CANDIDATESTATEMENTS
2026TUSAELECTIONS
&NUS
REPRESENTATIONWITHPURPOSE–
WHYYOURVOICEMATTERS
When I first got involved in community service, it wasn’t because I thought I had all the answers. It was because I saw people around me who should have been heard but weren’t, and I realised I could help amplify their voice
Representation, whether in Parliament or on campus, is about service. It’s about stepping up to advocate for others, especially those who might not be able to speak up themselves That’s why student leadership matters It’s not just about meetings, motions or debating your friend from College – it’s about making sure every student, regardless of background, feels seen and supported.
When we think about leaders, it’s easy to picture people with a certain look, personality, or background But the truth is, leadership comes in many forms, and from people of all walks of life. You don’t have to be an extrovert and nor do you have to come from the best school What matters is your willingness to listen to different view points, to learn, and to act Whether you’re elected by a handful of peers or a whole campus, your responsibility is to serve everyone without fear or favour.
SenatorRichardDowling
That principle guides my work in the Senate, and it’s just as vital in student life. When you represent others, you carry their hopes, frustrations, and ideas You help shape decisions that affect real lives And you build a stronger, fairer community in the process – or in the case of student politics, create a better campus experience and learning environment.
Each action, no matter how small, helps strengthen the culture of participation that makes student life vibrant and rewarding So, if you’re thinking about getting involved – just do it. Run for student rep.Volunteer with a local group.Turn up to events and forums.
Getting involved also means voting There are candidates at the upcoming student elections which have competing ideas, different priorities they want to action. You get to decide what ideas are taken forward, and what priorities are actioned – but only if you vote!
Because representation isn’t just about who’s in the room. It’s about making sure the room reflects the community it serves.
STATECOUNCIL
MEET THE CANDIDATES!
We talked to the candidates and asked them some questions. Here are their responses: (‘...’ indicates that the candidate exceeded their word limit)
PRESIDENT
Candidate name: Jack Oates Pryor
Pronouns: they/he
Running as: part of the Together ticket
“What are your three non-negotioables?”
“(1) Improve support and representation of Online students
(2) Increase transparency of State Council (3) Stop SSAF waste. “
“What do you perceive your responsibilities as President to be?”:
“First, bold, relevant, and accountable representation of UTAS student voice and experience. Second, strategic leadership of TUSA and the State Council.”
“Who do you view your ‘community’ and ‘constituents’ to be?”
“Each and every UTAS student, everywhere Every club, society, and student group.”
“Why do you think student representation should exist within our University?”
“Because we matter as students Our voice and experience are valuable and need to be embedded within our University.”
“If you aren’t elected, how do you plan to still be actively involved within the community next year?”
“Re-establish TARTS (The Arts Students Society) for events, advocacy, and community Get involved in UTAS and TUSA governance ”
“Instead of saying why students should vote for you, why should they vote at all?”
“Because people will be in these roles regardless, so you may as well pick students you respect Democracy works ”
Who is your ‘leadership inspiration’? And why?
“Tim McCormack: pursues excellence and expertise with no ego Values-driven ”
If there were absolutely no budgetary or logistical limitations, what would you do with your position next year?”
“Change UTAS’s culture of non-genuine consultation. Build a connected, effective, and real system in which UTAS MUST embed student voice into every decision h k ”
GENERAL SECRETARY
Candidate name: Molly Doon
Pronouns: she/they
Running as: part of the Together ticket
This candidate did not provide a statement
Candidate name: Lucian Beattie
Pronouns: he/him
Running as: an Independent
“What are your three non-negotioables?”
“No more cuts and a plan to restore cut courses
Strengthen TUSA and student negotiation powers and representation Streamline services to work FOR us students.”
“What do you perceive your responsibilities to be?”:
“To create positive change by representing the student community’s best interests through embedding their needs and views into the soul and operations of TUSA.”
“Who do you view your ‘community’ and ‘constituents’ to be?”
