Volunteer Profile: Khansa Siddiqi
Khansa Siddiqi finished her Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) in Life Sciences at the University of Toronto in April 2021 and has recently started her Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree in May.
When and how did you first hear about Pueblo Science?
I first heard about Pueblo Science through the University of Toronto Career Learning Network (CLN) website when I was searching for science-related volunteering opportunities in the summer of 2020.
What volunteering activities have you done with Pueblo Science?
While volunteering with Pueblo science, I was the Web Maintenance Team Lead for the Good Morning Science! 2021 Fundraiser. Surprisingly, I had no previous coding experience, but I was so grateful to be given the opportunity to learn! As part of my role, I managed the Pueblo Science website and was heavily involved in communicating with event attendees. I was also a part of the Science Demo Team for the event, through which I was able to work with an excellent group of individuals to create and put together science experiments to be conducted as part of the online Good Morning Science! 2021 Fundraiser (the first of its kind!).
What attracted you to this cause?
I was attracted to Pueblo Science because of its dedication to science education. I noticed that during the COVID-19 pandemic, it became even more critical to think of new and innovative ways to promote scientific curiosity in children. This new challenge and Pueblo Science's mission greatly attracted me to the cause and gave me an opportunity to "think outside the box" and make an impact in the community.
What inspires you?
As a recent graduate with a degree in the life sciences, I have learned the importance of thinking critically and exploring all there is to explore. I am inspired to create avenues for the generation of new innovators that come after me so that they can have the resources and support necessary to achieve their dreams. Therefore, if I have the opportunity to make even a tiny impact on a child, I feel accomplished and inspired.
How has the volunteering experience changed you?
Volunteering at Pueblo Science has been such a pleasant experience. Not only have I learned some new technical skills, I have also had the opportunity to make strong connections with the amazing team members. Above all, I have become even more encouraged to continue in my own scientific journey so that I can continue to be a part of organizations like Pueblo Science.
Why do you continue to support Pueblo Science?
I believe that Pueblo Science is a wonderful organization because of its commitment to provide scientific knowledge to youth, especially in under-privileged communities. I believe fostering positive learning environments is so important and Pueblo Science does that excellently through its interactive events and resources.
What else do you want people to know about Pueblo Science?
Pueblo Science is operated by an incredibly hard-working group of individuals who have dedicated their lives to ensuring science education is promoted in youth in Canada and abroad! It is also an excellent organization that promotes various volunteer opportunities for post-secondary students who are looking to get involved in the community.