UBU Council Lay Members
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Council Lay Members are voting members of UBU Council who attend meetings to represent the voice and opinion of all student members of UBU. They are to raise any issue that may have been brought to their attention and also help understand and resolve any issues that fellow Council Members may have brought. They are expected to take a share of the collective responsibility for developing the Union’s business as brought to Council, and resolving problems brought to Council.
KIRAN NYAUPANE
GIFT TSENZUGHUL
Husain Rashid
CHUKWUKA MANUBA
ANABELL GRANT-SAMUEL
KOHINAIN DAUWOOD
MAHAD ALI
Zahra Shahzad
MINAHAL FAISAL
BUSHRA MUNAF
MUSTAFA KHURRAM
IBRAHIM SHAFFI
ROHIT JHA
Faisal Iqbal
MANIFESTOS
Manifesto: How I have and I will Contribute to UBU
Hello, I am Kiran Nyaupane. I am an international student studying BSc Applied Artificial Intelligence on 2ndyear. I have always been very passionate supporting students and fellows, leading group and communities and creating welcoming environment at the university, so I am running for the position on the council of the University of Bradford union of Students (UBU).
Back in my first year at the University of Bradford international College (UBIC), I had the experience of serving as a student representative at the international College. That role gave me the opportunity to support and assist my fellow international friends/students in a various way. I supported them by providing guidance on academic and personal challenges that they face inside the university. And I was proud to be in that position to be a reliable point of contact for my peers. This opportunity not only helped me to develop leadership and communication skills, but it also gave me a deeper understanding of the diverse circumstances, concerns and needs of international students.
Now, in my second year, I would like to engage with my university community, and I am so excited to expand my contribution through the UBU council. If I get a chance to serve as a council member of UBU, I will focus on the following key areas:
- Enhancing Supports for International Students: Being myself as an International Student, I can understand the circumstances of adapting a new environment. I will work to ensure that UBU provides more targeted supports dor an international student including language assistance and guidance on navigating academic life inside the university.
- Building a Stronger, Inclusive Community: I believe in the power of unity. I will try to advocate for activities and programs that promote our student’s diversity and bring people together from all backgrounds. We can provide each students a sense of belonging by promoting an inclusive environment.
- Strengthening Student Representatives: I am aware of how significant it is that students’ opinions be heard. So, I will request UBU to strengthen student reps by either adding number of student reps or by providing effective training frequently. I intent to pay deep attention to the students’ thoughts, opinion and recommendation and make sure they have taken into consideration. I will mainly focus on enhancing communication between the students and UBU council.
- Promote Mental Health and Wellbeing: As student life is very stressful, Mental health is very important. I will always focus to increase awareness and to increase access to mental health resources and support services.
I am committed to positively impacting UBU and our campus community. By using my expertise as a student representative and working with all the students, I hope to create a friendly, inclusive and prosperous environment for all of them. Together, we can make UBU a stronger voice for all of the students.
Thank you!
As a proud student of the University of Bradford and a practising lawyer, I am excited to stand for election as a Lay Council member, representing the interests of students. My unique blend of legal expertise and passion for student advocacy makes me an ideal candidate for this role.
*A Voice for Students*
As a lawyer, I have spent some years and gained practical knowledge in advocating for the rights of marginalized communities. I believe that students deserve a strong, informed voice in the decision-making processes that shape their university experience. As a Lay Council member, I pledge to listen to students' concerns, amplify their voices, and ensure that their interests are represented at the highest level.
*Key Priorities*
1. *Academic Support*: I will work to ensure that students receive the academic support they need to succeed, including adequate resources, accessible faculty, and effective feedback mechanisms.
2. *Student Wellbeing*: I will advocate for increased investment in student wellbeing services, including mental health support, counselling, and financial assistance.
3. *Diversity and Inclusion*: I will promote initiatives that foster a culture of inclusivity, diversity, and respect, ensuring that all students feel valued and supported.
4. *Employability and Career Development*: I will work to strengthen partnerships with employers, alumni, and industry experts to enhance career opportunities and employability prospects for graduates.
*Accountability and Transparency*
As a Lay Council member, I will ensure that students are informed about key decisions and developments affecting the university. I will maintain an open-door policy, engaging with students through regular town hall meetings, social media, and email updates.
