43 CANDIDATES. 15 POSITIONS.
YOU DECIDE.
VOTE 5 MARCH 10:00 – 8 MARCH 22:00
thestudentsunion.co.uk/vote
PRESIDENT STUDENTS BEFORE PROFITS
AJMAL MIAH
My name is Ajmal Miah and I am running to be your President of the Students Union here at UWE. My primary goal is to create an environment where every student is respected and able to perform to the maximum of their ability. It is paramount to me that the student experience is conducive to a learning environment and helps each and every one of you develop to the maximum of your ability. I wish to be part of a movement that wishes to create positive change on campus, reducing the cost of living and foods, encouraging interfaith dialogue between communities, and also mobilising for national issues to help better conditions for students not just at home, but everywhere else too.
#WYNTER2018 I decided to take up this position of VP Socs and Comms to do what I can to help students administer their own small communities which is so insurmountably important to ensuring students feel at home here at this University. More importantly, I wanted to re-make student media to be a source community on all campuses here at UWE.
BAHKAI WYNTER
DERYA KHALILPOUR
Part of the team which founded the Global Majority Campaign, endeavouring to unite all students to celebrate ethnic minorities under the national campaign of Black History Month. Introduction of centrally administered society clothing by the Union One of the creators of SU Bingo Night, and HallsLife Speed Dating Creator of the new Embers Society Ball
changes every year. I believe that it as a diverse, democratic body, we need to give students greater choice to be represented at this level, and also more opportunities to run for these positions! Our goal is to have a Student Union that is not distant from the ordinary student, one that proactively engages with them on issues and on campaigns, and together we can create a place where we put Students before Profits. Thank you.
As President I wish to:
Establish a legitimate Student Executive committee with allocated funding, containing all elected student representatives and all lead department representatives. This is to act as the central driving force for all engagement-based Union activity. Use the above committee to facilitate wide spreading campaigns across the year which are representative of as many of the 28,000 students here as possible- as per elected positions. E.g. Black History Month, LGBT History Month, International Women’s Week, Mental Health Awareness Day etc. Use the above committee to conceive more recreational events throughout the year. There is a demand for fun events like bingo and speed dating, this should be followed up
What I have done:
On the completion of my current tenure administering the society program, I wish to present myself before the students of UWE to be considered for the position of Presidency. What we lack at UWE is a strong sense of interconnected community, and a collective feeling of UWE student culture. This is what I endeavour to change.
VOTE DERYA NO.1 FOR SU PRESIDENT - REFUSING TO LET UWE DOWN.
What I’ll do as SU President: To occupy the majority of my time as SU President I believe that there should be a focus on achieving change and improvements to domestic student issues. The issues I’ll be working toward alongside other sabbatical officers are laid out in this document: https://goo.gl/BaoWii One of the biggest issues on campus this year was the moving of the lock in from a Tuesday to a Saturday without any student consultation. I have already submitted policy (which achieved overwhelming support) to move the lock in back to a Tuesday. As Students’ Union President I will initiate the rightful return of the lock in to Tuesday nights in the SU (yes, it’s possible). I’ve represented UWE nationally as an NUS delegates for the last two years pushing an agenda of reform to make the NUS a more representative organisation. Progress has been made but it’s now time
to give UWE students an opportunity to express whether or not they want to remain affiliated to the NUS. I will propose a referendum on The Students’ Union @ UWE to disaffiliate from the NUS. At NUS National conference this year if significant improvements are adopted I’ll support remaining in the organisation to continue the fight for reform, otherwise I will back a leave campaign. For many students living on campus one of the biggest expenses has been the extortionate laundry costs. I will seek concessions in the price and/or operation of circuit laundry on campus. As SU President I will defend the values of freedom of speech and freedom of expression on campus to ensure that no voice is silenced in a liberal Students’ Union. Follow my campaign page: www. facebook.com/VK4Life/
Experiences. Elect me and I can assure you that I will be YOUR-Dedicated-President!!! I strongly believe that students are all given Opportunities to express their Voices and to be encouraged to take an Active part in achieving the aims of UWE-2020strategy. Therefore, it is an honor for me to represent + 27,000 UWE students to improve students’ experience. These below are priorities and values I’ll bring to UWE Students and UWE Brand Image: I. EDUCATION
Recognition, I aim to expand it into European and International Business Competitions where UWE-students have
Complete remake and rebrand of student media into Hub Media Replaced the Western Eye with the student designed HUB Voice Magazine Designed and founded the new uwehubmedia website Repaired HUB Radio to operate at maximum capacity
Hi, I’m Derya a 2nd year Biomedical Science student and I’m running to be your Students’ Union President. Alongside my studies I have involved myself in the SU through societies where I’m currently President of the Debating Society and on the committee of Wine and Cheese Society. Additionally I have been elected as a student council member for 5 consecutive terms and have used my position to debate on and pass policy that is submitted through the student ideas page. I have also held SU officers to account on their actions and manifesto promises, so I am aware of the scrutiny that comes with the position of SU President.
LEADERS DO NOT CREATE FOLLOWERS, THEY CREATE MORE LEADERS AND INSPIRE THE GREATNESS IN OTHERS!!!.. VOTE #1 GIANG-NGUYEN For YOUR President My name is Giang and currently
studying Master of InternationalManagement. I am here standing to be YOUR next Students’ Union President. As a Chancellor-Scholarship-Student,
GIANG NGUYEN
I set up and subsequently chaired the Stand Up to Racism Society at UWE and have been at the heart of everything we do. UWE Stand Up to Racism has been active on campus, as we have been effective in not only organising meetings, but also being active in mobilising for events outside of campus. We have discussed ideas about how we can be more involved in activism, and to combat issues such as Islamophobia, homophobia, antisemitism and homophobia. I will stand in solidarity with all oppressed groups, and am firmly of the belief that one must be able to practice whichever religion they wish to, express ideas and beliefs, and also be able to love who they want, free from external pressures and difficulties. I will also seek to reduce term limit of full time officers to one year. Yes, our university have had fantastic individuals in the past lead our Student Union. But the student population drastically
Student-Representative, StudentAmbassador, Postgraduate-Officer, and Business & Management-DepartmentRepresentative, I promise to apply my
diligence to contribute to Your Academic
1. Business-Competitions
Aim to accelerate the active learning while developing a pool of young talent, my TEAM and I are organizing a NationalBusiness-Competition that brings UK Corporate-Executives, Academics and Top-Students from the UK’s Leading Universities including UWE to compete against each other in business field to earn the National-Championship. In hope to increase UWE’s Global
Vote thestudentsunion.co.uk/vote
opportunities to compete with International students from European universities and all-over-the-world.
2. Private-Tutor-Platform provided by UWE-students for UWE-students
The platform will provide one-to-one or group-tutoring to students who are struggling with their class lectures, assignments and exams by the Face-to-face Assistance from UWE’s students with high academic achievements. Both UWE learners and private-tutors will gain benefits of achieving the knowledge and earning extra-income. II. FUNDING-SCHOLARSHIP To assist UWE-students in affording education and achieving higher academicand-social-performances, I submitted a proposal to UWE Funding and am still seeking for Financial Sponsorship from companies/organizations to build an UWE
appropriately. Talk to more students! With over a dozen elected officers, consultation and data collection from students should be through the roof. More time interacting, less time behind a screen. Represent you. My own personal passions and ideas come second to the voice of those I represent. The President is here to serve, not dictate. I appreciate you reading my manifesto, and hope I can count on your vote. #Wynter2017
After-Enrolment-Scholarship-Scheme. III. MULTICULTURAL-WEEK
I’ll work with Students’ Union and Leaders of International Students’ Communities to organize a Multicultural-Week throughout campuses; where a diverse range of culture-related-activities/events will foster the connection among Communities and spread the Values of Cultural Diversity to international and home-students. IV. DIVERSE-FOOD-OPTIONS UWE-Students will be provided with more diverse options of cultural food; and more choices of religious or medical-conditionrelated preferences such as gluten-free food. “My Courage to Translate Ambitious Visions into Reality comes from my
Gratitude, Passion of Dedication towards UWE’s Achievements. Therefore, I am
committed to working tirelessly, dedicating all my heart and my capability to Empower Students and Deliver Great Experiences for all UWE-Students’ Academic Lives”....
