Michaelmas 2026
Michaelmas Term 2026 The Oxford Union
Contents Officers’ Welcomes Committee Information Competitive Debating Debates Schedule Socials Treasurer’s Treats Reciprocal Clubs Floor Prizes Facilities Accessibility Guest Policy Committee and Staff President’s Thanks
Michaelmas 2026
President’s Welcome
Michaelmas 2026
“It's wanting to know that makes us matter. Otherwise, we're going out the way we came in.” – Tom Stoppard (Arcadia) In 2019, YouTube published the last ‘YouTube Rewind’. Internet culture had become far too diverse and multi-faceted to be encapsulated in a single video. Nowadays, the algorithm gives us what we want when we want it. Putting together a term card in the Big 2026 is fighting the death of Mono-culture. While we cannot appeal to every interest at the same time, we can appeal to every interest at some time. At its best, the Union represents a community dedicated to the value of discourse. We debate controversial questions to get to the truth. We’re curious about the experiences of every living being and we take nothing for granted. In the end, despite our backgrounds, we are united by the human drive for knowledge. A drive so disgustingly human that it’s basically the core of all our founding myths. At its core, two things matter the most for the Union – the members and the speakers. I look forward to welcoming both. Best, Gareth Lim Yefeng St Peter’s College president@oxford-union.org
Librarian’s Welcome
Michaelmas 2026
Hello everyone, and a very warm welcome to Michaelmas Term whether you're brand new to the Union or coming back for more! My first taste of the Union came before I'd even joined: queuing outside the Chamber for a debate on the government’s future. The Chamber was packed, and buzzing with anticipation. A year later, I was standing at the despatch box myself, feet away from sitting MPs, speaking in that very same debate. That's the sort of thing that only happens here, and it's exactly why I can't wait for this term. Michaelmas always feels like a term of new beginnings: new faces, new routines, and, before long, the first essay crisis of the year! Whatever this term holds for you, I hope the Union can be part of it - from Tinie Tempah to Kevin Rudd and Jack Clark, there's plenty to look forward to. As your Librarian, I get to look after one of Oxford's best-kept secrets: a library stocked entirely by its own members, not an algorithm or a syllabus. Suggest a title, and we'll decide within the week whether to buy it. It’s also just about the coziest spot to disappear into your reading list for a few hours! Library Committee meets every Monday at 2:15pm do come along. Whether it's a speaker suggestion, a book recommendation, or just a friendly face you're after, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Looking forward to a brilliant Michaelmas with you all! See you in the Chamber - but sooner, I hope, in the library. Harry Aldridge New College librarian@oxford-union.org
Treasurer’s Welcome
Michaelmas 2026
If this is your first time at the Oxford Union, we have been awaiting your arrival! Otherwise, welcome back! For two centuries and counting, the Union has encouraged students and speakers to interrogate the most pressing issues of our time. I hope that this term you will make this opportunity your own. I am most excited to welcome you to our Thursday night debates. I am particularly looking forward to our debate on whether the institution of marriage has been beneficial to women. If you would like to give a floor speech on this motion, or any at all, please do! If the appeal of speaking in our historic chamber does not tempt you enough, I hope our exclusive Floor Prizes will. We’ve also assembled one of the most expansive selections of Treasurer’s Treats in Union history! We hope these cafés and restaurants, many of which offer considerable discounts to Union members, will provide you with a place to study, dine, or catch up with friends if you’d like a change of scenery from the Union Library or Bar. With that in mind, it is an immense honour to serve as your Treasurer this term. Finance Committee meets every Monday at 3 p.m., so please come along if you are interested in getting involved! Claire Luo St Hilda’s College treasurer@oxford-union.org
Secretary’s Welcome
Michaelmas 2026
A very warm welcome everyone, and to all of us returning back to Oxford this Michaelmas, welcome back. As someone who grew up watching the Union debates for years back home in India, I owe this place everything and it is my honour to serve as your Secretary this term. As I welcome you all back to the chamber, I can see how much I have grown because of this place. And there is no higher honour for me to help as many of you as I can this term to find your place in the Union and grow with it, like we all continue to do. As your Secretary, beyond the hours of minuting debates and meetings (exciting indeed), I'm also in charge of bringing the socials calendar of this term to life. Expect warm Freshers' welcomes, a Halloween House Party (the closest we can get to a frat party), and a Diwali Ball for all of us missing home. And of course, the most awaited event of the season: the Cirque du Soleil Ball, no better way to embrace the Union’s chaos! The list of social events this term is audacious to say the least; and yet I can’t wait to be there to welcome all of you in each and every one of them. But beyond the socials, I urge you all to raise your voice this term. The beauty of this place lies in the ideas it upholds and no social or debate would be the same without the enthusiastic participation of its members. So please, never hesitate to get involved, stand up for what you believe in and bring up the ideas you wish to champion. There has never been a better time. To all the freshers who have heard mixed reviews about this place, do still give it a shot and see this place for what it can be and what it will continue to become! I am always happy to help as someone who was in your shoes not too long ago. So if you are someone curious about this place or looking for more avenues to get involved don’t hesitate to get in touch. And of course, swing by the Wine and Spirits (read: Best) committee every Tuesday at 5 pm, or shoot me an email if you wish to get in touch. Until next time, Saara Lunawat St John’s College secretary@oxford-union.org
Committees
Michaelmas 2026
The affairs of the Society are managed by a number of committees, each of which meet in person throughout the term. These committees work for you, the members, so please do not hesitate to email the respective chairs for information on how to attend these meetings. _______________________________________________________________ Standing Committee Chair – Gareth Lim (President) president@oxford-union.org Mondays at 4pm Comprised of the Elected members of Standing Committee and a range of ExOfficers, it is the Union’s committee of management but open to observation by all members. Standing Committee makes the Union’s most important decisions and recommends rules changes to the House. _______________________________________________________________________
Secretary’s Committee Chair – Saara Lunawat (Secretary) secretary@oxford-union.org Mondays at 1:45pm Comprised of the eleven Elected members of Secretary’s Committee. This committee meets to help enhance membership experience, selecting debate cocktails, coordinate shift work for the week ahead and prepare for the events of the week. _______________________________________________________________________
Consultative Committee Chair – CCC ccc@oxford-union.org Mondays at 1.15pm Comprised of all Union members, it gives you the opportunity to ask the officers of the Union any questions and stay up-to-date on the running of the Union’s events. It is also where our Emergency Debate motions are decided. _______________________________________________________________________
Committees
Michaelmas 2026
