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Hi, I'm Ellie and I'm in my fourth year at Leeds, studying History and Spanish.

I'd love to be an NUS delegate as I'm passionate about policymaking and making a change. I have had a varied experience at uni through COVID, and have had opportunities such as year abroad that widen my knowledge of different university processes. I am an active LUU member, being the Treasurer of Open Theatre Society this year. I have had 4 years of university experience from which I can draw a multitude of ideas for change. I am passionate and would love the opportunity to make a difference as one of your LUU NUS Delegates!

Hi, I am Maria. I am the Union Affairs and Communications officer at LUU. I am taking a year out of my studies of Computer Science with AI working full time at LUU. As an officer, I have attended training sessions and meetings of NUS, and I have experienced both shortcomings and benefits. Based on my experience, as an NUS delegate I want to advocate for:

Transparency: I want to advocate for transparency in all levels of decision making in NUS. NUS should be held accountable, especially when it comes to addressing criticisms of any form of discrimination.

Free period products: NUS to provide a fund for free sanitary products in union buildings. Unions who cannot afford to provide free sanitary products should be eligible.

Single-use plastic free: NUS to nationally campaign for unions and universities to become single-use plastic free.

NUS training and campaigning sessions: It is often felt like officers don’t receive value out of NUS training and campaigning sessions. Officers should help shape NUS meetings by reviewing agendas beforehand and sharing what they expect out of these meetings. A clear set of actions should be circulated to participants.

Hello! My name is Fabiha, and I'm a Physics with Astrophysics student here at Leeds, also having done my Foundation Year here too.
During my time here, I've been incredibly involved with LUU - from serving as a Course Rep and School Rep for Physics, to participating in many societies such being Secretary for Vertical Fitness.
Leeds has been my home since 2019, and I'm really keen to improve the student experience here.

As an NUS Delegate, I would really like to push for actionable policies to protect and enforce housing rights as student tenants, especially in private accommodation as often landlords are taking advantage of students, charging extortionate prices whilst not providing safe housing.
I would also love to contribute to the cost of living campaign to improve financial support students receive, especially in a time of increased energy bills and increased inflation rates.

Hiya! I'm Jess, a third year Sustainability and Environmental Management student who wants to be your NUS delegate! I believe we can only create a sustainable, healthy and socially just future by listening to solutions to climate and social injustice being amplified by students. As a student at University of Leeds and hopefully as our new NUS delegate, it is my sole priority to get these values represented in the national agenda. I am dedicated to bringing climate justice to the agenda of the NUS and helping to transform our academic institutions into genuine vehicles of sustainability and justice. I am committed to representing students' deep and ongoing concern about the climate emergency in the following ways:

1. Accountability and a transparent commitment to social equality and environmental sustainability are of the utmost importance going forward.
No more greenwashing- our institutions can, and must do more to secure a socially and environmentally secure future. The NUS must take real, measurable steps toward this vision and create spaces where such steps can be shared, celebrated, and contributed to by students everywhere.

2. All UK student unions should declare a climate emergency so we can take measurable steps to prevent it
Our academic institutions teach of climate change and social responsibility, but these values must be embedded into the national decision-making processes which underpin and direct our universities. This is the only way we can move in solidarity towards greener and more just institutions.

3. Fair elections and representative leadership are essential.
As an NUS delegate, I will be in a position to influence the leadership of the NUS. Climate justice discourses acknowledge that those who contribute the least to the climate crisis are often those most affected by it. Equality and liberation are paramount, but within political decision-making structures, some perspectives and demands are marginalised and unrepresented. I will use this vote in the best interest of equality and diversity so that the NUS’s leadership represents the interests of all students. This is the key to formulating a just, resilient, comprehensive climate change response within our institutions.

4. Our universities have already stated their commitments to sustainability and justice, so let’s hold these policies accountable and get them implemented.
The students’ union and University aim to be sustainable institutions, so why is the University accepting millions of pounds in funding from the fossil fuel sector. When members of Student Rebellion protested against this funding, the University retaliated with court orders, threats of expulsion, and made no attempt to communicate with the occupiers. We must continue to hold the university accountable to it's climate commitments and demand they implement more concrete steps to achieve these goals.

