Student Spotlight: Akshat Deraiya – Exploring Pathways and Building a Future in Business Management
HLOs: 
During a recent Pathways Panel, one student voice stood out for its clarity, passion, and sense of purpose: Akshat Deraiya, a Business Management student whose journey reflects the best of what Humber Polytechnic aims to cultivate in its learners.
Akshat’s path into business began long before he stepped onto campus. Growing up with a strong interest in leadership, entrepreneurship, and community involvement, he spent his early years volunteering, participating in local events, and exploring small business ideas. These formative experiences shaped his mindset and ultimately led him to Humber — a place he describes as the environment where he could “truly grow.”
Today, Akshat is thriving academically and actively contributing to campus life. He currently serves as the Student Vice President of Operations for Humber Enactus, supporting day-to-day organizational initiatives, coordinating Humber-wide events, and representing the Humber team both internally and externally. His involvement extends across several leadership and development opportunities, including the First Year Experience (FYE) program and his work as a Sustainability Ambassador. These experiences have strengthened his skills in communication, teamwork, planning, and real-world problem-solving.
Looking ahead, Akshat is continuing his education through one of Humber’s transfer pathways — including a new opportunity available to Business Management students.
Students who complete the two-year Business Management diploma are now eligible to receive two full years of transfer credit toward Humber’s Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) degree. This pathway provides direct entry into Year 3 of several degree options, including:
- Bachelor of Commerce, Management Studies
- Bachelor of Commerce, Digital Business Management
- Bachelor of Commerce – Marketing
This expanded pathway allows students like Akshat to transition seamlessly from diploma to degree while accelerating their academic progress and strengthening long-term career prospects.
Professionally, Akshat plans to launch his career in the banking sector, focusing on operations, analysis, and client-centered roles—while simultaneously building his own venture as a sole proprietor.
When asked what advice he would offer to future and current students, Akshat speaks from experience:
“Get involved. Humber has so many resources, clubs, and opportunities that help you grow beyond the classroom. Joining communities like Ignite, Humber Enactus, Ace Humber, or CPA can completely transform your experience. You gain skills, build your network, and truly prepare yourself for the real world.”
Akshat also emphasizes gratitude. He credits his peers, professors, mentors, advisors, and staff for shaping his success: “Every person who took the time to guide me—academically or personally—has helped me become a better student and individual.”
Among many meaningful moments, one highlight for Akshat was attending the Beauty’s Best Gala Awards 2025 with Humber Enactus—an experience he describes as a milestone in his personal and professional journey. He also notes how often he feels the strength of his Humber identity at external networking events: “Being recognized as a Humber student—and one day, a Humber alumnus—is one of the best identities you can carry with pride.”
Akshat’s story is a powerful example of what can happen when curiosity, opportunity, and dedication come together. His journey embodies the spirit of the Pathways initiative and the broader mission of the Faculty of Business: to help students explore their possibilities, develop their strengths, and step confidently into their future.
We are proud to highlight Akshat’s achievements and look forward to seeing where his pathway leads next.
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