Listed in order of submission
Electoral Group : McMaster RCPSC |
Positions : 13 |
Currently Running : 28
Dr. Gautham Krishnaraj
PGY-1 | McMaster | Emergency Medicine-
Bio
Dr. Gautham Krishnaraj MD PhD, is a PGY1 Emergency Medicine resident at McMaster University, where he has also served as an adjunct (part-time) in the Division of Education & Innovation, Department of Medicine, since 2021. Dr. Krishnaraj brings a broad diversity of experience to leadership roles, ranging from research and advocacy to non-profit governance and health journalism.
Dr. Krishnaraj's academic training spans benchtop science (BSc, Microbiology & Immunology, '16) and policy (MSc, Global Health, '17; PhD, Health Policy), and he recently completed the UofT Fellowship in Journalism & Health Impact ('26) and received his MD from Queen's University ('26).
Dr. Krishnaraj has worked at the intersection of humanitarian professionalization, ethics and innovation for more than a decade. Since 2013, he has been actively involved in the design and delivery of high-fidelity humanitarian simulation exercises (SimEx), which he offers through the not-for-profit organization Humanitarian Partners International. He has also served as a training and ethics consultant to organizations including Grand Challenges Canada, the Canadian Red Cross, the World Food Programme and the European Commission. His graduate work and advocacy have helped shape palliative care provision in humanitarian contexts, as well as guide the ethical implementation of humanitarian innovations around the world.
Dr. Krishnaraj is a passionate community advocate, a persuasive communicator and a highly collaborative leader. His work is strongly informed by feminist and care ethics, and he believes in the power of collective action. Outside of medicine, he can be found riding his vintage 1985 Honda Nighthawk, hosting elaborate dinners with friends or dreaming up his next creative writing project.
Dr. Nandita Manoj
PGY-3 | McMaster | Paediatrics-
Bio
Hi everyone, my name is Nandita, and I’m a PGY3 Pediatrics resident, and I’m excited to be running for the PARO General Council this year. As someone who is passionate about building community, I want to help foster meaningful connections among residents while advocating for their voices to be heard and represented in the decisions that shape our training experience.
As my program's Social Representative, I've organized monthly resident events—from game nights and patio socials to our annual retreat, PGY1 welcome activities, and our annual Resident Appreciation Dinner. In planning these events, I've always aimed to create welcoming and inclusive spaces where residents from all years feel comfortable connecting, building friendships, and supporting one another. By creating regular social opportunities, I've seen how a strong sense of community can positively impact resident wellness, create lasting friendships and support systems, making residency a more positive and sustainable experience.
I'm also passionate about mentorship and creating an environment where residents feel welcomed, supported, and empowered throughout their training. As a PGY1 buddy and a clinical skills preceptor for medical students, I've enjoyed supporting learners as they navigate new challenges, helping them build confidence, and creating an environment where they feel welcomed and comfortable asking questions.
As a member of PARO General Council, I hope to bring this same commitment to fostering community by advocating for initiatives that strengthen mentorship, support resident wellness, and ensure every resident feels connected, supported, and heard throughout their training. I also hope to strengthen opportunities for meaningful connection, and ensure that residents' voices are heard in shaping a supportive training environment.
Dr. Rita Malouf
PGY-1 | McMaster | Int.Med-General-
Bio
Hey everyone!
I’m Rita, a soon-to-be PGY2 Internal Medicine resident. Before transferring to Internal Medicine in January 2026, I completed part of my residency in Family Medicine, which has given me a unique perspective on residency training across different specialties and the challenges residents can face along the way.
PARO is about ensuring that we, as residents, feel heard, supported, and represented. Residency can be incredibly rewarding, but it can also be demanding, and important concerns can sometimes get lost in the midst of our busy days. Supporting fellow residents and learners has always been important to me.
Throughout residency, I’ve participated in resident-led Q&A sessions and mentorship initiatives for medical students navigating the CaRMS process. I’ve seen firsthand how valuable it can be to have someone willing to listen, answer questions, and help others feel supported during uncertain times. If elected, I would hope to be a representative that residents feel comfortable approaching with concerns, ideas, and suggestions, while advocating for their interests, strengthening our resident community, and supporting my colleagues throughout residency.
I also believe that a strong resident community makes a meaningful difference. I would love to help organize opportunities for residents to connect, build friendships, and unwind outside of work.
Thanks for your consideration,
Rita
Dr. Preksha Rathod
PGY-5 | McMaster | Surgery-Orthopaedic-
Bio
Hi everyone! My name is Preksha and I am now a PGY5 in orthopedic surgery. I am delighted to be applying to represent you on the PARO general council again and hope to continue working with exceptional leaders to promote change for McMaster residents.
I have a strong commitment and passion for fostering positive resident experiences, particularly for surgical residents. Last year, I was fortunate to work with the general council team on several initiatives to better the residency experience for McMaster residents, including the organization of resident appreciation week. If elected, there are 3 main priorities I would like to focus on. Firstly, I hope to continue working on improving post-call culture within surgical programs. This includes pushing for consistent, enforced post-call days, if required, and fostering environments where residents feel genuinely supported after difficult call shifts. Positive culture requires deliberate advocacy at every level.