PRESIDENT CLEAR FRAMES. CLEAR GOALS. THE CLEAR CHOICE.
your potential; Maintaining and improving relations between the university and the wider Bristol community; and dealing with specific problems brought up by students... But how can we achieve these?
accommodation bursaries. Renting guides with more accessible, improved information on what rights you have and what to expect from your student landlord AND your estate agent.
My name is Jack Lovering and I am a thirdyear student of Politics and International Relations who has experience liaising with both students and staff due to a year spent as Department Representative for Health and Social Sciences, as well as experience representing the university outside of its boundaries through the SPARK program, going into schools to help raise aspirations of secondary school pupils.
On-Campus living: More availability of dietaryrequirement lunch options (Currently only 1-2 gluten-free salads on the SU shop meal deal, plus maintaining and improving Vegan and Halal options) Cooking lessons as part of freshers week (Potentially working to create simple video recipes filmed in student accommodation with standard kitchen equipment)
How can we positively impact the community around us?: - Getting students more involved in the local community – one vision is to approach Bristol’s sports teams and event organizers to make tickets available for purchase through the SU. Weekend parking to be made more widely available rather than sitting empty – alleviates parking congestion in Cheswick village and the surrounding area; a concern for both students and residents. Part-time employment opportunities to be made more visible.
During my tenure as SU president my goals would include:
Improving new and existing students’ oncampus lives; Continuing to improve the support given to ensure you can reach
JACK LOVERING
- TIME FOR GREATNESS 2018 - #HEYBROTHER HI, I’M SAM, A THIRD YEAR BIOMEDICAL SCIENCE STUDENT AND I’M RUNNING TO BE YOUR SU PRESIDENT! You may have seen me running for this position twice in the last two years, facilitating Student Council meetings and working on the student ideas system and governance as a Democratic Procedures Committee member. I might have asked you to fill out accommodation surveys for Bristol Cut the Rent UWE Campaign, working towards fairer student accommodation in Bristol.
SAM MARSHALL EVANS
THROUGHOUT THE LAST FOUR YEARS AT UWE I’VE SHOWN I’M SOMEONE TO BE TRUSTED; SOMEONE WHO PUTS STUDENTS ABOVE ALL ELSE.
Support: Striving to improve mental health services. Support calls for Nursing student
IF ELECTED I WOULD: Rebuild SU Accommodation Services - I want to create a successful student-run lettings agency like Bristol SU Lettings, who have saved students nearly half a million pounds in agency fees since 2013. I would work to promote the Bristol Ethical Lettings Charter, provide a comprehensive guarantor scheme to support those who need it, and work together with Bristol SU Lettings and the local councils to bring and end to agency fees and poor quality accommodation. Improve Campus Connections - I
want to work on improving facilities for students on every campus, ensuring that the SU campaigns and events are available to every student, a policy I share with my brother and City Campus Office candidate Joe Marshall Evans. I’d also like to work together with our
societies and sports clubs and Bristol SU to organise joint events to celebrate the variety of cultures and interests we share with each other.
Help Achieve the Aims of My VPs and Officers - Many of the other
candidates running this year have fantastic ideas that I‘d like to help them achieve, something that every SU president should do. My hope is to support my VPs and Officers, each of them being experts in their role, to achieve their aims and carry them even further than they hoped by working together as a motivated and efficient team.
Specific Problems: Blackwells closure:
Core textbooks to be made available (in print or online), eventually for all book-based subjects. Repurpose unused rooms above E Block SU shop to host event to buyback and resell 2nd hand textbooks. Library Improvements:
Installation of power outlets on the quiet floor study spaces. Underpinning these goals is a constant drive to find creative and sustainable ways to make life for UWE students of all ethnicities, faiths, races, genders and sexualities the best it can be. Life at university can be uncertain at times, but when it comes to your next SU president: The Future is Clear.
INCLUDING MY BROTHER AND CITY CAMPUS OFFICER CANDIDATE JOE MARSHALL EVANS, TO ACHIEVE ALL OF OUR AIMS. SO, WHEN YOU GO TO VOTE, BE SURE TO VOTE SAM FOR SU PRESIDENT AND JOE FOR CITY CAMPUS OFFICER!
IF ELECTED I WILL TRY TO FULFIL THESE POLICIES, MAINTAIN AND ADAPT PAST IDEAS, AND TACKLE OTHERS THAT COME UP IN THE YEAR AHEAD. I LOOK FORWARD TO WORKING TOGETHER WITH MY FELLOW VPS AND OFFICERS,
PRESIDENTS’ HUSTINGS YOUR QUESTIONS. THEIR ANSWERS. YOU DECIDE.
MONDAY 5 MARCH, 17:30 THE STUDENTS’ UNION BAR AT FRENCHAY
Vote thestudentsunion.co.uk/vote
VICE PRESIDENT EDUCATION VOTE FOR AMAN: HE WILL GIVE YOU WIIIINGS!! Hi, I’m Amandeep Chahar, a second year Aerospace student and I would love to be your VP-Education. You may know me as student rep-Aerospace 2nd year where I gained valuable experience about how to bring changes to education quality at the university. Through years of work experience in MNC’s, I have gained quality of team work and encompassment of good communication skills. I will endeavour to bring all the valuable experience already gained and channel it into this role. If elected as VP-Education my priority will be to tackle the issues that matter to all students, including:
AMANDEEP CHAHAR
Timetable: It’s very important that the timetable works efficiently for
#VOTEAYRDENNUMBERONE - DELIVERING ON EDUCATIONAL ISSUES THAT MATTER TO YOU #VOTEAYRDENNUMBERONE #VoteAyrdenNumberOne
AYRDEN POCOCK
Hey I’m Ayrden and I’m standing to be your Vice-President of Education. I’ve spent my first two years at UWE representing my subject as a Course Rep and the Department for Arts and Cultural Industries as a Lead Department Rep. I’ve also represented all of you here at UWE as one of your Student Council members and as an NUS Delegate at National Conference. It’s been an honour to hold these positions and have the opportunity
YOUR VOICE MATTERS. I am Christie Liau and I am running for Vice President of Education. My key objectives are: Course material Students invest a lot of money in order to obtain quality education. I aim to ensure that they obtain value for money by
Improving their access to the academic resources Increasing the number of copies of core textbooks in the library Ensuring that all core textbooks are available as e-books Increasing their printing credit
CHRISTIE LIAU
Peer Assisted Learning Scheme PALS is a fantastic scheme to help students achieve their full academic potential. It is underused because
DON’T DELAY, VOTE CJ Hi, I’m CJ and I’m standing to be your next Vice President Education. I’m a final year Drawing and Print student, one-time rep of the month and lead department rep for art and design. As lead department rep, I have worked to resolve issues from programme level to faculty level and given the chance, I can continue to make a positive impact on student life.
Time to Face Reality.
CJ GODBOLD
Rising rent prices, travel expenses and extra course costs – whether it’s a new laptop, books or using facilities, have forced many students into part time work. Students are relying more heavily on financial support from the university, asking that facilities beyond the library have 7 day a week access and facing increasing stress especially around
students. The University criticises poor attendance at lectures, but as you can relate to it, when your lectures split into few hour portions across days it’s only normal for attendance to drop. I want to review the timetable policies, conducting an initiative where the timetable for courses is organized in such a way that minimizes wasted hours and works for all. Exam and Course Feedback: Working as student Rep, I came to notice about a common problem among students. Most of us faces the problem of getting insufficient feedback on coursework and exams. If elected, I will work on this issue and ensure there are higher standards for giving feedback in every form: online through Blackboard, online course work submission, and personal. Mental Health: mental health is just
like physical health, everybody has it and we need to take care of it. Although we have a good support to deal with mental health issues, but I believe it’s not reaching to everyone who needs it. If elected, I want to work on this issue to make it easily available to every needy student. Workshops for International students: being International student myself I faced many challenges to start living in UK. Therefore, I want to organise more workshops for international students to make them aware about life in UK, so that they don’t face any challenges ahead. I will make sure that I will be available most of the time for such issues. Religious festivals: I want to work with all religious societies from different countries to celebrate festivals and make everyone feel at home.
