Elections 2024 - Candidates

Alex Martin

Whether it be housing, academic representation or cost of living, the issues the Guild works on can make or break someone’s student experience. As Guild President, I would ensure students have an effective voice to fight for them on these issues and actively lobby the university and city council. My work would be led by input from all students but some of my core beliefs are:

We deserve a transparent and accountable Students' Guild
In this ongoing crisis, I know we need better cost-of-living support
I think everyone has a right to secure, affordable housing free from landlords’ exploitation
I know wellbeing services are crucial and need to be accessible to everyone
Exeter should be a safe, inclusive and accessible city and campus

So why should you trust me to fight for you:

For two years I’ve sat on the trustee board that oversees the entire guild where I have worked with student officers on everything from creating the Student Living Officer role to the refurbishment of Devonshire House. I have represented Exeter at the National Union of Students where I worked on housing reform and have been an active proponent of democratic reform in the NUS.

As president of the Debating Society, I have experience managing a large committee, organising events three times a week for 400 members. This year I’ve also joined the Guild working group on gender safety and have been actively pushing to expand the welfare training given to committee members.

This experience has given me the skills, working relationships and understanding of how the guild and university really work needed to get things done. If elected, I won’t need months to adjust myself, I will hit the ground running on day one and achieve the changes students deserve.

Captain Hook Tallon

Arr mateys, gather 'round as I spin a yarn unfoldin' 'pon the Devon coast! The whispers of all sea-dogs tell of the legendary Captain Hook Tallon, the third mightiest pirate to ever dance upon the seven seas! Thought lost to the depths of the Bermuda Triangle after comin' second in the last election, I've risen from the watery abyss in Exeter’s darkest hour after a year of battlin' sea beasties. I've returned to uphold me pledge and make our Guild the talk of the seas!

I've got decades of experience leadin' a motley crew of sailors aboard me ship; The Trey o’War. Together, we've faced ghosts, sea monsters, and sobriety at every turn. Only 4 attempts at mutiny have dared cross our path, and despite their best efforts, we've never technically been caught by his majesty’s navy! This year, I've faced an existential crisis – am I a man or a pirate? Keep an eye on me online to learn th' secrets I've uncovered.

For far too long, scallywags have suffered under the demonic rule of the Vote Goat, a creature more fearsome than any I've encountered at sea, allowin' scurvy to run rampant. Ye've been left adrift by a Guild tearin' away at the very fabric of democracy, and refusin' to recognize the rights of pirates. There be no rum ration, no duels to settle disputes, and no golden doubloons accepted on campus – I say, no more! A vote for me is a vote for the piratisation of the Exeter Students’ Guild. Let yer voices boom like thunder in a squall, and vote for the pirate who'll fight for all. 'Tis the hour to elect Captain Hook Tallon as yer new Pirate King! Yarrrr! To find out more, make sure to follow me campaign on Instagram: @captainhook4guildpresident

#Hook4Pres

Jack Barwell

The Guild has been a failure for years, from selling off assets to layers of bureaucracy to politicisation. We got here by electing individuals who rose through consensus societies that fail us repeatedly. We need someone fighting for change.

The only way we're going to change things is if we pick someone who's not afraid to fight back for students. We need a candidate who's going to have close ties to freshers. We need a candidate who gets religious and international students and will make sure that the Guild is a welcoming environment for them too. We need a candidate who wants closer ties with sport societies and will fight student media when they try to stereotype them. We need a candidate who's going to fight for smaller societies to make sure that they get a fair financial deal and a seat at the table to hold Guild officers accountable just like their bigger counterparts.

I am the person to deliver this. I've beaten the consensus in student media when they tried to have me cancelled and the investigation ruled in my favour. I've got to know freshers and I'm the only voice in this race that will actually have their best interests at heart. I'll depoliticize the Guild to make sure that all students from all backgrounds feel welcome, I get this living in a majority international student accommodation. I've seen the demonization of the AU; I will use my power to fight back on behalf of ordinary sports players at this university. I'm the only candidate in this race that started their own society, built it from the ground up, raised our own money and knows how to get things done with new ideas. I will be a voice for many others looking to start their own societies.