Second, I hope to continue the initiatives for tangible improvements to physical workspaces within our hospitals, inculding functional call rooms, reliable access to computers and charting stations, and basic amenities that are often overlooked but directly affect resident wellbeing and patient care quality.
My last goal is to advocate for a structured transition-to-practice curriculum for senior residents. Senior residents are expected to move from trainee to independent practitioner with little formal preparation in the practical realities of practice such as contract negotiation, billing, and long-term career planning. This can be an overwhelming transition, therefore a standardized curriculum would ensure every resident, regardless of program or specialty, graduates with this foundational knowledge.
Now being in my 5th year, I bring a strong understanding of the daily realities of being a resident in general as well as issues unique to surgical residency. Through being a PARO general council rep, I hope to continue making positive changes to Mac PGME!
Cheers!
Preksha
Dr. Sonia Igboanugo
PGY-3 | McMaster | Surgery-General-
Bio
I'm running for re-election to PARO General Council because I care deeply about making residency more sustainable, more inclusive, and more human for all of us.
This past year, I've had the privilege of serving as a PARO rep for General Surgery. In that role, I helped propose and secure funding for a wellness initiative for the learners at SJHH and contributed to ongoing conversations, both within our program and more broadly, about building better working environments for surgical residents. It's been a formative experience: I've seen how much can change when residents advocate for each other, and I want to keep that momentum going.
Throughout my training, I've gravitated toward work that centers learners' needs. To foster mentorship, equity, and wellbeing in academic medicine. I co-founded the Black Aspiring Physicians of McMaster (BAP-MAC) and started the iRISE Conference here at McMaster. I've supported national equity-focused events, pushed for systemic improvements through curriculum reviews, and leveraged research and innovation to help build programs. My consulting background taught me to think strategically, and my community work taught me how to listen and build trust.
I've personally benefited from the efforts of past PARO wellness reps, people who normalized conversations around burnout, rest, peer support, and advocacy. I'm grateful for that work and eager to build on it.
If re-elected, I hope to:
1. Continue supporting resident-led wellness initiatives that meet people where they are not one-size-fits-all solutions imposed from above.
2. Champion equity-informed, transparent decision-making in education and scheduling.
3. Create space for creative problem-solving by residents, not just on their behalf.
4. Ensure we consider how policies affect not only us, but also the support systems around us, residency isn't a solo journey.
Residency is hard, but community makes it easier. I'd be honoured to continue representing you and help build a culture where every resident can thrive inside and outside the hospital, and where their voices are valued.
Dr. Saachi Bami
PGY-2 | McMaster | Obstetrics/Gynecology-
Bio
Hi! My name's Saachi, and I'm a PGY2 in OBGYN. I'm excited to be running for PARO General Council again this year! I loved being a member last year, where I organized Resident Appreciation Week and, more recently, the Annual Transition to Residency event. Over the year, I made it a priority to bring my co-residents' questions and concerns to the table, and valued getting a firsthand sense of how PARO works and where I can be most useful going forward.
Coming from a surgical program, I understand the pressures that come with surgical training, including unpredictable call demands, case expectations, and limited downtime. I want to keep advocating for those needs while making sure our work reflects all programs, not just my own.
I work well in team based environments, and I think that's where PARO is most effective: working collaboratively to solve problems and advocate for residents. I'll keep making myself available to McMaster residents to hear what's going well and what needs work, and bring that feedback to PARO clearly and consistently.
Some of the issues I care about include inclusive social and wellness events across specialties, small but important things like call room amenities and functional workspaces, and making sure residents know their rights, benefits, and what the contract protects.
Thanks for considering me - I'd love the chance to keep representing McMaster within PARO!
Dr. Cameron Levins
PGY-3 | McMaster | Surgery-Orthopaedic-
Bio
Hi! Im Cameron, I am a PGY4 Orthopaedic Surgery resident who believes resident advocacy should be visible, practical, and driven by the people it represents.
Throughout residency, I have made it a priority to get involved, my involvement spans residency leadership, program development, CaRMS and recruitment, mentorship, medical education, and resident wellness.
I am passionate about resident wellness—but I believe wellness needs to mean more than another mandatory seminar or free granola bar. Residency is demanding, and meaningful advocacy requires an honest understanding of the pressures residents face, paired with practical solutions that actually improve our day-to-day lives.
If elected to PARO General Council, I will bring energy, approachability, and a willingness to speak up. I want to listen to residents across Ontario, and help turn resident concerns into meaningful action. Most importantly, I want residents to feel that their voice at the table is genuinely their own.
Dr. Urmi Sheth
PGY-1 | McMaster | Int.Med-General-
Bio
Hi everyone! I am a PGY1 Internal Medicine resident at McMaster and I am excited to run for PARO General Council. Thank you for taking the time to read this :)
Throughout my medical training, I have been drawn to roles in which I am able to understand the experiences of my peers and work collaboratively to create meaningful change. As the Vice President of External Affairs for my medical class, I represented and advocated for over 200 students. I gathered feedback from my peers and worked to turn it into tangible change. I’ve enjoyed mentoring junior trainees, advocating for and leading educational initiatives on artificial intelligence in medicine, and developing a local mentorship program that supports equity-deserving youth within Hamilton.
