The Sabbatical Officer for campaigns and welfare representation, responsible for representing the interest of the student body in matters pertaining to inclusivity and diversity at the University by supporting the UBU Council Executives with their campaigns. Sabbatical officer for the promotion of community involvement, including volunteering. They are the lead Sabbatical for the Campaigns and Welfare Committee.
San Baraili
DENIS WAUTERS OIRERE
ANWAR ALI
SAQIB ALI
Over the past few years, I have dedicated myself to student advocacy, welfare initiatives, and impactful campaigns that have brought real change to our Union.
My involvement with UBU began in 2022 when I started the Psychology Society. Alongside my exec team, I organized collaborations with societies, external organisations, and university. One of our standout initiatives was a podcast to raise awareness about mental health issues. It encouraged me to campaign more strongly through the voice I was given. From these experiences, I developed strong foundation for campaigning for students and connecting with them.
In my third year, I was elected as Chair of Activities Committee and Faculty Rep. One of the most impactful moments during my tenure was organising a major charity event in collaboration with various societies and the mental health team. We campaigned together and successfully raised over £1000 for victims of war in Gaza, in partnership with UNICEF. As Faculty Rep, I advocated for students, successfully pushing for the introduction of more quiet study spaces for those with learning disabilities. Serving on UBU Council, I contributed to key decisions, including the removal of the Starbucks franchise on campus in favour of a more student-focused alternative.
Currently, as the Student Affairs Officer, I have continued my advocacy on a larger scale. I have worked closely with student housing providers, Unipol, and the National Union of Students (NUS) to address pressing student accommodation issues. My efforts led me to Parliament, where I represented Bradford students and contributed to discussions that will shape the upcoming Renters’ Reform Bill. Additionally, I have been part of university forums such as Senate, Council, Finance Committee, etc. ensuring that student voices are heard at the highest levels of decision-making.
One of my most significant achievements has been playing a key role in launching a new student referral website, addressing a wide range of welfare concerns. I have also actively worked on crisis funds, security issues, visa support, and financial assistance, ensuring that students have access to the resources they need. I have also successfully assisted in organising campaigns like Black History Month, 16 Days of Activism, Reclaim the Night, and Mental Health Week.
If elected, I will continue my work on accessible mental health services, lobbying for crisis funds, and on simplifying the process for students to access emergency grants. Continuing my work on housing reforms, I will work on ensuring students are protected from exploitative landlords, strengthen student-led campaigns and ensure that every student has a platform to voice their concerns and opinions.
I have consistently demonstrated my ability to lead, campaign, and deliver results that matter to students. My experience across multiple roles has given me a deep understanding of how to navigate university policies and make meaningful changes. If elected, I will continue to advocate for student rights, improve welfare services, and expand campaigning aspect of our Union.
Let’s work together to create a campus where every student thrives. Vote Sanskrity Baraili for President of Campaigns and Welfare!
As a candidate for the President of campaign and welfare, I believe that a healthy, supportive, and inclusive campus environment is key to our success as students, and I am committed to ensuring that each student’s wellbeing is prioritized.
Being an international student I feel that there is a major communication gap between the students union and the students themselves. Most students are not aware of half the events, activities that are present within the students union. One of the major responsibilities would be trying to close this communication gap between the students and their union, they need to feel welcomed and be made aware that this is their union and they can bring their ideas, complaints and other concerns to us. Students find it much easier to discuss their ideas and/or issues with other students and my aim will be present myself to these students as a someone they can come to for help in not just for safety, welfare etc related queries but any issue and I could then guide them on what to do or who to contact further. Creating a friendly and familiar environment amongst students is important, setting up events such as Barbecue (BBQ) night or provide them with any facility which something I would try and organize on a regular basis.
As president of Campaigns and welfare, I will advocate for to increase the resources for mental health as the students go through really tough time there in academic year. Also, I will work upon on demand counselling services and will enhance the stress relief programs. Apart from this, I will work hard towards expanding health services, including wellness check-ups and fitness programs that are accessible to all students. Furthermore, I will ensure that every student feels welcomed, regardless of background. This includes promoting cultural events, training programs, and safe spaces on campus as well as advocate for policies and initiatives that specifically help underrepresented groups, including marginalized communities, international students, and students with disabilities.