“All current and future UTAS students, regardless of location, study load, background, degree, age, or community involvement Every experience shapes our community, every student matters!”
“Why do you think student representation should exist within our University?”
“When UTAS cut staff, courses, and services in the name of money making, it’s our futures on the line ”
“If you aren’t elected, how do you plan to still be actively involved within the community next year?”
“Through continued participation in Clubs & Societies, TUSA activities, and by standing up for my fellow students however I can!”
“Instead of saying why students should vote for you, why should they vote at all?”
“Institutions and societies are only as good as we choose to make them The voices of us students will shape UTAS, and in turn, Tasmania.”
Who is your‘leadership inspiration’? And why?
“Grace Tame, who bravely leads important, inspiring, and impactful change”
“If there were absolutely no budgetary or logistical limitations, what would you do with your position next year?”
“In a UTAS Utopia where TUSA has infinite money, I would: expand course options tenfold, provide all student services as needed, bring back a Uni Bar and student-owned shops and facilities across all campuses, make student accommodation rent cheaper than a night out, and have a bus service for students!!!”
EQUITY PRESIDENT
Candidate name: Kashif Azeem Pronouns: he/him
Running as: part of the Together ticket
“What are your three non-negotioables?”
“Equitable student support, genuine inclusion across cultures, and strong partnerships ensuring every student feels valued and connected.”
“What do you perceive your responsibilities as Equity President to be?”:
“To listen, represent, and advocate, ensuring every student feels included, supported, and empowered to succeed, regardless of background, gender, or circumstance ”
“Who do you view your ‘community’ and ‘constituents’ to be?”
“All UTAS students local, international, across genders, cultures, and abilities are my community My constituents are every student seeking fairness, inclusion, and genuine representation ”
“Why do you think student representation should exist within our University?”
“Because students deserve a voice in decisions, ensuring fairness, accountability, and a university shaped by those it serves.”
“If you aren’t elected, how do you plan to still be actively involved within the community next year?”
“I’ll stay engaged through student societies, advocacy projects, and community initiatives that promote fairness and belonging for all ”
“Instead of saying why students should vote for you, why should they vote at all?”
“Voting lets students shape campus life, ensure their voices are heard, influence decisions, and support a fair, inclusive, and vibrant university community” Who is your‘leadership inspiration’? And why?
“Nelson Mandela, for resilience, vision, and inspiring inclusive leadership”
“If there were absolutely no budgetary or logistical limitations, what would you do with your position next year?”
“I would leverage partnerships, student volunteers, and innovative digital platforms to expand programs, mentorship, and community initiatives, ensuring every student feels represented, supported, and empowered across campus.”
Candidate name: Ranae Zollner Pronouns: she/they
Running as: an Independent
“What are your three non-negotioables?”
“Make getting assistance from UTAS easier & faster Stop the cuts to support services. Re-empower students to get more of their SSAF!”
“What do you perceive your responsibilities as Equity President to be?”:
“Empathy, compassion & patience to hear students' voices. Fighting for those who get ignored & overlooked And creating authentic equity at every campus ”
“Who do you view your ‘community’ and ‘constituents’ to be?”
“Everyone! Because no matter how we look, think, or act, this is our university & equity is for everyone ”
“Why do you think student representation should exist within our University?”
“Yes, even more in faculties & departments. Codetermination gives real students a seat at the decision making table ”
“If you aren’t elected, how do you plan to still be actively involved within the community next year?”
“Working alongside TUSA & joining student clubs, also just being happy to grab coffee and have a chat anytime.”
“Instead of saying why students should vote for you, why should they vote at all?”
“Democracy & power. If you don't use your vote, UTAS may take that as our silent compliance to do what they want ”
Who is your ‘leadership inspiration’? And why?
“Grace Tame, Emma Goldman, Rosa Luxemburg, & Ingrid Lagerewskij!”
“If there were absolutely no budgetary or logistical limitations, what would you do with your position next year?”