*Conclusion*
As a lawyer and advocate, I am committed to representing the interests of students at the University of Bradford. I believe that every student deserves a high-quality education, a supportive community, and a voice in the decisions that shape their university experience. I look forward to working with students, staff, and faculty to build a brighter future for our university.
Gift Tsenzughul Esq.
Join me in my bid to continue to challenge and pritoritise the majority of students rather than a select few. I am proud to have the motivation to request support to be re-elected following a rather successful first year. Aligning my visions with the core values of the University of Bradford would allow a totally centric approach to challenging the actions of the Sabbatical Officers and other members of the UBU Council and was most likely the reason that I was elected the year before. I promise to continue my journey to change the landscape of the university as I approach my third and final year of my studies before I bid farewell.
My Priorities
1. Carlton Building Air Con Push - As promised in my manifesto when I began my campaign, I pledged to label my term as a council lay-member as a success or failure should the consequence of my passion towards a more hygienic prayer building be positive or negative. I shall furthermore continue my push alongside the students to make this passion a reality before I leave.
2. Inclusivity of Changes - I will not vote for any major or minor changes without the acknowledgement of all cultural backgrounds or demographic as these can cause conflict should changes be made of high risk. I will always think of the students as a whole community rather than specific groups and ensure that university time is prioritised and spent wisely.
3. Listen with Care - Wherever I am, I will take suggestions and ideas with care and not with rush. I will find time with students to discuss potential changes that they or a large group have suggested and offer help and advice to them that is beneficial rather than wasteful.
4. Help! - My attendance is at its peak during the academic year! Regardless of the role or not, I will always be able to help others in any way, shape or form. Whether its a call for help in direction or a societal setup query, I am always available in-person and remotely to offer help to the students of Bradford regardless of the context or time.
Thanks for reading my manifesto and "RE-ELECT FOR CHANGE THAT BENEFITS ALL RATHER THAN SOME!!!"
Empowering Diverse Voices, Enhancing Student Experience
As a passionate and dedicated member of the University of Bradford community, I am excited to stand for the position of Council Lay Member in the Union of Students. With a strong background in leadership and communication, I am confident in my ability to effectively represent and advocate for the diverse interests of our students.
In just a short time since the start of the academic year, I have had the privilege of connecting with the vibrant Nigerian Students Society and, by extension, students from various nationalities, tribes, and faiths. These interactions have not only broadened my understanding of the diverse needs and concerns of our student body but also deepened my commitment to ensuring that every student feels seen, heard, and valued.
As your Council Lay Member, I pledge to:
1. Amplify Marginalized Voices: I will work tirelessly to create a platform for students from diverse backgrounds to share their concerns, ideas, and experiences, ensuring that their voices are heard and valued in decision-making processes.
2. Foster Inclusive Communities: I will collaborate with student groups, societies, and organizations to promote cross-cultural understanding, respect, and cooperation, celebrating our differences while strengthening our collective identity as Bradford students.
3. Advocate for Student Wellbeing: I will prioritize student mental health, welfare, and academic support, working closely with university services and external partners to ensure that our students receive the resources and support they need to thrive and excel.
4. Promote Transparency and Accountability: I will maintain open channels of communication with students, ensuring that they are informed about council decisions, university policies, and initiatives that affect them, while holding the university and union accountable for their actions.
5. Empower Student Leadership: I will provide guidance, mentorship, and support to student leaders, enabling them to develop their skills, build their confidence, and make a positive impact on our university community.
As a passionate advocate for student rights and interests, I am committed to working collaboratively with the Union of Students, university staff, and external partners to create a more inclusive, supportive, and empowering environment for all students of the university of Bradford.
Vote for me, and together, let's build a brighter future for every Bradford student!
ANABELL GRANT-SAMUEL Manifesto
Dear community members,
I am excited and honored to stand as a candidate for the position of Council Lay Member. With a deep passion for service and a commitment to making a difference, I seek to represent you with integrity, enthusiasm, and a clear focus on the issues that matter most to our community.
Having served as the Women’s Officer at my school, I have gained invaluable experience in leadership, advocacy, and community building. It is this experience, along with my unwavering dedication to the values of equality, transparency, and progress, that I will bring to the role of Council Lay Member.