Mohammed Saifuddin

I am honored to stand before you as a candidate in this student election, and I want to share with you who I am, what I believe needs changing, and why I believe I am the best person to bring about those changes.

First and foremost, I am a student, just like all of you. I understand the challenges, pressures, and joys of being a part of this vibrant and diverse community. I believe that our collective experience is the foundation upon which we can build a stronger and more inclusive student body.

What needs changing is not a matter of specific policies or promises, but rather a mindset. We need to foster a culture of unity and respect among our peers. In a world that often seems divided, our campus should be a place where we celebrate our differences and learn from one another. We should prioritize mental health and well-being, ensuring that every student feels supported and heard.

Why am I the best person to make these changes happen? Because I am deeply committed to our community. I believe that together, we can create a more welcoming and compassionate environment. I am approachable and open to listening to your concerns and ideas. I am dedicated to promoting unity, diversity, and well-being on our campus.

In this election, I ask for your trust and your vote, not because of specific policies or grand promises, but because of my genuine desire to serve our student body and make our campus a better place for all. Together, we can shape a brighter future for our community. Thank you for considering me as your candidate, and I look forward to working with all of you to make positive changes together.

Vagarth Bhatt

Dear fellow University of Exeter students,

My journey as a student at this university has been nothing short of transformative, and it's an honor to stand before you as a candidate for the position of Students' Union President. Through my experiences both within and beyond the classroom, I have come to appreciate the diversity of perspectives and backgrounds that make up our vibrant community.

One issue I've identified during my time here is the need for increased support and resources for student mental health. It's clear that many of our peers are struggling with the pressures of academia and life in general. This issue affects us all because a healthy student body is a more productive and happier one. I envision a future where our university actively promotes mental well-being through increased counseling services, awareness campaigns, and stress-reduction initiatives.

Why me? I have a track record of advocating for positive change. I've successfully organized events that fostered inclusivity and promoted student engagement. My communication skills, honed through various leadership roles, enable me to connect with students from all backgrounds. Moreover, my determination and commitment to improving our university experience have been evident in my past initiatives.

But I'm not here to change everything; I'm here to address the issues that matter most to us as students. I promise to work tirelessly to bring about the changes we need to enhance our collective university experience.

In conclusion, I ask for your support and trust in my ability to represent your interests as Students' Union President. Together, we can create a brighter and more inclusive future for the University of Exeter community. Please join me on this journey to make our university experience the best it can be.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

Vagarth Bhatt

Jack Barry

I’m Jack Barry, and I’m running to be your Education Officer!

Here’s a few reasons why you should #BackJack…

1) Extensive Guild Experience

I’ve worked for the Guild for over a year as a videographer and content creator. As such, I have invaluable experience and a great insight as to how the Guild operates – and how to make real change happen.

Within this role, I’ve worked closely with Guild staff, including the past two Education Officers. This means I’ve not just witnessed the role in action, but have actively participated in understanding what it takes to keep student priorities at the forefront.

I’ve focused particularly on ensuring the Guild’s online presence is more accessible, and relevant to the ever-evolving needs of students. I firmly believe that student perspective is integral to shaping the Guild’s direction, and ensuring this remains current.

My experience uniquely situates me as a candidate – and means I can hit the ground running as Education Officer and meaningfully contribute from day one.

2) Working with Academics and Councillors

I’m experienced speaking to university councillors, and have worked alongside academic staff and lecturers on multiple occasions as a Student Ambassador, promoting the university but also engaging with students. As such, I’m no stranger to raising feedback originating from fellow students, and ensuring that those who should hear it, do.

3) Societies and Student Life

During my three years as an English student, I’ve been heavily involved with societies, including on committee. I know what it’s like to balance these alongside studying, and how crucial it is that academic life is devoid of unnecessary barriers, blocking students from making the most of Exeter.

Vote for compassion, accessibility, and equity. Vote Jack Barry for Education Officer.

Follow my campaign @jack4guild!