“I'd make every space accessible physically & sensory Deliver free & frequent mental health & study support on-campus More activities & free food at a mini-groccery store. Getting a LAP would be automatic, & assignments could also be submitted in a way that fit students learning styles.”
EDUCATION PRESIDENT (UNDERGRADUATE)
Candidate name: Solomon Doyle Pronouns: he/they
Running as: part of the Together ticket
“What are your three non-negotioables?”
“Guaranteeing student voices are central to UTAS' internal policy, expanding cost-of-living support, ensure equal representation for regional, online, and marginalised students across all campuses ”
“What do you perceive your responsibilities as Education President (Undergraduate) to be?”:
“To amplify student concerns, translate them into real policy change, and ensure that every decision is made with the dignity, equity, and lived experience that ”
“Who do you view your ‘community’ and ‘constituents’ to be?”
“All UTAS students Whether it be international, regional, or online- with specific focus on those experiencing hardship, placement poverty, and structural barriers to success.”
“Why do you think student representation should exist within our University?”
“Because we all participate and are affected by Unilife, we deserve to have a role in what that looks like.”
“If you aren’t elected, how do you plan to still be actively involved within the community next year?”
“I'll continue campaigning for cost-of-living relief, food security, and student rights, through grassroots organising, alliances, and community networks.”
“Instead of saying why students should vote for you, why should they vote at all?”
“Voting is how students ensure their voices shape decisions made within UTAS, achieve genuine reform, while also holding TUSA and UTAS accountable to student needs.”
Who is your‘leadership inspiration’? And why?
“Jack Mundey, fought for justice by uniting workers”
“If there were absolutely no budgetary or logistical limitations, what would you do with your position next year?”
“Free universal student meals, fully-funded housing support, robust transport subsidies for students across Tasmania. I'd also expand regional learning hubs, create student-run community spaces for crosscultural integration and activism I would also mandate an independent body where students can directly consult with the University Council and UTAS Executives.”
EDUCATION PRESIDENT (POSTGRADUATE)
Candidate name: Jeppe van der Lee
Pronouns: he/him
Running as: part of the Together ticket
This candidate did not provide a statement.
SOUTHERN CAMPUS
PRESIDENT
Candidate name: Oliver Brancher
Pronouns: he/him
Running as: part of the Together ticket
“What are your three non-negotioables?”
“Reform the UniHopper, Reduce red tape for Clubs and Societies, continue to build a vibrant southern campus community ”
“What do you perceive your responsibilities as Southern Campus President to be?”:
“Being the voice of the community and addressing their issues while building a thriving community ”
“Who do you view your ‘community’ and ‘constituents’ to be?”
“All of those in our Southern Campuses and Accommodation, however I will do what I can for all UTAS students ”
“Why do you think student representation should exist within our University?”
“The university wouldn't exist without us, however we must work with the university not against them ”
“If you aren’t elected, how do you plan to still be actively involved within the community next year?”
“I'd continue to be active with campus accommodation as well as UTAS sports ”
“Instead of saying why students should vote for you, why should they vote at all?”
“Everyone's vote is powerful, it is important to vote so that the student body is properly represented ”
Who is your ‘leadership inspiration’? And why?
“Obama, Value driven, compromising, and passionate ”
“If there were absolutely no budgetary or logistical limitations, what would you do with your position next year?”
“Increase the number of Unihopper and adjust the timetables so that all students could arrive and leave classes at time which are best suited for them Furthermore, slash red tape for ll clubs and societies and reduce barriers for TUSA affiliation.”
NORTHERN CAMPUS PRESIDENT
Candidate name: Dannie Horton
Pronouns: she/her
Running as: an Independent
“What are your three non-negotioables?”
“To distribute student surveys to enhance open communication with students, to develop opportunities for online and rural students and maintain student engagement events ”
“What do you perceive your responsibilities as Northern Campus President to be?”:
“I wish to achieve Enhancing and maintaining student engagement and participation via the cultivation of student spaces and opportunities and allowing student voices to be ”
“Who do you view your ‘community’ and ‘constituents’ to be?”