Why I am Running
My time as the Women’s Officer taught me the importance of listening to voices that are often unheard and taking meaningful action to address their needs. Through organizing campaigns, events, and providing support for my peers, I have seen firsthand the power of collective action and the impact of good leadership. As your Council Lay Member, I am committed to representing every voice in our community, ensuring that we all have the opportunity to thrive.
I am running because I believe that we need a council that is inclusive, forward-thinking, and proactive in addressing the challenges we face today and in the future. Together, we can build a community that works for everyone, and I am ready to take on this responsibility with a sense of duty and purpose
My Vision for the Community
If elected, I will prioritize the following areas, each of which I believe will create a stronger, more cohesive community for all:
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Equality and Inclusion
As Women’s Officer, I advocated for gender equality and the empowerment of marginalized groups. This is a cause I will continue to champion as your Council Lay Member. I am committed to ensuring that every resident, regardless of gender, ethnicity, age, or background, feels represented and valued. We must create spaces where diversity is celebrated, and everyone has the opportunity to succeed. -
Affordable Housing and Infrastructure
Housing should not be a privilege—it should be a right. I will work to address the ongoing housing crisis by pushing for affordable housing solutions that meet the needs of our community members. Additionally, I will advocate for the improvement of public transportation, roads, and recreational spaces, ensuring our infrastructure is not only functional but also sustainable for future generations.
Commitment to Transparency and Accountability
My experience as the women's offficer has taught me the importance of transparency and accountability .I believe in an open,Communicative council that regularly update the community on decisions and inititatives .
As your Council Lay Member, I will always listen to your concerns and actively involve you in the decision-making process, ensuring that your voice is heard.
Conclusion
I believe that we have the potential to create a stronger,more inclusive and more dynamic university .I am asking for your support, your ideas , your trust .Together , we can build a future together where everys tudent feels valued ,supported and empowered . i
As an active and dedicated member of the UBU, I am eager to take on the role of Council Lay Member for the Union to ensure it remains a welcoming and supportive space for all students. Throughout my time at university, I have worked to enhance the student experience by fostering inclusivity, encouraging collaboration, and advocating for student welfare.
A key part of my journey has been my role as Head Brother of the Islamic Society (ISOC). In this position, I have worked to create a welcoming space for Muslim students while also engaging with the wider university community through interfaith initiatives, charity events, and awareness campaigns. ISOC plays a crucial role in supporting students, fostering a sense of belonging, and promoting dialogue between people of diverse backgrounds. Through my involvement, I have helped organise community-focused events such as fundraising events like Charity Week and Charity Dinner, and other welfare initiatives that benefit all students regardless of their cultural backgrounds.
Beyond my work with ISOC, I have actively contributed to broader university initiatives, collaborating with a range of societies like the Afghan Society, Pakistan Society and British Sign Language Society to celebrate diversity, promote student well-being, and support important causes. These experiences have reinforced my belief in the power of student-led initiatives to create a positive impact.
Looking ahead, I am committed to ensuring that students’ voices are heard in key decision-making processes within UBU. Student societies and advocacy groups are vital in shaping university life, and I want to strengthen their role by pushing for better representation, increased support, and more opportunities for students to have a say in decisions that affect them. By working closely with UBU leadership and my fellow students, I aim to create a more open, transparent, and responsive Student’s Union that truly reflects the needs and aspirations of the student body.
UBU has been a fundamental part of my university experience, and I am committed to making it even more inclusive, supportive, and dynamic. By building on my leadership within ISOC, fostering greater collaboration among different diverse student groups, and advocating for policies that benefit all students, I hope to contribute meaningfully to the Union and the wider university community as Council Lay Member.
Introduction
My name is Muhammad Mahad Ali, and I am passionate about making a positive impact within our university. Since joining University of Bradford, I have been actively involved in the Union, volunteering at numerous events whether it is setting up, cleaning up, or supporting different initiatives. Now, as part of the marketing team handling social media, I have gained deeper insight into student engagement and how we can better connect with our diverse student body especially at a time like this. The academic world is extremely competitive and I aim to make sure that the university’s course of progressiveness stays steadfast and persistent.