Access Committee Chair – Sarah Senu (Chair of Access) access.chair@oxford-union.org Tuesdays at 4:00pm Responsible for advancing the inclusion of under-represented groups through the organisation of events and the recommendation of institutional improvements. _______________________________________________________________ Library Committee Chair – Harry Aldridge (Librarian) librarian@oxford-union.org Mondays at 2.15pm Responsible for the stewardship of the Society’s library, including the acquisition and withdrawal of books, and for advising on its effective management. _______________________________________________________________ Finance Committee Chair – Claire Luo (Treasurer) treasurer@oxford-union.org Mondays at 3:00pm Scrutinises the Union’s finances and reports its findings to Standing Committee. _______________________________________________________________ Wine and Spirits Committee Chair – Saara Lunawat (Secretary) secretary@oxford-union.org Tuesdays at 7:00pm Responsible for all matters relating to the bar- pricing, stock, new drink suggestions. _______________________________________________________________
Committees
Michaelmas 2026
Debate Selection Committee Chair – Nicole Wong (CDSC) cdsc@oxford-union.org Mondays at 12:00pm Responsible for the Union’s competitive debating programme, including squad trials and selection, training, external tournament entries, hosting competitions, judging, and supporting teams representing Oxford. _______________________________________________________________ Timings above are subject to change. Requisition of these meetings will be posted on the Society’s notice board
Competitive Debating
Michaelmas 2026
The Union’s record in competitive British Parliamentary debating is one of exceptional distinction. We are the reigning European Champions and won the World Championships in 2024. In the past two years, we have won the Cambridge IV, Princeton IV, LSE Open, Athens IV, KCL Pre-WUDC and the English Second Language category of the European Debating Championships. The Union fully sponsors members’ participation in external tournaments, covering both travel and participation costs. These tournaments offer not only the opportunity to compete at the highest level, but also the chance to travel at no cost. In recent months, our members have competed in destinations including New York, Vienna, Athens, Copenhagen and Istanbul. During term time, we host regular training workshops led by some of Oxford’s finest debaters. Our Monday Beginners’ Workshops are open to all and designed as standalone sessions, ideal for members to try debating for the first time. Our Intermediate and Advanced Squads takes place on Tuesday and Wednesday for members with greater experience. Competitive debating offers a wealth of transferable skills: it cultivates the ability to express ideas with persuasion and think quickly under pressure. Our sessions provide an intellectually serious and welcoming environment to debate the world’s most fascinating issues. To join the competitive debating mailing list and receive weekly updates on debating opportunities, members should send a blank email to debate-announce-subscribe@maillist.ox.ac.uk. Further information can be found on Instagram at @oxforddebating. Any member with questions is warmly invited to contact the Chair of the Debate Selection Committee, Nicole Wong, at cdsc@oxford-union.org
Debates
Michaelmas 2026
The Oxford Union was established 200 years ago to protect and uphold the principle of free speech, and debating remains at the heart of the Society today. In the spirit of this timeless tradition, debates are normally held on Thursday evenings during term, with the following timings: 19:45 Emergency Debate Featuring exclusively student speakers, our Emergency Debates seek to address topical issues with motions being set weekly. Check our Instagram, Facebook page and Noticeboard on Monday evenings for the motion of the week. 20:30 Main Debate With high profile speakers from all around the world, our Main Debates address pressing questions on a variety of topics. In the Main Debate, Points of Information (POIs) can be offered to speakers during their speeches. These can be forwarded by raising your hand and stating “Point of Information”. The speaker may reject a POI. If they choose to accept, a statement must be given briefly in response to the point which has been made. It is then the responsibility of the speaker to respond. Moreover, before the two final speakers, the Chair will look for several members to deliver two minute floor speeches on each side of the debate. There are exciting prizes on offer for the best floor speakers each week. Members can also ballot to attend the pre-debate dinner with our guest speakers, the form for which will be released each week via email and on our Instagram and Facebook page.
Michaelmas 2026
Debates Week
Debate
1
This House has No Confidence in His Majesty’s Government
1
This House Believes that there is Too Much Money in Sport
2
This House Believes That The UK Should Withdraw From The ECHR
3
This House Would Turn To Nuclear Energy
4
This House Can Fix Them
5
This House Fears Censorship More Than Extremism
6
This House Believes That The Church of England’s Days are Numbered
7
This House Believes That the Institution of Marriage Still Harms Women
8
This House Prefers a Dictatorship of Merit Over a Tyranny of The Majority
Week 0 (4th October to 10th October)
Michaelmas 2026
*Please note that event timings and details may be subject to change. The most up-to-date information can be found on our Instagram page @theoxfordunion. Open Period | Non-Members Allowed At All Events _______________________________________________________________ ______ Wednesday 7th October Freshers’ Fair - Exam Schools: 9am - 4pm We will be at the Oxford University Student Union Freshers' Fair at Examination Schools! Come over to say hi, ask questions or pick up a physical copy of our term card! _______________________________________________________________ Thursday 8th October Freshers’ Fair - Exam Schools: 9am – 4pm Social Event Freshers’ Drinks: 7pm – 10pm _______________________________________________________________ Saturday 10th October Social Event Plant and Poster Sale: 10am – 7pm _______________________________________________________________
Week 1 (11th October to 17th October)
Michaelmas 2026
Monday 12th October Committee Meetings Debate Selection Committee: 12pm Consultative Committee: 1:15pm Secretary’s Committee: 1:45pm Library Committee: 2:15pm Finance Committee: 3pm Standing Committee: 4pm Beginners’ Workshop: 5pm & 7:30pm Social Event Debaters’ Drinks: 7pm Band Night: 8:30pm _______________________________________________________________ Tuesday 13th October Committee Meetings Access Committee: 4pm Wine and Spirits Committee: 7pm Intermediate Squads: 7pm Speakers Alan Dershowitz - 5:30pm Alan Dershowitz was the youngest professor in Harvard Law School's history and went on to become one of the most sought-after defence lawyers of his generation, representing clients from O.J. Simpson and Jeffrey Epstein to Julian Assange and Donald Trump. In a reversal of roles for one of America’s most famous and controversial defence lawyers, Professor Dershowitz will find himself in the hot seat facing the questions himself and challenged head-tohead by members across the despatch boxes.
Week 1 (11th October to 17th October)
Michaelmas 2026
Tuesday 13th October Speakers Gianmarco Soresi - 8pm Gianmarco Soresi's comedy special Thief of Joy has racked up over 3.2 million views on YouTube, and he's brought his stand-up to The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon and The Late Late Show with James Corden. _______________________________________________________________ Wednesday 14th October Speakers Jim Al-Khalili - 5pm Jim Al-Khalili is a Professor of Theoretical Physics who has become one of the UK's best-known science broadcasters, presenting BBC programmes including The Life Scientific and Chemistry: A Volatile History. His latest book is On Time: The Physics That Makes the Universe Tick. Advanced Squads: 7pm _______________________________________________________________ Thursday 15th October Speakers Dr Michael Mann - 5pm Dr Michael Mann is a climate scientist at the University of Pennsylvania, best known for developing the 'hockey stick' graph, which revealed how sharply global temperatures have risen. In 2019, he won The Tyler Prize for Environmental Achievement.
