Executive Leadership
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Alexander Adityaprayoga Ryan
President
As President of MiTSA, I lead a 400+ student postgraduate association, guiding the executive team through the Adelaide University merger. I oversee wellbeing and engagement programs including hikes, sports days, industry nights, and charity events, and I focus on scaling our community and improving the student experience.
I’m completing a Master of Cyber Security and a Master of Applied Artificial Intelligence with a background in software engineering and experience as a C# developer and BI analyst. My AI capstone explores privacy-preserving synthetic data generation, while my cybersecurity research focuses on code vulnerability detection in low-resource languages using LLMs.
Outside of study, I enjoy reading, film, and staying active at the gym.
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Joel Jorly
Vice President
As Vice President of MiTSA, I am passionate about building connections with our postgraduate community. I work to strengthen MiTSA’s visibility and foster community through events, storytelling, and innovative engagement.
I am a Master of Computer Science student at the University of Adelaide with 2.7+ years of experience as a full-stack software engineer at Rappit (formerly Vanenburg). Skilled in Python, Java, Angular, SQL, cloud platforms and data science, I combine technical expertise with creative design and communication strategy.
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Hashini Dilusha Wickramasuriya
Treasurer
As the Treasurer of MiTSA, I’m responsible for managing the club’s finances, including budgeting, grants, and reporting. I ensure our resources are managed as efficiently and transparently as possible.
I’m currently in my final year of a Master’s in Data Science at Adelaide University. Before this, I worked as an Actuarial Analyst in the insurance sector. I’m very interested in data analytics, risk management, and sustainability. Professionally, I’m aiming to pursue a career as a data scientist in renewable energy, environmental management, or finance.
Outside of academics, I like to swim, hike, and spend time with friends and family. I’m always happy to meet new people through the club, so feel free to say hi!
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Arsh Uday Salvi
Director of Memberships
As Director of Membership at MiTSA, I lead initiatives around membership drives, onboarding, and retention, while working to enhance the club’s visibility and community engagement. My focus is on fostering active participation, collaboration, and a strong sense of belonging among members.
I am pursuing a Master of International Management at the University of Adelaide, with a keen interest in global markets, international trade, consulting, and marketing. With an undergraduate background in psychology, I enjoy exploring how human behaviour influences decision-making and shapes business strategies on a global scale.
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(Perrie) Kaveesha Periyapperuma
Director of Academic & Professional Development
As Director of APD, I'm taking on the responsibility of ensuring our cohort builds skills and make connections outside the classroom and academics. It may be expanding your horizons in the form of academic/industrial panel discussions, workshops on landing internships or grad roles, or industry nights where you get to connect directly with the people who will be employing you in the future. We take pride in preparing you for the workplace and would love to hear what you would like to see from us next year to help you kickstart your career!
While I'm nearing the end of my own Masters program in Data Science, I have over 1.5 years' experience as a data analyst and I come from a previous Finance/Statistics background. I love anything outdoorsy and used to compete as a track athlete during my school days. Post-graduation, I envision myself working in either medical/health analytics or the renewable energy sector.
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(Solomon) Beno Immanuel
Director of Communications & Merchandise
I am a Master of Cybersecurity student with 2 years of experience in social media, event organisation, content creation, and group leadership. As the Director of Communications and Merchandise, I handle all external and communications and oversee the association's merchandise portfolio. I am dedicated to strengthening our student community by championing meaningful involvement and driving initiatives that enrich the academic, social, and professional journey of the entire cohort.
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Nisarg Shashwat Vaishnav
Director of Sports & Wellbeing
As a Director of Sports & Wellbeing, I am responsible for planning and leading activities such as group hikes, runs, and wellness walks that encourage students to stay active and connected. I am a Masters of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI ML) student (Trimester 3, Year 1).