These experiences have taught me that advocacy is not only just about identifying concerns, but following through. If elected, I hope to bring this same approach to PARO. I hope to be someone who is approachable, listens to your concerns and ideas, and advocates for meaningful improvements in our training environment.
I appreciate your support and would be grateful to serve as one of your PARO representatives!
Dr. Deyang Li
PGY-2 | McMaster | Int.Med-General-
Bio
Hi everyone! I'm Deyang, a PGY2 Internal Medicine resident, and I'm excited to be running for the PARO General Council this year. Throughout my medical training, I have been passionate about organizing social events and spearheading wellness initiatives, and I hope to continue these efforts through PARO.
During medical school at McMaster, I helped organize our 4 day orientation for over 200+ incoming medical students, coordinating activities such as hikes, laser tag, escape rooms, and other events designed to help new students feel welcomed and connected. I was also a member of the general social committee, where I helped run events from karaoke nights to our annual medical school gala. On a provincial level, I also helped organize the annual OMSA Wellness Retreat for 2 years in a row, fundraising $10,000 + to bring dozens of medical students from across Ontario together for a weekend of cabin-based winter fun.
I have also had the privilege to be involved with various advocacy initiatives, most recently serving on the OMSA Advocacy Partnerships Committee and volunteering at an inner city clinic during medical school, and raising awareness for the Canadian National Institute of the Blind through interactive and fundraising events during my undergrad.
I believe that strong relationships and a supportive community are essential for thriving during residency. As a member of PARO General Council, I hope to build on my experiences to create opportunities for residents from all programs and training levels to connect with one another, while at the same time advocating for changes that can make residency a more positive, supportive, and sustainable experience.
Outside of medicine, I love hiking and exploring the many beautiful trails and waterfalls around Hamilton, going through my board game collection with friends, watching sci-fi shows, travelling, and finding new and exciting places to eat.
Dr. Whitney Ereyi Osas Ehiwe
PGY-4 | McMaster | Paediatrics-
Bio
Hi everyone! I’m so excited for the opportunity to run for a second term as one of your McMaster PARO representatives!
My name is Whitney and ’m a fourth-year Pediatrics resident at McMaster Children’s Hospital. I completed medical school at the University of Calgary, where I served as the Vice President of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion on the Medical Students’ Union. I continue to be involved in EDI through the Pediatric EDI Working Group at McMaster, and that perspective continues to shape how I approach advocacy.
Serving as one of your PARO representatives this past year has been a privilege. One of the biggest things I’ve learned is that some of the most meaningful advocacy happens behind the scenes. Over the past year, I’ve had the opportunity to provide input to policies to help improve the resident experience at McMaster and across Ontario, help residents navigate PARO policies related to proposed call model changes, and advocate for practical improvements to residents’ day-to-day work environments. I also helped organize resident wellness events, including our Music Bingo night at Collective Arts.
These experiences have given me a much better understanding of how PARO works, how resident concerns can move from local discussions to provincial advocacy, and how to collaborate with resident and program leaders to advocate for meaningful change. They’ve also reinforced something I think is just as important: effective advocacy starts with listening. My goal as your PARO representative is to be someone who is approachable, responsive, and genuinely invested in hearing your concerns, because I believe the best advocacy comes from understanding the experiences of the people you’re representing.
I’m running for a second term because I want to continue listening, advocating, and working to improve the resident experience across McMaster while ensuring every resident feels heard and represented. I’d be honoured to continue serving as one of your McMaster PARO representatives. Thank you in advance for your support!
Dr. Gaya Giri
PGY-2 | McMaster | Int.Med-Neurology-
Bio
Hi everyone! I'm a PGY2 Neurology resident at McMaster and moved to Hamilton about a year ago to start residency. Moving to a new city while beginning residency gave me a firsthand appreciation of both the excitement and challenges that come with this transition.
I'm running for PARO General Council because I want to help ensure McMaster residents' perspectives are heard at the provincial level. Having gone through the experience of moving to Hamilton, learning a new hospital system, and finding my place within a new residency community, I know the importance of having supportive and accessible advocates who are willing to listen.
I am passionate about bringing forward McMaster residents' concerns, ideas, and experiences to PARO General Council. I know that resident voices are essential in shaping policies that impact our training, working conditions, wellness, and overall residency experience. I am excited about the opportunity to participate in discussions and vote on issues affecting us all while helping advocate for positive changes that support our colleagues.
I will be a friendly and approachable representative who residents feel comfortable reaching out to. I want residents to feel that they have someone who will listen to their concerns, share their perspectives, and advocate for their experiences at PARO General Council. I look forward to the opportunity to support McMaster residents and contribute to making residency a better experience for everyone.
Thanks for taking the time to read my bio. I would really appreciate your support!