5. The cost of living crisis is not an isolated problem, and it should be addressed in the context of the climate emergency.
Ordinary people have been hit worst by rising food and energy costs, including students, with one in 10 students relying on food banks. Currently, the price of meat, fish and dairy are kept artificially low through government subsidies, while food will only become more scarce and expensive because of droughts and crop failures. This is why I am dedicated to encouraging a transition towards more sustainable and affordable food on university campuses to repurpose UK land to allow for rewilding and carbon drawdown.

6. As students, we deserve sustainable, affordable, and ethical food on campus.
As the climate emergency becomes increasingly urgent, more and more people are waking up to the necessity of a sustainable food system. Transitioning towards more plant-based catering will be one crucial step to achieving the 2030 vision of a sustainable, healthy and socially just future. I am a local coordinator for ‘Plant Based Universities’ - a student-led campaign. We are asking our institutions to listen to the growing body of scientific research that highlights the necessity of transitioning towards a just and sustainable plant-based food system. PBU work with organisations that provide climate footprint calculations for university catering, deliver training for catering staff, and help to make plant-based food appealing, culturally inclusive, nutritious, and affordable. This way, we can facilitate on-the-ground changes to more sustainable food systems across UK campuses. The campaign’s goal is not to ‘ban’ animal products from campus, just that the universities divest from these industries at their outlets. We are advocating for our academic institutions to act in alignment with the best interests of future generations now. And this mission is not limited to food.

As University of Leeds NUS delegate, I will strive to protect the best interest not only of current students, but the interests of future generations to enjoy a liveable planet and a more socially just society.

"I invite you to step forward, to be seen and to ask yourself: if not me, who? If not now, when?", words by Emma Watson truly inspired me to become an NUS Delegate last year and are still motivating me to keep going. Being an International Student and having attended the NUS conference the previous year, I can bring forward many issues that call for immediate action and that is precisely what I plan on doing this year. More than voicing out the problems, I believe in bringing forward their solutions.
As a delegate representing LUU, I will make sure to put forward the agendas that need maximum attention. I aim to collect feedback from all students, regardless of their colour, gender, religion, nationality etc., and convey their ideas at a higher platform. I promise to look into matters such as discrimination, safety issues, issues relating to fee hikes and regular staff strikes. Furthermore, I will use this NUS platform to the best of my abilities and connect with delegates from other universities across the UK to fight and eliminate common evils.
Please vote for me to vote for a brighter future. We are in this together; believe in me to be your voice.

I am Ishita Kashyap, a second-year Economics student. I am a proactive and determined student, I stand as the Founder of Hear Her Out - a social organization that aims to elevate awareness about violence against women that currently consists of 3 additional volunteers and partnering keynote speakers from Stanford, UCLA and Delhi University. As a female delegate for NUS, I plan to speak out about the violence against females in our community, especially in student accommodations. I am dedicated to advocating for safety and awareness and empowering women as well as the well-being of our campus.

Furthermore, I was a delegate for the Harvard Asia and International Relations Project, where I have not only networked with people from different cultures and academic excellence but also got inspiring insight from eminent Business tycoons, academics, and governors and got an opportunity to learn and discuss sustainability, resource-efficient growth and future economics and policies with the leaders. This experience will surely benefit the NUS conference while suggesting and discussing sustainable and effective policies for our campus.

Moreover, I am a part of the Women in Leadership and Economics society committee and Women's Badminton team and an active member of RAG, the Indian society, and the Enactus Society. As an international student, participating in various activities has deepened my networking skills and leadership skills and helped me learn more about LUU. Thank you for reviewing my statement.