Kieran Moore

Whilst at Exeter I have been on multiple committees, such as Exeposé and Photosoc, and worked with over twenty different societies and sports clubs, providing photographic coverage of their events such as dinners, concerts and sporting fixtures. You may very well have seen me or my work around campus. I have used my photography to work directly with the Guild covering Welcome Week and all the graduations in 2023, allowing me to understand how the Guild works and operates.

As a final year Mathematics student I have learnt to work in an analytical way which allows me to communicate ideas clearly and concisely to others. I am a Survey Superhero and worked on the Student Advisory Board last year where I helped highlight the students’ opinions about self-certified mitigation to the university. Outside of these roles I took the opportunity to represent the opinions of my cohort following poor exam results. I took their feedback to the heads of the department, leading to the implementation of mock exams and study sessions to improve performance and confidence when sitting in-person exams after Covid. I became an Academic Representative for my subject this year, allowing me to continue to make this kind of positive change for the wider student body.

Helping others is really important to me, and if elected into the position of Education officer it will provide the opportunity to lead more impactful changes driven by the student voice.

Sebastian Racisz

Hiya, my name is Seb, and I’m running to be your Education Officer! I’m a final year Politics, Philosophy and Economics student and a face you’ve likely seen around campus and many of its societies (potentially some debates). In terms of more personal stuff, I’m a Polish-English dual-national and someone who cares deeply about education issues in Exeter and nationally.

But at the end of the day, why me?

As dull as it sounds, education policy is my thing. Ever since secondary school, I’ve been involved in student activism, fighting for local issues that affected my small local state school as well as national issues affecting us all. Fighting for a system that genuinely considers our interests, and in my bid for Education Officer, I want to continue doing just that. As such, in preparation for the election, I’ve been doing quite a bit of research into Exeter Uni policies and how they compare to other universities on a variety of issues, including mitigation, student engagement and late submission policy to highlight what Exeter does great as well as where it needs to improve (Keep an eye on my instagram page to hear more!!!). Additionally, as a committee member, I already have significant experience dealing with the guild (I send them an absurd amount of emails weekly 🙃). Finally, the experiences of international students are close to my heart as a dual-national myself. I understand many of the struggles faced by those arriving in the country for the first time and promise to use my experiences and those of the student body to create an environment welcoming to all.

So hey why not vote Seb!!!

If you have any questions about my campaign, drop me a message on my Instagram, or if you see me around campus, say hi!

https://www.instagram.com/seb4educationofficer/

Annie Ransom

Universities should be places of belonging, where people from vastly diverse places, backgrounds, and identities can come together to reach new heights in education and research. This is why I wish to run for the Communities and Equality Officer. I hope to use my experience as an international, postgraduate and mature student to represent a broad spectrum of students at the University and help create an environment where everyone feels welcome and represented. During my time as the treasurer of the Postgraduate Society, I have worked towards creating enjoyable events with the rest of the committee, maintaining fiscal responsibility by making the most of the funds we have and making events as affordable as possible. I have experience working in healthcare for over 7 years creating accessible environments for people of all different backgrounds and abilities and through my time studying sociology, I have learned the importance of centring diverse voices to create representative action; I want to ensure that future events and policies within the Guild are guided by the diverse voices of students, doing the most to aim for equity in representation and experience. Accessibility is something that can benefit everyone and I will strive towards creating accessible environments and events throughout the University. If elected as Communities and Equality Officer, I will strive to do my best to serve the students at the University of Exeter.

Jehanzeb Kaleem

My name is Jehanzeb Kaleem. I am from Pakistan however, I’ve grown up In the United Arab Emirates. I have been very privileged to grow up in a multicultural environment which I feel will definitely benefit me in succeeding at my role. I am currently in my second year and I have numerous times felt that there is a definite divide amongst international students between each other and between the local students. Not only have I felt this personally but I have also heard this from numerous groups of people. I thoroughly believe that university should be a place where no one feels any sort of pressure due their background. I myself at many times have been an outcast in my life and it is that personal experience that I want to make sure no one has to undergo at university. It is this experience that I believe would make me the right candidate to break down barriers.

