Meet SAIT’s Spring 2024 valedictorians

Through perseverance and determination, I’ve learned to navigate academic challenges, proving that disabilities do not bottleneck my capabilities.

Aditya Siddhanta

Aditya Siddhanta, Information Technology, School for Advanced Digital Technology

Aditya grew up in Calgary, and SAIT was his first-choice post-secondary. He has always been fascinated by computers and learned a lot about configuring settings and troubleshooting from a young age. That passion motivated him to choose his current educational and career path.

Through world-class training and thoughtful guidance, SAIT empowered Aditya to push beyond the limits of his disability. With determination and perseverance, he learned to navigate academic challenges — proving that disability does not hinder his capabilities.

While at SAIT, Aditya volunteered with Saitsa, at Open House events and in various projects and class discussions. These experiences contributed to both his education and personal growth.

Aditya wants to contribute to the information technology industry, working in areas like cybersecurity and networking systems to make a difference in the digital world.

I realize that I'm searching for something tangible, something I can grasp with my own two hands — a path that values practical expertise over abstract concepts.

Amir Sadri

Amir Sadri, Architectural Technologies, School of Construction

Amir is a proud graduate of SAIT’s Architectural Technologies program and an active member of the SAIT community. Throughout his academic journey, Amir demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication. As a student leader in SAIT’s Marketing department, and later as the president of the Architectural Technologies Student Association, he fostered collaboration and student engagement across campus.

His commitment to enhancing student life extended to his role as the School of Construction student representative on SAIT’s Academic Council for 2023-24. Amir’s contributions have been recognized with several prestigious awards, including the Construction Award from the School of Construction and the Disruptor Award from Saitsa. These honours reflect his creativity, critical thinking and dedication to grassroots advocacy.

At SAIT, we are not just learners; we are future shapers. I hope we use our learnings and personal experiences in contributing to a better and kinder world.

Auginne Bunado

Auginne Bunado, Business Administration, Human Resources Management, School of Business

Working in human resources in the Philippines, Auginne dreamed of becoming an entrepreneur and opening a restaurant with a group of friends. The onset of the global pandemic led Auginne to reconsider her plans and make the courageous decision to start a new journey in Canada.

Enrolled in the Business Administration diploma program, majoring in Human Resources Management, Auginne immersed herself in the student experience at SAIT. She served on the Saitsa Board of Directors and pursued leadership positions in SAIT’s Student Engagement Office. She was awarded the Peer Mentorship Hero award for her outstanding commitment to mentoring fellow students. Through these diverse engagements at SAIT, Auginne broadened her network, learned about new cultures and built support systems for herself and others.

Auginne is graduating from her program with honours. She considers SAIT not only as the place where she found academic success, but also as where she found a strong community and clear sense of purpose.

Don’t forget that your journey could be different. Be open to the possibilities of an unconventional path.

Chimdi Ilonze

Chimdi Ilonze, Bachelor of Applied Business Administration, School of Business

Chimdi grew up in Lagos, Nigeria. As a kid, he enjoyed tagging along with his dad who was a business owner. This exposure would spark his interest in understanding what makes businesses tick. 

In 2020, Chimdi decided he wanted to enroll in a business program and his parents encouraged him to go to SAIT. During his studies, Chimdi volunteered in the English Conversation Partners Program and also launched SAIT’s Afro-Caribbean Student Club with the help of the Black Empowerment and Excellence at SAIT committee. Through this involvement, Chimdi worked to connect the Black community at SAIT with industry professionals and build a community for people to learn more about Afro-Caribbean culture and break cultural stereotypes. Chimdi will never forget his SAIT experience. 

Each of us has a story, a journey that brought us to this moment. We come from different places, cultures and experiences, yet we have all found a common purpose here. Our diverse backgrounds enrich our learning environment, fostering creativity, innovation and a broader perspective on the challenges we face.

Kay-Lee Eckhard

Kay-Lee Eckhard, Energy Asset Management, MacPhail School of Energy

Kay-Lee is graduating with her Energy Asset Management diploma. She was a highly engaged student and served as the vice president of external relations for the Student Petroleum Society, where she demonstrated her leadership and advocacy abilities, driving engagement and outreach efforts.

Born and raised in Calgary, Kay-Lee proudly represents her Métis heritage through her work. Kay-Lee is an enthusiastic volunteer in the energy sector and with SAIT, where she has dedicated significant time to advocating for both the energy industry and Indigenous communities. In her current role as an Indigenous Relations Liaison, Kay-Lee continues to champion these causes, leveraging her platform to drive positive change and foster collaborative relationships.

In her free time, Kay-Lee enjoys exploring the outdoors, connecting with nature and continuing her education on Indigenous traditions and history. Her dedication to her work and her community is reflected in everything she does, making her a true advocate for positive change in the energy sector. 

SAIT Alumni

These are just five individuals in your amazing alumni family. Stay connected through @saitalumni, check out alumni perks and, when you’re ready for your next lifelong learning step, check out these awards and other opportunities at sait.ca/alumni.