“My community is those I engage with during university I view my constituents to be anyone undergoing university study, whether it be in-person or online.”
“Why do you think student representation should exist within our University?”
“Issues may seem impossible to combat as an individual. Student representation allows individuals to have a voice and create change.”
“If you aren’t elected, how do you plan to still be actively involved within the community next year?”
“I intend to volunteer at TUSA events and attend university events, as in-person engagement is important to me ”
“Instead of saying why students should vote for you, why should they vote at all?”
“The small inconvenience of voting can lead to major long-term benefits You may not be interested in politics, but voting is in your best interest ”
Who is your ‘leadership inspiration’? And why?
“Maria Montessori; she was an innovator in educational development ”
“If there were absolutely no budgetary or logistical limitations, what would you do with your position next year?”
“I would fight for all units and degrees available in Hobart to be available in Launceston, I would also aim to reopen unavailable units, as it is crucial that equal opportunities and access is present in university life for those attending both online and in Launceston ”
Candidate name: Liv Street
Pronouns: she/her
Running as: part of the Together ticket
“What are your three non-negotioables?”
“1) Improved support and awareness for online and remote students.
2) Increased promotion of available support services
3) More events for/at the Northern Campuses
“What do you perceive your responsibilities as Northern Campus President to be?”:
“Advocate for all UTAS students, connect them with support services, and work with clubs and societies to create a more inclusive and enjoyable student space.”
“Who do you view your ‘community’ and ‘constituents’ to be?”
“All UTAS students connected to our Northern Campuses – whether they are an online, on-campus, remote, domestic or international student, including those in any club/society ”
“Why do you think student representation should exist within our University?”
“Representation ensures students are heard, supported, and included, making the University experience fair, fun and valuable ”
“If you aren’t elected, how do you plan to still be actively involved within the community next year?”
“Spreading word about the FoodHub, attending events and student-run initiatives and sharing feedback to improve student life.”
“Instead of saying why students should vote for you, why should they vote at all?”
“A representative will be elected regardless voting gives you a say in shaping your uni experience Even if you’re not fussed, make sure your voice...”
Who is your ‘leadership inspiration’? And why?
“Velma (from Scooby Doo) - a good problem-solver and friend ”
“If there were absolutely no budgetary or logistical limitations, what would you do with your position next year?”
“If there were no limitations, I’d host regular movie nights in lecture halls, organise gigs for local bands and student musicians, work with the City Council for free or reduced parking for students on campus and improve public transport accessibility with extended and more frequent bus routes ”
Candidate name: Mohamed Elmeligy Pronouns: he/him
Running as: an Independent
This candidate did not provide a statement
Candidate name: Terenz Eujean Batac Pronouns: he/him
Running as: an Independent
“What are your three non-negotioables?”
“Elected or not I dare contribute to a Vibrant, Inclusive and Sustainable Utas Experience alongside TUSA, a stalwart organization that keeps the community at heart.”
“What do you perceive your responsibilities as Northern Campus President to be?”:
“Love to be your CHEERLEADER, to specially spread Compassion, Humility, Empowerment, Excellence, Respect and Service. Principles that set us up for all our future endeavors ”
“Who do you view your ‘community’ and ‘constituents’ to be?”
“Ain’t a bubble, our campus’ key player in what makes this region vibrant We are privileged to live, work and study alongside the local community ”
“Why do you think student representation should exist within our University?”
“Taking charge of our education and interests should come naturally, we do have skin in the game! Make it count!”
“If you aren’t elected, how do you plan to still be actively involved within the community next year?”
“I can continue to be generous with my time and talents at our student accommodation and community multicultural radio.”
“Instead of saying why students should vote for you, why should they vote at all?”