Dr. Grace Huang
PGY-2 | McMaster | Anaesthesia-
Bio
Hi everyone! I’m Grace, a PGY2 anesthesia resident, and I’m excited to be running again this year for PARO General Council!
This past year on PARO, I sat on the SJHH Medical Education Committee, organized events such as our Play with Clay Night and Drag Brunch, and helped out with resident orientation for the incoming PGY1s. It has been a privilege to not only represent McMaster residents on important issues, but also create opportunities for residents to meet one another at these social events.
Navigating transitions into, within, and out of residency can be difficult, so I’m eager to help ensure residents feel prepared, informed, and connected at each stage. My experiences on PARO last year, as well as my former experiences on McMaster’s UGME Admissions Committee and leading the provincial Day of Action have taught me how to think strategically, work with a wide range of people, and turn ideas into systems-level change at both the institutional and provincial levels. As a member of the PARO General Council, I hope to be someone who doesn’t just speak up, but also follows through. Some issues that I hope to continue working on include sustainable workloads, safe call environments, and streamlined access to benefits.
I am also a firm believer that creating community is central to wellness. At McMaster, I hope to continue fostering a strong, connected resident community - whether that is organizing fun social events, helping residents better understand their contract, or making sure our voices are reflected in every level of decision-making. No one should have to navigate training alone, and I’d love to be someone residents feel comfortable reaching out to for help, questions, or just to talk.
Outside of the hospital, I enjoy being active and outdoors, attending live music events/concerts, and curating my ranked lists of Hamilton’s best coffee shops and restaurants!
I would be honoured to represent McMaster’s residents, and contribute my energy, creativity, and dedication to the PARO General Council for another year. Thank you for your consideration!
Grace :)
Dr. Megan Chu
PGY-4 | McMaster | Anaesthesia-
Bio
Hi everyone! My name is Megan, and I am a 5th-year Anesthesia resident running for re-election to the PARO General Council. Over the past two years, sitting on the General Council has given me incredible insight and the privilege of working closely with like-minded colleagues who prioritize resident wellness and advocacy. I am eager to bring both my experience and my deep passion for advocacy back to the table for one more year.
During my time on PARO, I have focused on translating resident concerns into concrete, systemic changes while keeping connection and well-being at the forefront. I've had the privilege of helping organize the Transition to Residency event to welcome and equip our incoming PGY-1s with advice, mentorship, and opportunities to build lasting peer connections. Additionally, I worked closely with our team to help programs navigate the "home after handover" policy changes, co-drafting practical guidelines for administrators and Program Directors to safeguard resident wellness and contract compliance. I have also loved volunteering through PARO with both the Longitudinal Orientation Program for all PGY-1s and the Touchstone program for incoming IMGs, providing guidance and ongoing support as they start their journeys at McMaster.
My primary goal for this upcoming year is to keep pushing the needle on resident wellness and positive culture improvements. I want to ensure that our contract is not just respected on paper, but that our day-to-day work environments genuinely support our physical and mental well-being. I will continue to be an accessible, strong voice for McMaster residents—ensuring our workspaces are safe and comfortable, our transitions are smooth, and our voices are heard loud and clear at the provincial level. I would be incredibly grateful for your vote to continue representing you this year!
Thank you,
Megan
Dr. Vaasu Lambotharan
PGY-1 | McMaster | Anaesthesia-
Bio
Hi everyone! My name is Vaasu and I am a PGY1 anesthesia resident excited to throw my hat in the ring for this year’s PARO General Council.
I hope to strengthen McMaster’s vibrant resident community by collaborating with the council, advocating for our residents, and bringing innovative ideas and strategies from my time abroad.
I have had the privilege to work and train in both the UK and New Zealand before coming and joining McMaster. With these experiences I have been able to reflect on multiple ways of working and training systems across the world. I was actively involved in the UK’s North West Foundation Forum and resident doctor’s union - helping to organise and collaborate to improve the working lives of resident doctors across the country.
Alongside my global experiences, I hope to bring my enthusiastic optimism and commitment to service to the team. I am excited to learn and listen to the ideas of fellow council members and the resident body on how best to serve our community. I have seen first-hand how strong resident forums can improve the training and working lives of doctors and hope to participate in the resident council with conviction and care for our resident-body.
Thank you for taking the time to consider me as your resident council representative. I look forward to meeting you all in the year ahead
Dr. Patrick Yao
PGY-3 | McMaster | Physical Medicine and Rehab.-
Bio
Residency feels like a marathon and a sprint at the same time. There is hope that with the cumulation of our experiences we’ll amass the knowledge/skills to pass Royal College, but at the same time, the day-to-day is overwhelming, and can feel as though you’re on autopilot barely staying afloat.
My name is Patrick and I am re-running for PARO General Council. What I’ve learned through residency so far is that we don’t have time for it all. Last year on GC, wellness was the priority. My contributions included spearheading our Board Game Café night and the Pizza & PARO Contract Renegotiation Survey Event. I served as the Resident Enhancement Fund Rep, advising/reviewing all requests submitted provincially. Finally, I advocated for Peds/Peds Neuro Residents to get parking at Ron Joyce, to both make the lives of those residents easier and to declutter the abysmal zoo that is the HGH Parking Garage for everyone else (before we were all hurtled out for its construction).