Beyond outdoor events, I work to foster a supportive and healthy environment by organising seminars, workshops, and awareness sessions on topics such as stress management, mental health, work–life balance, nutrition, and general wellbeing. My goal is to ensure that every student feels empowered, included, and supported throughout their academic journey. With a focus on building a vibrant, health-conscious community, I am dedicated to creating initiatives that enrich both the personal and academic lives of the entire cohort.
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Nikita Fernando
Secretary
As Secretary of the Masters in Technology Student Association (MiTSA), I help coordinate events, communications, and initiatives that foster collaboration, engagement, and a strong sense of community among students in technology. I am dedicated to creating a vibrant, inclusive, and dynamic environment, ensuring smooth operations and continuity across the association.
I am a Master of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning student at the Adelaide University and bring over 3 years of full stack software engineering experience. My technical expertise includes Java, Python, SQL/NoSQL, full stack development (web/mobile) and Docker tools along with practical experience in machine learning libraries and projects. I bring strong technical capability combined with leadership and excellent communication skills, which I leverage to support MiTSA initiatives, take on new challenges, and create meaningful experiences that benefit students in technology academically, socially, and professionally.
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Manas Mukesh Darekar
Director of Events
Manas is a passionate AI and deep-learning enthusiast, studying a Masters in Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning at Adelaide University. With a strong technical foundation and an energetic approach to student life, he brings creativity, structure, and community-focused thinking to his role as Director of Events.
In this position, Manas leads the planning and delivery of MiTSA’s event portfolio, from major flagship gatherings to regular social activities that help strengthen our postgraduate community. He ensures every event is accessible, inclusive, and aligned with MiTSA’s broader mission.
Driven, organised, and always eager to help people connect, Manas aims to create memorable experiences that bring students together and contribute to a vibrant postgraduate culture at Adelaide University.
Officers
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Samarth Neerkaje Saralaya
Assistant Treasurer
As Assistant Treasurer of the Master's in Technology Student Association (MiTSA), I manage budgeting, financial planning, and transparent allocation of resources across all committee initiatives. I work closely with the Treasurer to ensure smooth operations, data-driven decision-making, and responsible financial governance that support activities throughout the year.
I am a Master of AIML student at Adelaide Uni, bringing over four years of software engineering experience at Unisys, where I delivered front-end, microservices, and integration solutions for clients in Australia and India. I also work as an educator in OSHC across Adelaide, which has strengthened my communication and leadership skills while working with diverse groups of children and communities.
I aim to support MiTSA in strengthening student engagement and driving initiatives that enhance the academic, social, and professional lives of postgraduate students.
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Deevit Yakkundi
Academic & Professional Development Officer
My objective as an Academic and Professional Developement Officer is to foster meaningful and informative knowledge exchange within and beyond academia. I aim to contribute real, industry aligned experiences that will create opportunities for MiTSA members.
My techinical experience lies in data analysis, in which I built analytical web dashboards for early startups and MNC's. I also have research experience at the Indian Institute of Science and contributed status optimisation frameworks.
Apart from academics, I have professionally played Table Tennis for the past 8 years. I try to incoporate exploration within my life by going for runs and hikes and to gain new experiences to keep myself stimulated.
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(David) Duy Trung Pham
Academic & Professional Development Officer
As an Academic and Professional Development Officer, I plan to support students by designing and organising initiatives that strengthen their academic skills and career readiness.
I am a Master of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning student at Adelaide University, with internship experience in machine learning and AI research. I love building relationships with people and I’m always looking for opportunities to grow, learn from others, and become a better version of myself, both personally and professionally.
Outside of study, I spend my time doing sports, working out, trying new recipes, and hanging out with friends.
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Isabella Tasset
Academic & Professional Development Officer
As an APD Officer, I assist with event brainstorming, planning, and outreach. I also help conduct personal and professional development workshops for MiTSA members from all disciplines.
I'm a first-year Master's student in AI and Machine Learning with a particular interest in applications of AI for climate adaptation and clean energy. Before coming to Adelaide, I completed a triple-degree undergraduate program in international business from the University of Southern California, the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, and Bocconi University.