Thomas Tran

Radical Allyship. That’s what my campaign’s about. It’s not enough to push for your own vision; you have to listen and fight for the communities around you. Being Asian-American, queer, and neurodivergent, I know how valuable it is when someone takes the time to listen, to inform themselves, and to advocate for others. I want to be that person for you. As a 3rd-year, I feel that I have a strong grasp on how the Guild and uni work and how to leverage them to get the best for students. I don’t shy away from negotiation (having fought for a GSA at my homophobic high school) while also knowing that the best work comes from collaboration (having worked with faculty/societies for events). Above all though, I am the type of person always looking to improve and take feedback. As your E&C officer, I’d send out surveys and meet folks to ensure that my actions are always representative of you.

As a candidate, I’m not allowed to make promises, but I will tell you what I hold to be true. I believe that there is no social justice without economic justice (“equal opportunity” being not just an ideal but a societal goal). I believe in cultural diversity, LGBTQ+ rights, and disability rights. I believe that the University can do a lot more for us. (If you can invest in buildings, you can invest in the people inside of them!). We have a long way to go with mental health support and accessibility. I am more than willing to be your tireless advocate.

Radical Allyship understands that the larger community is only as strong as the smaller communities within it. It leads to richer experiences and unexpected friendships.

Let’s make sure everyone has a great time at Exeter.

Waleed Elnaim

One of the glaring problems with the University of Exeter is the way in which minorities are represented. Put simply, we’re not. We’re treated like a deck of cards, pulled out when it’s convenient, discarded when it’s not. Like a shiny new toy, that you play with for a few days, toss to the side when you get bored, and only ever pick up again to show off to people.

Exeter isn’t society in miniature. When people think of this university, they imagine a white, upper-class man that attended private school. They don’t think about the Muslim minority, the disabled community, or the large international student population. This is a direct consequence of the infrastructural problems here. We see this place as being largely unrepresentative and largely uncaring for people like us, especially when it comes to the mental health of ALL students.

We can change this by fostering an environment that encourages and protects diversity, and that shows honest compassion. As a disabled POC that struggles with mental health myself, I’m intimately familiar with the system. I want to pioneer events that celebrate the diversity of our student body, students that come from China all the way to the Americas.

All I have is my limited experience on the EDI advisory board as a student consultant, and a true desire to change things, especially for minorities and mental health.

What does it truly mean to be disabled, to be black or to be Arab or a woman in this city? What does it mean to suffer from a mental illness that our university doesn’t care about?

Despite how small you think your voice is, it’s still a VOICE. I WILL hear you. You’re more than a deck of cards, or someone’s toy. Remember that.

Zixian Liu

My name is Zixian LIU (Jane) and I am an international student currently enrolled at the University of Exeter. I am thrilled to nominate myself for the position of Communities & Equality Officer. As a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion, I have identified several key problems that I believe need to be addressed within our university community.

One issue that needs attention is the inconsistency in the distribution of student care packages at the University of Exeter. Although it is stated that the packages will be given out on both Tuesday and Wednesday, they are actually only distributed on Wednesday. Furthermore, students who arrive slightly late on Wednesday are not given their care packages, causing frustration and a sense of unfairness. This discrepancy in communication and execution creates confusion and inconvenience for students who rely on these packages for support. Addressing this problem is crucial to ensure equal access to resources and demonstrate the university's commitment to student well-being.

Having worked in the career development department at the student union in China, I have gained valuable experience in supporting students' professional growth and fostering a sense of empowerment. In this role, I organized and facilitated enterprise salons, providing a platform for students to explore entrepreneurship and innovative ideas. This experience has equipped me with the skills to empower and support student-led initiatives that celebrate diversity and inclusion.

In summary, my experience in the career development department, combined with my strong communication skills, proactive mindset, and international perspective, make me a strong candidate for the role of Communities & Equality Officer. I am committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all students at the University of Exeter. Thank you for considering my nomination, and I look forward to the opportunity to contribute positively to our university community.

H Clement-Jones

Hi, I’m Henry, and I'm running to be the Exeter Societies & Employability Officer 2024/2025.

Societies are probably the reason you own so many silly costumes and wake up with a hangover more often than you should, but they are also why campus life is so special. They are friendship groups, meeting places, activist organisations, sports clubs and refuges.