If there is something that you want to see improved that doesn’t appear on this manifesto, get in touch, as I want to represent YOU!
to get a better deal for everyone at UWE. It’s not easy to get everything you want when you’re doing these kinds of jobs and that often, when others have run for them, promises have been made that can’t be delivered. I can’t promise that I’m going to lower tuition fees or get free laptops for every student, but I will guarantee to focus on achievable domestic educational priorities that affect us all, like a commitment from the University not to raise fees above £9,000 and that Laptops loaned from the Library work with Halls Wi-Fi. Here’s a few of the things that I’m going to do: Library Reorganisation – I’m working with Library on their current reorganisation and have produced a report which was based on your feedback. It’s helped to stop their long-term goal of a paperless library. There’s still more to
be stored, let’s keep it that way. Extenuating Circumstances Procedure – The application process
at UWE. I will lobby the University to provide a plan for the replacement of
to be funded properly and I will push the University to do this. International College – International
students are not aware of the scheme or do not know how this could help them. I will bring PALS closer to the students by
Resolve the glitches in the printing and IT system Lobby for a brand new lift
do, the Library’s a place for books to
Spreading awareness about PALS Improving the branding to bring PALS’s benefits to more students Implementing classes covering skills necessary for specific courses such as law Creating progress sheets to monitor the student’s improvement Encouraging international students to benefit from PALS
for EC to extend coursework deadlines due to illness or personal crisis, is an unnecessarily over complicated task, the opposite of what it should be considering those who are using it. Let’s have an
EC process that’s simple to use and doesn’t penalise those in traumatic circumstances. Resource Budgets – University’s a
massive investment and you’d hope that there’s not a lot more to pay on top. Arts resource budgets need to be increased to reflect the work those students are required to produce and Geography students shouldn’t be provided with leaky boots on field trips. All subjects need
students pay more than any of us to study
I will strive for students to have access to better academic resources which will support them throughout their course. As VP of Education, I will be your voice for change.
Library The library has great resources which can be put to better use. I endeavour to
Set up an online or mobile system through which students can notify disturbing noise in the quiet zone Fix and install more hot water dispensers Ensure that a regular cleaning system is in place for the lounge on Level 4
deadlines and exam periods. The reality of being a student has changed. The university needs not only to be presented with what the students want, but why their expectations of what an institution should provide has changed. The university has a responsibility to listen to and support students who are working hard to support themselves. Finding a balance isn’t just the responsibility of the student, but the university too.
Representation
Improving representation for satellite campuses has been seen in manifestos for presidents and vice presidents over and over again. Isn’t it time to elect someone with experience of being a student at one of these campuses to resolve this issue once and for all? I believe that it benefits us all when students across campuses are engaged
Vote thestudentsunion.co.uk/vote
with representation. Where one campus might have a problem, another might have already found a solution.
Short and Sweet
The reason I’ve kept my manifesto short is because I want you to know that you can approach me with anything that is important to you and I will help you in any way I can. You don’t have to worry that it won’t fit into my agenda, because my agenda is to help you. Elect me and I won’t disappoint you. Given this opportunity I will continue to work hard for all students. Don’t Delay, Vote CJ
the current International College with a permanent structure which
reflects the commitment they make in coming to UWE to study.
#VoteAyrdenNumberOne Join My Campaign at: Facebook Group https:// w w w . f a c e b o o k . c o m / groups/232159850656919/ Extended Manifesto - https://goo.gl/ BaoWii
VICE PRESIDENT EDUCATION No manifesto received.
IRAJE NADEEM AHMED WE’RE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER - VOTE SAHARLA #1 FOR VP EDUCATION VOTE SAHARLA #1 FOR VP EDUCATION Hey there, I’m Saharla Ismail and I’m running to be your new VP Education. I’m currently in my second year, here at UWE, studying Psychology with Sociology. I believe that I can help bring you the positive change, you want to see!
SAHARLA ISMAIL
Curriculum There has been a sharp rise in mental health issues in students, in recent years and it’s very important that you know that there is support on campus (Wellbeing and Nightline).
EXPERIENCE AND PASSION - WAQAS FOR VP EDUCATION As a current Lead Rep of Film and Journalism, and during my four years of working in student guidance, I have gained experience to make student’s voice heard and made a positive change in students’ academic life. I strive on making things happen now. I don’t want students to wait for years. I would implement my manifesto within my tenure.
As VP Education:
WAQAS BIN IDREES
As Vice President of Education, I will be your voice on all academic matters such as fees, coursework, teaching quality, and providing an excellent learning environment.
I want to ensure that Wellbeing services are better publicised so you are aware of them. I want to see emotional resilience workshops being embedded as a part of the curriculum. Not only is this important for us, the students, but also staff. Sustainability is very important and should also be a part of learning here at UWE. University should not only help support us in our future careers but also for the future for the environment. The curriculum does not encompass all students at UWE. I want to lobby UWE into diversifying the curricula and make it more inclusive, as it is extremely important to learn about different cultures, ideas and people. Communication I will work with the university to get students to have better quality
feedback. This would include in depth feedback, that is personalised to each piece of coursework rather than general feedback. With lectures that are longer than an hour, it gets very difficult to concentrate. It’s important to have a five minute break in the middle of long lectures. I want to ensure that lecturers are giving students short breaks. Equality and Representation UWE has over 3000 members of staff and ONLY 6% of them are Black and Minority Ethnic (BME). I want to work with UWE and develop a way into diversifying their staff and recruitment processes. BME students at UWE are 21.4% less likely to graduate with Good Honours (2:1 or 1st). The national average of the BME attainment gap is 15%. I will ensure UWE sticks to
their strategy for 2020 of bringing this number closer to the national average. It’s important that everyone is able to achieve. ALSO I will put pressure on the university to make more core textbooks available online, to help take the financial burden from you. Not all programmes, record lectures. I want to ensure that all lectures get recorded as it is important for revision later in the year.
Negotiate to invest in industry standard and up-to-date resources Provide cost-free Skills classes like First Aid, Adobe Suite, and Self Defence Negotiate an increase in the Art Shop and Print credit Campaign to offer first re-sit for free Make a strategy to have subsidised course-related field trips Scholarships and Fees Subsidies for International Students Lobby for mandatory reading week during Autumn Semester City, Glenside and Gloucester Campus
Campaign for extended hours for Glenside Library Campaign for Weekend Access to G Block in Bower Ashton As Student Union Trustee Being a part of Students Union team, I would work with all to give you the better experience from your Student Union. Looking for ways to subsidise gym fees Lobby for creating an alumni department Negotiate extended hours for SU Bar and Shop during holidays As Student Voice
Help with better Jobs for Final year and Masters students Continuing work of the previous VP
Bring Focus to all the campuses with more SU presence and campusspecific activities
Bringing Water fountains and Hotwater points across all the campuses Lobbying to make all texts book available online, subsidised by the University
As a student of City Campus, I understand the concerns of students that are not based on the main campus. I can be the bridge between all the campuses.
As a student, I have encountered all the issues that you are facing.
#TakeTheLead Vote thestudentsunion.co.uk/vote
I determine to continue excellent work of my preceding VP of Education.
Controlling Fees Increase Keep developing Mental health strategy Earlier Announcement of exam dates On the National and International Stage
As VP of Education, I will campaign on your behalf to bring us maximum benefits.
Working towards making more affiliation with institutes around the world and accreditation with the industry nationally Lobby to Invite employers from all over the world to recruit UK students Negotiate more regional offers from NUS
VICE PRESIDENT SOCIETIES AND COMMUNICATION VOTE CHELSEA! SUPPORT. COLLABORATE. EXPERIENCE. CAMPAIGN. I’m Chelsea McNulty, part-time Societies and Communications Officer at the Students Union, UWE LGBTplus Society Frenchay Officer, UWE Pole Fitness Equipment and Safety Officer and 3rd year Psychology student. I want to be your VP Societies and Communications!
CHELSEA MCNULTY
FREDDIE GOUGH
I will encourage societies to work together to host events such as Ctrl Alt Donate, which was a 24 hour gaming marathon that I helped organise a few years back which involved more than 8 societies and raised over £1000 for charity. Working together with other societies helps societies to grow and encourages your members to try soemthing different!
