SSA Board of Directors

Hi my name is Sanara, President of the SSA for the year 2025. My goal is to ensure a connected student body where every student not only feels supported but is also empowered in their university experience. I am passionate about creating meaningful change through the student voice which is vital in enriching campus culture, improving student services and addressing key issues that affect our community. I look forward to working with you all this year to build a stronger, more connected student body. If you ever have ideas, concerns, or just want to chat, don’t hesitate to reach out—this is your student association, and I’m here to make sure it works for you.

Hi, I’m Tess Robb, and I’m thrilled to serve as your Vice-President. I’m currently pursuing a double degree in a Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice, combining my passion for justice and advocacy. Beyond academics and leadership, I’m passionate about creativity and connection. Whether I’m building with Lego, volunteering with Youth Parliament, knocking down pins in ten-pin bowling, or exploring new places, I find inspiration in teamwork and new perspectives My goals as Vice-President include expanding the range of services available to all students, ensuring your feedback drives meaningful change, and creating unforgettable events that make our university a standout community Australia-wide. I’m here to amplify your voice, address your concerns, and help you feel empowered throughout your university journey. Let’s make this year one for the books!

I am currently a Ph.D. candidate specializing in data privacy for Electric Vehicles (EVs). Beyond my academic pursuits, I am passionate about leadership and student advocacy. As an experienced student leader, I have worked closely with students and staff to address key challenges, amplify student voices, and enhance student experience. As an elected representative, my aim to strengthen student support systems, build stronger Swinburne communities, and ensure transparency in governance.

Hi my name is Marina Fernando, I’m a third-year Civil Engineering student with a passion for leadership and a hands-on approach to problem-solving. Over the past two years, I’ve had the privilege of serving as the International Director for the university alongside also being the treasurer of WISTEM (Women in STEM). Through these roles, I’ve worked to connect students throughout the uni and promote diversity within the STEM field. Alongside my studies, I’ve secured an undergraduate position with a major engineering firm, where I’ve gained practical experience working on various job sites, including a project at Altona Beach. I’m also involved in supporting additional projects, which has helped me apply classroom knowledge to real-world engineering challenges. Im originally from Sri Lanka but I was raised in Qatar, I’ve had the benefit of a diverse upbringing that has shaped my ability to approach challenges with both cultural and logical perspectives. This background has helped me navigate and understand different viewpoints, which I believe is key in both engineering and everyday life including this role.

Hi there! I’m Danielle. I’m currently studying for a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Perspectives on Globalisation to eventually build a career in social welfare. Being a Swinburne student has introduced me to me a wonderful and diverse community, where I strive to have a meaningful impact on. Since high school, I’ve been actively involved in student representative councils, advocating for our community’s voice. My absolute favourite pastime is talking a long walk in a park with a matcha in hand. As an inaugural student director, I have the incredible privilege to help establish a solid foundation rooted in inclusivity and support.

Hello, my name is Nav. I am a final-year marketing student here in Swinburne and I have been a part of Swinburne's social club scene since I started university. My interest in student advocacy and student community well-being were the things that led me toward my current position. As a director of the SSA, I aspire to be a bridge between the SSA and the club leaders of different clubs. As an elected representative, I wish to listen and acknowledge the challenges faced by our students and work on the solutions to such challenges as a united body, the Board of Directors.