemiradam, leadership is not just a role—it is a way of life. Whether managing a team behind the bar, mentoring young athletes, or excelling on the football field, his presence at Mt. A has left an undeniable mark. From his roots in Toronto, where his Kenyan heritage shaped his resilience, to his years of service on campus, Shambemirafam embodies what it means to uplift and inspire.
From the Kitchen to Leadership: A Journey of Growth
Adam’s journey at Mt. A started humbly as a cook at The Pond, the campus pub. But like any natural leader, he did not stop there. Over the years, he worked his way up, first to bartender, and now, in his final year, as the bar manager. His commitment extends beyond The Pond, as he also holds a managerial position at the university gyms, ensuring students have a welcoming and supportive fitness environment.
Building Bridges Through Sport and Community
More than just an athlete, Shambemirafam saw the power of sport as a tool for unity. As one of the founders of The Varsity Project, he worked to close the gap between students and the broader community. Through summer sports camps for kids and initiatives encouraging youth participation in athletics, his work has fostered connections and created opportunities for young athletes to grow.
His passion for mentorship extends into the classroom, particularly through his involvement with CENL (Community Engaged Learning) initiatives. Among his most meaningful projects was working with at-risk BIPOC youth at Marshview Middle School. Through mentorship programs and resource sharing, he and his team provided opportunities that might not have existed otherwise.
A Legacy of Excellence and Representation
Shambemiradam’s contributions do not stop at leadership—he is also a powerhouse on the field. As a wide receiver for the Mounties varsity football team for five years, he played not just for the love of the game but also to represent and inspire those who come after him.
When asked what Black History Month means to him, Shambemiradam reflects on the legacy of resilience and courage that fuels his every move:
“Black history, to me, is a heritage of accomplishment, fortitude, and courage that motivates me on and off the field. It reminds me of the innumerable people who broke through obstacles to enable me to follow my aspirations—in academics or athletics—and it inspires me to respect their efforts by aiming for perfection.”
As he prepares to graduate with a Commerce major and a CENL minor, Shambemiradam leaves behind a legacy of empowerment. He reminds us all that true leadership is about more than titles—it is about action.
More Than an Athlete: Rashawn Ferguson’s Commitment to Confidence and Community
For Rashawn Ferguson, leadership is not just about what happens on the court—it is about the impact made beyond it. A proud Bahamian, a talented basketball player, and a community builder, Ferguson has spent his time at Mt. A ensuring that Black students, especially Black men, feel seen, supported, and empowered. Whether through sport, artistry, or a simple haircut, his work fosters a sense of belonging and confidence wherever he goes.
A Leader on and off the Court
As a member of the Mounties Men’s Basketball Team, Ferguson brings more than just athleticism—he brings heart. He understands that being a Black athlete comes with unique challenges, which is why he is also an advocate through the Black Student Athlete Union (BSAU). This organization pushes for fair treatment, recognition, and equal opportunities for Black student-athletes, ensuring that their voices are heard and their achievements celebrated.
The Barber Chair: A Place of Confidence and Culture
While some see a haircut as routine, Ferguson sees it as a moment of empowerment. As a self-taught barber, he has become a go-to figure for students looking for more than just a fresh cut. His work is about instilling confidence. For many Black students, especially in a small town where barbers catering to Black hair textures are scarce, Rashawn’s services are beyond valuable. In his words, it is about “helping my fellow Black men put their best foot forward while fostering a sense of unity through my work.”
Music as an Outlet and a Movement
Beyond sports and community service, Ferguson is also a recording artist, using music as a form of self-expression and connection. Through his lyrics, he tells stories of identity, resilience, and pride, offering a creative space where others with shared experiences can find solace and inspiration. His artistry is yet another way he uplifts his community, proving that leadership comes in many forms.
A Time to Reconnect and Celebrate
For Ferguson, Black History Month is more than a reflection on the past—it is a reminder to embrace his culture in the present.
