Bachelor of Science in Biology • Toronto Metropolitan University
Bio
Anna Bazangeya graduated from Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU), Toronto, in 2023 with a Bachelor of Science in Biology, where she developed a deep interest in the environment and sustainability. During her time at TMU she immersed herself in a diverse array of courses, from Disability Studies to Environmental Studies, cultivating a multifaceted academic perspective. A transformative moment in her education came from a Field Botany course, "Medicinal Plants in the Flora of Ontario," which reshaped her appreciation for the rich diversity of local plant life and the importance of protecting our local flora and fauna.
For her Honours thesis, Anna investigated the fruit quality of raspberries grown in controlled indoor agriculture, addressing the urgent need for sustainable farming solutions in the face of rapid climate change. This research fueled her passion for urban agriculture and the critical need to increase access to fresh and local produce.
Outside of her studies, Anna participated in the Experience Ventures National Hackathon with a multidisciplinary team, where they designed an innovative app to discreetly connect students to campus food resources in a universally accessible way. The team’s victory in the hackathon further solidified Anna’s dedication to sustainability and opened doors to entrepreneurial and design thinking.
Anna's professional journey has allowed her to continue her thesis work as a research assistant, focusing on controlled environment agriculture (CEA). She has planned and executed various vertical farming projects, enhancing raspberry fruit quality through optimizing environmental conditions, creating predictive development timelines, and utilizing AI to monitor fruit growth and moisture levels. Reflecting on the broader impact of her work, Anna recognizes the broader necessity of sustainable agriculture in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting eco-friendly practices.
In her personal life, Anna enjoys outdoor activities like tree planting, biking or walking her dog, Mika. She also enjoys experiencing foods from different cultures, attending live concerts, spending time with friends, and expressing her creativity through painting. Her passion for nature, art, and exploration drives her commitment to sustainability and her desire to make a positive impact on the world.