Aisha Raja

Aisha Raja has been the Director of Human Rights at Western since 2023.

Aisha joined the University as a Legal Advisor in 2021. Prior to that she served as a lawyer for the Niagara Community Legal Clinic where she represented clients in a variety of practice areas including human rights, housing, income security, employment, and immigration law. 

As an experienced lawyer, Aisha has a strong background in human rights, equity and diversity, and anti-racism – all areas that will help her counsel students and employees who access the confidential services that the Human Rights Office will provide.

Aisha completed her Honours Bachelor of Arts from the University of Toronto in 2013, with a major in Ethics, Society, and Law. Her passion for law took her to London, England where she earned her law degree, winning the Highest Class Performance Prize for European Human Rights/European Union Law at the University of London. She was called to the Bar of Ontario in 2019 and is a member of the Law Society of Ontario.

With a passion for lifelong learning, she is currently completing her Masters of Law in Labour Relations and Employment Law at Osgoode Hall Law School. 

Among other things, the advisory committee was impressed with Aisha’s strategic approach to conflict resolution and her genuine passion to make a difference for the students and employees she’ll serve.

The Human Rights Office at Western plays a key role in ensuring the university provides a respectful and inclusive working and learning environment. Aisha and her team will give advice and guidance on Western’s Non-Discrimination and Harassment Policy – important work that is underscored in Western’s new strategic plan, Towards Western at 150.

Lisa Highgate

As Senior Human Rights Advisor at Western University, Lisa Highgate is dedicated to fostering inclusive, respectful, and supportive environments for students, staff, and faculty. With over 20 years of experience in equity, conflict resolution, and trauma-informed practice, Lisa supports the university community in navigating concerns related to harassment, discrimination, and sexual misconduct. A proud Western alum, Lisa brings deep empathy and strategic insight to her work. She has led anti-racism initiatives, contributed to inclusive policy development, and continues to drive meaningful change across campus. Her leadership is grounded in a commitment to building communities where everyone feels a sense of belonging.

Lisa previously served as Associate Director, Residence Conduct and Conflict Resolution within Housing and Ancillary Services, and as Special Advisor to the President on Anti-Racism. Before returning to Western, she worked with the Family Consultant/Victim Services Unit of the London Police Service, providing crisis assessment and counselling. Since 2013, Lisa has also served as a member of the Clinical Panel for the Office of the Children’s Lawyer with the Ministry of the Attorney General, supporting families with high conflict through complex legal processes.