Reina Tanimori (BA ’25, BEd ’25) and Rakha Zabin (MEd ’19, PhD ’25) are championing inclusivity for a better future — and leading by example.

The two Faculty of Education changemakers received the Board of Trustees Spirit of Brock medal in recognition of their exemplary leadership and community impact during Brock’s 117th Convocation on Thursday, June 12.

Tanimori, a Concurrent Teacher Education graduate with a minor in Child and Youth Studies and Educational Studies, is a proud first-generation post-secondary student.

“My parents immigrated to Canada in the ’80s and ’90s and could not attend university, and it wasn’t in the picture for me either,” she said. “Every person I encountered at Brock helped me make it happen and supported me on this journey.”

Seizing every opportunity to get the full university experience, Tanimori wanted give back. So, she founded the Brock First Generation Students club in her final year to reduce barriers for other students.

“From paying tuition to registering for classes, I had to figure it all out on my own. The club supports students in their first year with their transition,” she said.

Tanimori also volunteered as a tutor with the Brock Learning Lab (BLL) helping young students in Niagara improve their math and literary skills while developing her innovative, personalized approach to instruction.

“I’m thankful for the professional experience I gained at Brock; working with the BLL and interacting with young learners and their families was transformative,” she said.

Passionate about breaking down barriers, she aims to consider the lived experiences of students and their intersecting identities in her approach to teaching.

Above all, Tanimori wants every student to know they deserve education.

“Take it one day at a time, take initiative and take every opportunity — there is a first for everything,” she said.

Much like Tanimori, PhD in Educational Studies graduate Zabin embodies a leadership philosophy grounded in integrity, passion and purpose. Her journey has been defined by a deep commitment to uplifting students in every role she has taken on.

During her master’s and doctoral studies at Brock University, Zabin emerged as a dynamic student leader. Her motivation was clear: help students thrive.

“The knowledge we gain in the classroom is only the beginning. Growth comes from community involvement, volunteerism and the courage to make a difference,” she said.

Rakha Zabin (MEd ’19, PhD ’25) is one of the inaugural recipients of Brock University’s new GRADvantage Certificate.

As a former international student, Zabin’s research explores how university policies impact those coming to study in Canada from across the globe.

“True education begins when students realize they belong, they matter,” she said.

Zabin received the 2022-23 Ontario Minister of Colleges and Universities’ Award of Excellence in the category of Rising Star in recognition of her impactful research.

As a former Brock University Board of Trustee member, Graduate Student Senator and President of the Graduate Student Association, Zabin gained a deep understanding of university governance and integrated inclusive practices enhancing the graduate student experience.

“I hesitated to submit my nomination, unsure if I belonged to the league,” she said. “But once I did, I was never more certain of anything.”

As well as the Spirit of Brock Medal, Zabin is one of the inaugural recipients of the GRADvantage Certificate, a new distinction that recognizes intentional growth across the academic, professional and community dimensions of graduate education. Also receiving the GRADvantage Certificate this spring was Claire Thyne (BA ‘22, MA ‘25).

GRADvantage is Brock’s professional development framework for graduate students. Through workshops, self-assessments and guided reflection, Zabin explored all five pillars of the program: communicator, community builder, leader, innovator and researcher.

She says the reflection component helped her to tie all her experiences together and understand the kind of scholar and professional she aspires to be.

But it was the emphasis on impactful research that resonated with her the most.

“What makes GRADvantage special is how it challenges you to think about the ‘why’ behind your work,” says Zabin. “It encourages you to be intentional, to recognize your growth, and to align your actions with your values.”

Now a Learning Skills Specialist with Brock’s Learning Services, Zabin is harnessing her lived experience as a woman of colour to empower students through inclusive academic guidance.

On Convocation Day, Zabin said she did not just wear a robe and cap.

“I wore the prayers of those who believed in me, of every stumble I rose from, and the quiet triumph of becoming more than what I thought I could be — and this is just the beginning.”

Brock University Board of Trustees member Rob Welch presented Rakha Zabin (MEd ’19, PhD ’25) with the Spirit of Brock medal on Thursday, June 12 during the University’s 117th Convocation.