I am Aakanksha, studying MA in International Relations. As a student studying at this university, I know that our community is an incredibly diverse and talented one. My goal is to be your voice at the NUS Conference so you can have someone advocating for positive change on campus and overall student experience in the UK. As your representative, my top priority will be making sure we are supporting our student's mental health needs both emotionally and financially, along with working towards the ongoing debate on the Cost of Living. Additionally, I am committed to improving accessibility across all areas of study as well as increasing diversity initiatives throughout our institution. At its core, my agenda also revolves around the belief that each person matters; everyone’s thoughts deserve fair consideration regardless of identity or background – after all, diversity makes us stronger! Together let’s strive towards enriching our academic and social experience here. One of the topics that are closest to my heart is racial discrimination. At NUS, I prioritize representing every member of our community providing inclusive solutions when addressing issues facing today’s generation of young adults - social media pressure, housing issues, and basic ideas of surviving in a foreign country. As an international student myself, the struggles that come with being in a foreign land are larger themes I am passionate about, and would definitely be inclined to lobby with Govt. and institutes to make the experience for International Students more hassle-free. I believe a college experience should involve more than just studying — it should empower students with meaningful connections and opportunities both in school life as well as after graduation. It's my goal to make sure every single student feels like their voice matters within this unique learning environment; no matter your major or background, together we can create real change on campus for now and into the future!

Hi, I'm Isla. I'm a second year History student with an interest in Medieval History and really all things ancient. I love this university but it is failing its students. Staff are underpaid and overworked causing vital systems to fall apart. On top of this the cost of living crisis is hitting students hard and the University's recent package fails to adequately address this issue. We need to make our voices heard and show the University students deserve to be treated better. As your NUS delegate I would raise these issues on a national platform and fight to enact positive change whilst protecting students' interests.


What I stand for - I believe Universities should vastly improve the cost of living packages they are providing; I support the staff on strike and will fight to make sure Students’ Unions continue to support the strikes; I believe universities need to do more to address the student mental health crisis and I support the rights of all LGBTQ+ students.


Why should you vote for me? - I am a member of the Socialist Students and the UK Socialist Party and have significant political experience campaigning for students’ rights and uniting people to enact positive change. I am also dedicated to listening to students with a wide range of opinions and working to address the issues they face. I believe your opinions and your problems matter, even if the University tries to reduce you down to just a number who pays them.

Hey everyone! I'm Avani, currently pursuing my LLM in International Human Rights Law. As an international student, Course Rep, and woman passionate about human rights, this role is an extension of my interests.
It is absolutely critical for the NUS to have a strong student voice. I aim to become an active listener and reach out to all sections of our student community to relay feedback at the national level.
My campaign for this year includes the following:
1. Accessible free period products! - It is essential for all who
menstruate to have free and accessible period products at
University. The first step would be to make sanitary products
available and stocked in all bathrooms, including men's and gender-
neutral bathrooms across campus. At the moment, our Union does a
great job of providing free period products to all, but this is not
accessible enough for everyone. The broader policy change would be
to reform the current period product scheme in England to include
women, trans men and non-binary members of higher education
institutions.
2. Making stronger connections! - Every University has a variety of
mental health resources. However, the opportunities provided to
connect and communicate within the University, especially for
international and postgraduate students, need to be improved and,
most times, available opportunities can be daunting. The frequency of events also varies
between departments. We must have options other than the Global
Cafe to find common ground (pun intended) and socialise. It would
ease some of the isolation most of us feel at University. This is also a
way to promote and host more events, such as the World Unite Festival.
These would be an opportunity to celebrate diversity more often and build a
better student community.
3. Introducing a regulatory body for student housing! - All of us here
at University come from various backgrounds. It is, therefore,
imperative to have regular investigations and checks into student
housing issues. After speaking to many of my peers, I know there is a
vast difference between private student housing groups and how
they manage their complaints. It would be beneficial to have
regulatory bodies to ensure student voices are heard no matter
where they choose to live.
If I am chosen, I will be committed to giving my time to this important position. With my peers' help, I will give back to our student community. So if your ideal delegate sounds like the above, please vote for me! I promise I'll take up this challenge to the best of my abilities. Thanks for reading my statement!
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me on Instagram @avani_for_nus

Hiya, I’m Abby (she/her) and I want to be an NUS Delegate because I care about making students’ lives better. My experience campaigning for Wellbeing Officer last year (especially chatting to students whilst handing out hundreds of cups of tea) was an unbelievable insight into the wide range of unique problems students face, and made me feel strongly about how important it is to work hard to resolve these problems at a structural level.


As a Masters student, this is my fifth year in Leeds, and I’ve got to know an incredible mix of people studying here. Speaking for our entire community in talks about policy and campaigning is a big responsibility, but you can trust me to represent our SU in talks that will impact your life as a student. With lots of various volunteering and advocacy experience behind me, especially with students as Community Rep and Homed President, I’m not afraid to make our voices heard, and fight to ensure we have our say.


