The University of British Columbia and the tight-knit community of Squamish, British Columbia are mourning the heartbreaking and untimely passing of Mateja Clifford, a bright and deeply compassionate soul whose life, though tragically cut short, was marked by purpose, brilliance, and an unwavering commitment to helping others. A graduating student in mechanical engineering at UBC, Mateja’s academic journey was not merely a pursuit of knowledge—it was a heartfelt mission to create impact through innovation.
Mateja was a passionate advocate for biomechanical engineering, with a special focus on injury biomechanics and assistive technologies. Her work was driven by both technical curiosity and an empathetic desire to make the world more accessible and safer for all. Whether developing designs that advanced rehabilitation devices or volunteering her time to community initiatives, Mateja approached every task with integrity, thoughtfulness, and a boundless energy that inspired peers and professors alike.
Born and raised in the stunning natural landscapes of Squamish, Mateja embodied the spirit of adventure. She was a lover of the outdoors—a climber, a hiker, and a seeker of high places who found joy and peace in the mountains surrounding her hometown. That same spirit of boldness and resilience infused every area of her life, from academic challenges to leadership roles within the university community.
Mateja was more than just a scholar and innovator. She was a leader among her peers, known for her infectious optimism, her generous mentorship, and her ability to bring people together. Within UBC’s engineering faculty, she served in various student-led initiatives, championing inclusivity and encouraging younger students—especially women in STEM—to pursue their goals with confidence. Her ability to make those around her feel seen, supported, and empowered became a hallmark of her university years.
Among her many contributions, Mateja played a pivotal role in student-led projects that sought to improve assistive mobility devices, blending creativity with technical excellence. Faculty and classmates frequently described her as a “visionary thinker with a deeply human perspective.” Her capstone project—an innovative design focused on injury prevention in high-risk activities—was lauded for its originality and potential real-world applications.
Mateja’s warmth, intellect, and zest for life left a lasting impression not only in academic circles but throughout Squamish, where she was a beloved figure. Friends and neighbors recall her as someone who was always willing to lend a hand, lead a community clean-up, or simply share a laugh during a walk through town. Her connection to the land and people of Squamish shaped her worldview and kept her grounded even as she reached for the stars.
Her passing leaves a profound void, but the legacy Mateja Clifford leaves behind is one of hope, action, and love. In remembering her, we are reminded of the power of one individual to uplift others, to blend technical genius with compassion, and to leave the world better than they found it.
As UBC and the Squamish community continue to grapple with this loss, there is a collective call to honor Mateja’s life through continued advocacy for the causes she held dear—advancing inclusive engineering, promoting women’s participation in STEM, and preserving the natural beauty of the places she loved.
To those who knew her, Mateja was more than her accomplishments; she was a friend, a mentor, a daughter, a trailblazer, and a bright light. Her joy, curiosity, and generosity will live on in every life she touched and in every innovation that carries forward her vision.