Week 1 (11th October to 17th October)
Michaelmas 2026
Thursday 15th October Debate - 8:30pm THIS HOUSE HAS NO CONFIDENCE IN HIS MAJESTY’S GOVERNMENT Proposition: Andrew Rosindell MP – Reform UK MP for Romford since 2001 and former Shadow Foreign Affairs Minister. Gideon Amos OBE MP – Liberal Democrat Housing spokesperson and former Town and Country Planning Association CEO. Mothin Ali – Deputy Leader of the Green Party and Leeds councillor for Gipton and Harehills. Lord Dominic Johnson – Former Conservative Party Co-Chair, current Chair of the Lords International Agreements Committee. Sir David Davis KCB MP – Former Brexit Secretary, Shadow Home Secretary and Conservative MP since 1987. Opposition: Fraser Campbell KC - Blackstone Chambers barrister, former Oxford Union President, Fellow of All Souls College and European Debating Champion Stephen Pound – Former Labour MP for Ealing North and former Shadow Minister for Northern Ireland. _______________________________________________________________ Friday 16th October President’s Open Hours - 3pm Speakers The Hon. Dr Kevin Rudd AC - 8pm Kevin Rudd is a former Prime Minister of Australia and a foremost expert on China, and the author of The Avoidable War and On Xi Jinping.
Week 1 (11th October to 17th October)
Michaelmas 2026
Saturday 17th October Special Debate - 8:30pm THIS HOUSE BELIEVES THAT THERE IS TOO MUCH MONEY IN SPORT Proposition: Robbie Lyle – Founder of Arsenal Fan TV (AFTV), one of the world’s largest football fan-media platforms. James Corrigan – Golf Correspondent for The Daily Telegraph and Sunday Telegraph, formerly Associate Sports Editor at The Independent. Sam Roberts – Rugby commentator and broadcaster, with extensive coverage of Premiership Rugby and international fixtures. Opposition: Paulius Motiejūnas – Former EuroLeague Basketball CEO and three-time EuroLeague Executive of the Year with Žalgiris Kaunas. Rory Jennings – Football presenter, Chelsea commentator and co-host of The Club. Adam McKola – Football presenter, Stretford Paddock host and regular contributor to The Overlap’s Fan Debate.
Week 2 (18th October to 24th October)
Michaelmas 2026
Sunday 18th October Speakers Julie Pace - 4pm Julie Pace is Executive Editor of the Associated Press, having previously served as AP's Chief White House Correspondent and Washington Bureau Chief. Under her leadership, the AP has won three Pulitzer Prizes. _______________________________________________________________ Monday 19th October Speakers Emma Grede - 11am Emma Grede is a founding partner of SKIMS and the CEO and co-founder of Good American, building some of the biggest names in fashion alongside the Kardashians. She has also appeared on Shark Tank, bringing that same business instinct to primetime. Committee Meetings Debate Selection Committee: 12pm Consultative Committee: 1:15pm Secretary’s Committee: 1:45pm Library Committee: 2:15pm Finance Committee: 3pm Standing Committee: 4pm Beginners’ Workshop: 5pm & 7:30pm Social Event Pub Quiz - 8pm
Week 2 (18th October to 24th October)
Michaelmas 2026
Tuesday 20th October Speakers Nir Bar Dea- 5pm Nir Bar Dea is the CEO of Bridgewater Associates, one of the world’s largest hedge funds, overseeing $150.2 billion in regulatory assets under management. He leads the firm’s strategy, building on Bridgewater’s five-decade legacy in global macro investing. Members will have exclusive access to speak with Bridgewater’s recruitment team. Joshua Rozenberg KC - 7pm Joshua Rozenberg KC (Hon) is Britain's most experienced full-time legal commentator and the first journalist to be appointed King's Counsel. He has spent decades covering British law and the judiciary for organisations including the BBC and The Daily Telegraph, and is frequently called upon to explain major legal developments. He also writes the widely read A Lawyer Writes newsletter. Committee Meetings Access Committee: 4pm Wine and Spirits Committee: 7pm Intermediate Squads: 7pm _______________________________________________________________ Wednesday 21st October Charles Adams - 5pm Charles Adams is the Global Managing Partner of Clifford Chance, one of the world's largest international law firms. Under his tenure, the firm has advised on landmark deals including Unilever's $45 billion combination with McCormick & Company. Advanced Squads: 7pm
Week 2 (18th October to 24th October)
Michaelmas 2026
Thursday 22nd October Speakers Chrissy Costanza - 5pm Chrissy Costanza is an American singer, YouTuber and the lead vocalist of the rock band Against the Current, best known for the League of Legends theme songs Legends Never Die and Phoenix. Her highest-ranking covers have amassed over 200 million views. *Members will also get the opportunity to see Chrissy perform live at the Oxford Union. _______________________________________________________________ Open period closes at 7pm on Thursday _______________________________________________________________ Debate - 8:30pm THIS HOUSE BELIEVES THAT THE UK SHOULD WITHDRAW FROM THE ECHR Proposition: Suella Braverman KC MP – Reform UK MP for Fareham and Waterlooville, formerly Home Secretary and Attorney General. Martin Howe KC – Chairman of Lawyers for Britain and leading barrister specialising in EU and post-Brexit law. Lord Peter Lilley PC – Conservative peer, former Trade Secretary, Social Security Secretary and Shadow Chancellor. Opposition: Sir Robert Neill KC – Barrister, former Conservative MP and Chair of the Commons Justice Committee. George Peretz KC – Chair of the Society of Labour Lawyers and King’s Counsel specialising in EU, competition, subsidy control and public law.
Week 2 (18th October to 24th October)
Michaelmas 2026
Friday 23rd October President’s Open Hours - 3pm ________________________________________________________________ Saturday 24th October Speakers Simon Pegg - 3pm Simon Pegg is an English actor, comedian and screenwriter who first came to prominence as co-creator of the sitcom Spaced, before writing and starring in the Three Flavours Cornetto trilogy with Nick Frost, and playing Scotty in Star Trek and Benji Dunn across six Mission: Impossible films.
