FASS News
A Journey of Empowerment: Meet IS Student Maiya Jehman Morancie
Meet Maiya Jehman Morancie, a second-year student at SFU majoring in International Studies with a concentration in International Security and Conflict and minoring in Communications. Like many of her peers, Morancie enjoys having fun in her free time, which she fills with swimming, baking, and sharing moments with family and friends. Yet, inside lies a passionate advocate for leadership and community engagement.
As co-president of the International Studies Student Association and a Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences peer mentor, Morancie dedicates much of her time to SFU and her community. Her commitment to sustainability led her to co-found the White Rock South Surrey Climate Corps, a volunteer group spearheading community engagement initiatives focused on sustainability.
Morancie has always been passionate about Black empowerment—a cause she holds dear to her heart. When she came across 1834 Global in an International Studies newsletter, it was a moment of serendipity. This 9-week online program, designed for Black youth like herself, aimed to address the underrepresentation of Black Canadians in global and international affairs. The program, held in collaboration with the University of Toronto, offered mentorship from seasoned experts, networking opportunities, and specialized training for Black youth. In November 2023, Morancie was officially accepted into the 1834 Global program—a seminal experience that opened her eyes to the dynamic career possibilities available to her in the global affairs sector.
As a fellow in the 1834 Global cohort, Morancie engaged in weekly sessions and collaborative policy presentation development, which offered a synergy between academic learning and practical exposure. She participated in summits with policymakers and connected with ambassadors, foreign service officers in both Canada and the US, and industry professionals from organizations like the United Nations and Global Affairs Canada.
For Morancie, the program’s interdisciplinary approach enhanced key skills she needed to excel in global civic leadership and policy-making roles. "The 1834 Global program perfectly complemented my BA in International Studies by offering real-world insights and mentorship,” she reflects. “It expanded my career options by connecting me with experts and peers, fostering a vibrant community similar to my university experience.”
Emerging from the program with optimism, Morancie values the relationships, inspiration, and insights she gained along the way. “Building close friendships, professional connections, and engaging with mentors was incredibly enriching,” she says.
Looking ahead, Morancie remains committed to supporting Black students. While the university has made strides, such as introducing two Special Program applications to hire tenure-track Black faculty and Black staff members in 2023, she believes there is still much more to be done at the School. Morancie advocates for the establishment of more inclusive mentorship programs, platforms for Black voices in student-led initiatives, and the integration of diverse perspectives into the academic curriculum through the hiring of Black educators.
“Faculty and staff should undergo training on cultural competency and anti-racism,” Morancie emphasizes. “By actively listening to and addressing the unique challenges Black students face, the International Studies program can contribute to meaningful Black empowerment on campus.”
Morancie hopes her story will help inspire others, especially Black SFU students, to take part in opportunities like the 1834 Global program and contribute to a more inclusive and empowered future.