This year, I want to leverage this experience and add to it. Two specific goals I have set include:
1.Creating low-effort opportunities (events/resources) to learn more about the non-clinical aspects of being a doctor. Exploring financial literacy (ie. incorporation, salaries, moonlighting, benefits) and professional development (ie. licensing, reimbursements, legalities) shouldn’t be hidden curriculum while we barely have time to keep up with the academic side of things.
2.Continuing wellness initiatives with planning events and returning as REF lead, using what I’ve learned to improve the success of applications. This year, I will actively seek out the social/wellness leads from programs to try and find ways that the resident bodies of each can take advantage of the funding opportunity.
As a person who, outside of my love for board gaming and sports, loves to min-max my decisions and time, my objective is for people to go through residency feeling that their environment is continuously changing for the better and attaining a sense of progression/readiness for the steps beyond, at every stage of training.
Thank you for your consideration, it would be my honor to represent again.
Patrick
Dr. Jayden Berdugo
PGY-1 | McMaster | Obstetrics/Gynecology-
Bio
Hi everyone! I'm Jayden, a PGY1 OBGYN resident, and I'm so excited to be running for PARO General Council this year.
Being part of McMaster’s supportive culture had a huge impact on my training, and it taught me how meaningful it is to feel like you belong. I hope to help foster that same sense of connection within our residency community.
During medical school, I was co-chair for our social committee, organizing class galas and special events that brought people together and helped strengthen our class bond. Those experiences showed me how meaningful it is when people feel supported, celebrated, and connected, especially during demanding times.
As a new resident, I've already seen how important it is to have people genuinely care about resident well-being and who are willing to advocate for their peers. I hope to be someone you feel comfortable approaching about anything, whether that's concerns, ideas, or simply knowing you have someone in your corner. Residency can be intimidating at times, and I want to help make Mac feel like a safe, inclusive space where we lift each other up and no one feels alone.
I care deeply about building a strong, supportive environment for residents across all specialties. I want to help create wellness and social events bringing us together, while also ensuring that we feel empowered and informed about knowing our rights and benefits. Being on the council would give me the chance to collaborate with like-minded residents, build on the initiatives that already positively impact our community, and introduce new ideas that help us recharge outside of clinical responsibilities. I am committed to fostering a space every resident feels seen, heard, and valued. I believe that our voices should shape our training and create opportunities for real change, and PARO General Council is the perfect place to drive that change for all Ontario residents.
I’d be honoured to represent our McMaster community on PARO. Thank you so much for considering me!
Dr. Rohan Dadak
PGY-3 | McMaster | Anaesthesia-
Bio
Hey Everyone!
My name is Rohan, and I am one of the Anesthesia PGY3’s! I am super excited to be applying to be a member of the PARO General Council!
In med school, I had the absolute privilege of being a member of the McMaster Medical Student Council. This has given me an immense pride in our McMaster Community! In this role, I was dedicated to being a strong advocate for my cohort, actively representing us on various committees and task forces. I took great pride and joy in collaborating with peers and faculty to implement new initiatives and social events, all based on the wants and needs of our class. Through this position, I was fortunate to gain valuable experience that will guide me as I strive towards serving on PARO General Council.
My goal on PARO is to ensure that our residents not only feel supported, but feel that same sense of pride in our community. I aim to be a dedicated advocate and reliable voice for our lovely resident group. I strive to be someone who Is readily available, open to listening, and receptive to all voices.
Furthermore, as we all know, residency comes with its own unique challenges. Navigating these challenges is easier when we have a strong, supportive, and cohesive community. I would welcome the opportunity to help foster that sense of camaraderie and connection amongst our residency program.
Thank you so much for considering me for your PARO Council! Here’s to a great year!
Rohan
Dr. Priscilla Matthews
PGY-4 | McMaster | Int.Med-Gastroenterology-
Bio
Hi everyone! My name is Priscilla Matthews, a PGY4 Gastroenterology fellow at McMaster University, and I’m excited to be running for PARO General Council for the first time. I’m passionate about advocating for resident wellness, health and safety, and an enriched, accessible learning environment for residents across Ontario.
One of my priorities is resident wellness. Throughout my training, I’ve realized many residents are unaware of the benefits available through PARO, including coverage for medical and dental care, psychotherapy, massage therapy, orthotics, and more. For example, I only recently learned that compression stockings are covered! I seek to improve awareness of these resources through a resident handbook or virtual information session so everyone can maximize their benefits. I also want to advocate for better call environments by ensuring resident lounges have functioning fridges, microwaves, and clean sleep rooms, while collaborating with hospitals to subsidize beverages and healthy snacks during call.
I’m also committed to promoting resident health and safety. During residency, I occasionally had to walk home through a poorly lit park after midnight, which often felt unsafe. I hope to advocate for province-wide safe-walk programs in partnership with hospital security or university escort services. I’m also passionate about preventing ergonomic injuries. Many residents, particularly in procedural specialties, develop chronic joint and muscle pain from prolonged poor posture. One of my goals is to introduce ergonomic education sessions and advocate for improved equipment to help prevent long-term injuries.