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Harsh Deepalkumar Kansara
Events Officer
As an Event Officer for the Masters in Technology Student Association (MiTSA), I support the planning, coordination, and delivery of events that strengthen engagement within the postgraduate technology community.
I am currently pursuing a Master of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning at Adelaide University, with over nine months of internship experience in IoT and Machine Learning.
Since joining the committee, I have focused on helping organise upcoming social, cultural, professional, and wellbeing initiatives while learning the operational workflows behind MiTSA’s event portfolio. I work closely with committee members to ensure smooth logistics, clear communication, and a positive experience for students. Through this role, I aim to contribute fresh ideas, assist in event execution, and help create meaningful opportunities for connection and growth.
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Amisha Narayanan Nambiar
Events Officer
Hi, I’m Amisha Nambiar, currently pursuing a MBA (International). I’m someone who enjoys being involved on-campus, meeting new people, and contributing to student life wherever I can. My background in events, and PR helps me bring fresh ideas, organise activities smoothly, and support teams with good communication and planning.
I enjoy working with people, helping organise events, and supporting clubs that aim to build a stronger student community. I’m always open to trying new things, taking initiative, and contributing wherever needed.
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Ruturaj Yashwant Bhosale
Sports & Wellbeing Officer
Ruturaj brings a vibrant and energetic presence to MiTSA’s Sports & Wellbeing portfolio. In this role, he designs, organises, and delivers a wide range of physical and social activities including hikes, running events, and sports days to help postgraduate students stay active, connected, and supported.
Currently studying a Master of Data Science at Adelaide University, Ruturaj combines his enthusiasm for community, sport, and wellness with a thoughtful, strategic approach to event planning. He works closely with fellow committee members to weave fitness and wellbeing into MiTSA’s broader student-experience strategy, ensuring all activities are inclusive, accessible, and aligned with the needs of our community.
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Vatsal Nalin Thanki
Communications & Merchandise Officer
In his role as Officer of Communications & Merchandise, Vatsal oversees the creation, promotion, and distribution of MiTSA’s branded materials while ensuring our messages reach the postgraduate community clearly and engagingly. He manages merchandise design and logistics, and leads our communications channels to connect members, promote events,and amplify our brand.
Vatsal is studying at Adelaide University with a background in IT and a keen interest in visual arts and creative media. His blend of technical know-how and design sensibility helps bring MiTSA’s identity to life.
Always ready to collaborate, Vatsal aims to make our student community feel both connected and well-represented through high-quality communication and merchandise.
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Shubharthak Sangharsha
Communications & Merchandise Officer
Shubharthak supports MiTSA’s communications and brand presence by helping manage our digital channels, design promotional content, and contribute to the ongoing development of MiTSA’s Squarespace website. In this role, he assists with crafting clear, engaging messaging for the postgraduate community and ensuring MiTSA’s online identity remains consistent, accessible, and up-to-date.
Alongside communications, Shubhartak also contributes to the design and coordination of MiTSA’s merchandise, helping bring new ideas to life and ensuring members feel connected to the association through high-quality branding and materials.
Creative, organised, and always eager to contribute, Shubhartak plays an important part in strengthening MiTSA’s voice and enhancing the student experience across both digital and physical platforms.
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Abhilash Gunasegaran
Memberships Officer
As Officer of Memberships at the Masters in Technology Student Association (MiTSA), I take an active role in coordinating member onboarding, welcoming new students, and ensuring our membership processes run smoothly. My role focuses on assisting with membership processes and contributing to initiatives that promote participation and inclusivity.
I am a Master of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning student at Adelaide University, with five years of experience as a full-stack software engineer, integration engineer (ERP), and IAM specialist. My focus is on creating spaces where students feel comfortable reaching out and getting involved, helping make participation easier and strengthening the sense of belonging within the MiTSA community.
