Search Engage

MOBARAK HOSSAIN

We are all in this together — for Business Faculty Engagement Leader

Hi, I am Mobarak. I am a PhD researcher in International Business at LUBS, and I have served as a PGR Rep for the International Business department. Before Leeds, I spent five years as an academic at the University of Dhaka, Bangladesh, where I took on many roles to improve the student experience. Over my four years at Leeds I have shared feedback whenever I had the chance — and I have seen many changes follow. Speaking up works.

But too many students never find out what changed because of their voice. Now I want to take a more direct approach — because we are all in this together.

1. Make LUBS act on your feedback — and show you it did

Fewer than 6 in 10 LUBS students say it is clear that feedback leads to action (National Student Survey). That is our faculty's weakest score. I will work with School and Course Reps to publish simple “You said, LUBS did” updates every term, so you can see exactly what changed because you spoke up.

2. More employer events, placements and career support

When LUBS students were asked what they wanted from LUU, careers came out on top: more networking events with employers, more internship and placement support, and stronger business partnerships. I will bring academic societies, LUU and faculty careers staff together to run more employer events in LUBS — open to undergraduates and postgraduates alike.

3. The extra mile — so you feel at home in LUBS

We all start from different places, with different prior experiences — and a one-size-fits-all approach can leave some of us behind. I will not assume what you already know. Instead, I will work with LUU and the faculty to signpost everything you need — how university systems work, where to find support, which opportunities exist — from day one, so your potential is never wasted. I know how it feels to arrive in a new country and a new system. I will also organise with international and postgraduate students to build community in LUBS, and make sure your voice reaches faculty committees.

4. Real teaching opportunities for PGRs

As a PGR myself, I know that teaching builds our employability alongside our research journey — and teaching experience is required for the Advance HE Fellowship. I will advocate for more teaching opportunities for PGRs, and for one academic module that brings it all together: direct pedagogy training, teaching internships that provide the required experience, and an assignment that leads directly to the Associate Fellowship (D1) certificate.

When you look at me, you see someone who is proactive, who builds trust, who goes the extra mile, and who finds real happiness in caring for others. Above all, you see someone who listens. If you want a faculty where your feedback visibly counts, your career gets a boost, and everyone belongs — vote Mobarak Hossain on 29 July.

We are all in this together.

If we haven't met yet, my name is Valeria Paslar and I'm a third-year Business Management with Marketing student.

Over the past year, I've had the unique opportunity to work as a Digital Content Creator for LUBS, Leeds University Union and the University of Leeds. Through these roles I've connected with hundreds of people (hopefully including you also!), helped to promote student opportunities and worked closely with both students and staff to understand and share what matters most to our community. The best part of every role I've had hasn't been creating content- it's been speaking to students. I've seen firsthand that we have brilliant ideas and valuable perspectives which not only deserve to be heard but acted upon.

As I enter my final year at Leeds, I want to leave a legacy that lasts beyond my degree: a LUBS where students feel their opinions matter, opportunities are accessible to everyone, and every student knows their voice can make a difference. That's why I'm running to be your LUBS Faculty Engagement Leader!

Here are my top 3 priorities:

· Find Your LUBS Community

My most valuable experiences at Leeds, which made me find my place, came through stepping outside of my comfort zone. Whether it was becoming a Laidlaw Scholar or presenting prospective students and parents at Open and Offer Holder Days, each opportunity helped me meet people I never would have otherwise.

I know university can feel overwhelming, especially in a faculty as large as LUBS. I want every student to feel connected, included, and aware of the opportunities available to them.

I will:

• Create more opportunities to connect beyond your course and year group
• Champion international, commuter, postgraduate and underrepresented students so that everyone feels part of the LUBS community
•  Promote events, societies and opportunities more effectively

Get Tailored Feedback

I've heard repeatedly from students that feedback can feel like it disappears into a form and is never mentioned again. If students take the time to share their views, they deserve to know how those views are shaping change.

Representation isn't just about listening. It should lead to action, transparency, and tangible outcomes students can see.

I will:

• Create more opportunities for students to raise concerns and track progress
• Introduce regular ‘You Said, We Did’ updates
• Work with Course Reps, School Reps and staff to communicate outcomes clearly

· Get More From Your Degree

'Your degree is the passport, but it's up to you to reach the final destination' is a quote from a LUBS networking event that has stuck with me.

Through my own involvement in LUBS opportunities available, I've witnessed first-hand how much networking, mentorship and industry insights can change your confidence and career prospects. LUBS students are ambitious, and universities should offer more than qualifications. I want to ensure that students graduate with not only a degree, but also the skills, experiences, and connections to succeed.

I will:

• Strengthen career-focused events with employers and alumni
• Increase awareness of networking, mentoring and employability opportunities
• Advocate for accessible opportunities so that students aren’t prevented from getting involved.

Val-ue Your Voice. Vote4Val!