U of T Women in Political Science

UofT Women in Political Science is a student-led club that strives to create a gender-diverse space for political discussions.

Our Mission

Hi! Our names are Laila Patel & Karen Slade, and we are the co-founders and co-presidents of the UofT Women in Political Science Club. We believe that it is important for women to be able to learn about and engage in politial disourse in an enouraging and positive environment.

Meet the U of T Women in Political Science 2025 Executive Team!

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Karen Slade

Co-president and co-founder

Hi! I'm Karen, and I am majoring in International Relations and Public Policy. I am passionate about global affairs and political discourse, and I hope to create supportive communities for women in the social sciences.

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Laila Patel

Co-president and co-founder

Hi! My name is Laila and I am a second year majoring in Political Science and Diaspora & Transnational Studies. I didn’t always feel comfortable speaking up in my political science classes, and I realized a lot of women probably feel the same way. I hope this club will build confidence in women's voices, and allow us to form connections with other like-minded individuals.

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Eishaal Khan

Treasurer

My name is Eishaal Khan and I’m in my second year pursuing a double major in Political Science and Public Policy. I’m excited to be a part of WiPs since it gives me an avenue to explore a part of Political Science I find missing from the classroom. I can engage more deeply with women interested in the same field who help create an inclusive space to pursue this passion.

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Shayla Matteis

Secretary

Hi my name is Shayla and I’m the secretary in the UofT WiPS! I study Public Health and Political Science. I joined the UofT WiPS because the values of the club align with my personal life.

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Iman Shirin

Events Co-ordinator

My name is Iman Shirin and I am a second-year majoring in criminology and sociolegal studies, and minoring in political science and art history. I am proud to be a part of WIPS to encourage engaging discussions amongst students and spread awareness on certain topics through our monthly themed events

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Ella Hoffmann

Outreach and Partnerships

My name is Ella Hoffmann and I am a second year student double majoring in Political Science and African Studies. I joined WIPS because I was looking for an opening, inclusive and receptive space to talk about my interests in the field of Political Science. As isolating as a big university like UofT can feel, WIPS allowed me to engage and connect with a smaller community of like-minded students and faculty who share the same passions.

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Elif Alibachev

Communications and Media Officer

Hi, I’m Elif Alibachev. I’m studying Philosophy and Political Science, and I joined Women in Political Science because I believe women deserve equal space, voice, and opportunities—especially in fields and conversations where they’ve historically been underrepresented.

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Reach out to us

We love hearing from new people. Whether you’re interested in our next event, want to collaborate, or just want to say hello, we’d love to hear from you!

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