2023 Summit
The 2023 GUA Summit, 5–8 November 2023, in Dublin, Ireland was a richly engaging mix of student-led research, high‑impact keynote talks and global networking, all aimed at nurturing the next generation of academic and professional leaders.
It reinforced the Summit’s role as a prestigious international platform for outstanding undergraduate scholarship.
Keynote & Featured Speakers
Councillor Yemi Adenuga – brought powerful energy and inspiration to the 2023 Global Undergraduate Awards Summit as our keynote speaker. A trailblazer in Irish politics and social entrepreneurship, Yemi is Ireland’s first Black female councillor, representing Fine Gael on Meath County Council.
Often described as “energy in motion,” she is known for her passion for leadership, empowerment, and inclusion. Her personal journey—from growing up in Nigeria as one of 27 children in a polygamous household, to becoming a respected public figure in Ireland—is a testament to resilience and courage. At just thirteen, Yemi was told that she and her sisters would never amount to anything. Instead of accepting that fate, she used those words as fuel to build a life of purpose and leadership.
In her keynote, Yemi shared how she transformed adversity into impact, delivering a message that resonated deeply with our global audience: that no one’s background should limit their ambition. Through her life and work, she continues to empower others to find their voice, seize opportunity, and lead with confidence.
Her presence at the 2023 Summit left a lasting impression on attendees, reminding us all of the strength in perseverance and the power of self-belief.
Robyn Parr – brought a wealth of insight and authenticity to the 2023 Global Undergraduate Awards Summit as one of our keynote speakers. As University Registrar at Toronto Metropolitan University, Robyn has over two decades of experience leading teams and shaping systems to better serve students and institutions alike.
With an MA in Leadership from the University of Guelph and credentials as a Project Management Professional (PMP), Robyn has built a reputation as a values-driven change leader. Over her ten years at TMU, she has taken on increasingly senior roles and continues to champion innovation in student services and academic administration.
Beyond the university, Robyn has served in leadership roles within the Ontario University Registrars’ Association (OURA), including as President. Her approach to leadership is rooted in practical impact—helping organisations do more with less, and ensuring every decision is grounded in delivering real value.
At the Summit, Robyn spoke candidly about the power of purpose-driven leadership, navigating complexity in higher education, and how to prioritise the student experience in times of change. Her thoughtful, grounded insights struck a chord with students navigating their own academic and professional futures.
Professor Bipasha Baruah – joined the 2023 Global Undergraduate Awards Summit as a keynote speaker, offering a compelling perspective at the intersection of gender, environment, and global development. She is Professor and Canada Research Chair in Global Women’s Issues at Western University, and a leading voice in interdisciplinary research on sustainability and social justice.
Holding a PhD in Environmental Studies from York University, Professor Baruah’s work explores how the transition to a low-carbon economy can be made more gender-equitable and socially inclusive. She has authored a book and more than 100 peer-reviewed publications, reports, and chapters, and frequently advises both Canadian and international organisations on gender, climate, and development policy.
In 2015, the Royal Society of Canada named her to the College of New Scholars, Artists and Scientists—Canada’s only national recognition system for emerging intellectual leaders.
At the Summit, Professor Baruah challenged students to think critically about the systems they are entering, and inspired them to imagine new futures that are not only sustainable, but fair. Her keynote brought both urgency and optimism to conversations about global change, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.
PJ Gallagher – acclaimed Irish comedian, actor, and radio presenter, brought humour, honesty, and vulnerability to the 2023 Global Undergraduate Awards Summit as a keynote speaker.
Known for his sharp wit and unforgettable characters, PJ is a household name in Irish comedy—but in recent years, he has also become a powerful advocate for mental health. In his memoir, Madhouse: The Naked Truth About My Chaotic Childhood, Losing My Mind and Finding a Place to Call Home, he opens up about his own experiences with mental illness and recovery, offering a raw and moving account of resilience.
At the Summit, PJ used his trademark humour to tackle tough topics, reminding students that strength often comes from the most unexpected places. His candid storytelling and fearless openness sparked both laughter and reflection, creating space for meaningful conversations about mental health and identity.
Shaun Cavaliere – Associate Registrar and Director of Student Financial Services at Toronto Metropolitan University, joined the 2023 Global Undergraduate Awards Summit to share his student-first perspective and deep commitment to equity in education.
A recognised leader in the post-secondary sector, Shaun is known for his strategic, inclusive approach to financial aid, student fees, and scholarships. Since joining TMU in 2018, he has helped thousands of students from diverse backgrounds access and navigate higher education. His work is grounded in a belief that financial support should never be a barrier to opportunity.
Fluent in English, French, Italian, Spanish, and Catalan, Shaun brings a global lens to student services. Prior to TMU, he held leadership roles at institutions including École Polytechnique in France, the University of British Columbia, and McGill University. He holds a Master of Public Policy and Public Administration from Concordia University and a BA from McGill.
At the Summit, Shaun offered insights into building inclusive systems in higher education and championed the importance of creating access for all students, regardless of background. His message was clear: meaningful change starts with student-centred leadership.
