My name is Mona, and I’m born in Damascus, Syria. I have always been fascinated by indigenous traditions and sustainable practices that we did in the villages of Syria. With a background in Chemistry from Western, I excel in scientific research and critical problem solving, particularly in organic chemistry and practical applications of renewable energy. I have contributed to the Yolanda Hedberg research lab, gaining recognition for my research on using gold nanoparticles as radiosensitising agents to more accurately tackle cancer cells. Beyond professional pursuits, I am passionate about music composition and performing on stage, dedicating time to choirs, ensembles and taking on the two year role as president of the Acapella club at Western. 

What is your personal definition of sustainability? 

Sustainability, to me, is the balanced intersection of environmental stewardship, social equity, and economic viability. It's about making decisions and taking actions that ensure future generations have the same, if not better, opportunities and resources as we do today. It encompasses everything from conserving natural resources and reducing waste to promoting social justice and ensuring economic inclusivity. It's a holistic approach to living and working that respects and preserves the planet while fostering a just society and thriving economy.

What role do you see sustainability playing in your professional career?

In my career, sustainability is not just an ethical imperative but a strategic approach that drives innovation, resilience, and long-term success. It's about integrating sustainable practices into every aspect of business operations, from supply chain management to product design and beyond. I see sustainability as a catalyst for rethinking traditional business models, encouraging resource efficiency, and promoting a circular economy. By embedding sustainability into the core of my professional activities, I aim to contribute to a more sustainable industry, mitigate environmental impacts, and address social challenges. As someone aiming to go into the science and research field, specifically healthcare, sustainability can be used as a strategic way to innovate and create new products that not only benefit consumers, but also the planet we live in. This commitment to sustainability also opens up new markets, drives innovation, and enhances brand reputation, positioning the business as a leader in sustainable practices.

What sustainability projects have you been engaged in?

During my high school years, I spearheaded a pivotal sustainability initiative that profoundly impacted the Mississauga Valley area, right in the bustling heart of the city. Inspired by the urgent need to address environmental degradation, my peers and I founded a non-profit group dedicated to cleaning up our local rivers and parks. Week after week, we gathered, armed with bags and gloves, to remove litter and restore the natural beauty of our community spaces. This hands-on project not only reduced waste but also fostered a strong sense of environmental stewardship among the youth in our area.  

In parallel, I delved into the urban challenges of Mississauga for a geography project, focusing on the city's transportation system. I examined the pervasive issue of urban sprawl and proposed sustainable solutions to mitigate its impact. My research highlighted innovative approaches to urban planning, such as enhancing public transit infrastructure and promoting mixed-use developments, to create a more sustainable and interconnected city. This project not only broadened my understanding of sustainability in an urban context but also underscored the critical role of informed, sustainable planning in shaping the future of our communities.

Please list any sustainability-related interests you want to explore during the certificate. 

• Sustainable Healthcare Practices and Green Hospitals
• Pharmaceutical Waste Management and Drug Recycling Programs
• Biodegradable Materials and Sustainable Packaging in Pharma
• Eco-Friendly Lab Practices and Reduction of Research Waste   
• Health Impacts of Environmental Changes and Pollution
• Integrating Traditional and Modern Medicine for Sustainable Health Solutions
• Ethical Considerations in Biomedical Research and Sustainable Development
• Innovation in Telemedicine and Digital Health for Reducing Carbon Footprint