I believe in a Union that is inclusive, transparent, and truly representative of all students. My goal as a lay member is to ensure that every student feels heard, valued, and empowered. I want to contribute to making the Union a space where student concerns turn into actions and where meaningful change happens. As an international student myself, I have noticed many new students’ hesitation to get involved with the union. I want to change that.
No student should feel too lost or too afraid to become a part of our student community. The importance of cultural expression is very crucial to me and given that our university is a home to diverse backgrounds, every culture should be able to express itself.
My Priorities and Goals
Using my experience in the marketing team, I will work towards improving communication between students and the Union, making sure everyone is informed and involved. I will also make sure that all events are promoted to the highest standard and are in line with the current trends.
Having volunteered at many events, I understand the effort behind them. I will advocate for better support and resources for students organising activities.
I want to ensure that students from all backgrounds have equal opportunities to participate in Union activities, creating a sense of belonging for as many students as possible
Why Vote for Me?
With my firsthand experience in Union events and marketing, I bring both a practical and strategic perspective. I have always been committed to supporting and uplifting the student community, and as a lay member, I will continue to work hard to make our Union even better.
I am eager to stand for student voices and contribute to positive change at UBU. If you believe in a more connected, engaged, and inclusive Union, I would be honoured to have your support.
Hi, I'm Zahra Shahzad – a first year Software Engineering student, your student representative, and a strong advocate for your voice and student inclusivity. I'm running for Council Lay Member in hopes of being able to help create a Students Union that supports everyone, no matter their background or challenges. My main focus is
bringing new perspectives into the Union, building a thriving community, truly responsive to your needs.
Why me?
As a woman in STEM, I am familiar with the barriers that often face underrepresented groups - and I’m committed to breaking them down. Bridging the gap between the Union and its students, I will ensure our voices are amplified as we take charge of our own university experience, creating an empowering environment led and advocated by fellow students like yourselves.
My experience as Student representative has taught me the value of listening, collaborating with peers, and taking decisive action- all skills in which I will bring to the Council. Working closely with faculty and students I have effectively addressed numerous academic concerns, not stopping until issues are resolved ensuring that the student voice has been heard and considered fairly. Using the analytical thinking and problem-solving skills I have been equipped with from my studies, I will utilise them to their fullest potential to evaluate policies and motions, further ensuring that the union operates with transparency and efficiency.
My vision
I’m passionate about empowering the underrepresented. I'm driven to make everyone feel included regardless of background, and I will advocate for initiatives like networking opportunities and mentorship programs to allow for everyone to have an equal chance, equal access to the education they deserve. From academic support to
mental health resources, I will push for your concerns to be prioritised in council discussions and decisions. In order to achieve my vision of a unified relationship between students and the union I will also promote the small changes within your university experience, as the smallest change can make the biggest difference.
My commitment
With an approachable attitude and a passion for caring about the students experience at the university, I have what it takes to drive the students to be empowered within their own community. I will attend every meeting I have committed to, thoroughly review reports and provide my unbiased perspective within every meeting. I will continue engaging with the student body regarding any concerns and feedback; relaying this back to the council where the student voice will shape the universities decisions for a better student union.
Vote Zahra Shahzad as a Council Lay Member that puts you first.
I am pleased to apply for the post of Council Lay Member at the University of Bradford because of my strong dedication to higher education, belief in the transformational potential of inclusive decision-making, and desire to contribute to the University's ongoing success and progress. I feel that my experience in leadership, community participation, and collaborative problem-solving, together with my commitment to ensuring that all voices are heard in government, qualify me for this position.
The University of Bradford is a vibrant university that values innovation, inclusiveness, and social responsibility. As someone who is firmly devoted to these ideals, I am eager to help the University's aim of providing all students with an accessible, varied, and high-quality educational experience. I am certain that my job as a Council Lay Member will allow me to contribute effectively to the University's strategic direction while ensuring that decisions are made with openness, inclusion, and the best interests of students and staff in mind.
One of the primary reasons I am qualified for this role is my ability to contribute a broad viewpoint to decision-making processes. Throughout my professional and academic experiences, I've gained a thorough knowledge of the value of inclusion in governance. I've worked in places that appreciate different points of view and feel that various voices enrich decision-making and improve outcomes. As a lay member, I would approach each topic with an open mind, ensuring that the perspectives of students, faculty, and other stakeholders are considered when making decisions. By listening to diverse points of view and ensuring that all voices are heard, I would help the University retain its commitment to being an inclusive and forward-thinking institution.
