Make sure to get engaged in your student academic associations.
— Samir Janmohamed
Samir Janmohamed
Public policy leader and community volunteer
BA ’18, Department of Economics, Department of Social Science
LA&PS alumnus, Samir Janmohamed was named one of York University’s 2025 Top 30 Alumni Under 30, recognized among a distinguished group of young leaders making a meaningful impact around the world. In recognition of his achievement, we connected with Samir to better understand how his experience as an Economics and International Development Studies graduate contributed to where he is today.
What career did you dream of pursuing in undergrad, and where did your professional path take you after graduation?
I like to think the way I got where I am was unconventional. I always knew I was interested in the intersection between politics and policy. At the same time, I was driven to pursue these degrees because I wanted to graduate and build a career where I could work in partnership with people to improve their lives, address their challenges and foster growth.
I spent my first year after graduation volunteering with my local community teaching children public speaking and critical thinking skills, helping set up our social hall for events and sorting food after our Ramadhan food drive. Fast-forward to fall 2019 and I was volunteering on an election campaign for my local MP. I was one of the youngest people on the team, leading social media and communications efforts. This opened a door to a role in the MP's office where I continued to support with constituent issues and communications.
Having seen the challenges businesses and other organizations went through during the pandemic, a new opportunity presented itself at the Ontario Chamber of Commerce, where I could support both the Policy and Public Affairs teams to advocate for business support and develop policy to bolster economic growth and recovery in the province. This opportunity further allowed me to engage with a wide range of stakeholders from across the province while aligning with my own career goals.
What skills or knowledge from the Economics and International Development Studies program have been most beneficial in your career?
I learned a lot during my time inside and outside York’s lecture halls and seminar rooms. I’m of the opinion that both programs left me with the ability to think quickly and critically, coupled with the ability to clearly communicate my thoughts and opinions. This was further bolstered by engaging in Model United Nations, Debate Society and Public Speaking Society, where I was able to further exercise and hone my skills.
In what ways have the network and connections you made during your studies helped you in your career?
Volunteering with organizations that align with your values and future career aspirations is key. It's hard to find those organizations and spaces when you’re trying to balance extracurriculars and academic commitments. The easiest way you can find the right spaces to engage in is by asking your professors to guide you, or better yet, reaching out to alumni like me who share similar experiences with current students. I have yet to meet an alumnus who is not willing to provide their assistance. We are a resource, ever ready to help current and future York Lions!
Once you find your way into those spaces, the next challenge is striking up a conversation with other people. Imposter Syndrome is real – but it can be addressed. It's important to remember that everyone in those spaces started in the same place. Try to attend events with a classmate and start off by talking to at least one person in a meaningful way. Don’t approach networking merely to ask someone for a job. Go into the conversation open to learning about what they do and how they got there. Where you go from there is up to you.
What advice do you have for first-year Economics and International Development Studies students?
I’ve received lots of advice, but I’ll limit myself to sharing the following:
- Don’t squander your opportunity to branch out of your major – consider double majoring, pursuing a minor or taking on a professional certificate. I’d highly encourage others to consider certificates in public policy analysis or foreign languages. This is a great way to learn more about the field you are interested in and set you up for career success or future graduate studies.
- Make sure to get engaged in your student academic associations. The Economics Students Association and International Development Students’ Association at York are fantastic places to meet and engage with classmates from across the program, where you can benefit from mentorship, take on leadership opportunities and engage with faculty in a meaningful way.
If you can, consider spending a semester or year abroad through York International. Regardless of whether you are an international student coming to Canada to pursue your undergraduate studies or a domestic student, the ability to spend time abroad as part of your degree will not only further bolster your understanding of the world but help you build life-long relationships and learn in a whole new context.