The South Asian Studies Institute is pleased to welcome Raaynaa Madaan (she/her) as the new SASI Coordinator at UFV on January 22nd, 2026!
Raaynaa completed her undergraduate studies at the University of the Fraser Valley in 2025, with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Minor in Criminology. From her first year as a student, she became closely connected to SASI as a Research Assistant, where she supported the cataloguing of archival records and assisted with community events. This experience became foundational to her understanding of community-engaged research and reinforced the importance of preserving and amplifying South Asian Canadian histories in the Fraser Valley.
Beyond her academic pursuits, Raaynaa has developed a strong foundation in mental health support, crisis response and community-based programming, through roles in student wellness and peer support at UFV, as well as supporting children and families through recreational programs with the Canucks Autism Network. Her work is grounded in trauma-informed, strengths-based practice and a commitment to inclusive and culturally responsive engagement.
Raaynaa is also actively involved in regional and community leadership. She serves on the Fraser Basin Council’s Youth Advisory Committee and Fraser Valley Regional Committee, where she contributes youth-informed perspectives on sustainability, collaboration and community wellbeing.
For Raaynaa, returning to SASI as Coordinator feels like coming home. She is eager to support the Institute’s research initiatives, deepen community engagement and continue the work of documenting and celebrating South Asian Canadian contributions to the Fraser Valley.