Zenith Fellow Mentee, Class of 2023
Western University, Bachelor of Integrated Science with Environmental Science
Mentor: Dr. Kris Lehndhart

Nima is a student at Western University currently pursuing his undergraduate degree with an Honours Specialization in Integrated Science with Environmental Science.

He has always been fascinated by space, and that passion continues to this day. He is interested in finding ways to combine his studies in environmental science with the space sector, and is inspired by new developments in space research in combating climate change. He believes that the best way to solve a big problem like climate change is to fully understand it, and is encouraged by the improved accessibility of the space sector to the public, as well as the new approaches being developed to understand our world, the universe, and our place in it.

Growing up in London, ON, he is passionate about fencing and competes provincially and nationally, as well as for the varsity team at Western. Through fencing, Nima has found a supportive and engaging community, as well as opportunities for self-improvement and mentoring of others. He also found lessons in resilience as he dealt with injuries that stopped him from training and competing, which taught him the value of being adaptable.

Over the past two years, Nima has been lucky enough to work on Western's CubeSat, Ukpik-1, which is currently preparing for its mission in space. He works on the Payload Operations, Orbit, and ADCS teams and is eagerly anticipating the launch. He is excited about the project's focus on making space and space research accessible and hopes that this project can help progress the space sector to new levels.

Outside of academia, he is heavily engaged in mentorship. He worked as a Program Assistant at Shad UPEI where he mentored young students and is invested in fencing coaching and mentorship both on the Western team and to the youth in the London community.

Space has been a lifelong passion for Nima throughout his life and the most recent technological advancements and contributions to exploring and understanding both Earth and space make both more attainable. Nima is looking forward to doing his part to further our development in space.