Experience
GET READY FOR FREDDIE!
event turnouts. NFI societies play a crucial role in shaping university life, as these support students living at home, student carers, LGBT students, those experiencing mental health issues, among many others. As well as working with all national and faith societies, I will strive to raise the profile of our identity societies. Academic societies are also a key part of the culture here at UWE. However, many of these are not directly linked to a course, meaning they miss out on the publicity and funding that a faculty can provide. I will therefore seek to support non-course specific societies to make sure that all our academic societies are able to thrive. As a current volunteer for Nightline, I know what a fantastic service it provides. Given this, I will work with the VP Community and Welfare to ensure
Throughout my time at UWE I have held almost every society committee position; President, Vice President, Frenchay Officer, Participation Officer, Equipment and Safety Officer, so I can help committee members with any issues they may have. I have also founded a society so I have experience to help
Hello, my name is Freddie Gough and I’m hoping to become your VP for Societies and Communication. Having been on the committee of several societies during my time at UWE, including Debating, Linguistics and Student Media, I am well aware of what is needed from the Students’ Union to secure a better future for all societies. If you elect me, I will guarantee exactly that. Societies are in a much better position to plan ahead when they have consistency in their numbers and funding. As such, I will push for 2 and 3 year society memberships to be made available. Many students find it difficult to attend out of hours society events, due to them living far away from university. I will therefore work towards increasing locker space on campus to improve
My name is Jonathan Wallcroft and I’m running to be the Vice-President for Societies and Communication. My goal is to ensure that the Students Union is a place where Students of all nationalities and religions can feel safe and respected so that they can fulfil their full potential. I’ve been an active member of the student body for the three years I’ve spent at UWE and I’m eager to give things back. I’ve been the Chair of the Labour Society, the Vice-Chair of the Politics Society and the Vice-Chair of the Stand Up To Racism Society in the past year; during that time I’ve arranged for speakers from the Labour, Conservative and Liberal Democrat Party’s to come and speak at UWE, defended the Students Union
#VOTEMARWAN Hello, my name is Marwan Mariami I am a final year Accounting and Finance student. I’m standing to be your next
VP Societies and Communication
officer. During my studies, I have been involved in sport activities with the UWE men`s football club as well as many other sporting activities with other societies. I have also been involved in high profile campaigns with various societies. During this time, I have also been a senior PAL leader and a student Rep which demonstrates my ability of leadership and knowledge of the student life at University. Having participated in a range of different activities at University, this demonstrates that I am capable of being dynamic.
MARWAN MARIAMI
Collaborate
Support
PUTTING UWE ON THE NATIONAL STAGE!
JONATHAN WALLCROFT
new societies to get on their feet. I want societies to know that I am there to help them every step of the way!
Leadership programme.
Anybody should be able to take part
I have been part of a range of societies, big and small, as a member as well as a committee member so I have experience with how to run and engage both small societies and the bigger ones! I will share my experience with all societies so that they can be the best that they can be! I have been involved with the SU
for 4 years now, as Societies and Communications Officer this year, and Community and Welfare Officer 2015/16 so I have a good understanding of how the SU works and can use this knowledge to aid societies.
Campaign
I have helped to run a number of campaigns throughout my years at UWE, such as mental health awareness, sexual health awareness, sexual/domestic violence and healthy eating/living. I will use my experience to aid you to run campaigns with your societies! I will encourage societies to engage in the mental health training available via the SU so that they have more experience. Vote Chelsea VP Societies and Communications! Support. Collaborate. Experience. Campaign.
success.
Our entire university is fairly centred around Frenchay, meaning that very few society events are held at our other campuses. This is a great loss, as the specialist subjects taught here are a fantastic asset to society life at UWE. I will therefore work with societies to try and arrange more events to be held at Glenside and Bower Ashton. I also pledge to spend at least one day a
week at either campus.
Finally, not enough has been done to fight to move Lock In back to Tuesday. This CAN be done, as I have pointed out at Student Council numerous times. This is what most students want and if elected, I will do everything in my power to achieve this.
#GetReadyForFreddie
Nightline’s continued funding and
in Parliament and campaigned within and without the Students union against islamophobia, anti-semitism and Racism. Because of that I know what it’s like both running a society and starting one. However I’m aware that this is not everyone’s experience of the Students union. Since I was elected NUS Delegate this year I’ve held numerous meetings with students around the campus and a lot of people feel distant from the Students union and that it’s hard to engage. I’m hoping that we can change that with more public meetings and making a bigger effort to have the officers known around campus. I’m also developing plans to create a Facebook page that will act as a cohost for all Society events so that Students can go to one place to find a list of what’s going on on campus. Thank you for reading I hope you’ll consider supporting me! Jonathan Wallcroft
in a society, and for this to be made more effective, I would like to introduce a Leadership Programme for committee members that considers how their voice and outreach can be further enhanced and improved to reach those students whom may end up feeling left out. This programme is also an opportunity for those committee members to further develop their skills to make them more ready and enabled graduates.
Redevelop society training
I would like to help the Students’ Union improve the way society committee members are trained up to ensure that the committee are prepared to a high standard for the year ahead, helping them reach their objectives in a more efficient way.
Improvements for academic societies
Help Increase the support to the academic societies and encourage them to engage with their departments,
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especially the ones that have recently started up.
Enhance Liberation campaigns
I would like to have more highprofile liberation campaigns to highlight challenges students face who are from underrepresented and disadvantage background. This can be achieved by working closely with societies and students to make these campaigns as relevant as possible.
VICE PRESIDENT SOCIETIES AND COMMUNICATION YOUR CHANCE TO VOTE FOR CHANGE - VOTE FOR VP ROBS AND COMMS! Your Chance to vote for Change - Vote for VP Robs and Comms! My name is Robert Maynard and I am a current Second year Undergraduate Student studying a BA Business and Events Management. I am also the current Vice-President of UWE Poker society, which currently includes a membership of over 95 students. I feel that the aforementioned experience would benefit me within the role of VicePresident Societies and Communications at the Students Union at UWE.
If I were to be elected in this role:
ROBERT MAYNARD
I would push for and create opportunities for societies to collaborate
and communicate with one another during the year via the creation of an interconnected UWE SU societies network. This would allow societies to grow throughout the year, whilst also providing a way for students to discover new and exciting societies during the academic year. I would also offer extra support to push the concept of creating new and innovative societies. This would bring more diversity and options for students as a whole. Having been a committee member, I feel that it is vital for students to be given the opportunity to both create and be part of changes which they wish to see, whilst also giving themselves the chance to develop as future graduates and gain employable skills. In addition, I would drive to increase the reach of the Student’s Union media, as well as altering the form in which it is presented. This would be achieved
by presenting the union in various communications and innovative ways. Allowing students to fully understand the work of the Union itself, to help it become an open and inclusive community. This will help to promote all ideas and future developments to enhance the worth of the Student’s Union to the entire UWE community. I feel that I am able to achieve the above aims for the overall benefit of all UWE students, whilst also having the past experience to ensure that my time in office would be a success if elected. I look forward to representing you, and to push the union forward within this position.
No manifesto received.
YASMIN WARSAME
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VICE PRESIDENT SPORTS AND HEALTH DON’T BE COY, VOTE THIS BOY! Hey, I’m Cody, a second year biomedical science student. I play water polo (a game you probably haven’t heard, in which you wear a silly hat… oh and speedos). I currently serve as Vice President of the Swimming and Water Polo Club. What I’ll do as VP of Sport and Health:
Improve Participation:
CODY PLUMRIDGE
Firstly, I’d like to work on increasing participation at both competitive and social levels as well as improve sporting provisions and opportunity across the other campuses for everyone. Not all students can attend fresher’s fair and the select taster sessions, to combat this I will be looking to hold multiple taster sessions across the year for as many sports as possible to help people find their calling.
A VOTE FOR DYLAN IS A VOTE IN CONFIDENCE. LET’S CREATE A STRONGER TEAMUWE TOGETHER.
DYLAN JANNETTA
Hi, my name is Dylan, and I am running to be VP Sport and Health. During my 4 years at UWE, I have been part of the Trampoline Club and am currently the club’s President. I have also participated in Ultimate Frisbee, Social Hockey, and more recently, Athletics. I have seen the TeamUWE brand expand and achieve fantastic results, with teams and athletes seeing success regionally and on a national stage at BUCS, but also internationally. The aim is to progress from this, achieving more and showing the country what UWE is about.
PASSION, PRIDE AND DETERMINATION- VOTE ISOBEL REYNOLDS
ISOBEL REYNOLDS
Hi guys, I’m Isobel Reynolds, I’m in my final year doing Pshcyology and Criminology and I’m running for VP sports and health. Some of you might recognise me from the bar, SU reception or occasionally the sports department… Well I’m here to improve sports at UWE and bring back that fighting spirit. My first and main idea is to reduce varsity back down to a week. Having varsity spread across the year is a backwards idea and removes the full impact of what varsity is about, unity and passion. By bringing varsity back to a week, it once again becomes a pinnacle moment in the university year, where
VOTE FOR MORE, VOTE FOR MARSELLA!