Finally, I believe residents deserve equitable access to high-quality educational resources. Tools such as UpToDate and MKSAP are invaluable but often prohibitively expensive. I will advocate for increased funding for educational subscriptions, question banks, and textbooks so all residents can access the resources they need to succeed.
Thank you for taking the time to read my application. It would be a privilege to represent you on PARO General Council and advocate for a safer, healthier, and more supportive residency experience for all.
Dr. Vivian Chen
PGY-4 | McMaster | Paediatrics-
Bio
Hi everyone, my name is Vivian and I'm so excited to be running for PARO General Council again this year! My past two years on PARO GC have been incredibly rewarding, and I'd love the opportunity to continue the work we've started together. My priorities are:
1. Build community through fun, free events.
Residency is challenging, and opportunities to connect outside of work can make a real difference, especially for residents who have relocated to Hamilton. Over the past two years, I've organized events like the Transition to Residency Café Hop, Board Game Night at Bard & Bear, Bayfront Skating Social, and Collective Arts Music Bingo. I'd love to continue creating accessible events that help residents build friendships and feel connected.
2. Advocate for safe and supportive learning environments.
Through my work on medical education committees, I've seen the impact of bringing resident perspectives to important discussions. I've contributed to improvements in handover policy, responded to concerns about call room quality, and advocated for individual residents facing scheduling issues. I want to continue improving resident workspaces, promoting safe work hours, and advancing fatigue risk management by supporting post-call days, fair weekend scheduling, and compliance with call maximums and vacation entitlements.
3. Help residents maximize their PARO resources and benefits.
One of the reasons I value PARO is its advocacy for resident compensation and benefits. I'd like to help residents better understand and make the most of their contract by creating practical guides on benefits, caregiver supports, and leave options, so everyone can access the resources available to them.
It has been a privilege to represent McMaster residents over the past two years, and I'd be honoured to continue serving as your PARO General Council representative. Most importantly, I'd love to hear from you! Please don't hesitate to reach out at vivian.chen@medportal.ca if you'd like to chat about anything from advocacy, event ideas, wellness, or favourite restaurants/cafes :)
Dr. Sami Alameddine
PGY-1 | McMaster | Emergency Medicine-
Bio
Hey everyone! My name is Sami, and I am a first-year Emergency Medicine resident. Throughout medical school and residency, I’ve been fortunate to build strong relationships with residents across many different specialties. These connections have given me a broad perspective on the shared challenges we face as residents and the unique experiences within each program.
If elected to PARO General Council, my goal is to be an approachable, engaged, and outspoken advocate for McMaster residents. I will work to ensure that programs uphold both the spirit and the letter of the PARO agreement so that residents are treated fairly and consistently. I am also passionate about advocating for stronger compensation and benefits where possible, supporting safe learning environments, and ensuring every resident feels valued within their program.
Beyond advocacy, I want to help strengthen the sense of community among McMaster residents. Residency can be isolating, especially across different specialties, and I want to push for more opportunities to connect with one another outside of the hospital. I would love to organize more social events and create an inter-program intramural sports league, bringing residents from different specialties together to compete in a variety of sports throughout the year. Over time, I hope this could grow into a provincial resident tournament similar to Med Games, creating even more opportunities for residents across Ontario to connect and build relationships.
I also want to focus on practical initiatives that make resident life easier. As a dog owner, I know firsthand the stress of finding someone you trust to care for your pet while you are on call. I would love to explore creating a resident pet-sitting network where colleagues can support one another during busy clinical rotations.
I would be proud to represent the exceptional group of McMaster residents on PARO General Council and bring your concerns, ideas, and priorities to both local and provincial meetings.
Dr. Arielle Locke
PGY-3 | McMaster | Paediatrics-
Bio
Hi everyone! I’m Arielle, one of the PGY3 Pediatrics residents, and I’m excited to be running for PARO General Council!
I’ve thought about running for General Council for a while, and after two years of residency, I decided this is the year. Having had the opportunity to better understand the inner workings of residency and the role PARO plays in advocating for residents, I feel I’m now in a great position in my training to contribute meaningfully.
I’ve been involved in various representative roles throughout medical school and residency including being RPC resident representative since PGY1, liaising directly with program leadership and faculty to bring forward residents’ concerns. I would love to continue advocating for issues that directly affect residents from fair compensation and greater flexibility and customization of our benefits, to practical improvements in our day-to-day working environment. Better call-room amenities (when was the last time we had consistently functioning lamps and charging cables?!) and access to snacks and fuel during long shifts can make a real difference.
A major priority for me would be being approachable and responsive to resident questions and concerns and ensuring they are heard and directed to the right people. I’d also love to help organize social events that bring residents together. I really enjoyed these events as a first-year resident (from play with clay to spin class), especially when everyone was new and getting to know one another.
