Hey everyone!
For those of you who don’t know me well, my name is Gracie and I’m a first year putting myself forward to be your Welfare and Charity Secretary for 26/27 :)
If you want to put a face to the name, I’ll be at Varsity (also my birthday btw 😛😛😉😚 #19), so please come say hi!!
Joining cricket has genuinely been one of the best decisions I’ve made since coming to Leeds. When I first started uni, it honestly took me quite a while to find my feet. I went through a bit of a trial-and-error phase trying different societies and sports, but nothing really clicked for me until cricket. Even though I joined a few weeks into semester 2 (better late than never, am I right???), from my very first Wednesday social I felt nothing but welcomed, and that’s something that really stuck with me and that I’m so grateful for. Because I joined slightly later, I really understand how important it is to feel included and comfortable in a new environment, and that’s something I’d love to prioritise in this role.
One of the reasons I feel suited to this role is my degree: Philosophy, Religion and Ethics. Studying morality and ethics has really deepened my interest in wellbeing and the importance of looking out for others. I’m naturally someone who cares a lot about people and enjoys being an approachable person others can come to, but I’m also not afraid to say what’s on my mind if something needs addressing, so your concern is my concern, and I’d make sure your voice is heard. On a lighter note, I’d say I’m already quite experienced in the “charity” side of things, not only because of my experience in school council roles but mainly because I can’t stop buying people drinks on nights out (especially Tallulah, who never says no 😔).
Cricket has also been a big part of my life growing up, from playing for my local club to also being my first ever job working behind the bar.
Unfortunately however, I stopped playing cricket as I got older due to the lack of opportunities and attention for girls’ teams compared to boys. That’s why continuing to support and work alongside initiatives like Her Game Too is something I feel really passionate about. In such a short amount of time, this club has helped me fall back in love with a sport I grew up playing, and I’d love the chance to give back and show as much support to all of you as you’ve shown to me.
Another fun fact about me is that for nearly half my life, I’ve attended all-girls schools. Although it’s certainly not for everyone haha, it definitely taught me the importance of having a strong, female community to call home, that i think every girl deserves. I value the importance of having a safe, supportive space that’s free from judgement, and I’d want to help continue sustaining that environment within the club that the previous welfare sec (thank you Celeste!!) and other committee members have done such an amazing job in doing.
In terms of what I’d bring to the role, I’d love to organise a range of inclusive and engaging fundraising events, both new and of tradition. Sport is such a powerful way to bring people together and raise money, so I’d be keen to continue things like charity matches (e.g. netball or sport swaps with other societies), as well as introduce new ideas. A cause that’s particularly close to mine and my family’s hearts, is doing more for Breast Cancer Awareness Month 🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷. Alongside the existing Coppafeel spinathon, I’d love to bring in ideas such as a ‘Pink Stumps Day’, which I’ve previously helped run at my local cricket club.
I’d also love to introduce more sober socials, especially at the start of the year, to help freshers settle in, because I know first-hand how daunting socials can feel, especially drinking on a nervous stomach. Alongside this, I’d be really interested in collaborating with non-sport societies, such as those focused on reproductive rights and sexual health, to help raise awareness and encourage open, supportive conversations around topics that can sometimes feel taboo.
Most importantly, I’d aim to be a friendly and reliable point of contact for all members. someone that people would feel comfortable coming to, and someone who actively works alongside fellow committee members to upkeep the positive environment within the club.
It would honestly be such an honour to represent UOLWCC in this role. And even if I’m not successful, I’ll always be a friendly face who’s happy to chat and support anyone 💚🏏
If you’ve made it this far thank you for reading, best of luck to everyone running, and I’ll see you all very soon!!
Gracie xxx