The Board
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Grant Freeman
Founder, Chairperson, & Former President
As a founder and Chair of the Masters in Technology Student Association (MiTSA), I’ve helped build a community of over 400 postgraduate students across Science, Engineering, and Technology. In this role, I focus on fostering inclusion, driving professional development, and creating flagship events that connect students with industry and each other.
Alongside my leadership work, I bring a strong foundation in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, with research interests in applying AI to health and cancer prevention. My aim is to bridge technical expertise with community impact, ensuring MiTSA remains a place where students feel supported, connected, and empowered.
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Llewy Smith
Founder & Board Member
As a founder of the Masters in Technology Student Association (MiTSA), Llewy has supported the establishment and growth of a community of over 400 postgraduate students across Science, Engineering, and Technology. In this role, he focuses on strengthening the association’s foundations through effective coordination, student engagement, and governance, ensuring initiatives run smoothly and inclusively.Alongside this, Llewy brings extensive experience in communication design, automation, and user experience through his work at the University of Adelaide, where he leads teams in improving student services and engagement. Now pursuing a Master’s in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, his interest lies in combining technology, design, and strategy to enhance both the student experience and the broader impact of MiTSA.
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Mrinank Sivakumar
Founder, Board Member, & Former President
As a Founder and former President of MiTSA, Mrinank serves on the Board to provide institutional knowledge, strategic continuity, and governance support to the Society. He advises the President and Executive on high-level decision making, helps guide major initiatives, and ensures MiTSA’s mission and long-term vision remain central to its direction.
His responsibilities include strengthening industry and University relationships, overseeing constitutional and financial integrity, and reviewing significant proposals to ensure they align with the Society’s long-term interests. He remains committed to supporting future committees and fostering a strong, inclusive community for postgraduate tech students.
Mrinank graduated from The University of Adelaide in 2025 with a Master’s degree in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning.
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(Rainie) Lalitphan Sae-teoh
Founder, Board Member, & Former Vice President
As a Founder and former Vice President of the Masters in Technology Student Association (MiTSA), Rainie supports a community of more than 400 postgraduate students by strengthening collaboration, professional development, and inclusive engagement. As a Board Member, she provides institutional knowledge, strategic continuity, and guidance to the Executive Committee.
Rainie is studying a Master’s degree in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning at Adelaide University. With experience in data analytics, big data, and web application development across software houses and the financial services sector. Skilled in Python, PySpark, SQL, and Scala, she focuses on data-driven solutions and is passionate about applying AI to wellbeing, sustainability, and community-focused innovation.
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Kevin Fastje
Founder, Board Member, & Former Treasurer
As a Founder and former Treasurer of MiTSA, Kevin managed the association’s finances, including budgeting, grant administration, transparent reporting, and long-term financial planning. In his role on the Board, he contributes institutional knowledge and supports sustainable decision making to ensure resources are used effectively across academic, professional, and social initiatives.
He graduated with a Master’s of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning at the University of Adelaide. His professional background includes IT project management in the energy and telecommunications sectors in Germany, where he developed strong organisational, coordination, and leadership skills. He now specialises in neural networks and deep learning using frameworks such as PyTorch, with a focus on applying AI to energy systems and sustainability.
Outside of study, he enjoys outdoor activities such as kitesurfing and sailing, as well as travelling and exploring new cultures.
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Dr Bernard Evans
Board Member
Dr Bernard Evans is a Computer Science lecturer at the University of Adelaide, teaching artificial intelligence and software systems. His research focuses on how dragonfly visual neurons encode motion and small-object detection, combining electrophysiology with computational modelling. He also develops deep learning and FPGA-based systems inspired by insect vision for efficient object tracking.
As Chairperson of MiTSA, Dr Evans provides guidance to the executive leadership team, advising on project direction, technical initiatives, and event planning. He mentors student leaders in strategic decision-making, ensuring the association’s activities align with academic goals and industry relevance.