Week 3 (25th October to 31st October)
Michaelmas 2026
Monday 26th October Committee Meetings Debate Selection Committee: 12pm Consultative Committee: 1:15pm Secretary’s Committee: 1:45pm Library Committee: 2:15pm Finance Committee: 3pm Standing Committee: 4pm Beginners’ Workshop: 5pm & 7:30pm Speakers Jeffrey Sachs - 5pm Jeffrey Sachs is a world-renowned economist, bestselling author and professor at Columbia University, best known for his book The End of Poverty and for serving as Special Advisor to three United Nations Secretaries-General. Panel Filmmakers Panel - 7pm Industry showcase panel featuring leading British & international cinema directors and screenwriters. _______________________________________________________________ Tuesday 27th October Committee Meetings Access Committee: 4pm Wine and Spirits Committee: 7pm Intermediate Squads: 7pm Social Event Grad Dinner and Debate: 8pm
Week 3 (25th October to 31st October)
Michaelmas 2026
Wednesday 28th October Speakers Vjosa Osmani - 6pm Vjosa Osmani served as President of Kosovo from 2021 to 2026 and was the country’s second female president. She has been a prominent advocate for Kosovo’s independence, democratic institutions and closer integration with the European Union. Advanced Squads: 7pm ___________________________________________________________________ Thursday 29th October Debate - 8:30pm THIS HOUSE WOULD TURN TO NUCLEAR ENERGY Proposition: Kirsty Gogan – Co-founder and managing director of TerraPraxis and Energy for Humanity, Member of the IAEA’s Standing Advisory Group Nuclear Applications. Dr Vincent Ialenti – Author of Deep Time Reckoning and former Leader of the US Deparment of Energy’s Consent-based Siting Consortia. Princess Mthombeni – Founder of Africa4Nuclear, promoting nuclear energy and public engagement across Africa. Opposition: Dr Paul Dorfman – Chair of the Nuclear Consulting Group; Member of the Irish Govt. Radiation Protection Advisory Committee. Linda Pentz Gunter – Founder and Executive Director of Beyond Nuclear, formerly a journalist with Reuters and The Times. Professor Andy Stirling – Professor of Science and Technology Policy at Sussex, specialising in energy and technological transitions. ___________________________________________________________________ Saturday 31st October Social Event - Halloween House Party - 9pm
Michaelmas 2026
Week 4 (1st November to 7th November) Monday 1st November Committee Meetings Debate Selection Committee: 12pm Consultative Committee: 1:15pm Secretary’s Committee: 1:45pm Library Committee: 2:15pm Finance Committee: 3pm Standing Committee: 4pm Beginners’ Workshop: 5pm & 7:30pm Speakers Vikas Khanna - 6pm Vikas Khanna is a Michelin-starred Indian-American chef and restaurateur, best known as the founder of the restaurant Bungalow and a longtime judge of MasterChef India. He has cooked for figures including Barack Obama and the Dalai Lama. _______________________________________________________________ Tuesday 3rd November Committee Meetings Access Committee: 4pm Wine and Spirits Committee: 7pm Intermediate Squads: 7pm Speakers Tinie Tempah - 11:30am Tinie Tempah's breakthrough single Pass Out was one of the fastest-selling debut singles in UK history, launching a run of hits including Frisky, Written in the Stars, Miami 2 Ibiza and Girls Like.
Week 4 (1st November to 7th November)
Michaelmas 2026
Tuesday 3rd November Speakers Changpeng Zhao- 6pm Changpeng Zhao, known as CZ, is the founder of Binance, the world's largest cryptocurrency exchange, with a fortune estimated as high as $110 billion. Social Event US Election Midterms Watch Party - 11pm __________________________________________________________________ Wednesday 4th November Panel Bending Spoons Career Panel - 2pm A panel focussed on delivering premier private equity recruitment pathways to students, providing advice and networking opportunities. Sponsored by Bending Spoons, an Italian tech giant that acquires, develops, and scales digital products. President’s Open Hours - 3pm Advanced Squads - 7pm
Week 4 (1st November to 7th November)
Michaelmas 2026
Thursday 29th October Debate - 8:30pm THIS HOUSE CAN FIX THEM David Thomas – Stand-up comedian and viral sketch creator whose comedy videos have amassed over 100 million views. Isaac H.P. – Stand-up comedian and social-media creator with five million followers across platforms. Anna Soden – Actor, comedian and writer whose sketches have attracted millions of views across social media. Leah Lamarr – Internationally touring stand-up comedian, actress and four-time sold-out New York Comedy Festival performer. Maria Comstock - Political digital strategist and comedic content creator with over 2.4 million social-media followers. __________________________________________________________________ Friday 6th November Simon Squibb - 6pm Simon Squibb is the founder of HelpBnk and an entrepreneur best known for his viral social media videos encouraging people to pursue their dreams. Balloted event with limited capacity; special meet & greet OXFORD WOMEN AND GENDER MINORITIES DEBATING CHAMPIONSHIPS Whole Day - Building inaccessible without ticket for Simon Squibb Event __________________________________________________________________ Saturday 7th November OXFORD INTERVARSITY DEBATING CHAMPIONSHIPS - Whole Day - The building will be closed
Week 5 (8th November to 14th November)
Michaelmas 2026
Sunday 8th November OXFORD INTERVARSITY DEBATING CHAMPIONSHIPS - Whole Day - The building will be closed __________________________________________________________________ Monday 9th November Committee Meetings Debate Selection Committee: 12pm Consultative Committee: 1:15pm Secretary’s Committee: 1:45pm Library Committee: 2:15pm Finance Committee: 3pm Standing Committee: 4pm Beginners’ Workshop: 5pm & 7:30pm __________________________________________________________________ Tuesday 10th November Committee Meetings Access Committee: 4pm Wine and Spirits Committee: 7pm Intermediate Squads: 7pm Speakers Martin Seligman - 6pm Martin Seligman is a professor of psychology at the University of Pennsylvania. After developing the theory of learned helplessness, he went on to found the field of positive psychology and wrote the bestselling books Learned Optimism and Flourish. __________________________________________________________________ Wednesday 11th November Advanced Squads - 7pm
Week 5 (8th November to 14th November)
Michaelmas 2026
Thursday 12th November Speakers Dr Lin Han - 3:30pm Dr Lin Han is the founder and CEO of Gate.io, one of the world's largest cryptocurrency exchanges, which today serves more than 58 million users worldwide. Dame Wendy Hall DBE - 5pm Professor Dame Wendy Hall DBE co-chaired the UK Government’s landmark 2017 review of AI strategy. Her pioneering system Microcosm helped lay the foundations for the World Wide Web, and she later co-founded the field of Web Science with Tim Berners-Lee, inventor of the Web. Debate - 8:30pm THIS HOUSE FEARS CENSORSHIP MORE THAN EXTREMISM (Sponsored by Gate.io) Proposition: Professor Jacob Mchangama – Founder and director of Justitia and the former Chief Legal Counsel for CEPOS. Clare Melford – Co-founder and Executive Director of the Global Disinformation Index. Baroness Claire Fox – Director of the Academy of Ideas, independent House of Lords peer and former Brexit Party MEP. Jameel Jaffer – Executive Director of Columbia University’s Knight First Amendment Institute and former Deputy Legal Director of the ACLU. Opposition: The Hon. Jeh Johnson – Former US Secretary of Homeland Security under President Obama and former Pentagon General Counsel. Neil Basu QPM – Former Metropolitan Police Assistant Commissioner and former head of UK Counter Terrorism Policing. Damian Collins OBE – Former Conservative MP and Chair of the Joint Committee on the Draft Online Safety Bill. Dr Julia Ebner – Oxford researcher specialising in extremism and radicalisation, leading the University’s Violent Extremism Lab.
