Just Say Yes: Meet CBUSU Executive Vice President, Bria Goyetche

Saying yes to the unexpected is a guiding philosophy for Bria Goyetche. It’s an approach that led the Bachelor of Science (Honours) student to step completely out of her comfort zone and into the role of Executive Vice President for the CBU Students’ Union.

“The other executives and I always joke about how many lives I’ve lived, even though I’m so young, because if you give me an opportunity, even if I’m not prepared, I’m going to take it,” Bria says. “I have done the most random side quests, but I think it really helps you discover who you are, especially when you’re young, trying to discover your identity. I think saying yes to things, even if at first they’re daunting, is so important.”​

Leaping into Leadership

That mindset is exactly how she found her way into the Students’ Union. Before her election, Bria had no formal leadership experience. Having spent her free time engaged in a variety of environments, from competitive dance, to sports and 4-H, Bria was no stranger to taking on new challenges. That’s why when Paarth Mehla, now the CBUSU President, approached her to run as his Vice President, Bria quickly jumped at the opportunity.

“Paarth just approached me one day like, ‘Hey, I’m running for the Students’ Union President. Do you want to run as my EVP?’ I thought ‘I don’t know what I’m getting into, but sure!’” Bria says.​

Bria says that with only a week to prepare before the election process began, she spent five days deep-diving into the Students’ Union’s history and structure. Once the team won and the transition began, the purpose of the position quickly clicked and aligned perfectly with her natural inclination for advocacy.​

“I always joke with my family that I never thought I’d be getting into politics, but I guess I never realized that these types of opportunities existed. I always tell students who ask about volunteering or working with us, ‘If you would have told me a year ago that I was doing this, I would have laughed in your face, but I’m so glad to have taken this opportunity!” Bria says.

“A Dual Life”

Taking big leaps is a recurring theme for Bria, who grew up living what she calls “a dual life.” Raised primarily in rural northern Alberta, she spent most of her summers visiting family in Cape Breton Island in the Louisbourg area. When it came time for university, she chose to follow those East Coast roots and hopped on a flight back to Cape Breton right after high school graduation.​

Now in office, Bria’s adventurous energy fuels her advocacy. She’s spearheading data collection to support Open Education Resources on campus and forging external partnerships with community organizations and other advocacy groups. A significant part of her advocacy involves ensuring students understand the direct, ground-level supports available to them as they navigate academic challenges.​

Action and Advocacy

“People don’t necessarily understand that if you need to go through an appeal – either I or someone else here will sit with you and help you through it. Or if you need to talk to someone about something, come talk to us,” Bria says. “We can also point students who need more help toward the Nancy Dingwall Centre for counselling, or the Advising Centre if they need help on the academic side.​”

Ultimately, she wants to use her platform to break down the intimidation factor of getting involved on campus, hoping her unconventional path inspires other students to say yes to leadership roles.

“A big priority for me is bringing the Students’ Union to the students and letting them know from day one that there are so many ways to get involved; one day you could even be one of the executives,” Bria says. “Even if you feel like you’re not capable, you are.”