JADE MARSELLA
Hey! I’m Jade and I am running for this year’s VP Sports and Health as I am passionate about the sports clubs and opportunities these give to students here at UWE! I’m a third year Business Team Entrepreneurship student and the President of UWE Dance. I am heavily involved with the dance club and have been for the past three years. I was the captain of the advanced street dance team in my second year and now I am president this year, winning numerous awards with the club. I have loved the competitive, social and inclusive spirit of being able to be part of a club at UWE and understand what it takes to run a successful one!
Establish an Official Social Media + Community Presence:
With lots of teams playing important home matches it can often be frustrating for teams to play with little to no support on the side-lines/stands, with over 27,000 students present it seems bizarre to lack a sporting community. If elected I will be looking to build a strong sporting community by establishing an official sporting social media presence displaying results, fixtures and opportunities to get involved. I will also look to promote home fixtures and results on campus with the aim to get people interested and involved.
exclusive event and offering an affordable way to support your mates.
Health:
I will also be lobbying for an improvement in food options for those who have specific dietary requirements and those who wish to eat healthily. I would also like to see improved access to contraception and sexual test kits across the university. I appreciate you taking the time to read this and any support you give me is also hugely appreciated. Many Thanks!
Varsity:
Varsity should be the highlight of the year with UWE getting the opportunity to show off our skills. I hope to move varsity away from being spread across the year to either a week or two weeks of sporting glory. Also, I’d like to continue to offer more clubs the opportunity to an
We love to win medals and trophies and to showcase our special talents wherever we go. Oh, and not to mention, beating UoB! I believe that sport at UWE should be available for all, regardless of their gender, age, religion or ability, having access to any sport they wish to participate in without discrimination or question. The biggest issue I am looking to improve on at UWE is that of Mental Health as it is something that affects us either directly or indirectly. Sometimes, it can even affect our game and results. Whatever the story, however big or little the problem is, everyone at University deserves to have someone there for them. I will provide training courses for Mental Health for all, especially those who are part of committees, so that Mental Health is more commonly recognised, accepted and treated. I am also looking to continue with
the fantastic TeamUWE brand that has been created, expanding it through all sports teams and clubs and creating one big family, connecting our success and our journeys by means of social media, the continuation of the VP Sports and Health Blog, and through the UWE Western Eye. Finally, it is important to concentrate on communication between clubs, the SU, Centre for Sport and other governing bodies within sport so that clubs can train and compete stress free. After all, we use sport to escape the stress of our courses. It should be enjoyable and rewarding. To do this, I will consider alternative methods that will reduce the waiting time for responses from the SU and CFS to sports clubs and will also explore more effective communication. For example, I will enforce a system where informal questions or queries are easy to ask and efficiently answered.
every team in UWE can support and push each other. Secondly, with a new varsity there needs to be a new look to the UWE teams. The kit that is currently used is insufficient for many of the teams, so I am preparing to change suppliers and therefore bring a fresh new look to the sports teams. I also want to increase gym capacity/ facilitates on Frenchay campus. With growing student halls, this increases the demand that is placed on the Centre For Sport and their facilities and I plan work with the university to extend their range of equipment whilst also providing more space for training, by converting Wallscourt Farmhouse into a fully quipped gym with plans to add a studio in for gym classes. I want to increase cycling on all campuses, and by doing this I will increase the number of bike sheds and
storage on ALL campuses. Not only would this reduce the issues of parking on campus, as less people would be driving, but it would also help with overall health and fitness of students, whilst working to help save the environment. Finally, I feel that although sport is a big part of the uni life, it is not always affordable to everyone, so I want to remove the high price tag and initiate a halls life league so that students can get involved in sports and activities. I would love the opportunity to work with the students and the Student’s Union and to increase the sports activity on ALL campuses. No one is more passionate, knowledgeable of the Student’s Union and committed to improving sports at UWE. So, a vote for me is a vote for passion, pride and determination- VOTE ISOBEL REYNOLDS VP SPORTS AND HEALTH.
This year I took the opportunity to work within the Students’ Union where I am able to support the numerous sports and societies. This has allowed me to fully understand the impact they have on enhancing student’s university experience. I have had great insight into how the SU, BUCS, Sporting Wednesdays and how all the sports clubs currently run and I believe I have the ability and drive to improve these further!
celebrate all that is TEAMUWE! 2. Run a Sport’s Refreshers in January! As I believe that sports are for all. I want to give everyone more chances to get involved even after joining in September. This would bring more members to clubs, more talent and allow everyone to take part either competitively or socially throughout the whole year! 3. FREE Mental Well-Being Training for Sport’s Team! As it is proven that getting involved in sports has a massive benefit to mental health and wellbeing. 4. Financial Transparency for all clubs! I understand the importance of being able to access up-to-date financial club accounts and want to look at completely changing the current processes to make them more accessible and transparent for you 24/7.
My Key Actions Will Be:
1. Bring back ‘One Week Varsity’ as it is the biggest highlight of our sporting calendars! I want EVERY club involved, more matches, a bigger varsity day, and an even better atmosphere with a large onsite event, including sports, music and spectators! I believe students should have more involvement in how this day is run and we should be able to
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A vote for Dylan is a vote in confidence. Let’s create a stronger TeamUWE together.
Vote for Jade Marsella for your VP Sports and Health for an incredible year of Sports, Competition, Inclusivity and Determination!
VICE PRESIDENT SPORTS AND HEALTH SPORTING YOUR COLOURS Hey, I’m James Arrowsmith and I’m running to be your next VP Sports and Health! I’ve been an active member of the UWE community; taking part in student council, serving as a student rep and hosting last year’s VP Sports and Health hustings. I believe I will bring a new perspective and a different light to this role. I want to make sure I bring an open-minded approach and speak to lots of you throughout the campaign to learn from your experiences and take them onboard. Throughout my time at UWE I’ve seen many positive changes. If elected would like to bring some more positive changes for all students and sports clubs.
JAMES ARROWSMITH
Bring Back Varsity Rugby Students have been unjustly banned from the rugby varsity for two years.
All students should not suffer because of a tiny minority. Vote for me and I will carry the democratic mandate to overturn this ludicrous decision. Creating a Sports Community I’ll help Halls Life set up sporting events across campuses and form friendly halls sports teams and leagues. Mental Health Gym I’ll work with the university and mental health charities to end the stigma and develop a culture of looking after mental health just as much as we look after our physical health. Bigger Varsity I want larger audiences and more events! By branching out and offering guidance to relevant societies we can increase participation in Varsity. Reaching a wider audience I want to work with HUB to set up radio commentary of Varsity and BUCS matches, so more people can
get connected with sports. I want to set a Facebook group, similar to the societies Facebook group, for sports information and posting. Initiations Sports team initiations are a divisive subject which some universities have been keen to stamp out. However, I propose that if sports teams want to do initiations that they can book out a section of the SU bar and do their initiations in a safe, low-risk environment. Freshers Sports are usually squashed at the back of the fair. I want to intermingle sports and societies, so students can get a full flavour of what’s on offer at UWE.
Sports and Health #1
I have plenty more ideas about sports, health and the wider UWE community on my Facebook page! https://www. facebook.com/JEArrowsmith
Vote James Arrowsmith for VP
SPEAK UP USE YOUR VOTE 5 MARCH 10:00 – 8 MARCH 22:00 thestudentsunion.co.uk/vote
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VICE PRESIDENT COMMUNITY AND WELFARE SAME GIRL - ONE AIM YOU With a diverse community like ours, we have the power to be that change we want within our university; what joins us together exceeds what separates us and a good example is student welfare. I am Augusta Chidinma Nnajiofor, a thirdyear student in Business Management with Economics and I will like to be your next VP Community and Welfare. I am currently on a placement in the HR department at UWE and I have gained relevant experience, knowledge and valuable skills which provide me with the qualities and the right attitude to represent YOU.