Week 5 (8th November to 14th November)
Michaelmas 2026
Friday 13th November President’s Open Hours - 3pm Speakers Matt Murray - 4:30pm Matt Murray is Executive Editor of The Washington Post and former Editor-in-Chief of The Wall Street Journal, where he led the newsroom through a Pulitzer-winning investigation into Trump's hush-money payments. Baroness Sharon White - 7pm Baroness Sharon White rose through HM Treasury to become the first Black person appointed a Permanent Secretary in HM Civil Service. She was subsequently appointed Chief Executive of Ofcom and Chair of the John Lewis Partnership. Social Event Karaoke Night - 8pm __________________________________________________________________ Saturday 14th November Speaker Lalit Modi - 1:30pm Lalit Modi is the founder of the Indian Premier League, now valued at over $20 billion. He pioneered the franchise model that transformed cricket into a global powerhouse. Social Event Diwali Ball - 8pm
Michaelmas 2026
Week 6 (15th November to 21st November) Monday 16th November Committee Meetings Debate Selection Committee: 12pm Consultative Committee: 1:15pm Secretary’s Committee: 1:45pm Library Committee: 2:15pm Finance Committee: 3pm Standing Committee: 4pm Beginners’ Workshop: 5pm & 7:30pm Speakers Jack Clark - 6pm Jack Clark is co-founder and Head of Public Benefit at Anthropic, an AI research company. Prior to Anthropic, Jack was the Policy Director of OpenAI. Before OpenAI, Jack was a technical journalist who wrote in detail about supercomputers, neural networks, and advanced technology, working for publications ranging from The Register to BusinessWeek. Along with his work at Anthropic, Jack writes Import AI, a popular AI newsletter read by more than 130,000 people every week. _______________________________________________________________ Tuesday 17th November Committee Meetings Access Committee: 4pm Wine and Spirits Committee: 7pm Intermediate Squads: 7pm _______________________________________________________________ Wednesday 18th November Panels Start Up Panel - 4pm Examining how regulation, access to investment, policy, and the broader business environment are shaping the UK start-up landscape.
Michaelmas 2026
Week 6 (15th November to 21st November) Wednesday 18th November Careers in Law Panel - 5:30pm Explore the diverse career paths available across the legal profession, from the Bar to commercial law and beyond. Advanced Squads - 7pm _______________________________________________________________ Thursday 19th November Debate - 8:30pm THIS HOUSE BELIEVES THAT THE CHURCH OF ENGLAND’S DAYS ARE NUMBERED. Proposition: The Most Revd Dr Foley Beach – Former GAFCON Chairman and former Archbishop and Primate of the Anglican Church in North America. Richard Scorer – Head of Abuse Law at Slater and Gordon and author of Betrayed: The English Catholic Church and the Sex Abuse Crisis. The Rt Revd Andy Lines – Presiding Bishop of the Anglican Network in Europe and former Mission Director of Crosslinks. Deputy Jayne Ozanne OBE – Guernsey politician, Anglican campaigner and founder of the Ban Conversion Therapy Coalition. Opposition: The Rt Revd Dr Mark Tanner – Bishop of Chester, Lord Spiritual and Chair of the Church of England’s Ministry Development Board. The Revd Dr Lee Gatiss – Director of Church Society, Church of England Evangelical Council member and Anglican church historian. The Revd Dr Sam Wells – Vicar of St Martin-in-the-Fields, theologian, broadcaster and former Dean of Duke University Chapel. Professor Grace Davie – Sociologist of religion, Professor Emeritus at Exeter and author of Religion in Britain.
Michaelmas 2026
Week 6 (15th November to 21st November) Friday 20th November Speaker Rebel Wilson - 6pm Rebel Wilson is an Australian actress, comedian, writer and producer, known for her performances in the Pitch Perfect trilogy, Jojo Rabbit and Bridesmaids. She made her directorial debut with The Deb. President’s Open Hours - 3pm _______________________________________________________________ Saturday 21th November Social Event Winter Carnival Ball - 8pm
Michaelmas 2026
Week 7 (22th November to 21st November) Sunday 22nd November Panel CJP Panel - 2pm The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) was formed by young Indians around issues including unemployment, education and political representation. The group has since organised protests and campaigns focussed on these issues. _______________________________________________________________ Monday 23rd November Committee Meetings Debate Selection Committee: 12pm Consultative Committee: 1:15pm Secretary’s Committee: 1:45pm Library Committee: 2:15pm Finance Committee: 3pm Standing Committee: 4pm Beginners’ Workshop: 5pm & 7:30pm ______________________________________________________________ Tuesday 24th November Committee Meetings Access Committee: 4pm Wine and Spirits Committee: 7pm Intermediate Squads: 7pm
Michaelmas 2026
Week 7 (22th November to 21st November) Wednesday 25th November Speaker Lord Hermer - 6pm Lord Hermer served as Attorney General from 2024 to 2026 under Sir Keir Starmer, overseeing the Crown Prosecution Service and Government Legal Department, following three decades as a leading human rights and international law barrister at Matrix Chambers, where he argued landmark cases including Vedanta Resources. Advanced Squads - 7pm ______________________________________________________________ Thursday 26th November Speaker Alessandra Galloni - 5pm Alessandra Galloni is the first woman to serve as Editor-in-Chief of Reuters. She previously broke the Wall Street Journal story on how the 2013 conclave selected Pope Francis. Panel War on Drugs Panel - 2pm Leading voices examine the consequences of prohibition, the case for reform and the future of global drug policy.