“Black History Month, to me, is a time to reflect on and celebrate not only the rich culture of my home in the Bahamas but also Black culture as a whole. Living in a country where I’m a minority, it’s easy to lose touch with my roots. BHM offers a chance to reconnect, embrace my heritage, and fully immerse myself in the culture that shapes who I am.”
Through his advocacy, artistry, and everyday actions, Ferguson is ensuring that Black students at Mt. A feel empowered, represented, and connected. Whether he is making plays on the court, shaping confidence in the barber’s chair, or sharing his story through music, his impact is undeniable—and his legacy is just beginning.
Devine Kpai: Building Community, Celebrating Culture
For Devine Kpai, leadership is about more than holding a title—it is about creating a home away from home. As the President of the African Students’ Association (ASA), she has worked tirelessly to ensure that African students at Mt. A feel seen, supported, and celebrated. Through her advocacy and dedication, she has built a space where students can embrace their heritage while sharing it with the wider community.
A Voice for African Students
Originally from Nigeria and now based in Moncton, Kpai understands firsthand the challenges that come with being an international student. Her role in the ASA is driven by a deep commitment to representation and support. Whether it is ensuring that African students have a strong support network, or organizing events that celebrate African heritage, she is at the forefront of fostering unity and cultural pride.
“The ASA is more than just a club—it’s a family,” said Kpai. “We create spaces where students can connect, share their experiences, and celebrate the cultures that make us who we are.”
Bridging Cultures Through Celebration
Under Kpai’s leadership, the ASA has brought vibrant cultural experiences to campus, from food festivals to music and dance showcases, each event serving as both a celebration and an education. Her goal is to make African culture more visible and understood within the university community, breaking down barriers and strengthening connections between students of all backgrounds.
Black History Month: A Time to Honor Everyday Excellence
For Kpai, Black History Month is not just about looking back—it is about recognizing the unsung heroes of today:
“Black History Month, for me, means celebrating individuals in our community who showcase Black excellence. It’s a chance to connect to my own roots, to think about the individuals in my family and community who may not be celebrated in history books but whose everyday acts of strength, love, and resistance are part of the story.”
Through her work, Devine ensures that every African student at Mt. A knows that their story matters. By amplifying voices, fostering belonging, and sharing the beauty of African culture, she is shaping a legacy that will continue long after she graduates.
Paul-Germain Togbo: Championing Culture, Community, and Representation
For Paul-Germain Togbo, leadership is about making space—on the field, in the music scene, and within the Mt. A community. Whether inspiring young athletes as a varsity soccer player, energizing crowds as a DJ, or advocating for his fellow Black students, he is committed to fostering representation and connection.
A Leader in Sport and Representation
As a member of the Mounties Varsity Soccer Team, Togbo understands the power of visibility. For many Black students, seeing someone who looks like them excelling in athletics can be the spark that pushes them to pursue their own passions. By competing at the highest level, he not only showcases his talent but also paves the way for others to step onto the field with confidence.
“Sports have always been more than just competition,” he explained, “it’s about showing what’s possible. I want to inspire others to take up space, to know they belong, and to keep pushing forward.”
Spinning Culture Through Music
Beyond the field, Togbo takes on another role—one that blends rhythm, identity, and community. As a DJ at a local bar, he curates sounds that bring people together, celebrating the diversity of Black music and culture. His mixes are more than just beats—they are a celebration of heritage, a way to connect people through shared experiences on the dance floor.
Black History Month: A Legacy of Strength and Growth
For Togbo, Black History Month is about honoring the past and also about building a future where Black voices continue to rise.
“Black History Month represents the resistance, triumphs, and contributions of Black people throughout history and their struggle for equal rights and justice. In Nelson Mandela’s words, ‘I never lose. I either win or learn.’ This quote inspires me to embrace every challenge—whether personal or within my community—as an opportunity for growth.”
From the soccer pitch to the DJ booth, Togbo is more than just an athlete or an artist—he is a cultural ambassador, a motivator, and a force for change. Through his actions, he is ensuring that Black students at Mt. A feel empowered to take up space, embrace their passions, and continue shaping their own legacies.