AUGUSTA CHIDINMA NNAJIOFOR
Objectives:
Reduction in Food/Snacks prices
PUTTING THE U IN COMMUNITY
ALEXANDER NUNNS
Welfare and community engagement are at the forefront of my SU involvement; whether that’s through student safety initiatives as President of the Police Society, organising awareness talks about hate crime and sexual violence as President of the End It Now Campaign, raising awareness about mental health as President of the Mental Health Campaign, or just being a member of the UWE Welfare Committee. Additionally, I sit on the South Gloucestershire Independent Advisory Group as the Student Representative, where I represent UWE students to the Police and Council, ensuring potential welfare issues are given the attention they require by police officers and councillors.
BETTER FOR WELFARE, BETTER FOR UWE.
JAMES KNIGHT
Hi! I’m James, a second year Politics and International Relations Student. I’m currently the Vice-President of UWE Nightline, Vice-President of UWE Debating Society and a member of the Students’ Union Welfare Committee. I was elected as one of your NUS delegates in October on the platform of fighting for mental health work and iniatives. I’m running to be your Vice-President of Community and Welfare for the upcoming academic year to uphold and improve Union and University mental health services, give women access to basic sanitary products when they may not have the money to afford them, increase representation and expand sexual health awareness and guidance at UWE.
LIBERTÉ, ÉGALITÉ, COMMUNITÉ AND WELFARE
LIBERTY STRONG
My name is Liberty Strong, I’m a third year Politics and IR student here at UWE. I am currently of LGBT+ Officer in the SU. This has given me the experience in handling different scenarios with both students and staff. However the role of VP Community and Welfare will allow me to increase the scope of the students that I can improve the rights and visibility of. Since being elected in October, I have committed to the pledges I made and I wish to further these and extend them to all minority groups at the university. Equal student rights for all are paramount to a fairer and more enjoyable student
I plan to:
Work closely with the University and the Students’ union to find ways to reduce food/snack prices on all Campuses to fairly help resolve student financial issues. Introduce a loyalty scheme using student cards in order to help students receive future discounts. Mental Health I intend to:
Work closely with the Students HUB Radio and Wellbeing service to introduce a program where present or past students can share experiences of how they overcame difficult times at university and also include anonymous call-in sessions. Ensure that Personal Tutors and other Academics are offered training sessions on how best to support and encourage students within and outside the lecture room – this will
This could be anything from gold burglaries targeting Asian members of the student community, to private landlords not upholding their side of the contract. Anything that is brought to me by the Students’ Union or individuals within the student community will be taken to those meetings and discussed with the members present. Before my master’s degree, I was a Student Representative for the duration of my undergraduate degree. I was also a Departmental Representative in my second and third years. Before studying at UWE, I had been a Student Representative at college, and a Member of Youth Parliament for North Bristol for two years. As an MYP, I spent a lot of time speaking to decision makers about issues that affected young people in North Bristol. Throughout this, representing my constituents was paramount.
If elected, I will:
Hold the University accountable for their “Mental Wealth First” campaign committments; Work with the Students’ Union at City Centre & Glenside campuses to work towards better counselling and advice services for students at satellite campuses for parity in help regarding student issues, regardless of course or campus of study; Create regular free tampon days at The Students’ Union; Host more events for international students, students at home and mature students; Lobby the University to expand the marketing of and further fund Nightline, University Mental Health Day, LGBT+ Month and other vital services and campaigns; Full re-structure of Welfare Committee;
experience. I’m ready to do the same again as UWE’s VP Community and Welfare. For the UWE Community, I will;
Promote student engagement with the Bristol community Engage with faith and identity societies to ensure better equality, and eradicate the unfair exclusive fee to join these societies Continue to provide a wide range of events and activities, increasing the diversity of occasions to cater to all faiths, nationalities and identities For the Welfare of UWE Students, I will;
Continue the fight for better value for money in UWE Student Accommodation – including free laundry services Lobby the university to gain accommodation bursaries for nursing
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help alleviate issues surrounding exam pressure, stress and depression. Evaluate the efficiency of the wellbeing services and seek ways to improve them. Facilities With the rise in student recruitment at UWE, I will work towards the availability of additional Lounge areas. I will work towards additional support for students without accommodation at the start of the year to help them settle quickly. Building your Brand/Business I aim at:
Reducing the strictness surrounding the advertisement of student events and business on campuses. Creating a talent show where students get to exhibit and promote their brand.
If I am elected as VP Community and Welfare, there are several goals I want to achieve:
Continue the work done regarding student safety initiatives. I will offer my full support and assistance with Late Night Do It Right. I will assist with the continuation of the Safe Taxi Scheme. I will work closely with the wider SU to continue the work of Nightline and build on what has already been established. I will continue to ensure that the SU retains its NUS Alcohol Impact Accreditation. I will continue to build on the progress made this year regarding the student wellbeing report by using these results to improve the student experience during the 2018/19 academic year and beyond.
Student matters I plan to:
Work closely with the University to figure out how timetables can be arranged to encourage participation in extra-curricular activities and allow International students arrange holidays and beat high costs.
As aforementioned, we have a real chance to make a change and what matters is your VOICE. I want to represent all students – creating an inclusive community that dares to be different and unique. One which promotes unity and empowers its students to reach their full potential. VOTE Augusta for VP Community and Welfare – YOUR NO. 1 CHOICE
Work with the SU to further the establishment of a hate crime reporting centre at UWE. I am keen to work with the Community Manager and wider Students’ Union on this and would like to establish a team of Hate Crime Champions.
Expand the Sexual Health Awareness and Guidance programme to span more than one week, and for test kits, free condoms, etc. to be made regularly available; Work with the Student Advice Centre to further expand their presence and ability to deal with student housing issues, particularly issues with realtors; To financially aid societies running events centred around mental health, support, wellbeing and awareness of support services.
Vote Knight for a Vice-President of Community and Welfare who will fight with you, because togther, we can be better for welfare and better for UWE.
students Improve UWE safe space policies to combat discrimination of all faiths and identities to foster a safer environment across all campuses Push for further gender neutral facilities in UWE accommodation and university buildings, something I have already achieved as LGBT+ Officer In light of the recent alarming mental health survey conducted at UWE, I will;
Change opinions on reaching out for help. At present, only 30.4% of students formally seek professional help Increase the capacity and promotion of the invaluable UWE nightline service Work towards providing tailored advice to different issues Ensure that mental health and
wellbeing services are properly funded and are safe from cuts. Bring back improved puppy room events at the university for the (scientifically proven) alleviation of stress Without a VP Community and Welfare who is devoted to these causes, the student body and the community could suffer, with student voices unheard and demands unmet. All student rights must be protected regardless of race, gender, faith, nationality, ability or identity. Student diversity is what makes UWE, UWE.
VICE PRESIDENT COMMUNITY AND WELFARE
SASHA LANG
NO COMMUNITY WITHOUT UNITY!
most out of your time here. It’s important for students to have their voices heard and influence decision-making.
Sasha Lang VP Community Manifesto
ncreased visibility of these services so students know how and where to get help. I will work to provide clear, accessible signposting. Emphasis on expanding alternative initiatives such as Nightline and Kooth. Lobby for greater cultural awareness in Wellbeing services to represent student diversity. Continuing the work of the Student Wellbeing Survey and collaborating with student representatives so that you can influence our mental health strategy. Academic staff should be made of aware of and able to offer students guidance on accessing mental health
and
Welfare
Why Me? As a final year Sociology student, I believe that we work best as a university community when every single student’s welfare is accounted for. Having helped set up UWE Nightline this year, I understand the need for mental health support across campuses. I have been involved in campaigns against university cuts and fees and am passionate about fighting for students’ rights. My main aim is to strengthen the visibility and quality of everything UWE and the Students’ Union has to offer, so that you can get the
Increased Mental Health Awareness
support at UWE. Student Housing & Rate My Landlord
Bristol has soaring rent and it can be hard to get the quality of housing you deserve. I’ll seek to hold landlords accountable by creating a UWE Rate My Landlord app or forum that utilises crowdsourced feedback to inform students of the quality of estate agents and landlords. Student digital designers will be offered an opportunity to design this tool. Greater Engagement of All Campuses
Glenside, Bower Ashton and the other campuses need to feel greater inclusion, host more events, and receive more support. Greater access to mental health, sports and leisure provisions for all campuses.
Promoting Campaigns
Inclusivity
and
Student
UWE has a massive diversity of student groups, and by sharing ideas, faith, and politics we can strengthen our message through unity and cooperation. Encouraging partnerships and allyship between campaigns, such as History Months and International Women’s Day. Regular jumble sale initiatives on all campuses where you can buy and sell items. Celebrating the international student experience and hosting activities such as non-English language film nights and cultural exchanges. Safeguarding the Disabled Students Allowance and supporting those who need long-term breaks from studies.