Michaelmas 2026
Week 7 (22th November to 21st November) Thursday 26th November Debate - 8:30pm THIS HOUSE BELIEVES THAT THE INSTITUTION OF MARRIAGE STILL HARMS WOMEN. Proposition: Dr Charlotte Proudman – Award-winning family-law barrister, women’s rights campaigner and founder of specialist firm Proudmans. Ayesha Vardag – Leading divorce lawyer and founder of Vardags, a specialist London family law firm, and a prominent commentator on marriage and family law. Jane Moore – Journalist, Sun columnist, author and longstanding panellist on ITV’s Loose Women. Opposition: Dr Joanna Williams – Founder of Cieo, Spiked columnist and author of How Woke Won. Melanie McDough – Spectator contributor, Evening Standard writer-at-large and author of Converts. Dr Wendy Wang – Sociologist, Director of Research at the Institute for Family Studies and former Pew senior researcher. _______________________________________________________________ Friday 27th November President’s Open Hours - 3pm
Michaelmas 2026
Week 8 (29th November to 5th December) Monday 30th November Committee Meetings Debate Selection Committee: 12pm Consultative Committee: 1:15pm Secretary’s Committee: 1:45pm Library Committee: 2:15pm Finance Committee: 3pm Standing Committee: 4pm Beginners’ Workshop: 5pm & 7:30pm Speakers Robert Zemeckis - 5pm Robert Zemeckis is the Academy Award-winning filmmaker behind some of the most beloved films in modern cinema, including Back to the Future, Forrest Gump, Cast Away, Who Framed Roger Rabbit, and The Polar Express. Zemeckis is renowned for combining compelling storytelling with technical innovation, and his films have become cultural landmarks across generations. ______________________________________________________________ Tuesday 1st December Committee Meetings Access Committee: 4pm Wine and Spirits Committee: 7pm Intermediate Squads: 7pm
Michaelmas 2026
Week 8 (29th November to 5th December) Wednesday 2nd December Speakers Edward Poulton - 5pm Edward Poulton is Managing Partner of Baker McKenzie's London office and a leading figure in international arbitration. He is currently advising on a $10 billion dispute between a Petrobras-led consortium and Brazil's state oil and gas agency, ANP. Daniel Kraus - 7pm Daniel Kraus won the 2026 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction for Angel Down. He's authored Rotters and Whalefall, and co-authored Trollhunters and The Shape of Water with Guillermo del Toro. Advanced Squads - 7pm ______________________________________________________________ Thursday 3rd December Speakers Cass Sunstein - 5pm The most cited legal scholar in the USA, Cass Sunstein is best known as coauthor of the bestselling book Nudge, which helped popularise the idea that governments and organisations can shape behaviour through the design of choices.
Michaelmas 2026
Week 8 (29th November to 5th December) Thursday 3rd December Debate - 8:30pm THIS HOUSE PREFERS A DICTATORSHIP OF MERIT OVER A TYRANNY OF MAJORITY Proposition: Professor Garett Jones – George Mason economist and author of 10% Less Democracy and The Culture Transplant. Professor Bai Tongdong – Fudan political philosopher and author of Against Political Equality: The Confucian Case. Opposition: Tom Brake – CEO of Unlock Democracy, former Liberal Democrat MP and former Deputy Leader of the House of Commons. Professor Stein Ringen – Political scientist, Oxford Professor Emeritus and author specialising in democracy, governance and state power. Baroness Natalie Bennett – Green Party peer, former party leader and former editor of the Guardian Weekly. Dr Jayaprakash Narayan – Founder of Lok Satta, former Indian civil servant, legislator and prominent democratic-reform campaigner. ______________________________________________________________ Friday 4th December Speakers Pritam Singh - 3pm Pritam Singh is Secretary-General of the Workers' Party and Singapore’s de facto leader of opposition. Under his leadership, the Workers' Party achieved its highest-ever seat count in Singapore's history at the 2020 general election, winning ten seats in Parliament. President’s Open Hours - 6pm
Treasurer’s Treats Bella Italia - 30% off Sunday to Thursday Sandy’s Piano & Wine Bar - 25% off Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday Tree Artisan Cafe - 20% off Every day TGJones - 20% off Every day Heat Afro Lounge - 20% off Every day Victors - 20% off Sunday to Friday Gusto - 20% off Monday to Thursday Aromi - 15% off Every day Neds Noodle Bar - 15% off Every day Knoops - 15% off Every day Happy Cakes - 15% off Every day Chaska House - 15% off Every day The Randolph Hotel - 15% off Every day Thakhun - 15% off Sunday to Thursday Fantastea - 15% off Every day on Drinks, 10% off on Food Malmaison - 10% off Every day at Bar and Grill Art Cafe - 10% off Every day iScream - 10% off Every day The Oxford Wine Company - 10% off Every day Formosan - 10% off Every day mac simple - 10% off Every day Burrows & Hare - 10% off Every day A Taste of China - 10% off Every day (Post 2pm) Bridge - £7 Entry on Thu
Reciprocal Clubs
Michaelmas 2026
The National Liberal Club, London The Lansdowne Club, London The Clifton Club, Bristol The Hove Club, Hove The Cardiff & County Club, Cardiff The St James's Club, Manchester The Koninklijke Industrieele Groote Club, Amsterdam The Club International Leipzig, Leipzig The Union International Club, Frankfurt The Union Club of British Columbia, Victoria The Circolo Bononia, Bologna The Círculo del Liceo, Barcelona The Círculo Ecuestre, Barcelona The Grémio Literário, Lisbon The University Club of Washington D.C., Washington D.C. The Naval Club, Valparaiso
In addition to these reciprocal clubs, we have also partnered with The Anglo-German Club and The Übersee-Club in Hamburg which you may visit subject to a prior request to their respective General Offices. To enhance your visit to these Clubs further, several of our Reciprocal Clubs also offer accommodation or discounted rates for local hotels to reciprocal Members, so do have a look at their websites to find out more. Please write to the General Office at enquiries@oxford-union.org to obtain a letter of introduction prior to your visit stating the approximate dates of your stay. Please visit the Oxford Union website for an up-to-date list of reciprocal clubs.
Michaelmas 2026
Floor Prizes Week
Prize
1
£100 voucher for The Perch
1 - Special Debate
£100 voucher for Burrows & Hare
2
£100 voucher for Formosan
3
£100 voucher for MacBook diagnosis or servicing at Mac Simple
3Graduate Debate
Four £25 vouchers for Bella Italia
4
A table at Bridge with one bottle and six complimentary entries.
5
£100 voucher for Mamma Mia
6
£100 voucher for Aromi
7
Two boxes of twelve classic cupcakes from Happy Cakes
8
£150 bar tab at Sandy's
Special Halloween Prize for Best Dressed
A bottle of champagne from the Oxford Wine Company
The Members’ Bar The Members’ Bar stands at the heart of the Union’s social life. More than simply a place to eat and drink, it is a space where friendships are made and sustained, members gather between commitments, and the life of the Society continues beyond the Chamber. For many, it becomes one of the defining social spaces of their time in Oxford: somewhere to meet for coffee, to share lunch, or to unwind with friends at the end of the day. With high-quality food and drink at accessible prices, including a 25 per cent discount for members, it remains one of the Union’s most valued amenities. Adorned with memorabilia from past speakers and guests, the Bar is also often frequented by those appearing at the Union before or after an event. At the conclusion of each Main Debate, once the Chamber has emptied, the President announces the result of the division in the Bar. Members with questions or suggestions are warmly invited to contact our House Manager, Sasha, at bar@oxford-union.org. Those interested in attending Wine and Spirits Committee should contact the Secretary. Opening Hours are displayed on the Oxford Union website. ______________________________________________________________
The Library The Union’s libraries rank among its most distinctive and impressive spaces. Formerly the site of the Society’s earliest debates, the Old Library now forms part of a wider collection of reading rooms that together hold more than 60,000 books, offering members an exceptional environment in which to read and study. Among its most striking features is a rare freestanding fireplace, one of only three in the United Kingdom. The room is also renowned for its extraordinary Pre-Raphaelite murals, inspired by Arthurian legend and executed by artists including Dante Gabriel Rossetti and William Morris. Nearby lies the Poetry Room, an especially peaceful and characterful space, well suited to private study.
