Democracy & Campaigns Officer

• My ultimate career goal is to join the politics, and innfluence changes at the bigger scale.

• I graduated from Criminology and Criminal Justice this last July.

• I am also volunteering as a police officer in the Special Constabulary.

• Through my role I'm involved in local campaigns such as increased maintenance loans and student housing.

• Worked on the zero tolerance racism policy, currently persuading the university to implement it despite some pushback.

• Involved in Global Week preparations, including supporting the EO’s performances at Ravelin for the food culture event and dance performance.

• Helped with recruiting next year’s EO team through elections and is looking forward to seeing what they achieve in three months.

• Took an active role in elections by engaging with students on the ground, encouraging them to vote, and leading as EO by working with George on procedures, rules, and committee responsibilities.

•Participated in CJS and assisted with a presentation.

• Actively involved in recruiting the new CEO for the next academic year, from shortlisting to interviewing.

• Spoke with George about making the council more confident in holding the EO accountable, encouraging them to run more campaigns, and improving council effectiveness.

• Discussed a move-out campaign with the university to help students rent items like bicycles for travel.

• Participated in the Hive Lottery Panel, which allocated £5,000 to local charities.

Over the past year, I’ve been involved in several initiatives and projects aimed at supporting students and enhancing our Union's impact:

• Campus Broadband: I addressed slow broadband issues by collaborating with the University, which led to a survey of several campus buildings.

• Black History Month: As part of my efforts, I organised impactful events, including a talk by Chris Lubbe (the former bodyguard of Nelson Mandela!), and introduced the Inclusivity Pledge Board, which was signed by students and societies.

• Promoting Democracy: Improving the Union’s democratic processes was a key focus, where I ensured the "Have Your Say" service was promoted for student-led campaigns.

• Cost of Living Support: To support students during the cost of living crisis, I secured over 200 toilet rolls and continued exploring further support options for those in need.

• Community and Safety: I had the opportunity to attend Stephen Morgan's (MP) talk on mental health and loneliness, and I also met with Portsmouth City Council to discuss plans for improving city safety.

• Social Media Growth: The most important thing to me is holding us accountable to students, which is why I worked on the UPSU Officers Instagram page. Through enhancing content and engagement, the page saw a 150% growth, making sure you are all looped in with what we have been working on.

• Union Achievements: I led several initiatives, including the UPSU Annual Members Review and supporting Transgender Awareness Week with a solidarity tree, while also successfully recruiting members for the Student Council.

• Student Engagement: The first Q&A was a success, and I also organised the "Go Out And Talk (GOAT)" events to directly engage with students and discuss their concerns.

• Supporting Students: I provided essential items like toilet rolls and kitchen utensils through a cost-of-living stall and began discussions to establish a University Food Bank.

• Advocacy and Representation: Collaborating with Stephen Morgan (MP), I discussed key issues, including pushing for the return of the Maintenance Grant.

• Promotion: I also produced a promotional video for the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, showcasing key programs, research opportunities, and the vibrant community within the faculty.