“Please do! Get Funky, giving oneself agency to decide who has your confidence is fun and liberating. Part of the Australian experience”
Who is your ‘leadership inspiration’? And why?
“Idol Ralph Smedley - “We learn best in moments of enjoyment.”
“If there were absolutely no budgetary or logistical limitations, what would you do with your position next year?”
“Other than free parking and effective teleportation among campuses’ I would endeavor to set up a team to keep spontaneously combusting events , clubs and societies of interest that ultimately empower us to realize there’s more to study and balance is possible for better life outcomes!”
CRADLE COAST CAMPUS PRESIDENT
Candidate name: Kayla Fajrianto
Pronouns: she/her
Running as: part of the Together ticket
“What are your three non-negotioables?”
“1) Create a genuinely safe, supportive, and inclusive community
2) Increase opportunities for students on the NW 3) Advocate for equitable opportunities for NW students”
“What do you perceive your responsibilities as Cradle Coast President to be?”:
“Represent and advocate for the voices and needs of students in NW Tasmania. Whilst also creating a positive, fun and inclusive experience for them.”
“Who do you view your ‘community’ and ‘constituents’ to be?”
“Students in NW Tasmania – past, present, and future. As well as the greater UTAS student community, and those that we engage with ”
“Why do you think student representation should exist within our University?”
“It’s OUR experiences and voices that should be heard, and therefore guide how the University organises its priorities ”
“If you aren’t elected, how do you plan to still be actively involved within the community next year?”
“Continuing engagement with the medical society (TUMSS) and Cradle Coast groups through organising and participating in relevant events and initiatives.”
“Instead of saying why students should vote for you, why should they vote at all?”
“Voting is the opportunity to have your voice heard and choose a representation of yourself. Essentially, it shapes your University life ”
Who is your ‘leadership inspiration’? And why?
“My friend Laura, who puts others first and considers all.”
“If there were absolutely no budgetary or logistical limitations, what would you do with your position next year?”
Form and strengthen connections between Cradle Coast students and others across UTAS with more events and conversations. Through this, create a means for awareness and attention to our students and campus so that our voices are heard Therefore, encouraging a stronger force for proper action and access for us students
ROZELLE CAMPUS
PRESIDENT
Candidate name: Henry Anderson
Pronouns: he/him
Running as: an Independent
“What are your three non-negotioables?”
“Improving student wellbeing and experience, facilitating open communication between students and the union, and ensuring everyone has a say in decisions that affect them!”
“What do you perceive your responsibilities as Rozelle Campus President to be?”:
“Actively listening to students, advocating for their needs, creating meaningful initiatives, and strengthening campus community through collaboration, transparency, and genuine representation.”
“Who do you view your ‘community’ and ‘constituents’ to be?”
“All UTAS students, across every campus and field of study, united by shared experiences and challenges and striving for a supportive, inclusive, and engaging university...”
“Why do you think student representation should exist within our University?”
“So there is a spokesperson for the student body, ensuring every student’s voice is heard, valued, and reflected in decisions ”
If you aren’t elected, how do you plan to still be actively involved within the community next year?”
“Continue supporting peers and fellow students through volunteering, events, and pitching initiatives that build community and enhance the student experience.”
“Instead of saying why students should vote for you, why should they vote at all?”
“Voting empowers students to shape their university experience and ensures diverse voices influence meaningful change and future opportunities”
Who is your‘leadership inspiration’? And why?
“Atul Gawande. He demonstrates compassionate leadership grounded in service and ”
“If there were absolutely no budgetary or logistical limitations, what would you do with your position next year?”
“I’d create dynamic, inclusive programs connecting students across all UTAS campuses, expand mental health and wellbeing services, establish innovative career pathways bridging study and real-world opportunities, and would advocate for the construction of more facilities (e.g. a sports gym) to our small Rozelle Campus!”
Candidate name: Simriti Simriti Pronouns: she/her
Running as: part of the Together ticket
“What are your three non-negotioables?”