Members may also make use of the Goodman Library, the Gladstone Room, and the Macmillan Room during opening hours. Each provides a quiet and atmospheric setting for study within the Union’s historic buildings. The Library also has chargers and IT equipment to borrow, book and laptop stands for all your studying needs, and coloured acetates to help with reading. To find out more, see our website with blog for more history, and term cards at oxfordunionlibrary.org, and our social media for Facebook at Oxford Union Society Library and Instagram @oxfordunionlibrary Please email library@oxford-union.org with any questions. Opening Hours are displayed on the Oxford Union website. ______________________________________________________________
Accessbility The Oxford Union is dedicated to ensuring that it is as accessible as possible for all of our members. If you ever have any questions regarding the accessibility of an event or the Union more generally, please reach out to our Chair of Access, Sarah Senu, at access.chair@oxford-union.org. You can also raise thoughts and suggestions at Access Committee. Accessibility Pass Policy and Event Access Any member who has accessibility requirements is entitled to request reasonable adjustments. Our Accessibility Pass Policy is available on the Rules and Policies section of our website with a PDF version available on request. We have an access bench at all our events for any members with accessibility requirements. For any specific accessibility queries regarding an event, please contact the House Manager at bar@oxford-union.org, the CCC at ccc@oxford-union.org, or the Chief of Staff, Aarush Yendamuri, at chief.staff@oxford-union.org. We can ensure that there is space for a wheelchair or provisions made for a guide dog, or make any other reasonable adjustments necessary to enable members to make the most of their membership. There is a hearing aid loop in the chamber and, should you wish to use it, switch your hearing aid to ‘T.’
Guest Policy Members are allowed to bring up to three guests to an event, provided: 1. The guest is not themselves eligible for membership 2. The guest pays an entry fee (to be determined on the door) 3. All members who wish to attend have already taken their seats Events may be made members only when there is a security risk or extremely high demand. ______________________________________________________________
Committee - Michaelmas 2026 OFFICERS & OFFICER-ELECTS The President – Gareth Lim (St. Peter’s College) Librarian – Harry Aldridge (New College) Treasurer – Claire Luo (St Hilda’s College) Secretary – Saara Lunawat (St John’s College) President-Elect – Milo Donavan (Lincoln College) Librarian-Elect – Shahmir Aziz (Brasenose College) Treasurer-Elect – Henry Nicholls (Lady Margaret Hall)
STANDING COMMITTEE Senior Librarian – Iftikar Malik (Wolfson College) Senior Treasurer – Matthew Taylor (St Benet’s Hall) George Christiansen (Magdalen College) Sambhav Jain (Christ Church) DK Singh (New College) Leo Zhou (St Anne’s College) Adil Rahoo (Christ Church) Isabelle McElvanney (Christ Church) Returning Officer – Lucas Kirk (Corpus Christi) CDSC – Nicole Wong (Trinity College)
SENIOR APPOINTED Chief of Staff – Aarush Yendamuri (St Peter’s College) Director of Speakers – Tim Fraser (Kellogg College) Director of Press – Sera Besev (Worcester College) Director of Projects – Hayden Williams (Oxford Brookes) Chair of Access – Sarah Senu (Hertford College) Director of Research – Jack Manly (St Hilda’s College) Director of Research – Alexander Cohen (St Hilda’s College) Director of Finance and Fundraising – Samson Green (St Peter’s College) Director of Social Media – Eeshani Bendale (Kellogg College) Chief Advisor – Chloe Pomfret (St Catherine’s College) Events Lead – Toby Bowes Lyon (Christ Church) Deputy Director of Social Media – Christina Robinson (Brasenose College) Senior Welfare Officer – Katherine Yang (St. Peter’s College) Junior Welfare Officer – Yusraa Noman (The Queen’s College)
SECRETARY’S COMMITTEE Akheel Kale Kevin Cui Leyton Styles Aarav Desai Konstantin Nazarov Luisa Fernanda Romero Munoz Marion Santo Antonio Reis Matilda Richardson Thomas Tadesse David Balbus
JUNIOR APPOINTED Deputy Director of Finance - Shlok Vora Deputy Director of Speakers - Olivia Dogan Socio-Economic Officer - Zara Okusi Schools Outreach Officer - Joseph Kay Operations Officer - Yonatan Ben-Menachem Operations Officer - Sami Haroon Operations Officers: Karan Murthi, Anya Piasecka, Grace Makoni, Oran Docker, Kien Tordoff, Kai Beaumont Finance Officers: Tresor Nsengiyumva, Amit Goldman Media Officer - Khyati Mohan Baba International Officer - Aurora Vega Disabilities Officer - Juno Ariyubwal-Zazi LGBTQIA+ Officer - Hunor Veres Anti-Sexual Violence Officer - Jaid Debrah Women & Gender Minorities Officer - Ella Dora Bareham Oxford Brookes Officer - Nicolas Buchanan Goertz Ethnic Minorities Officer - Aisha Naushahi Hasan
STAFF Bursar – Richard Wood Head of Operations – Tom Corrick Head of Commercial, Compliance and People – AJ Carver Management Accountant – Kieran Paul House Manager – Sasha Challen Librarian-in-Charge – Elizabeth Piper Support Officer – Sarah Cornish Maintenance Operative – John Roderick Assistant Librarian – Gareth Smith Operations Officer – Ryan O’Connell Events Officer – Lindsay Gillingham Assistant Accountant – Alla Kostyk
OVERSIGHT Chair of OLDUT - Victoria Schofield (Lady Margaret Hall) Chair of Audit Committee – Mark Le Page
President’s Thanks Dedications To Mr Nicholas Perry, who passed away too soon last year. I learnt very little literature (my fault) but for some reason you had faith in me. I wish you could have seen this. To Mummy, Papa and Korkor who loved me before I knew what that meant, were my first debate coaches and taught me everything I know. To all my debate coaches, shoutout to Geetha Creffield for putting up with me for all these years.
Thanks I am a man with few talents save one. For some bizarre reason, I have the ability to make some of the most talented, intelligent and hardworking people help me. This termcard is a product of their labours and my lack of shame. Harry – you are a machine. Thank you for always being ready to send an invite or do what I am unable/unwilling to do. Claire – you are extremely funny. Thank you for sitting with me through all those appointed interviews. Saara – despite coming in late, you got to work like a champ. Matthew – Thank you for all the advice and help. I’m glad the Union has you and your appointment will go down as a turning point in the Union’s history. Iftikhar – Thank you for all your sagely words. You’re a breath of fresh air and perspective. Charlie, Chengkai, Louis, Hannah and Arwa for all the advice and assistance. You make me excited for my future and proud of my present. Aarush, Hayden and Tim. There would be no term without you. Words cannot express my gratitude. I am humbled by your commitment and proud to call you, my friends. Sera – it’s insane that you’re still the press officer after four terms. I appreciate your experience but more than anything else your warmth, frankness and boldness. It takes a special skill to shut me up. Sarah – you’ve come so far since I first met you in Hilary in the Macmillan. You are brilliant and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.
