Our Crew
The Big Lift’s Crew (aka the CReam of our CROP… get it?) is the fabric that binds our team together. They aid OPs in running the society, and each plans their own service project, where they take the reins in giving back to the community by organising a one-day volunteering activity related to their personal passions.
However, the Winter Trip is where Crew shine the brightest, as they get to lead their own crew groups and show them firsthand just how magical The Big Lift really is.
Our Crew team consists of nine inspiring young leaders, who embody everything The Big Lift aims to achieve.
Pragya Gunti
Crew
Ello! I'm Pragya, but you can just call me Prags. Currently navigating the wild world of Software Engineering in my second year (still figuring out if it's a love or a tolerable relationship).
When I'm not diving into the intriguing world of code, you'll find me soaking up the best kind of fun – quality time with friends. Whether we're conquering virtual realms, tackling errands like pros, or simply coexisting on a never-ending call, every moment is a memory in the making.
Joining TBL (Timeless Bonds of Love, in case you're wondering) has been the highlight of my uni journey. I swear, I've peaked too early, but who's complaining when you're surrounded by fantastic people who share the same passion for making a difference?
It's mind-boggling to think that volunteering brought us all together – same place, same time, different paths converging in the spirit of giving back. Keen to keep the good vibes rolling and see where this journey takes us!
Yuvraj Thakur
Crew
Hi, my name is Yuvraj or Yuvi and I’m a second year IT student!
Throughout high school, I really enjoyed volunteering and found it really fulfilling. Upon hearing about the Winter Trip and the opportunity to make an impact, I knew I had to apply. Going on the The Winter Trip was both exciting and terrifying to me as it would be the longest time I would be away from home and with people I had just met a handful of times prior to the trip. It ended up being an amazing experience; I met so many amazing people, made some lifelong friends, and learnt tons about myself.
I applied to be a crew member to help participants have the same enjoyable experience I had on the Winter Trip. I’m looking forward to the coming year and am super excited to meet everyone!
Laura Schroefl
Crew
Hey legends!! My name is Laura and I am a second year Medical Science student!
I initially joined TBL with a passion for giving back and a hope to make a true difference in other communities (and my own!). This love for volunteering and sharing kindness is something that TBL has helped me grow, through a community of some of the most dedicated, inspiring and selfless uni students you will ever meet!
The connections and perspectives you gain from rural communities is probably my favourite thing about TBL, connecting through the overflowing compassion and empathy of others. It’s truly incredible to see what the work of passionate people, willing to give it a go can do!
Connor Higgins
Crew
Heyo, my name is Connor and I am finally approaching the final stint of my Mechanical Engineering degree. I joined TBL because I had only ever heard good things about the society. It didn’t take me long to understand why anyone that was or has been apart of the society raves about it. It’s something that can’t really be explained so you’ll have to find out for yourself what it feels like getting the TBL bug.
To me, TBL is both the experience that I expected starting out at university, and also the people that I expected to meet. It’s something that I recommend everyone to have a go at as if you wait, you will definitely feel some regret along with the accomplished feeling you get from the various events throughout the year. I’m so excited to be one of the amazing CREW that guided my first year in TBL and hope to provide the same great experience that I was exposed to!
Mya Elkejje
Crew
Hi, I’m Mya! I study Law and Communications (majoring in Writing) and love to read (and write). I love exploring new places and having adventures. I found TBL when I was searching for volunteer organisations that helped people but also made an amazing experience and found exactly that!
Joseph Charbel
Crew
Hi! My name is Joseph and I study Software Engineering and Finance and I'm so excited to be a part of the 2024 crew!
After a friend convinced me to join the winter trip last year I've been so passionate about TBL and all things volunteering. From the towns we visited to all the amazing people I've met, this society has really been life changing.
As crew I'm looking forward to helping others have the same rewarding experiences I've had throughout the winter trip, the service projects, all the social events and all things TBL. Keen for a great year ahead!
Sania Dalal
Crew
Hey there! I’m Sania, currently navigating the eye-opening maze of university life in my fourth year, studying Civil Engineering and Creative Intelligence and Innovation at UTS.
In 2022, I decided to join TBL to forge deeper connections with communities that might not be as accessible outside of the society. TBL has been transformative for me, teaching me to confront challenges head-on rather than shying away from them. I've developed a knack for embracing challenges whenever they arise. Moreover, my journey with TBL has exposed me to the warmth of regional towns and has taught me the importance of hospitality. This inspired me to become a CROP, with a mission to sprinkle some magic into communities and boost people's confidence.
When I’m not studying at uni, chilling at home or working, you can usually find me out and about, engaged in thrilling activities like laser tag, kayaking, or hiking with friends. Adventure is my middle name!
So, what do you say? Care to join me on this exhilarating journey? *extends hand*
Connor Terry
Crew
Heyo! My name is Connor (Terry) and I just finished my Bachelor of IT and am currently studying a Diploma of Languages (Japanese).
Volunteering to me is such an important and fulfilling aspect of my life and I am so glad that TBL opened my eyes to how one small act can have such a positive impact on a community of people.
I’m really happy to be able to provide volunteering opportunities to people as a part of the crew this year and really hope everyone can give TBL a chance and #PayItForward :-)
Mudra Dongare
Crew
Hey! My name is Mudra, I'm a Software Engineering student and I am so incredibly excited to be a part of the CREW for 2024.
I initially joined TBL last year after hearing about it from a friend. I honestly had no idea what to expect, but little did I know as a participant of the 2023 Winter trip I was going to be able to be a part of the most amazing journey as a group of 80 university students. A journey with beautiful and welcoming towns, the wonderful locals we meet and of course the most wholesome of friendships. The trip showed me the massive impact such gestures can have on regional towns and I am so excited to do it all over again this year!
Meet Our Executive Team
Our Executive team is in charge of organising the wider logistics of the society; including the Winter Trip, on and off campus events and liaising with stakeholders within UTS and the wider Sydney community.