Exeter societies are not run by staff members or officials; they are Student-Led. Students work with the Guild daily to navigate tax procedures, risk assessments, and room bookings to ensure every event runs smoothly.

Over the last three years, I have been:

Vice-President of the Debating Society 2023/24. As VP, I have been working to ensure that free speech is alive and well on campus. I have intimate experience with risk assessments, room booking and coordinating large campus events, often with over 350 people.

Treasurer of the Law Society 2023/24. I manage the finances for the Law Society, one of the largest societies on campus, with over 900 members. I am experienced in Guild financial and sponsorship process’, and I coordinate employability events with dozens of law firms, working directly with graduate recruitment managers.

InterVarsity Captain of the Debating Society 22/23

Speaker Secretary of the Debating Society 21/22

Now, I’m seeking election so that I can ensure the hangovers, silly costumes, and, most importantly, the passion, never stops.

I will strive to make our Guild the most effective, transparent, and accessible institution possible. Students deserve to be the focus. We need to ensure committees can continue their amazing work unhindered and that the employability programmes they, the Guild, and the University run are the best they can be.

Please, therefore, Vote Henry Clement-Jones for Societies & Employability Officer. If you have questions, reach out via social media or email (hc765@exeter.ac.uk)

India Walton-Salmon

Hey, I'm India, a third-year Film and Television student and I'm excited to be running for Societies and Employability Officer. When I'm not doing uni work, you can find me working in the Career Zone or running a society event for the UniBoobTeam, Sexpression Society or the 93% Club.

From working at the Career Zone, I have first-hand experience supporting students on their career pathways. If I were elected as your Societies and Employability Officer, I would want to use my experiences to further support you in achieving your full potential. I understand that career planning can be overwhelming, so we need more accessible opportunities that work for everyone. Whether you know what you want to do after graduation or are just figuring it out, I want to be here for you every step of the way!

The cost of living crisis has hit students hard. I am passionate that there should be more well-paid, flexible opportunities on campus that fit around our studies and more low-cost activities and events. From my experience, being able to meet employers from all sectors helps students feel they belong at University.

From President to Treasurer and Social sec, I've been on four different committees, so I know that being on a committee can take over your life. We need a Students’ Guild that provides support throughout the year, not just in September, so committees can focus on having fun! International students also deserve much better; our events and celebrations must be more inclusive so that our international students feel at home.

Finally, there are over 300 societies, and every one is unique. I aspire to give a platform to smaller societies and do more to celebrate everyone’s hard work in making University life exciting!

Vote India for inclusivity and visit @india4guild on Instagram!

Mathias La Pira

Hello everyone, I'm Mathias, and I'm running to be your next Societies and Employability Officer. My active involvement in over 10 societies, 5 committees, and the creation of 3 societies has provided me with invaluable insights, making me the perfect candidate for your vote!

My experience with inventing and organising events such as ExeVision Song Contest and the Exeter Football World Cup equips me with the best skills to help turn your ideas into reality. Many of you have great projects in mind but don’t have the needed support to bring them to life. Thanks to my experience in event organisation, I can help you to build on your projects and navigate through the various steps to make them positive and impactful for those attending.

Serving as president of four societies has shown me the bureaucratic challenges of organizing events. If elected as your officer, ensuring that committee members receive all the necessary training and support will be one of my priorities. Regardless of your role, being a committee member shouldn't be a full-time job but an enjoyable experience alongside your studies.

As an international student and involved with many cultural societies, I gained a good understanding on how to best help international students. By initiating a group chat with all the international society presidents, I facilitated better collaborations and communication among cultural groups, fostering a supportive network (for example, organising an International Quiz Social that fundraised £240 for UNICEF).

Serving as the Department Officer for the Politics (SPSPA) Department has made me aware of the insufficient support provided for students in finding postgraduate possibilities. Creating stronger connections between students, the university departments and the Career Zone will be crucial to ensure that students have the best possible postgraduate experience.

Vote for Mathias to shape a successful student experience together!!