Thank you so much for your consideration and support :)
Dr. Parisa Mirzajani
PGY-4 | McMaster | Int.Med-Clinical Immunology/Allergy-
Bio
Hi everyone! I’m Parisa, a PGY-4 Clinical Immunology & Allergy resident at McMaster.
Like all of you, I’m just trying to survive residency! One call shift, one coffee at a time. ☕ (Yes! We do have calls! Although I have to admit… by PGY-4 it does get better, and I promise it will for you too! 😉)
One of my favorite parts of residency has been connecting with and supporting my co-residents. During my Internal Medicine residency at NOSM, I had the opportunity to serve as a PARO representative, and it showed me how much of a difference simply listening, being approachable, and following through can make.
I’d love the opportunity to continue that work here at McMaster as your PARO General Council representative. After all, I’m one of you! I understand the challenges because I’m living them too. My goal is to help make residency just a little bit better for all of us.
If elected, I’ll always do my best to be approachable, responsive, and someone you can count on to represent your voice.
I’d truly appreciate your support, and I’d be honored to have your vote. Thank you!
Dr. Anna Apara
PGY-1 | McMaster | Paediatrics-
Bio
Hi, Im Anna Apara a PGY-2 Pediatrics resident at McMaster University with a passion for acute paediatric care, medical education, and resident advocacy. Over my first year of residency, I have enjoyed learning from and connecting with patients across a variety of clinical settings, before finding a particular interest in neonatal and paediatric critical care.
Throughout medical school and residency, I have been actively involved in leadership, teaching, and mentorship. As president of my medical school's Medical Education Society, I helped develop peer teaching initiatives and promote educational opportunities for fellow students. During residency, I have continued this commitment by mentoring medical students, helping in facilitating clinical skills and simulation teaching sessions and helping develop resources to support junior learners as they transition into residency.
Outside of work, I enjoy going to the gym, hot pilates classes with friends, exploring new restaurants or matcha shops, travelling, and spending time with family and friends. Over the past year, I have been able to create meaningful connections both within and outside of medicine and believe that maintaining balance and supporting one another are essential to thriving as residents. If elected, I hope I will be able to represent my co-residents with enthusiasm, advocate for trainee perspectives, and continue to help build opportunities for education, wellness, and professional development across PARO, and I hope you consider voting for me.
Dr. Satya Kotipalli
PGY-1 | McMaster | Surgery-Orthopaedic-
Bio
Hey everyone, I'm Satya, a PGY-1 Orthopedic Surgery resident at McMaster. A little bit about me, I was born in India but moved here when I was around 2 years old and grew up in Brantford ON. I went to Western for Undergrad and completed medical school at McMaster. Whenever I have free time I enjoy playing sports (basketball and volleyball), lifting, and cooking. I'm passionate about advocacy and leadership, having been VP finance for McMaster's Medical Student Council and being involved in mentorship and teaching throughout my life.
As doctors, our goal isn't just to make patients feel better, but to be advocates for them in every aspect of healthcare. This can be from the small interactions we have on the wards, to the larger systemic changes that staff make to policies in the hospital. Regardless of what level you're at, there is always a need to support those who need it most. With that being said, residents are at a high risk of burnout, overworking, and being pushed beyond their limits. This job is incredibly rewarding, there is nothing else like it. But the training required in residency is difficult, demanding so much time and energy that it often leaves residents questioning their choices.
I want to join the PARO team to make meaningful changes in the lives of residents. From making summaries of our insurance benefits, as so much of them go unused, to creating workshops with staff for networking and understanding how to get a position after finishing residency, there are so many small, creative ways to have a meaningful impact on residents. These changes that optimize universal resident accessibility and understanding are what I believe will resonate and have the largest net benefit on residents across Ontario, and what I would try to implement if on council.
Dr. Darren Chai
PGY-6 | McMaster | Psychiatry-Forensic-
Bio
Hi Everyone!
My name is Darren Chai, and I am a PGY6 resident in Forensic Psychiatry! Having completed both my medical school and a 5-year residency here at McMaster, I'm well-versed in the various policies and stakeholders that affect us as McMaster residents.
Between PGME, St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, Hamilton Health Sciences, your program, PARO, and the Royal College, there are enough policies to make your head spin. As residents, very few of us have the time to read through all these policies. Having been at McMaster for the last 9 years, I've been exposed to many situations where programs and/or hospitals inadvertently encroach upon the Terms and Conditions outlined in our Collective Agreement. Typically, these encroachments stem from unawareness of the details of the PARO contract, but they are encroachments, nonetheless.
Should I have the privilege of being your elected PARO representative, my number 1 priority would be to advocate for your interests as individuals. In a large sea of residents and stakeholders, it is easy to get lost and feel like "just another number," but I understand that the circumstances each resident faces are unique and multifaceted, requiring personalized direction and support within the framework of our Collective Agreement.
As your elected representative, I would advocate for resident safety and wellness, enhanced educational opportunities, and strict enforcement of the Collective Agreement by the Ontario Teaching Hospitals and Post Graduate Medical Education.
Having completed a 5-year residency, I know how much you already have on your plate. Let's work together to foster an environment where your training can be prioritized, your wellness can be protected, and your efforts can be appreciated.