GLENSIDE CAMPUS OFFICER VOTE FOR HASI! I am a third year student nurse (adult branch) studying at Glenside. I am currently one of the student representatives for my tutor group, and a departmental representative for Nursing and Midwifery. Being from a minority background and studying at a ‘satellite’ campus, representation is incredibly important to me and I am passionate about student engagement and interprofessional working.
HASINA GHANI
As Glenside Campus officer, I will: listen to feedback and concerns represent your views to the Students’ Union executive, the Students’ Union itself, and the wider University encourage participation in Students’ Union activities hold regular surgeries either in
person or via social media and email signpost students to appropriate services promote interprofessional education and working between the diverse programmes at Glenside About me:
In addition to my student representative roles, I am also a student ambassador, a (former) PAL leader for the first year Physiology and Pharmacology module, President of the UWE Friends of Medecins sans Frontieres Society, a student information officer for the Royal College of Nursing, a St John Ambulance first aider, and a nursing assistant at the BRI. These roles have given me many opportunities to meet people from a diverse range of backgrounds, and I believe that this will help me to pursue this role effectively.
GLOUCESTER CAMPUS OFFICER
JOCELYN O’BRIEN
I have always been passionate about education, self-improvement and the encouragement of advancement in others. I believe that given the chance to undertake the Gloucester Campus Officer role, I could assist the faculty members, the staff, the Adult Nursing Society and the wider body of students to enhance the student experience on the Gloucester Campus. To be at the forefront of providing those opportunities for the benefit of others would be exceptionally rewarding. I do believe that I have already shown a real willingness to be innovative and proactive. I am a Student Ambassador and attend as many events as I can, plus I am the Vice President of the Adult Nursing Society and have arranged many trips and talks for our members. We have a very full programme this year for the students based at Gloucester, but it would be fantastic to offer more.
I worked for many years in domiciliary care and rose to become the assistant manager. I can communicate effectively, work as part of a team, manage time effectively and generally act in a conciliatory role which is often of benefit. As a mature student, I believe that I have life skills, previous education, university and employment experiences to bring considerable benefits to the role. I would be honoured to be considered for the role and to enhance the opportunities on the Gloucester campus for my time there but also for the students of the future.
43 CANDIDATES 15 POSITIONS
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CITY CAMPUS OFFICER CHANGE IS ACE
ANNA HEYWOOD
I believe the safety of all students at UWE is paramount, and should not depend on which campus you belong to or where you live. City campus students have very limited accommodation options situated far from Bower Ashton. I hope that the university will help me lobby First Buses to provide a better, more reliable service to Bower Ashton to ensure the safety, wellbeing and equality of all students. Only one unreliable bus services the campus, the 71. The library opens long after the last bus departs and the night buses do not run as they should, missing stops and sometimes turning around before they reach Bower Ashton. This means students are forced to journey in the dark, late at night, along the river on motorways and underpasses, to get home. The next stop is a poor option, where the
VOTE FOR ME TODAY TO HAVE A BETTER TOMORROW.
HANA NAGOOR MOHIDEEN
As a member of the leadership team it will be my duty to make changes that will greatly benefit the students. Whether these changes are small or big they will help improve the student experience in university and I would like to make that change. I will also hear out the students’ needs and do my very best to solve problems or address issues faces by students in university as long as it is within my power. I would also like to create several events that allows students to socialise with each other, learn and have fun while doing so as students in university don’t always get the opportunity to interact or make friends
JOE MARSHALL EVANS - TIME FOR GREATNESS 2018 - #HEYBROTHER HI I’M JOE, A FIRST YEAR DRAMA STUDENT STUDYING AT BOWER ASHTON CAMPUS AND I’M RUNNING TO BE YOUR CITY CAMPUS OFFICER!
JOE MARSHALL EVANS
IF ELECTED I WOULD: Maintain and Improve Connections Between All City Campuses (Bower, Arnolfini, Spike Island and Watershed), keeping students up to date about all events, help and opportunities The Students’ Union provides. Work to Improve City Campus Students’ Access to SU Events;
buses are less frequent and only run to the bus station. It is unacceptable that our safety is compromised by a lack of decent public transport. Secondly, I am concerned by the food provision at Bower Ashton Campus. If there were better provision, people could use the library later and more easily, stay on in the Students’ Union later, and get the full potential out of the amazing facilities. We have a sizeable canteen and Students’ Union space, but Bower Ashton is the only main campus whose primary food facility is run by an external company. Food stops being served by 4pm, meaning you will find it difficult to get dinner on campus, especially as there are no shops close by and little in the way of food at the Students’ Union bar. The last point I wish to highlight, that is of great importance to me, is to publicise the services available at the university and Students’ Union to
students at City campuses. UWE has amazing mental health provision and counselling, money advice, and safety and wellbeing information but students have told me that when they seek advice from their tutors, they don’t even know if these services exist. I want to make sure that staff and students across all campuses are made aware of what is on offer and where to access this help to give every student the opportunity to succeed and thrive at UWE. These points are just a sample of the ideas I have, to enhance the experience of all students, regardless of campus.
with students outside their courses. One such event that I have thought of is a cultural event, where student can set up stalls representing different nationalities to sell food, items such as jewellery, art work, homemade objects etc, and can have performances. This way students can socialise with each other, learn more about different cultures and have fun! Added to that, I would like to raise more awareness on environmental issues and other issues faced around the world such as global warming, racism, pollution, equality etc. Not only will students learn from this but will also remember this in their futures. Vote for me to have a better and much more fun experience while at university!
this would include organising more joint events with University of Bristol, a policy shared with my brother and SU presidential candidate Sam Marshall Evans. Provide One-to-One & Group Sessions, and Use Online Platforms to allow students to contact me as soon as needed, letting them share ideas or concerns so I can work to improve their experiences while studying at UWE. Maintain & Adapt Current Policies to support study and student welfare on campus, such as advocating for increased course materials allowances.
I ALSO LOOK FORWARD TO WORKING TOGETHER WITH MY FELLOW OFFICERS AND VPS, INCLUDING MY BROTHER AND SU PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE SAM MARSHALL EVANS, TO ACHIEVE THESE AIMS. SO, WHEN YOU GO TO VOTE, BE SURE TO VOTE JOE FOR CITY CAMPUS OFFICER AND SAM FOR SU PRESIDENT!
I’M KEEN AND COMMITTED TO SEEING THESE POLICIES COMPLETED AS WELL AS TACKLING ISSUES WHICH COME UP DURING THE YEAR AHEAD.
VOTE NOW Vote thestudentsunion.co.uk/vote
LGBT+ OFFICER DON’T LET THE MUGGLES GET YOU DOWN Hi, I’m Alex. I believe it’s time for UWE to have their first Transgender LGBT+ Officer. That is because Trans representation is deeply lacking within the Students’ Union. If we are to embody UWE’s values of ‘Light, Liberty and Learning’, we need to understand and represent all students at UWE, including transgender people. As your next LGBT+ Officer I will:
ALEXANDER WILSON-EVANS
1. Promotion of more Sober events. 2. Build stronger links with the University of Bristol and LGBT+ societies of other universities. 3. I want to start more fundraising campaigns focusing on charities that contribute to the LGBT+ community.
LET’S TAKE THINGS A STEP FURTHER!
GEORGIOS STRATOS
My name is Georgios Stratos (he/him pronouns). I am an international Law student and am running for LGBT officer this year. Since I started my academic career as a student at UWE I have felt welcome, safe and, most importantly, I’ve been always encouraged to put my voice out there. This has been my main motive to run for this position and to become an active member of the Student’s Union, because I’d like to make sure that every other student benefits and gets the same treatment as I did, be valued for their individuality, be treated fairly and with dignity and respect, in order to work to their full potential and to make the difference. If elected, my first step will be to survey to include your ideas in the
4. I want better access to information regarding sexual health for LGBT+ students. 5. I will work closely with the LGBT+ Society to consult with all LGBT+ students on issues affecting them, with focus given those currently underrepresented, e.g. Trans*, Pansexual and Bisexual people. 6. Promote more access of mental health support for the LGBT+ students on all campuses. 7. Put more pressure on the University to enforce LGBT*+ essential equality protections, including closer and stronger links with campus security and the police. I will work with all LGBT* identifying students to achieve these goals.
way I can shape the LGBT officer position and then starting from there I will give my best to make your ideas reality, as long as they are realistic ones of course! In the meantime, I will keep on organising all our annual events, as usual, and take advantage of every opportunity to bring us all together. Last but not least, I will work closely with the LGBT+ Society consulting with all LGBT+ students on issues affecting them, with focus given to those currently underrepresented.