Priyal Pajwani

As a third year student, my journey has been a dynamic blend of academic excellence and active participation in the vibrant student community. Currently serving as the Vice President of the Indian Society, collaborating with the Career Zone to conduct sessions on job prospects, and an active member of the Guild Advisory Committee, I’ve been at the forefront of representing and addressing the needs of diverse student communities.

Guild surveys highlights the students' desire for increased career-oriented information, more opportunities, and a broader array of events. Managing over 300 societies, I see challenges in the continuous influx of new registrations, financial reimbursement concerns and the long-term sustainability of these societies, demanding proactive attention and urgent progress.

I worked nationally in events like Filifest at UCL, Enactus Exeter, and assisted the Lord Mayor of Exeter during Diwali, equipping me with skills to create more opportunities for students and societies, enhancing their employability and overall development.

At the core of my candidacy is the commitment to ensuring students have access to valuable development opportunities significantly contribute to their employability. Collaborating with the Career Zone, I've organized sessions like India Career Ready Programme, imparting skills essential for the future job market. It’s not just to organize these sessions but to proactively work alongside peers.

Addressing the societal issues mentioned above are central to my agenda. Through effective collaboration with the Guild, I aim to streamline processes, creating an environment where societies can thrive. I deeply value empathy and its role in value creation, enabling me to engage with students, hear their voices and actively consider them in decision making process, reciprocating the support I've received as an international student. My experiences and dedication uniquely position me as the ideal candidate to lead the Guild and work towards an inclusive student experience for all.

Sennen Addinall

No statement.

Victoria Lopez

A current final year law student, trying my best to work hard and play hard !! Academics aside, I'm both social sec for UELS and relatively new society Angel Soc; if you are unfamiliar with either, UELS is the biggest academic society in Exeter, best known for its networking events and gorgeous annual balls. Angel Soc whilst not the biggest, it's definitely the brightest - a cheeky TikTok might have shown you our hot girl walks, karaoke, and joint socials, overall, a safe and fun space to create female friendships :))

(i) This deep involvement into guild societies has, however, shown me some aspects that need changing; first, the financial constraints that keep some students from participating in societies specially in regard to winter/spring and Christmas balls. It’s inadmissible that students should not fully experience university life because of financial constraints.

(ii) Second, perhaps not applicable to all students, but any involvement with the guild through a society will demonstrate how flawed the expense system is: it is not feasible to believe that a student is able to afford anything below £1,000 and wait 1 to 2 weeks for the money to be expensed, reform is needed urgently.

(iii) Last, employability wise, it’s a shocking statistic that only 17% of student have undertaken some form of work experience within their time at university. Students ought to have the accessibility and knowledge on how to participate in work experience relevant to their studies.

I believe with my tenure as social sec for both societies, outgoing and most importantly, proactive personality I am a great fit for the role, I look forward to implementing real change for the 24/25 academic year in all things societies and employability; the most fundamental aspects of our time at university.

@lopez4guildofficer on insta for more info !!

Chloé Burlaka

I’m Chloé and I am an International Relations soon-to-be graduate. My parents are foreign, but I’ve always lived in the North of England, so I hope I can relate to many students and be someone you feel comfortable coming to for advice. From research, I've found the average property costs £180/week with bills and is a 25-minute walk to campus. I find this extortionate, given the distance to campus, how outdated the properties are, and landlords being slow to act on problems. I believe I am the right person for the role as I have already had to sort out issues I have faced with landlords and estate agents so am passionate about changing this for you. With my housing budget being lower than average, I know how quickly affordable properties fly off the market and how difficult it is to juggle paying rent and affording everyday life with the cost-of-living crisis making this even more difficult. I’ve experienced and heard of issues across housing such as broken boilers in winter that are never replaced, hot water and WIFI not working for weeks and the general apathy of landlords when asked to fix these issues. I’ve also experienced estate agents who act above the law, showing up without 24-hour notice and lying about this when refused entry. Furthermore, I have faced a property I signed onto put back on the market without forewarning or written notice with these estate agents subsequently trying to illegally keep part of my deposit. Vote for me if you want a friendly and compassionate leader who will listen to your views on housing, safety and finances.

