Emily Saumure

Emily is a skilled professional communicator completing her degree with a minor in acting and dance. She developed a passion for media and storytelling at an early age, creating funny videos and skits to entertain herself.

Emily is no stranger to speaking in front of large audiences as competing in public speaking competitions was a significant part of her childhood. At 17, she launched her own freelance digital marketing business, creating content for small businesses, organizations, and creative projects in her home town. This experience solidified her decision to pursue Professional Communication, a program that combines all the aspects of communication she loves.

Throughout her degree, Emily has achieved notable milestones, including launching her own podcast in collaboration with Toronto-based studio Division 88, becoming the first-ever president of the TMU Tennis Club, and serving as one of two DEI  leads on the Signify team.

After graduation, Emily hopes to travel the world, become a TEDx speaker, start a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing education for women and girls in underserved communities, and continue to use her voice for both entertainment and to drive meaningful change.

Beauty Influencers Manipulating Standards & Perceptions research project focuses on the intersection of social media, beauty standards, and consumer behaviour. This capstone examines how beauty influencers on Tik Tok shape perceptions of beauty, influence purchasing decisions, and reinforce or challenge traditional beauty ideals. Through an analysis of engagement metrics, parasocial relationships, and demographic differences, this research explores the psychological impact of beauty content on audiences.