Jack – My man(ly)! You were there at the earliest days of the vac days and you kept me sane. Eeshani – the Instagram has never been better. Thank you for dealing with my random requests. The debate leads - Henry, Sambhav, Kai, Izzy, Kien, Thomas, Christina. Thank you for all your work, the debates are as much a product of your verve and drive as they are of my imagination. Olivia – I was right when I said that you were a serious person. I shudder to think what you’ll be capable of when you’re an actual adult. Aurora – You are a gem. Some of the biggest names in this termcard started with an email from you. I am blessed to have appointed you. Samson – Thank you for your hard work organising and liaising with sponsors. Amit – Sometimes old is gold(man). Thank you for the treasurer’s treats and much more. Ella – Thank you for being consulted on my stupidity. You’re a ray of sunshine and so fun to hang out with. To Shahmir, Jaid, Akheel, Aarav, Antonio, Luisa, Toby, Anya, Karan, Kat – thank you for the work that you’ve done. To Zagham. Thank you for writing the getting-involved guide. Your energy and erudition are an honour to experience. Thank you Sangeun for all the work you put into the termcard, especially whenever I say ‘I HAVE A VISION.’ I had a strange path here and many of the following people would be loathe to find themselves next to each other, but I am grateful – Prajwal, Vishnu, Milo, Michael and Arabella. Matthew Chiu – thank you for putting this idea in my head. Aaron – you are the GOAT. I don’t know how you do it but every day I thank the lord that God made you. Lilli – my favourite American. You are fearsome, ambitious and will succeed at anything you do. Stay off the internet and brush up on your Arabic, you will rule the world. Competitive debating made me an arrogant prick; competitive debaters made me learn to be a normal person. I’m not an easy person to be friends with but each of you have somehow managed just fine. I stand on the shoulders of giants and am proud to be a twig on the flourishing tree that we represent. Bharath – my better half. You’re the greatest debater I know and an even better friend. I don’t know why you debate with me but I’m grateful that you did. History will know you as one of the greats, I will know you as one of my favourite people. Tanush – You are one of the most underrated debaters ever. I’m going to miss you so much when you’re gone. Make a bunch of money and remember me when you’re famous. Dazzle – the greatest Indonesian debater ever. I promise I’ll go to your dance recitals once this is over, lots of love.
Nicole – Sometimes I wish you would see the value that I see you bring. You’re mentally ill (just like me!) but you keeping it together is somehow better than so many. The world is not ready for you. Alex – CCC! I remember judging you in Oxford Schools and now you’re one of my favourite people. Chin up, you’re as good as anyone and your friends are lucky to know you. Max –You’re the perfect man – you’re smart, funny and handsome. Your only defect is that you spend all your time helping and hanging out with me. I don’t deserve you. Leo – One day you’re going to do great things. Rarely are kindness and sensitivity combined with an intellect so erudite. Your curiosity, thoughtfulness and good humour are traits so rare that anyone who meets you has met a human of the highest quality. Hans – There are three things that everyone should know about you… Be proud of who you are because I am proud to call you a friend. You are one of the most naturally talented debaters I have ever seen, and I just know that the world will see it too. Chanidu – you’re one of the greatest to ever do it but he spends his time in bed because he needs a challenge. I love you man. Tori – Istanbul Open was one of my favourite comps because it was there that we became proper friends. It’s great to debate with you because you make everything so easy. You’re also really funny and I promise you are not a triangle. Chrissy – that vacation at the start of the year where we hung out a lot was one of my favourites. You’re smart, kind, strong and stable – you are the rock of the friend group and we’re lucky to have you. Jess – I miss you! I’m forever grateful for our Euros run and I just know that one day the world will be in awe of what you’ve done. Chris Mentis – I blame you for this. I love you like a brother. I am you and you are me. Ahmed – I am in awe of your passion. From someone who started debating at university to becoming CDSC, I respect everything you stand for and admire your passion, dedication and competence. Aidan – The man who discovered fire and brought Poker to Oxford. You’re the chillest guy anyone would meet but I apologise for all the times I get on your nerves. Ellen – My favourite Estonian. I just want you to know that you are somehow more than debating. Which while important is nothing in comparison to what you’ll do one day. Imran – I apologise that I am sometimes short with you. You’re the best of competitive debating, deliciously curious and always willing to put everything into what you do. I wish more were like you. Theo – The token Scott. Your dietary habits terrify me, but your debating astounds me. I remember coaching you when you were in beginners squads and am proud to consider you a peer.
To everyone else: There are too many of you to thank and too many words to share so your names will do – Patrick, Caridee, Caleb, Daniel, Enzo, Andrew, Ashlyn, Dan Lloyd-Hurwitz, Ellie, Jonathan, Giannis and Zach. Chloe – I will always fight for you. You just need to say the word. Emily – you keep me sane and tolerate too much shit from me. I just wish that you knew how brilliant you are. Adi – I’m going to miss you so much. Tesco will never be the same without you and you saving my ass in tutorials. Katherine – my college sister and First Oxford friend. You are the funniest person I know and I’m so, so lucky to call you my friend. I will always ‘love and support’ you. Lexi – you are without a doubt one of the kindest people on this planet. No one I know embodies the virtues of Christ better than you do. Tajei – I still don’t know if you like me. But I like you a lot and am confused why you spend so much time with me. Others include, Daan, James, Matthew, Paarv, Eric, Hannah, Lucas, Ainsley, Antoni, Pri, Kartikay, Connor, Sanmay, Maddie, Josh, Sarvesh and Bella . Jit, Junfang, Nadia, Claudia, Choon wee, Berry, Yi En, Maggie, Ying Xin, Kareena, Yi Hao, Rick, Tony, Travis, Hong Tzin, Hong Jing, Zhe Ming. So many hours of my life have been burnt by each one of you, I wouldn’t change a thing. Thank you for all your help and chats. Each of you have seen the history of the place and through it all have contributed more than I ever could. I have so much to learn from each of you but most of all your friendliness and kindness. Thank you to Richard, AJ, Tom, Kieran, Sarah, Sasha, Ryan, Alla, John, Elizabeth, Gareth, Jim and Harry. "It is a defect of God's humour that he directs our hearts everywhere but to those who have a right to them" – I wish I did more to earn that right, but it is in the fractures of our hearts where our furthest dreams lie. Our calluses curate our souls and make us who we are. Lastly, I thank God for his love; his most precious son, Jesus Christ, for his sacrifice; and his most blessed mother and St Gabriel for their prayers. Every day, I try to love as you did and to see your image in the meek, the starving and downtrodden. Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me a sinner. ☦︎