Kira Brookes

Hi! My name is Kira, I’m a third year Psychological Studies student, and I’m thrilled to be running for the position of Student Living Officer this year! You might have seen me before on Instagram (@kira4student living), as President of the Feminist Society, or as Press and Publicity Officer for Exeter Model United Nations. This year’s Guild Officer team have started some amazing work that I believe myself to be the best person to help to continue; I’m super approachable and outgoing, and more importantly I am deeply committed to making sure all students feel represented here at Exeter.

In my role as the President of the Feminist Society, I have had the privilege of working with and addressing the diverse needs of an incredible group of students. While I’ve definitely faced some challenges in this role, the experience has only served to highlight the importance of creating a community where every individual feels valued. Furthermore, my tenure as Press and Publicity Officer for Exeter Model United Nations has helped me to develop strong communication skills and an understanding of effective representation. If elected as your Student Living Officer, I will use these skills to ensure that the voices of all students are considered in the decision-making processes that impact our university experience.

In standing in these Student’s Guild Elections, I am making a promise to you that my time in this role will be rooted in representation, transparency, and responsiveness. I believe in working closely with students, listening to your concerns, and finding solutions that enhance your university experience. Your vote is not just a vote for me, but a vote for a more inclusive, supportive, and vibrant student community. Thank you very much for reading, and I hope you vote Kira for Student Living Officer!

Siddharth Nagesh Salvi

Dear Fellow Students, I am excited to present myself as your potential Student Living Officer. My journey at this university has been a dynamic blend of experiences, and I am driven by a deep passion for empowering students and enhancing our shared living environment. I transcend being a mere student and am a passionate change agent. Engaging in university life, collaborative projects, and vocalizing student concerns have kindled my dedication to effective communication and collaboration. I commit to ensuring every student's voice resonates within our community, fostering a vibrant and inclusive environment. Diving into the student experience, I've pinpointed crucial challenges in housing, financial support, safety, community living, and sustainability. I aspire to cultivate an optimal living environment, alleviating concerns about finances, housing, and safety and fostering a thriving, supportive community for all. Distinguished by a proven track record of initiating change, I bring effective communication, strong collaboration skills, and robust advocacy experience. My unique blend of attentive listening and articulate communication positions me to champion your needs with unwavering dedication, ensuring tangible results in our living environment. Authentic leadership surpasses titles; it's about impactful action. Actively engaging in discussions, campaign initiatives, and collaborative efforts, I've grasped that authentic leadership entails demonstrating, collaborating, and bringing envisioned changes to life. I'm not merely seeking a position but poised to lead and generate tangible positive outcomes. Join me on a transformative journey where we amplify student voices, address concerns, and shape the best living experience. I'm not here to change everything; I aim for targeted, meaningful improvements that collectively elevate us. Your vote is a commitment to positive change and an enhanced living environment. Vote for positive change, effective representation, and a dedicated enhancement of our living environment. Thank you for considering me as your Student Living Officer. Let's collaboratively shape the future of our living experience.

Alice Mundy

Hey team, my name is Alice and I am currently in my final year studying BSc Sports and Exercise Science. Sport has been a major part of my university experience so far and I aspire for it to positively impact as many of you as possible too. I have been involved within a range of clubs all at varying levels. The cricket club has been my main sport where I am currently in the performance squad but have also been involved within the committee as well as the coaching team. These multiple roles have provided me with understanding of how the club is run at different levels and has allowed me to build my skill set which I know will help me throughout this role. I have also partaken in intramural netball and hockey as well as starting beginners and mixed lacrosse last year, therefore I have been part of multiple different clubs and have first hand experience on how they all work. I am passionate for students to gain as much as they possibly can out of the sport here at Exeter, as I know the power it has to excel your university experience. If elected, I believe my skillset will allow me to bring forward your ideas all while being reliable and approachable. Throughout I will strive for inclusivity, improved performance and enjoyment for all students. So, VOTE ALICE for Sports President to secure your sporting future.

Chloe Whitworth

Hello, I’m Chloe, and I would love to be your Sports President for the 2024-2025 academic year. I am a 3rd year History student, Club Captain of Women’s Football, and EDI Officer on the AU Exec Committee.