“1) Prioritising student feedback
2) Boosting Rozelle campus engagement
3) Ensuring transparent and inclusive decision making that reflects our diverse voices and drives real change!”
“What do you perceive your responsibilities as Rozelle Campus President to be?”
“Listen to students, follow through feedback with action and have open conversations with my peers inorder to ensure everyone feels heard and apart of what's ”
“Who do you view your ‘community’ and ‘constituents’ to be?”
“I don't believe in dividing roles. Students and Staff all have a voice, and I want to make sure we are working TOGETHER not apart ”
“Why do you think student representation should exist within our University?”
“Students are the heart of our University Representation makes sure we are not just here but we are heard, respected ”
“If you aren’t elected, how do you plan to still be actively involved within the community next year?”
“Stay involved in student-led events, support my peers and continue to build a stronger, more connected campus community here at...”
“Instead of saying why students should vote for you, why should they vote at all?”
“Change doesn't happen by itself. Voting is how we take ownership, speak up and make sure our campus reflects what we actually need ”
Who is your ‘leadership inspiration’? And why?
“Greta Thunberg! Fearless, honest and always speaks up for what ... ”
“If there were absolutely no budgetary or logistical limitations, what would you do with your position next year?”
“I would create a fully resourced, student led Rozelle campus. Where our ideas shape real change and we have what we need such a proper library!”
VOTINGISOPENNOW!
(CLOSINGTHURSDAY25 MIDNIGHT) TH
MEET THE CANDIDATES!
Candidate name: Molly Doon
NUS DELEGATE EDITION
Now, you might be wondering, what the fuck this is I am too
tldr: NUS stands for the National Union of Students, essentially, they’re a group of students from around the country that have been elected to represent their respective Uni’s in a mini mock parliament If you want to go down a special interest rabbit hole, check out theTUSA website for more details
Candidate name: Jack Oates Pryor
Pronouns: they/he
Running as: part of the Together ticket
“What do you perceive your responsibilities as an NUS delegate to be?”
“First, represent unique Tasmanian student experience
Second, lobby/fight for wins for us ”
“Who do you view your ‘community’ and ‘constituents’ to be?”
“Each and every UTAS student, everywhere. Every club, society, and student group ”
“How do you plan to conduct yourself at the NUS conference?”
“With unconditional respect for others, but uncompromising prioritisation of UTAS. No political game-playing. No factional fighting.”
“If you had to pick only one group at UTAS to prioritise to represent at NUS, who would that be?”
“Rural and remote students, such as in Burnie or Online. The NUS does not meaningfully hear from rural, remote, or distance students currently UTAS students have a unique experience of this.”
“If you had to pick one person, alive or dead, to represent UTAS at NUS, who would it be?”
“The Cripps Ambassador lol”
Candidate name: Amelia Meyers
Pronouns: she/her
Running as: part of the Together ticket
This candidate did not provide a statement.
Candidate name: Mohamed Elmeligy
Pronouns: he/him
Running as: an Independent
This candidate did not provide a statement
Pronouns: she/they
Running as: part of the Together ticket
This candidate did not provide a statement
Candidate name: Ranae Zollner
Pronouns: she/they
Running as: an Independent
This candidate did not provide a statement
Candidate name: Dannie Horton
Pronouns: she/her
Running as: an Independent
“What do you perceive your responsibilities as an NUS delegate to be?”
“Enhancing and maintaining student engagement and participation via the cultivation of student spaces and opportunities and allowing student voices to be heard ”
“Who do you view your ‘community’ and ‘constituents’ to be?”
“My community is those I engage with during university I view my constituents to be anyone undergoing university study, whether it be in-person or online ”
“How do you plan to conduct yourself at the NUS conference?”
“Enthusiastic participation is crucial, but this must be balanced with an open mind and a desire to listen, cooperate and learn ”
“If you had to pick only one group at UTAS to prioritise to represent at NUS, who would that be?”