Union Power: A recommitment to the Student Union’s political roots - a union for students, by students. Let us take ownership of our SUs and get back to their radical beginnings. Unions work, so let’s act like one!


People Power: Enabling all students to get involved with causes they care about outside their degree, as incredible activists and the leading change makers of tomorrow. Students often lead the way in protest, and we need to fight for issues like trans rights now more than ever.


Community Power: Recognising the importance of care in enacting local and national policy, especially in response to the cost-of-living crisis. Looking after one another, on campus and in the local area, is key to a better sense of wellbeing and belonging among students.

Hi I'm Bethan, a recent Theatre and Performance with Enterprise graduate and the current Education Officer on the LUU exec. I absolutely love what I do and I am passionate being able to represent all sorts of students and would love to do this at a national level.

Cost of Living
The current cost of living crisis impacts everyone including students. I am working towards transparency in hidden course costs for students then ensuring that students have the suitable resources to enable the best experience possible.

No student should be restricted in their potential due to finance.


Student-led always
I want to ensure the change making process is accessible to all. Students should and need to be at the forefront of every movement that effects them. By taking an individual approach to education and change making, I hope to encourage students into taking their education into their own hands.

Hey, my name is Diya Mittal and I am a third-year psychology student. I am the welfare rep at the union this year and additionally, I am a committee member at two of the welfare societies namely, SSAFE and mind matters. welfare societies have played a huge part in my university life and therefore it is a pleasure for me to act as their representative this year. I will be representing their views at the better forum soon. There are several reasons I am a perfect candidate for this position. Firstly, I am a course representative and that allows me to collect feedback I make sure everyone's opinions are heard and everyone feels included. Additionally, as previously mentioned, I'm the welfare rep this year. This role has helped me develop my decision-making skills and teamwork as I work with 9 more execs to make decisions on grant applications, society formations and being a voice for welfare societies. Lastly, I am a part of two welfare societies where I work intensively to promote inclusivity and well-being among students. I have been actively promoting mens mental health and the welfare of internantional students at university. LUU has always been a safe space for me and it has provided me with an opportunity to create a great network and work with the best people. therefore, it would be a pleasure for me to represent LUU. I believe to have all the skills required the becoming an NUS delegate. The volunteering opportunity I took enabled me to develop strong interpersonal skills by interacting with people from different cultures and backgrounds. Since the funds raised by charity shops went to the NGO, I was highly driven to make sure that I did my best, which highlighted the importance of appearing professional and friendly and approachable. One of my strengths is developing an easy rapport with a diverse range of people, a skill I also demonstrated when previously employed at a bustling football arena in Doncaster, where I regularly managed clients of various ethnicities. I developed my communication skills by developing and delivering presentations as part of my degree course, guaranteeing that both the substance and style of conveyance were proper to the crowd. Working in organisations like the Rotary dream initiative, India and people for active democracy assisted me with creating abilities like preparation and Administration. In addition, being selected as a school prefect in high school helped me exhibit abilities such as planning, organising and monitoring events even on short notice. I have been a national badminton player which helped me develop skills like teamwork and communication. I can confidently say that I have good communication skills, and there are two reasons behind this. Firstly, I am an international student studying at the University of Leeds, which requires me to communicate with students and professionals from different backgrounds and cultures. I enjoy learning about other cultures and their experiences at the University of Leeds. I have lived with people from different cultures at the university and got along with everyone quickly. Secondly, I am confident about my communication skills because I have attended numerous personality development workshops and courses, which has made it easier for me to understand different perspectives and ideas. Thirdly, Since I have been a part of many public speaking events, it doesn't scare me to communicate and understand various people who also hold different views and opinions. Lastly, I developed my communication skills by developing and delivering presentations as part of my degree course, guaranteeing that both the substance and style of conveyance were proper to the crowd. Additionally, being a welfare rep, I have to communicate with several people every day to organise events, collaborations etc. Therefore, communication should not be a trouble. Therefore, if I get elected, I'll make sure the views of LUU are represented in a sensible way at the conference.