Hey everyone, term 2 is always the toughest in my eyes so hoping you all have a restful break! Here is what I have been up to this term:

Building a Case for More Sport Space

This is still the big one and things are definitely moving forward.

A huge moment this term was being personally invited by Vice Chancellor Karen Stanton to a meeting (alongside Kevin Gibbons, Head of Estates) to discuss the future of sport and wellbeing space at UAL. This felt like a really big step, as it shows this is now being taken seriously at the highest level.

The meeting was really productive, and both Karen and Kevin committed to setting up a task and finish group to explore what could actually be possible, including things like timelines, costs, resources needed etc.

This group is taking a little longer than I’d like to get started (UAL Estates are very busy right now), so it’s likely this work will begin over the summer. But importantly this is real progress, and something UAL has never explored before.

Darkroom Bar Campaign

The Save Darkroom Bar campaign has been a huge focus this term, with over 1000+ student signatures collected in support. We also organised a protest outside Steve Cross’ office (Interim Provost of LCC), where we handed in nearly 200 handwritten letters from students explaining why Darkroom matters to them and asking for his support.

Unfortunately, he declined to support the campaign, stating that it is “too complicated.” Since then, we’ve continued meeting with UAL and are pushing every possible route to try and save the space.

This campaign is still ongoing, and we need more students involved (WE NEED YOU!!) Join us on 16th April at 5:15pm at LCC Darkroom for the next campaign planning session!

LGBTQIA+ History Month

I had the opportunity to lead on LGBTQIA+ History Month this year, which was super fun.

We had some amazing events and initiatives, including:

· A waacking workshop led by Dance Society (huge thank you to them!)

· Funding 2 students to take part in a queer art and curating course

· Beginning the setup of a brand new LGBTQIA+ Society, with 55 signups across the month

· Ending the month with a Drag Bingo night, which was such a fun way to celebrate

Rep Conference

I also had the chance to chair Rep Conference, which was such a rewarding experience.

It created a space for student reps to ask direct questions to UAL staff and raise key issues affecting students.

One of the most powerful moments was seeing a group of students use the space to organise and speak out on Palestine. It was inspiring to see students confidently use their voices and push for change.

Elections

It was also election season this term and I’m really happy to say that I was re-elected!

Thank you so much to everyone who voted and supported me. It genuinely means a lot, and I’m so excited to continue this role for another year.

My manifesto led with ‘UAL NEEDS A GYM’, and I meant what I said and won’t give up on securing these types of space for students!

Thank you for reading and always reach out if you have any questions or ideas!

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