Executive Team

 

The Big Lift’s Executive Team, otherwise known as OPs (Operations), are the backbone of the society every year! They are 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.

The team consists of the President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, Events Director, Marketing Director, Communications Director, Fundraising Director, and Creative Director. Each role is unique in ensuring the vibrant success of The Big Lift, and allows the society to run smoothly under the collaborative teamwork of each executive.

Amelia Kraszewski

President

Hey hey! My name is Amelia! I find little joys in sprinting by a sunset, dancing in the ocean, smiling with a stranger and lying in the grass and gazing at the stars in conversation with a close friend. 

I am enjoying my fourth year of studying Law and Social and Political Science. However, I have learnt so much more about life from TBL than I have my degree. The connections you make, towns you’re welcomed into and love you share is something so special and unique to TBL. 

I feel so incredibly privileged to be President for 2026. I am ready to pour my heart and soul into TBL and to make the towns we volunteer in and the students we volunteer with a little more seen and loved. To be leading this society amongst some of the most passionate and generous people I’ve met, gives me absolute faith we will embody everything that TBL is. I am so excited to see what TBL grows into!

Khushi Dakshin

Vice President

Hey hey!! I’m Khushi and I’m so excited to be a part of the 2026 Executive Team!! A bit about me - I’m currently in my final year of Computer Science (thank goodness) and I’ve been a part of TBL for 3 years now, hehe but it doesnt feel like it.

Joining TBL was genuinely one of the best decisions I’ve ever made, even though I was very nervous before my first trip. The poeple I’ve met through this community have been so incredibly supportive, caring and compassionate and being surrounded by them has inspired me to grow into a better version of myself.

Giving back to the community has always been really important to me and I’m so grateful that TBL gives me the opportunity to do that. It’s shows me how even the smallest actions can have a huge impact. I’m so excited to see where we take TBL this year and hope we get to make some lasting memories together! ✧。٩(ˊᗜˋ )و✧*。


Kylie Tran

Secretary

Hii hii! My name is Kylie, I’m currently crashing out in my third year doing Cybersecurity and I’m super excited to be part of the 2026 Ops Team!

I’ve been so lucky to spend the past 2 years with TBL, and feel insanely grateful for every memory made and lesson learned along the way. Between all the volunteering, late-night yaps and bus riddles, TBL has opened a whole new world of experiences for me and pushed me to grow with perspectives and mindsets I never expected. It’s given me the opportunity to step away from the busyness of life and find joy in the little things, like the joy in giving back. This journey has surrounded me with a beautiful, supportive community that genuinely cares and values connecting with the people and places we visit, and I can’t wait for you to experience that too. 

I’m keen to see what this year brings for us and more keen to meet all you lovely people! ♡



Anunaya Rai

Treasurer

Helloooo! I’m Anunaya (Anu), a fourth year Engineering & Medical Science student!

I initially joined TBL wanting to give back, but what I gained in return was far more than I ever could have expected. Through each service project and new person I’ve met, I’ve grown so much in confidence, perspective, and understanding. TBL has pushed me to put myself out there, show up for others, and believe more in myself!

What continues to stand out to me is the lovely community we have. I’m endlessly grateful to be surrounded by individuals who care so deeply about making a difference, and there’s nothing I want more than to help others experience what TBL has given me.

To anybody who still might be a bit unsure, I know how daunting these first steps feel, but I’m so glad you’ve taken them! If there’s one thing TBL has taught me, it’s that the leap is always worth it.


Deepika Parajuli

Events Director

Heyyy my loves! My name is Deepika and I’m in my final year studying Business and IT! If you hear about trinkets, crazy night shifts, or girly hangouts, I’m probably there. But when it comes to TBL, I’ll definitely be there <3 I am so so so excited to be a part of the exec team this year!!

Joining TBL two years ago was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made!! I heard from many people that TBL was “life-changing” and I honestly didn’t believe it at first... and then I realised it really did change my life <3 The society has really ignited my passion and love for volunteering, given me a beautiful community of people, and has given me new perspectives on life!! TBL never fails to make me see the power of collective impact and being a part of this community always fills me with gratitude!!

I hope to give others the same amazing experiences that I have experienced over these past 2 years <3

Madhav Iyer

Communications Director

Energetic, chaotic, and always down for a laugh — these are just some of the words people use to describe me (others include “why is he like this?”). My name is Madhav, and I’m a 4th Year Engineering and Business student who somehow found his way into TBL and never looked back. 

TBL is made special by the deeply rewarding experience it offers. There’s something incredibly grounding about showing up to a town as a group of strangers and leaving with friendships, memories, and a shared sense of purpose. Whether it’s the quiet moments of helping out in small ways or the genuine warmth and gratitude shown by the communities we work with, TBL has a way of reminding you why giving back matters. It’s an environment where connection and growth happen naturally and unintentionally, leaving you feeling like you’ve gained far more than you’ve given. 

Being part of this journey has been fulfilling, humbling, and fun, and I’m incredibly proud to play even a small part.


Shanessa Mascarenhas

Marketing Director

Hey! I’m Shanessa, I am finally in my final year of Computer Science! 

I’ve always enjoyed being involved in a community that allows me to give back and connect with people. I joined TBL after hearing about the Winter Trip from a friend and immediately knew it was something I wanted to be part of. Being involved in TBL has been an amazing opportunity to give back to the community and volunteer alongside like-minded people who care just as deeply about making a positive impact.

Over the past year, being in TBL has allowed me to step out of my comfort zone and discover new things about myself. Through volunteering and working with the team, I’ve gained confidence, developed new skills, and built meaningful connections. These experiences have been so rewarding and I absolutely can’t wait to step into an Executive role this year and help create the same positive and welcoming experience for everyone.

Lina Nguyen

Creative Director

Hello there! I’m Lina and I’m in my fourth year of civil engineering. When I’m not analysing bridges and soil, you will probably catch me binge watching murder mysteries or Gilmore Girls, eating chocolate, swimming at the beach, or volunteering!

Joining TBL has taught me so many things. The main thing is to spread kindness and love everyday to anyone, whoever they may be. And that’s why I’m so dedicated to help make my last year in TBL a special and unforgettable one. So what are you waiting for… let’s Pay It Forward and uplift communities and students together!

Meet Our Crew

Our Crew 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.

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