Olivia Kajoba
Major in Psychology
For Olivia Kajoba, meaningful connection doesn’t always begin with words. Sometimes, it starts with quiet presence; with sitting beside a child, building trust, and meeting them where they are. As a Psychology student in the Arts Co-op Program, Olivia has shaped her experience around this kind of care, working closely with Indigenous youth, neurodivergent students, and children with diverse support needs through roles at UBC Geering Up and Greater Heights Learning Academy. Each work term has deepened her commitment to accessible, equitable education and affirmed her path toward counselling psychology.
In her role as a special education assistant, Olivia is described by her employer as “consistently exceeding expectations,” bringing a positive attitude, strong work ethic, and exceptional problem-solving skills to the classroom. She adapted learning materials to meet individual needs, supported students through behavioural challenges with patience and quick thinking, and contributed to a structured, inclusive environment. Her initiative led her to take on additional responsibilities, from supporting practicum students to assisting with parent communication and improving classroom systems while introducing strategies from her academic training to strengthen student engagement.
Beyond her professional work, Olivia remains actively involved in her community through initiatives like AMS Peer Support, UBC Psychology Research at the BRAIN Lab and PEARL, and connecting with peers from the UBC Black Student Space. As she prepares for graduate studies, she carries forward a clear purpose: to provide thoughtful, individualized support grounded in empathy, care, and meaningful connection.
Olivia Kajoba
Major in Psychology
For Olivia Kajoba, meaningful connection doesn’t always begin with words. Sometimes, it starts with quiet presence; with sitting beside a child, building trust, and meeting them where they are. As a Psychology student in the Arts Co-op Program, Olivia has shaped her experience around this kind of care, working closely with Indigenous youth, neurodivergent students, and children with diverse support needs through roles at UBC Geering Up and Greater Heights Learning Academy. Each work term has deepened her commitment to accessible, equitable education and affirmed her path toward counselling psychology.
In her role as a special education assistant, Olivia is described by her employer as “consistently exceeding expectations,” bringing a positive attitude, strong work ethic, and exceptional problem-solving skills to the classroom. She adapted learning materials to meet individual needs, supported students through behavioural challenges with patience and quick thinking, and contributed to a structured, inclusive environment. Her initiative led her to take on additional responsibilities, from supporting practicum students to assisting with parent communication and improving classroom systems while introducing strategies from her academic training to strengthen student engagement.
Beyond her professional work, Olivia remains actively involved in her community through initiatives like AMS Peer Support, UBC Psychology Research at the BRAIN Lab and PEARL, and connecting with peers from the UBC Black Student Space. As she prepares for graduate studies, she carries forward a clear purpose: to provide thoughtful, individualized support grounded in empathy, care, and meaningful connection.