In addition to my commitment to diversity, I have excellent problem-solving and analytical abilities that I feel will be useful in the job of Council Lay Member. In past positions, I worked on initiatives that needed rigorous appraisal of complicated issues, data analysis, and the balancing of opposing goals. I see the value of making decisions based on facts, research, and a deep awareness of the difficulties confronting both the organisation and its stakeholders. I would use these talents to assist the University in navigating obstacles, making strategic decisions, and ensuring its long-term growth and prosperity.
Furthermore, I have a track record of leadership and collaborative effort that will allow me to make a successful contribution to the University's governance. I have led teams and projects where cooperation and communication were critical to attaining shared objectives. I understand how to interact with a wide range of stakeholders, reach consensus, and operate within a defined framework while being flexible and responsive to changing requirements. As a Council Lay Member, I would bring this collaborative mentality to my work, actively interacting with other members and ensuring that decisions are made jointly, with input from all parties involved.
I would make sure that I can contribute to the Council's work in a thoughtful and knowledgeable manner.
I believe I am highly suitable for the role of UBU Democracy (Council Lay Member) due to my strong leadership, communication and problem-solving skills, which are essential for contributing in discussions, supporting effective governance and ensuring diverse perspectives are considered in decision-making. I gained these valuable skills from my work experience working at The Children’s Society (a charity book shop), which also sold other entertainment items such as toys and CD’s, from the 11th of July 2021 to the 23rd of August 2021, where I also developed strong organisational and customer service skills. My role involved working with my manager and my team on a weekly basis to sort and categorise donated books or other items, pricing items, managing stock levels, and ensuring the shop remained well-organised and inviting for customers which helped me build notable teamwork and adaptability skills, ensuring that daily operations ran smoothly while contributing to the charity’s mission. I also assisted customers by answering inquiries, recommending books, and handling any cash and card transactions, which strengthened my communication and problem-solving abilities. My ability to communicate confidently and clearly and my prominent listening skills will allow me to contribute meaningfully to decision-making processes and work alongside council members and university staff to support positive change.
My experience in interactive group settings has strengthened my ability to work as part of a team and be able to listen to others' perspectives, while also taking initiative when needed. I have developed the ability to actively listen, consider diverse viewpoints and contribute constructively to discussions. These skills are essential in ensuring that different perspectives are acknowledged and well-informed decisions are made.
I further developed these skills through my work experience with Springpod for Amazon Called Amazon Class Chats: Verifying AI Knowledge and participating in interactive sessions, which I completed on the 27th of January 2025. This experience required me to engage in sessions recorded by Amazon professions, in a fast-paced environment, to understand complex ideas clearly and use this information to complete the assessment also enhanced my problem-solving and adaptability, allowing me to think strategically, make informed decisions to provide well-reasoned input and also equipped me with string teamwork and communication skills, while also developing my skills to work effectively independently, due to the interactive sessions and understanding others' ideas on how Al is used at Amazon (for example, using machine learning to make decisions without explicit programming). This experience allowed me to analyse information critically and gain insight into structured decision-making and problem-solving – which are essential kills for a Council Lay Member.
A Council Lay Member should be approachable, dedicated and committed to upholding high standards of governance and fairness. From my work experience at Amazon and my ability to work both independently and as a team ensures that I can bring enthusiasm, dedication, support key initiatives and uphold the values of the council and contribute meaningfully to the council’s objective and decisions.
My name is Mustafa Khurram, and I am running for the position of Lay Member at the University of Bradford Student’s Union. As General Secretary of the Pakistani Society, the General Secretary of the Cricket team, and an active volunteer with the Islamic Society, I have demonstrated a strong commitment to student welfare, community engagement, and ethical leadership. I am eager to bring my passion and experience to this role to advocate for a more inclusive, representative, and student-focused UBU.