I will look to be working with the rag team and helping them do events not just for funding raising but also towards raising awareness among our students about the different social economic issues around them. Encouraging our students to be part of such events gives them the opportunity to give back to society and realise their social responsibilities at the same time. The existing lack of communication between the university and the community leads to lost opportunities for our students.
I believe that the President of the campaign and welfare should be an enthusiastic leader should be who listens, supports, and actively works toward making our campus a better place for all students. Your wellbeing is my priority, and I am committed to creating a healthier, more balanced, and more inclusive university experience for everyone.
DENIS WAUTERS OIRERE Manifesto
As President of Campaigns & Welfare, I will advocate for better mental health services, promote inclusivity, and strengthen student engagement with the local community. I will push for increased access to support, ensure UBU spaces remain safe and welcoming, and support student-led campaigns that promote equality and accessibility. I will work to amplify underrepresented voices, collaborate with local residents and councillors to improve student integration, and promote volunteering opportunities that benefit both students and the community. By working closely with UBU campaign officers, I will drive initiatives that prioritize student well-being, safety, and empowerment. Vote Wauters Oirere for President of Campaigns & Welfare!
Hi, I am Saqib Ali. I am excited to announce my candidacy for the position of President of Campaigns and Welfare at the University of Bradford Union. As a passionate advocate for student well-being and a firm believer in the power of collective action, I am eager to take on this role to enhance the student experience, drive positive change, and ensure every student feels heard, supported, and empowered.
My Vision
Building Careers, Strengthening Support and Improving Financial Well-being
With rising living costs, students are struggling financially, affecting their academic and social lives. If elected, I will:
• Campaign for fee relaxation deadlines or interest-free loan options for students facing financial difficulties, ensuring they can complete their studies without affecting the timely award of their degrees.
• Push for more scholarships to support students from diverse backgrounds.
• Advocate access to emergency financial support for students in urgent need.
• Work with university career services to establish stronger partnerships with companies and organisations, creating more internship, part-time, and graduate job opportunities across various fields.
• Host CV-building workshops, job fairs, and networking events to enhance students' employability and career readiness.
• Advocate for more affordable and subsidised food options on campus.
Mental Health and Well-being Support
The mental well-being of students is paramount, yet many face challenges accessing appropriate resources and support.If elected, I will push for:
• Flexible Deadlines for Mental Health Challenges – Working with faculty to implement policies that allow deadline extensions for students facing mental health crises without penalisation.
• 24/7 Mental Health Helpline & Peer Support Groups – Establishing a dedicated crisis helpline and peer-led support networks, ensuring students have someone to turn to at any hour.
• Tackling Mental Health Stigma – Running awareness campaigns, inviting guest speakers, and sharing student stories to normalize conversations around mental health.
Cultural Inclusivity, LGBTQ+ Rights, and Minority Rights
A diverse and inclusive campus benefits everyone, and it is crucial to ensure that all students feel welcome, regardless of their background, identity, or beliefs. If elected, I will:
• Advocate for stronger protections and policies against discrimination based on race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, and disability.
• Promote cultural awareness events and celebrations that highlight the richness of our student body’s diversity.
• Work with student groups to improve LGBTQ+ support services and create safer environments for all students.
• Ensure that international and minority students receive better academic and welfare support, including access to resources tailored to their unique challenges.
Parking Permits and Affordable Transportation
The limited number of parking permits at the university and their high cost pose a significant issue for students who commute. Many struggle to find affordable and convenient parking, which adds to their daily stress. If elected, I will:
• Campaign for an increase in the number of parking spacesavailable for students.
• Push for reduced permit fees to make parking more accessible for those in need.
• Explore alternative subsidized transportation options for students who do not drive but still face difficulties commuting to campus.