Vice-President of Media
Yifan, a student at the University of British Columbia (UBC), is deeply invested in the field of natural resource conservation. Her journey began in China and led her to UBC, where she immersed herself in the study of conservation. This transformative academic path has not only broadened her horizons but also ignited a passion within her to make a significant impact on addressing environmental issues.
She holds a profound belief in the power and mystery of nature, viewing it as a force that requires our utmost respect and care. Yifan sees the potential of nature to reshape our world if it is not properly stewarded, a perspective that fuels her commitment to conservation.
In her free time, Yifan finds peace and connection in the great outdoors and photography. She captures the beauty of the natural world, preserving fleeting moments in time.
Yifan’s journey is driven by a deep commitment to safeguarding our planet’s natural wonders. She envisions a future where humanity and the environment coexist harmoniously, and she’s determined to contribute to this vision through her studies and beyond. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of education and the impact one individual can have in the fight for environmental conservation.
Q1. What qualities do you most admire in a leader?
YX: Empathy is the quality I most admire in a leader. It enables them to genuinely understand and care for employees’ well-being, fostering creativity, collaboration, and a positive work environment. They listen, not merely with their ears but with an openness that absorbs emotions, concerns, and dreams. When a team member shares a challenge, this leader doesn’t rush to solutions; they pause, connect, and truly grasp what’s being said. It’s not just a soft skill; it’s a powerful force that shapes culture, productivity, and the overall success of a team.
Q2. What motto inspires you?
YX: “I am driven by a deep passion and need to make a difference and leave this world a little better than when I arrived. That’s what keeps me going.” — Rick Hansen, C.C., O.B.C.
When I first encountered these words etched into the walls of the British Columbia Provincial Parliament, my heart stirred. They revealed a profound ripple effect—the interconnectedness of our actions. Each act of kindness, every effort to uplift others, weaves into a collective tapestry of positive change. It’s as though Rick Hansen himself whispers to all of us: “Your journey matters! Your impact matters!”
Q3. What makes you laugh?
YX: Ah, those quiet moments with my toy bear—they’re like a soothing melody in the chaos of life. His baby-like form, all cuddly and sweet, brings a smile to my face. Dressing him up is my little creative escape! Each outfit tells a story, and he wears them with such grace.
And you know what? He’s my secret keeper. No judgment, just a soft plush ear to listen. Whether I’m bubbling with joy or weighed down by life’s troubles, he’s there. Sometimes, I’ll even whisper my dreams to him, as if he holds the magic to make them come true.
In the morning, I tuck him under his quilt, pretending he’s dozing off. Silly, right? But it’s our little ritual. And when I return home, tired from the day’s battles, I scoop him up in my arms. His accidental hilarious poses crack me up. It’s like he’s saying, “Hey, life’s serious, but let’s not forget to laugh!”
Q4. How do you like to recharge?
YX: I like to eat delicious food to recharge myself. Delicious food is my chosen elixir, my secret potion for replenishing the well of energy within. I also find a fresh start in the heart of nature, where the sun’s rays play hide and seek through the leaves and the wind shares its stories with the trees. My camera is always with me, freezing those calm and stunning moments in time.
Q5. If you could have a superpower, what would it be?
YX: If I were to be granted a superpower, my choice would be to become a protector of our planet, a superhero with the ability to bring about positive change and provide assistance to those in need. This desire stems from a deep-seated longing to make a significant difference in the world and to be a source of comfort and aid for those who are suffering or in distress.
Q6. What personal experiences led you to pursue a role in the media?
YX: I am deeply passionate about immortalizing life’s fleeting moments, whether through the lens of a camera or the frame of a video. Over time, our memories of joy, sorrow, celebration, and affection may fade, but photographs and videos serve as tangible reminders of the emotions and connections we’ve experienced. They are like time capsules, each one holding a precious slice of our past.
Looking back at my photos and videos is like hopping into a time machine. Each one isn’t just a picture or a clip; it’s a portal to a past moment. It feels like I can step right through and find myself back in time, feeling the same emotions, reconnecting with the same people, and recalling the exact circumstances. My interest in media work stems from this very experience. My collection of photos and videos is more than just a hobby; it’s my personal time capsule, always primed to whisk me away on a trip down memory lane.
Q7. What personal goals do you have for the future, both within and outside of IFSA-UBC?
YX: In the future, both within and beyond the scope of IFSA-UBC, I aspire to make significant contributions. I envision myself representing women’s voices at the United Nations or aiding environmental industries in becoming more sustainable and eco-friendly. My goal is to leave the world in a better state than when I arrived, marking it with my unique accomplishments.
As for IFSA-UBC, I hope to elevate its recognition and popularity among students and across the campus. I aim to create an environment that encourages more individuals to engage in open and safe discussions. Ultimately, I wish to see IFSA-UBC flourish as a platform for dialogue and growth.
Interviewed by: Muh Syukron, IFSA-UBC Vice-President of Media