Over the past year, I have played a pivotal role in enhancing student experiences through my leadership in PakSoc, my role as General Secretary of the Cricket Club, and my voluntary work with ISOC. As PakSoc General Secretary, I have organised numerous cultural and social events that foster inclusivity and representation for students. Through these initiatives, I have strengthened the society’s impact within the university and ensured that student voices are heard in broader discussions within the UBU. My involvement with ISOC has deepened my understanding of ethical responsibilities within a diverse student body. I have actively contributed to charity events and community-building efforts to support students from all backgrounds. As General Secretary of the Cricket team, I have managed operations, coordinated events, and worked towards making the club more accessible and engaging for all students. This experience has equipped me with strong leadership, organisational, and teamwork skills that I will bring to the role of Lay Member.
The role of Lay Member requires a strong advocate for student representation, someone who understands the challenges faced by students and is willing to work towards ensuring their voices are heard in university decision-making. I will actively engage with student societies and groups to ensure their concerns and perspectives are brought to UBU discussions. I will work to bridge gaps between different student communities to promote inclusivity and collaboration across campus. I will advocate for increased support for student-led initiatives and events that celebrate diversity and promote well-being. I will work towards ensuring that university policies align with the needs and interests of the student body, particularly in areas of student welfare, mental health support, and fair representation. I will promote transparency in student governance by keeping students informed about key decisions and providing platforms for open dialogue. I will encourage greater student participation in UBU activities by making them more accessible and inclusive for all.
By electing me as your Lay Member, you are choosing a dedicated and proactive individual who will work tirelessly to ensure that all students feel represented and supported. I am committed to making UBU a more inclusive, engaging, and student-centred institution. Together, we can build a better and more representative future for our university.
Vote Mustafa Khurram for Lay Member!
My name is Ibrahim Shaffi. As a student of the University of Bradford I am apart of a diverse community. I have used my skills to contribute to the student union in order to help them be a supportive and friendly student body. Examples of this comes from my interests in photography and musical performance. These creative outlets have helped me express my thoughts while driving my commitment to improving the community by collaborating with others and hearing their own opinions to shape these improvements.
My photography skills have allowed me to capture momements that reflect the student unions diverse and unique spirit while also presenting what they have to offer. I have shown this through my coverage of the "Reclaim the Night" march in November, capturing moments of strength and resilience on the faces of students who have rallied for change in womens saftey. I wish to use my photography skill to document these events and experiences that define the true characted of the student union, preserving memories and fostering connections and encouraging others to take part in what they have to offer.
Additionally, I have also contributed to the student union through my passion for musical performance. This has allowed me to bring others closer together and share their mutual passion for music, song writing and performance. I had used the resources available by the university to establish a home based rock and pop band that is willing to perform at social events, providing entertainment and sharing our interests of creating live music with others. It is through this that I am abale to achieve my goal of fostering an inclusive atmosphere that allows for students from every background to come together, inspire creativity and establish friendships. I am determined to help the student union by creating a space where students are free to express themselves freely through musical perfomance while improving self-confidence and emotional resilience that comes with perfoming infront of other people. I firmly believe that my skill in this area can help empower the cultural essence that the students bring to the student union.
If elected as Lay member for the student council I would bring to light the need for further stress relief programs on campus that is accessible to all students to aid in relieving the pressure that many face such as workshops designed to teach stress relief exercises as well as getting involved in activities scientifically improven to reduce stress. This will also help students establish their own support groups and friendship circles more easily so that they can share their concerns with others. I would also collaborate with the student union to bring awareness to the effects of isolation and loneliness within a working or social space which has extremely adverse effects on overall mental health and a students experience at university.
I’m Rohit Kumar Jha, a Biomedical Engineering student at the University of Bradford with a passion for finding creative solutions and making a difference. I am also Secretary of the Nepalese Society, where I take pride in celebrating my culture and encouraging inclusivity at the university.
The University of Bradford Union (UBU) has been a key part of my journey as a student. It’s a place that represents diversity, togetherness, and the chance for every student to grow and succeed. An important milestone in my journey was meeting Officer at UBU. Their commitment to helping students and improving their university experience inspired me deeply. They are part of UBU who taught me how important it is to listen, show understanding, and act on the needs of students. Their dedication reflects UBU’s focus on putting students first in every decision.
