Geography grad finds passion for politics

On his path to convocation, Aaron Leung discovered a passion for the space where policy, politics and community-building collide. 

“I’ve really loved the intersection between my geography education and policy development,” says Aaron, who graduates this fall with a Bachelor of Environment in Global Environmental Systems, a Minor in Political Science, and certificates in urban studies and spatial information systems. 

During his undergrad, Aaron took public policy classes to supplement his degree. The combination of politics and practicing GIS and agent-based modelling with professor Suzana Dragicevic helped prepare him for real world experiences that bridge environmental education, policy development and data analytics.

An advocate for fostering thriving communities, Aaron spent his undergrad balancing school and work while volunteering with the City of Vancouver Children, Youth and Families Advisory Committee.

“This past year has taught me that I’m more resilient than I thought I could be,” says Aaron. “And in terms of friends and the SFU community, I learned that we are incredibly nimble.”  

Graduating during such a critical time, Aaron’s words to the graduating class of 2020 echo the urgency felt deeply by his classmates. 

“We have some pressing crises, like climate change and addressing racism and colonialism within our BIPOC communities. We’re ready to lead and create change. Let’s make the space to do the important work that needs to be done,” says Aaron.

Now working as a constituency assistant for the Honourable George Chow, MLA for Vancouver-Fraserview, Aaron helps advocate on behalf of community members and works to bring these individuals to government services.

Looking forward, Aaron hopes to continue working with progressive elected officials to help enact positive change right here in BC.