“Northern UTAS students; as they are currently facing obstacles in access to equal opportunities and student events when compared with students in Southern UTAS campuses It is crucial that Northern UTAS students enjoy the same quality of university study and engagement that Southern UTAS students have access to ”
“If you had to pick one person, alive or dead, to represent UTAS at NUS, who would it be?”
“Maria Montessori”
(‘ ’ indicates that the candidate exceeded their word limit)
Candidate name: Lucian Beattie Pronouns: he/him
Running as: an Independent
“What do you perceive your responsibilities as an NUS delegate to be?”
“To prioritise the needs of UTAS students before politics NUS Conference is an opportunity to amplify the importance of Tasmanian issues on a national stage ”
“Who do you view your ‘community’ and ‘constituents’ to be?”
“I, as an NUS delegate, would represent the community of all UTAS students on a national stage by advocating for an agenda determined by THEM ”
“How do you plan to conduct yourself at the NUS conference?”
“With respect for all perspectives, collaboratively with UTAS delegates to deliver for Tasmanians and ensure our causes are heard by the mainlanders – students over politics ”
“If you had to pick only one group at UTAS to prioritise to represent at NUS, who would that be?”
“UTAS students from disadvantaged backgrounds who are doing it the toughest and risking the most by taking on a HECS debt to pursue higher education Those disadvantaged by life circumstances need the most support It’s vital we prioritise our underprivileged Tasmanians to give them a chance of a better future ”
“If you had to pick one person, alive or dead, to represent UTAS at NUS, who would it be?”
Passionate, randomly selected student
Candidate name: Solomon Doyle
Pronouns: he/they
Running as: part of the Together ticket
“What do you perceive your responsibilities as an NUS delegate to be?”
“Strongly represent the student cohort and their needs to ensure a fair, equitable, and enjoyable experience at UTAS.”
“Who do you view your ‘community’ and ‘constituents’ to be?”
“Everyone at UTAS; students and staff If you are involved with UTAS, you deserve representation ”
“How do you plan to conduct yourself at the NUS conference?”
“I'll act with integrity, prioritising UTAS students' voices, building constructive working relationships, ensuring every intervention I make is tied to real, practical student outcomes ”
“If you had to pick only one group at UTAS to prioritise to represent at NUS, who would that be?”
“Students experiencing financial hardship Cost-of-living is the single biggest issue preventing students from adequately addressing their needs, to meaningfully engage with Uni Whether it’s rent, food-insecurity, or unpaid placements, fixing this uplifts the entire student community Winning material improvements here would have the broadest, most transformative impact on campus life ”
“If you had to pick one person, alive or dead, to represent UTAS at NUS, who would it be?”
“Rosa Luxemburg”
Candidate name: Vaness Yap
Pronouns: she/her
Running as: part of the Together ticket
“What do you perceive your responsibilities as an NUS delegate to be?”
“To listen, advocate, and amplify UTAS students’ voices, ensuring national policy reflects our realities, especially equity, wellbeing, and fair access to education ”
“Who do you view your ‘community’ and ‘constituents’ to be?”
“All UTAS students across campuses, especially postgraduates, international, and equity groups whose challenges are often overlooked but deserve strong, consistent national representation ”
“How do you plan to conduct yourself at the NUS conference?”
“With professionalism and collaboration, such as engaging in debate, seeking consensus, and respectfully challenging motions. I’ll actively network, share Tasmanian perspectives, and negotiate outcomes benefiting...”
“If you had to pick only one group at UTAS to prioritise to represent at NUS, who would that be?”
“I would prioritise international students. They face disproportionate financial strain, limited support, and systemic barriers in recognition of prior learning. At a regional university like UTAS, these challenges are magnified. Advocating nationally ensures their voices are heard, driving policy reforms that make education more inclusive and accessible.”
“If you had to pick one person, alive or dead, to represent UTAS at NUS, who would it be?”
“Gough Whitlam”