As an executive member of the Nepalese Society at the University of Bradford, I’ve had the privilege of bringing people together to celebrate and share Nepalese culture. One of the highlights has been organizing events like the "Meet & Greet and Momo Night," where students from different backgrounds could connect, enjoy delicious Nepalese food, and experience our vibrant traditions.
I’m passionate about creating a sense of belonging, and that’s why I want to be a lay member. This role would give me the opportunity to extend my efforts to a wider community, fostering inclusivity and bridging cultural gaps. It also excites me because it offers a chance to grow as a leader and collaborate with others who share a commitment to positive change.
If chosen, I would focus on promoting diversity and making sure every individual feel represented and valued. My goal would be to introduce initiatives that not only encourage student engagement but also create lasting memories for everyone involved. I believe my experience with event planning, problem-solving, and community-building has equipped me to contribute creatively and effectively in this role.
Students from different backgrounds could connect, enjoy delicious Nepalese food, and experience our vibrant traditions. Alongside this, I’ve taken on responsibilities like planning, designing posters, and coordinating logistics, which taught me valuable lessons in teamwork, creativity, and organization. I’ve also been a strong advocate for Nepalese and international students, ensuring their voices are heard and their concerns addressed.
I’m passionate about creating a sense of belonging, and that’s why I want to be a lay member. This role would give me the opportunity to extend my efforts to a wider community, fostering inclusivity and bridging cultural gaps. It also excites me because it
Hi everyone! I’m Faisal Iqbal and I’m running for Council Lay Member because I believe student voices should truly matter in university decisions.
I’ve always been passionate about representing and supporting my peers. As a Class Representative for two years and Head of Sports & Activities, I worked hard to make sure student concerns were heard and helped create a more engaging and inclusive environment.
Vote Me – A Voice for Every Student!
Personal Statement – Rohan for Council Lay Member
I am Rohan, a first-year Computer Science student, an active member of UBU, and a dedicated leader in student societies. I am passionate about making university life more enriching, inclusive, and supportive for all students. Through my involvement as the Treasurer of the Baking Society and an Executive Member of the Film Society, I have gained valuable experience in leadership, financial management, event planning, and student engagement. These roles have allowed me to interact with diverse student groups, understand their challenges, and work towards creating a stronger sense of community at UBU.
I have also been actively engaged in charity work back home in Pakistan with UGRAD. As part of their English Microscholarship Program, I participated in community service and various charity initiatives.
My Contribution to UBU
1. Strengthening Student Societies and Events
As Treasurer of the Baking Society, I have successfully managed budgets, secured funding, and ensured financial transparency. I have helped organize events that bring students together, fostering a welcoming environment for members to share their passion for baking. My role has reinforced my ability to manage responsibilities effectively, ensuring that society events run smoothly and resources are allocated efficiently.
In my position as an Executive Member of the Film Society, I have contributed to organizing film screenings, discussions, and collaborations with other societies. This role has given me a deeper understanding of how cultural and creative activities contribute to student well-being. By fostering engagement through these initiatives, I have strengthened student interaction and provided a platform for creative expression.
2. Advocacy for Better Student Support
Through my experiences, I have seen firsthand the struggles that students face, including academic pressure, mental health challenges, and the need for better career preparation. Many students feel unheard, and I believe UBU must do more to provide accessible mental health resources, career development opportunities, and improved student representation. If elected as Council Lay Member, I will push for increased funding for counseling services, mentorship programs, and initiatives that bridge the gap between students and university administration.
3. Bridging Technology and Student Engagement
My background in Computer Science has given me a strong analytical perspective that can benefit student governance. I believe technology can be used to improve communication between students and the university. I would advocate for better digital platforms for students to voice their concerns.
Why I am Suitable for This Role
I bring a unique combination of leadership, problem-solving, and technical expertise to this role. My experience managing finances, organizing student activities, and working with UGRAD equips me with the skills to analyze issues critically and implement structured solutions. I am committed to ensuring that every student at UBU feels heard, supported, and empowered.
As Council Lay Member, I will dedicate myself to enhancing student representation, strengthening mental health support, expanding career opportunities, and fostering an inclusive campus culture. Vote for me to help shape a university experience that truly works for all students.
- The University of Bradford Students' Union is a unincorporated association registered with the charity commission, charity No. 1148622
