Hey, I'm Lydia, your current Social Sec and hoping to be your new Vice President for Modern Dance 26/27!
Firstly, I cannot believe this year is nearly over — I have absolutely loved being your Social Sec. This role has taught me so much, challenged me in the best ways, and given me a real insight into everything that goes on behind the scenes of running a society. Watching Ellen and Lucy’s dedication this year has shown me just how much commitment a presidential role requires, and after an amazing year as Social Sec, I would love the opportunity to step up and be your Vice President.
I have dedicated a huge amount of time into socials this year. Kassia and I worked hard to organise weekly socials throughout the year, including joint socials with other societies, competition socials, our private Full-Fat after Leeds Comp with 4 other universities, and a 50-girl Modern Barcelona tour.
As you can imagine, this has all taken a lot of communicating and liaising with companies and events teams, organising social themes and games, hosting pres and booking venues and much more. I feel I have excelled in this role, which demonstrates the qualities required for a successful Vice President. Being Social Sec has taught me a lot about leadership, working as a team, communication, professionalism and confidence.
And of course, the dancing side! I have competed in five competition teams this year, meaning over eight hours of training a week, and five competitions across the country. I have really dedicated my time and energy into these teams and this is clearly shown in our amazing competition results. This also means I have a real understanding of managing and organising competition season, by often assisting the Comp Reps and Costume Sec with their respective roles. I feel I have gone above and beyond during competition season, also participating in solo categories such as 'Dance like a Geordie' at Northumbria Comp where I came second, and being the lead in the Lyrical team.
Asides from competitions, I have shown my commitment through attending 3 technique classes, running and participating in additional workshops, and choreography for show dances such as the committee dance. Earlier this year, Lucy and I taught a 2 hour workshop, consisting of a strengthening and technique session, followed by a jazz routine. Millie and I also led a Commercial class open to anyone for International Women's Day, which had a huge turnout of over 40 girls. I think workshops are a really great way for members to try out different styles and practice technique, and this is something I would really love to carry on.
For next year, my main aims are further growth and organisation of our society. With over 300 members this year, a growing society needs clear communication systems for members. I want to consolidate our emailing systems and make our Instagram a page where information for members is easily accessible, including social information, class updates and so on. I would also like to open up our society for more sponsorship opportunities. Having already worked with brands such as White Claw, Jägermeister, Edikted and Mint Festival, and many connections with events companies and venues from my time as social sec, this is something I have experience in, and it would expand our society to more perks and opportunities for publicity.
Overall, I think I am an excellent choice for Vice President because I am experienced in all aspects of our society and a confident leader, able to assist all other committee members with their respective roles. Finally, this society genuinely means so much to me, and I want to give back to such an integral part of my Uni life. Please consider voting for me as your 26/27 Vice President!
Thank you for reading,
Lyds x
