Meet the SFU Public Square Team: Gabriel Alegbeleye

Meet Gabriel Alegbeleye – the new Program Assistant and Work Study student at SFU Public Square! Gabriel is a 4th-year Criminology major at Simon Fraser University. He believes knowledge is one of the most powerful tools, and that when equipped with knowledge, a community can thrive. Gabriel has a passion for community building, art, digital media, and justice. He is excited to be part of a growing SFU and British Columbia community and hopes to make significant impact at any given opportunity. In his spare time, Gabriel enjoys cooking, exercising, and planning towards the future.

Gabrielle: What drew you to work with SFU Public Square?

Gabriel: I believe in the work being done by SFU Public Square. I previously interned with a public engagement organization, which grew my interest in the Vancouver community. So when the work study opportunity came in, it was easy to choose Public Square. I saw it as an avenue to further my interest in community engagement and be a part of something big. 

Can you tell me a bit more about your studies at SFU? What has been an impactful moment in your academic journey so far?

Yeah! I’m a Criminology Major and I am also pursuing a certificate in International Studies. I believe both fields are an important part of our society considering the way they shape our idea of personal self and the world. I can’t point to a single defining moment, but I am just trying to garner as much knowledge as possible while also making sure I have no regrets during my years in university.

We're so excited to have you on our team! What are you most eager to tackle during your Work Study?

Thank you, I am also delighted to be a part of the team. I don’t know if I have any one particular thing I want to tackle, but I would like to say I have things to learn. Being part of this organization, I am aware I will be in contact with various organization from different fields, and I belive I have a lot to learn from how they operate and communicate. Also, I hope and believe that I will learn skills that are transferable to my academics, so I am eagerly looking forward to the events, debates, and conversations hosted by SFU Public Square. 

What book have you recently read and enjoyed? And what are you listening to currently? 

Reading is something I am trying to get into in my free time, but these days most of my readings are from my school courses. I enjoy reading short articles on topics that interest me, be it fashion, business, building communities, etc. I am currenlty reading about Clayton M. Christensen’s Theory of Disruption, and I recommend it to anyone interested in that topic. 

Outside of work and school, what's been keeping you busy these days?

Life is keeping me busy! I enjoy watching and playing video games and sports. I also enjoy cooking and trying out new meals, especially from different cultures. I am also big on fitness and having a sound mind, so I spend a lot of time in solace being at peace and exercising.

Please join us in welcoming Gabriel to the SFU Public Square team!