When I chose Exeter, the deciding factor for me was that it is one of the top sporting universities. I have not regretted my decision because my involvement in different sporting pursuits has been an important outlet for me during my time at university. I have been closely involved with university sport since my first year, namely Women’s Football and Futsal. Sitting on the UOEWFC committee for two years, afforded me valuable insight and knowledge on Exeter Sport, and given me strong first-hand experience in how to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all. As Club Captain, I have personally developed extensive leadership and communication skills, and I pride myself on being as approachable and inclusive as possible. Moreover, working alongside the current AU Pres as EDI Officer has enabled me to help progress University sport beyond performance.

I am an advocate for using sport as a vehicle for positive change. There are several barriers to participation in sport that affect students in various ways, most notably I have seen how gender, disability and socio-economic backgrounds form significant barriers to accessing sport at Exeter. Facilitating weekly sessions for disability football coaching at the University is one way in which I have turned my passion for inclusivity into positive change.

I believe that smaller and female clubs are vital to our university sporting community. They further the opportunity to find a new talent or skill, whilst helping to develop healthy mental and physical habits. I appreciate the importance of celebrating all clubs and recognising what they bring individually to Exeter Sport.

Harrison Dibble

Hello, I’m Harrison, a third year Sport and Exercise Science student. Sport has always played a massive role in my life, from little league football to school athletics, to university basketball. It has always given me a safe and welcoming environment with lots of my decisions in life being based around sport.

During my three years at Exeter, I have witnessed how important sport is for so many students and I believe everyone should have the opportunity to experience the strong communities and personal bonds that sport provides.

One thing I would like to improve is the approach to welfare in the AU. For lots of students, sport is at the center of their university experience. Their friendship groups are from sports, they live with their teammates, and their happiness may be largely reliant on sporting success. This means welfare and mental health should be at the forefront of everyone’s minds.

I would also like to better utilize the AU executive committee to allow students to have their input on how the AU is run and what initiatives and events they would like to see put in place.

As the current Vice President, I have had an insight into the workings of the AU and believe the role of AU president matches my skillset perfectly. I am currently the first team basketball captain and the leadership skills I have learned will be vital for being at the helm of all 52 AU sports clubs. I have always been a very motivated individual and feel I can bring this drive to continue the great success the AU has achieved in recent years.

Khusrav Rohinton Bharucha

Good day, everyone!

I am Khusrav Bharucha currently a Masters Student in Sports Management and I am formally submitting my candidature for the role of Sports President. With great enthusiasm, I am ecstatic to have the chance to advocate for and enhance our athletic programmes.It is my conviction that athletics constitute an indispensable component of collegiate existence, imparting immeasurable insights into discipline, perseverance, and collaboration.

Ensuring inclusivity and accessibility will constitute my foremost priorities should I be elected. Regardless of background or skill level, I am dedicated to ensuring that every student has the opportunity to participate in athletics. My intention is to establish a close collaboration with all sports teams and organisations in order to cultivate an inclusive and motivating atmosphere that inspires all members to flourish.

As a culmination, I offer my commitment, expertise, and vision for fostering a more thriving and all-encompassing athletic environment. Collectively, we can elevate the standard of excellence and foster a sense of camaraderie within the athletic programme of our university with your assistance.

I appreciate your consideration of my candidature.

Ruzza Sheikh

Hi, I'm Ruzza! I'm President of the Badminton Club and this following year I hope to be your Sports President. Having been involved in badminton for the last 3 years, and being the Events Coordinator in the AU Council this year, I have gained a great understanding of how the AU works. Here are a few problems that are important to me:

- I feel there is a communication gap between the AU and the clubs, meaning the timelines for certain things happening can be slower than expected.

- Dealing with Kukri has been difficult at times, from stash secs having long email chains about orders to stash simply not being delivered in the time frame expected.

- Little support for students of colour, not much encouragement or display of exceptional students of colour to inspire and celebrate diversity.

- Old kit can't be used and may end up being wasted, further to this stash from previous years that was paid for by clubs is just left in the stash cupboard meaning new places are needed for stash by club captains and stash secs this year.

- Some sports don't receive much physical support or publicity.