Zenith Fellow Mentee, Class of 2025
University of Waterloo
Mentor: Lisa-Marie Vaccaro

Mysha is a second-year student at the University of Waterloo, currently pursuing a degree in Systems Design Engineering. She is passionate about space technology, particularly in spacecraft communication systems, satellites, and onboard electronics.

Leading UW ASTRA, Mysha is developing a cosmic noise filtering system to enhance real-time data transmission in the stratosphere. The experiment is set to launch in 2025 as part of the Canadian Stratospheric Balloon Experiment and the Canadian Space Agency STRATOS Program. Last year, she worked on a novel solution for space soldering tested in the Canadian Reduced Gravity Experiment aboard a reduced gravity flight.

Beyond her design team, Mysha plays a role in fostering space engagement at organizations such as SEDS-ÉEDS Canada where she is the Canadian Space Conference Logistics Lead and a mentor for the NASA Space Apps Challenge. At SEDS, she finds fulfillment in creating opportunities for students and professionals to explore the industry.

Mysha also loves creating art in her free time. To her engineering is an extension of the same artistic process, transforming a blank canvas of ideas into something that, like art, can leave a lasting impact.

Mysha is honoured to be a 2025 Zenith Fellow mentee, and she looks forward to further contributing to space research, advocating for space education, and helping shape Canada’s future in the space sector.