Thank you for considering me as your PARO representative!
Sincerely,
Darren Chai
Dr. Tania Kazi
PGY-3 | McMaster | Surgery-General-
Bio
Hi everyone! My name is Tania and I’m a PGY3 General Surgery resident currently completing a MSc in Health Research Methodology through the Clinician Investigator Program. I'm running for PARO General Council because I believe effective resident advocacy is about more than identifying problems. It requires listening, collaborating, and turning resident priorities into meaningful, lasting change.
As a former Surgical Foundations Resident Representative, I worked closely with residents and faculty to advocate for learner needs, including securing funding for a SPINCO wellness event for Surgical Foundations residents. I continue to support the program through teaching, mentorship, and orienting new trainees.
More recently, I worked with faculty and departmental leadership to help restructure and preserve the Clinician Investigator Program for surgical residents, ensuring research opportunities remained available despite significant financial constraints. This reinforced that meaningful advocacy happens through collaboration, persistence, and identifying practical solutions.
If elected, my priorities will be:
Resident Wellness: Advocating for healthy training environments, fair working conditions, functional call rooms, and initiatives that support physical and mental well-being.
Professional and Academic Development: Expanding access to conference funding, mentorship, career development, and opportunities for resident research and scholarship.
Resident Financial Well-Being: My graduate training, with a focus on health economics and policy development, has strengthened my understanding of how funding decisions affect trainees. I will advocate for fair compensation and practical financial literacy resources that help residents better navigate reimbursements, moonlighting, contracts, and the financial realities of training and independent practice.
Above all, I want to be a representative who listens, follows through, and is someone residents feel comfortable reaching out to. Whether it's answering a question, raising a concern, or turning an idea into action, I want residents to know they have someone they can count on.
Thank you for your consideration!
Dr. Viveeka Vimalanathan
PGY-2 | McMaster | Paediatrics-
Bio
Hello Distinguished Colleagues!
My name is Viveeka Vimalanathan, and I am currently a PGY2 Pediatrics Resident at McMaster. I am excited to run for the PARO General Council this year and be able to advocate for my fellow colleagues! I am passionate about building a strong community to ensure resident voices are heard and create a safe and welcoming learning environment. I believe in open communication, transparency and collaborative projects to address concerns that matter most to us.
During my time at University of Queensland Medical School, I have held multiple leadership roles, which included being the Advocacy Representative for 2 years with the medical society and leading many social foundations including the Blood Bank and Teddy Bear Hospital visitation for young children. Upon graduating, I completed 2 years of residency in Australia prior to matching back in Canada. During this time, I was the Vice-President and Academic Representative of the Hospital Medical Society. I organized countless social events and advocated for improved amenities in the lounge and call rooms which included modern renovations, hydrating beverages, and technology advancement. I understand the positive impact councils can make to their colleagues by advocating their concerns and taking action to ensure positive growth and development.
Once given the opportunity to be your representative, my first goal is to collaborate with other leaders and address issues that impact our residents, from increased funding for snacks/beverages during long call days, improving technology around the hospital, and improving the quality of our call rooms. I would also organize more social events which would allow residents from all programs to socialize and develop professional relationships.
With an unequivocal commitment to integrity, teamwork, and community service, I will work to support initiatives that enhance our quality of life and strengthen our sense of community. I would be honoured to earn your trust and your vote.
With your support, our time at Mac will be exciting, uplifting, and memorable! Let’s go Mac!
Dr. Mariam Mahboob
PGY-1 | McMaster | Psychiatry-
Bio
Hello everyone! My name is Mariam, and I'm a PGY1 Psychiatry resident! I also completed medical school at McMaster, where I served as the Waterloo Regional Campus Representative on the McMaster Medical Student Council (MMSC).
I've always had a strong interest in learner advocacy. I genuinely enjoy connecting with learners across programs, and I firmly believe that, given how many ups and downs life already brings, our learning environment shouldn't be another source of unnecessary stress.
I have an extensive history of student leadership, ranging from student union roles during undergrad to my work on the MMSC. These experiences have given me a strong understanding of the resources and supports available to medical learners and residents at McMaster, as well as the opportunity to build positive working relationships with faculty and PGME leadership.
Through the MMSC, I was also involved with the OMA, where I collaborated with students across Ontario to advocate for program-related changes, share ideas around wellness initiatives, and bring successful programs back to McMaster. One project I was particularly proud of was advocating for clearer professionalism process policies at McMaster during a time when professionalism concerns were, across several medical schools, being applied inappropriately to learners.
If elected to PARO General Council, my goals are to:
1. Continue advocating for resident wellness at McMaster by leveraging my experience and relationships to help improve supports, increase awareness of available resources, and serve as a point of contact for questions about resident life like vacations, financial support, and emergency resources.
2. Create an accessible forum where residents can raise concerns as they arise, with regular monitoring and follow-up to ensure concerns are heard and residents feel supported.
3. Strengthen our sense of community by connecting with more residents and helping organize fun, inclusive events that bring people together. :)
Thank you for your support!