BLACK MINORITY ETHNIC OFFICER BLM
CAINE TAYO LEWIN-TURNER
When applying for this role there are two main factors that drew me in, one is the large, diverse and incredibly vocal BME community that I have been delighted to meet both academically and socially. The other is the pressing issues that warrant immediate attention from someone with personal as well as professional experience. As well as being the youngest member of the BME group in my hometown of Brighton, I am a personal mentor to BME students in both primary and secondary school throughout Brighton & Hove. I understand the BME experience from every educational echelon. This, as well as having experienced it myself, gives me a unique perspective on how our experience can differ in ways that require a specific, thoughtful understanding. I
will bring my knowledge, compassion, and zeal to this role and aim to be a sincere voice for minorities at UWE. The BME community is hugely diverse. One thing that is important to me is understanding intersectionality within the BME community. Recognition of the role patriarchy, homophobia, religious prejudice, and other discriminations within the realm of BME is of paramount importance to me and a topic of which I hope to shed light on. Being a history student, lack of diversity and eurocentric curriculums is a huge issue for me. This increased my personal impetus to help others in the same situation. Pushing for, and planning, Black History Month events/awareness in my own department, participating in UWE Global Majority events (e.g. Why is my Curriculum White?) are among the many BME issues I have touched on so far this year and hope through
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the role of BME Officer I can continue, with greater support, to make positive changes at UWE. Black history and contemporary race issues are not only an academic interest but something that is extremely close to me personally, and I channel this passion to help others who have, will or are currently going through adversity brought on through their ethnic background. To conclude; I hope that you deem my empathy and compassion fit for this position. If you have any questions, opinions or ideas on anything I have mentioned please feel free to email me. Caine Tayo Lewin-Turner (Caine2. Lewin-Turner@live.uwe.ac.uk)
DISABLED STUDENTS’ OFFICER MAKING UWE INCLUSIVE FOR ALL No manifesto received.
IMPORTANT
DATES
SAMUEL CORNELIUS-LIGHT
POSTGRADUATE OFFICER I am Quynh Nguyen. I graduated in UWE with BA Marketing. Currently, I am studying MSc Information Technology. I am here standing to be your POSTGRADUATE OFFICER for the coming year. I promise to apply my diligence to contribute to your academic experiences. Similar with many other postgraduate students, I decided to do different major to build on my understanding of new applications, as well as the wider issues surrounding that use to enhance, renew focus and open up new doors in my Marketing knowledge. With this in mind, I strongly believe in different student has different issues that need to be heard. I believe in our differences are the most valuable contributions to the achievements of UWE.
5 MARCH, 10:00 VOTING OPENS 5 MARCH, 17:30 PRESIDENTS’ HUSTINGS
QUYNH NGUYEN
What can I bring to UWE student? Practice and research education: Increasing the practical academic
research competition with target industrial company conferences. Feedback assessment with UWE:
1. Working closely with course representative to improve both fulltime and part-time postgraduate students’ needs and preferences for effective teaching approaches. 2. Running campaigns to bring the importance of the exam feedbacks over the years 3. Running campaigns for stress awareness. Event activities:
1. Foster the connection of both undergraduate and postgraduate students through variety range of social activities and community events. 2. Foster the connection of different department students. 3. Enhance stronger communication among postgraduate faculties, courses, and campuses at UWE.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS’ OFFICER
8 MARCH, 22:00 VOTING CLOSES 9 MARCH, 19:00 RESULTS ANNOUNCED!
TOGETHER WE STAND!
DAVID ARJONA LOZANO
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Hello everyone, My name is David Arjona Lozano. I am a second year psychology with criminology student and I am running for the International students officer position. During my two years at UWE so far I have had the pleasure to work with the SU as Frenchay Officer, Student rep and Vice-president of the LGBT+ Society. As an international student I acknowledge that our experience at university can be different. Leaving friends and family behind and move to a new country with a different culture and language can be hard. In so, my main aim is to create an even more inclusive and safer environment for everyone helping to develop programmes to boost integration and socialization. Another main point is to tackle the issue regarding mental health of
international students who can experience depression, anxiety or isolation during their experience at University. Vote David #1 for International Students officer!
DPC MEMBER I DON’T RUN MUCH, BUT WHEN I DO, I RUN TO BE UWE’S DPCM.
MIA COLLINS
Running to be one of UWE’s Democratic Procedures Members, I believe that working in harmony with our beloved Student Union - one of which we’ve all shared great memories in - will allow for students of all backgrounds and values to collectively express themselves in how we want our SU to be. By deploying a diverse range of events and activities, my aim for all of us is (instead of reminiscing of SUesday nights as we walk by), to feel that the SU is somewhere your voice will feel valued. We all will have our perceptions of how the SU could be improved, but, with no appropriate leader, all of our valuable suggestions and beliefs will be
fruitless. So, by voting for me you will not only be ensuring your voice is heard (I’d love to bring back £1 VK’s as much as you, but things such of that may be a little difficult), but you’ll also be voting for someone who genuinely has your best interests as their ultimate goal. The other manifesto’s you’re going to encounter may be written as pretty and sweet as can be, but they mean nothing if they don’t encourage you to make a change and express yourself. Be smart, be right, and vote for Mia.
SUSTAINABILITY OFFICER A GREENER FUTURE FOR EVERY STUDENT
CIARAN GUTTERIDGE
Hello! My name is Ciaran. I’m a second year Biological Sciences student, and you should vote for me to be your next Sustainability Officer. Born in London but raised in rural Hereford, growing up I always felt a kinship to the countryside around me. Living in Bristol now I find the adaptive dynamic of the natural world coexisting within the cityscape fascinating. I have undertaken several community projects focused on sustainability and permaculture to follow this interest, including food waste events here in Bristol and a community sustainable green space project that we have brought to Glastonbury Festival and Green Gathering for the past three years in each project my planning and thinking
GREENER TOGETHER
CURZIO POTENZA
We all share this university, this city and this planet. Aware as we are of the wider environmental, social and economic issues, it’s often hard to see how we can help as individuals, but what we can do is work together to make our habitat within U.W.E a better place for ourselves and others. As sustainability officer my aim would be to encourage the Students Union with the progress it has made with its Sustainability Plan, focusing on student impact and interaction. Engaging a wider awareness of the universities ecological efforts, facilities and projects through improved communications within the university is a priority. Also on my agenda is to strengthen intra-university ties with the University of Bristol. Past involvement with the Green Team
has been heavily influenced by skills learnt whilst working towards my Permaculture Design Certificate. My experience, genuine passion and excitement surrounding green issues mean that I would be an excellent Sustainability Officer. My vision for UWE is to engage every student to think about green activity and their impact on the world, sowing the seeds for them to play their part in a sustainable global society. Unbeknown to many, UWE is an international awardwinning university when it comes to green issues. I hope to build upon these accomplishments as your Sustainability Officer by:
Installing a dedicated green noticeboard on campus that details the latest sustainable achievements and opportunities for students, with posters up on all campuses for major opportunities. There are already many chances for students
includes volunteering at the Community Garden, Project leader for Greenspace, and now part of the Sustainability Committee. Other experiences include natural building and the Permaculture Design Course, which meet my Architecture and Environmental Engineering degree. With my experience, direction and drive I believe I can fulfill the role, helping our University develop into a more sustainable world.
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to help with green activities such as community gardening, managing woodland in the Greenspace scheme, & grants for sustainable enterprise but the details are hidden away on Facebook groups and parts of the UWE website, I will change this with a comprehensive calendar on the green notice board that is accessible to all students. Continuing to pressure the university to reduce the usage of single-use plastics and other non-recyclable items wherever possible. Increasing awareness of and reducing food waste. Listening to and putting forward your thoughts and ideas on how to approach green issues as a community. As your Sustainability Officer I can encourage movement towards a greener future for every student.
RESULTS NIGHT The results will be announced at 19:00 Friday 9 March at The Students’ Union Bar at Frenchay, and streamed live to the bars at Glenside and Bower Ashton.