Mahamadou Francois Dahani: Guiding, Supporting, and Building Community
For Mahamadou Francois Dahani, leadership is not about authority—it is about service. As Assistant Don of Campbell Hall, his role extends far beyond enforcing rules; he is a mentor, a mediator, and a guiding presence for students finding their way through university life. Whether helping first-years navigate their transition to Mt. An or fostering a sense of belonging within residence, Dahani is committed to making campus feel like home.
A Pillar of Support in Residence Life
Originally from Niamey, Niger, Dahani has dedicated himself to shaping a positive and inclusive residential experience at Mt. A. After serving as a Resident Assistant in 2022–2023, he stepped into the role of Assistant Don in August 2023, taking on even greater responsibility.
“I assist students with problem resolution through mediation and conflict management techniques, respond to emergency situations, and educate residents on university policies,” he explains. His work ensures that students not only have a safe living environment but also feel supported and heard in times of need.
Guiding First-Year Students Through Transition
Starting university can be overwhelming, and Dahani recognizes the importance of having someone to lean on. Beyond maintaining records and managing residence operations, he takes pride in mentoring first-year students, offering guidance, reassurance, and a steady presence as they adjust to a new chapter in their lives. His leadership is built on understanding and empathy, making a lasting impact on those around him.
A Legacy of Inclusion and Belonging
When asked what he wants to be remembered for, Dahani’s answer is simple yet profound:
“I aspire to be remembered in the Mt. A community as a leader in creating inclusion and making members develop a good sense of belonging.”
Through his work in residence life, Dahani is leaving behind more than just policies and procedures—he is leaving behind a culture of care, unity, and support. His impact will continue to be felt in the halls of Campbell Hall and beyond, as the students he has guided step forward to build their own legacies.
René Mapelu: A Challenging Start, A Determined Path
For René Mapelu, leadership has never been about standing in the spotlight—it has always been about making sure others feel at home. From his first uncertain days as an international student to his years of advocacy and mentorship, his time at Mt. A has been defined by a steady commitment to helping others find their place.
Mapelu’s journey at Mt. A began with an unexpected hurdle. Arriving from Nairobi, Kenya, he spent his first two weeks in Canada in quarantine, missing orientation and the chance to meet new classmates. It was a lonely introduction to university life, but instead of letting that experience hold him back, it planted the seed for the work he would go on to do—ensuring others never felt that same sense of isolation.
He started small, becoming a campus ambassador, giving tours to prospective students and their families. Later, as an Assistant Don in Edwards House, he worked to create a welcoming environment for first-year students adjusting to campus life, offering guidance in the same way he once wished he had received.
A Voice for International Students
In his third year, Mapelu’s role in the community grew. Taking on the position of International Student Representative for the Mount Allison Students’ Union (MASU), he became an advocate for students navigating the challenges of studying far from home. At the same time, he volunteered for International Orientation Week, helping new international students feel welcomed in a way he never got to experience himself.
Even as his responsibilities expanded, he remained dedicated to his role as a campus ambassador, always eager to share his knowledge and help others take their first steps at Mt. A.
Fostering Mental Health Awareness and Student Engagement
By his final year, Mapelu’s leadership took on new dimensions. As a Navigate Peer Mentor, he worked to promote mental health awareness, helping students access the resources they needed while also fostering open conversations about well-being.
His work with MASU continued as well—this time as Chief Returning Officer (CRO), where he was responsible for running student elections. The results spoke for themselves: the highest voter turnout in a decade. But for Mapelu, it was not about the numbers—it was about ensuring that more students had a say in the decisions that affected them.
Leaving a Lasting Impact
When asked what Black History Month means to him, Mapelu speaks about the power of representation and support:
“Black History Month, to me, is about power—our power. It’s about celebrating the grit, resilience, and brilliance of Black people, both past and present. It’s a time to reflect on the sacrifices of those who fought for the rights and opportunities we have today while also celebrating the culture, creativity, and spirit that make us unstoppable.”
From a quarantined first-year student to a campus leader whose impact will be felt long after he is gone, Mapelu has redefined what it means to lead with purpose. His story is one of transformation, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to uplifting those around him.
