Meet your candidates

How do you meet the criteria for being a Student Trustee?

I believe I meet the criteria to serve as a Student Trustee through a combination of leadership experience, professional expertise, and commitment to representing diverse student voices. As President of the Public Health Society and two cultural societies (Indian Society and Jain Society), I have led initiatives engaging over 3,000 students, developing my ability to oversee projects, manage teams, and promote student wellbeing. My roles as an International Student Ambassador, Student Course Representative, and member of the Hallam Union Accountability Panel have strengthened my skills in governance, mediation, and advocacy ensuring student perspectives are heard at decision making levels.

Beyond student leadership, my professional background in healthcare, alongside prior experience in sales and hospitality, has sharpened my abilities in problem-solving, negotiation, and strategic planning. These roles required balancing responsibility with adaptability, qualities essential for shaping the strategy and oversight of Hallam SU. Being fluent in more than 5 languages, I bring strong cross-cultural communication skills, enabling me to connect with and represent Hallam's diverse student body effectively. I am particularly motivated by the opportunity to contribute to the Union's long-term direction, ensuring it operates transparently, inclusively, and in the best interests of students.

Through this role, I aim to combine my clinical insight, public health knowledge, and leadership experience to support the SU in delivering meaningful impact for all Hallam students.

What do you think the SU should prioritise in the coming year?

In upcoming year I believe the Students' Union should prioritise student wellbeing, inclusion, affordable living, and employability.

Firstly with the cost-of-living crisis and increasing academic pressures, the SU must strengthen support for mental health and financial wellbeing. Expanding access to affordable food schemes, wellbeing workshops and peer-support initiatives will ensure students feel supported both personally and academically.

Secondly affordable accommodation is a growing concern. Many students face rising rent and housing insecurity which directly affects their studies and wellbeing. The SU should advocate for cheaper, safer housing options by working with the university, landlords, and local authorities, while also providing clearer guidance on tenancy rights and cost-saving support.

Thirdly inclusion should remain central as always because Hallam's diverse student body deserves a Union that champions equity, supports international students, and celebrates cultural diversity. More platforms for dialogue between communities will strengthen belonging and reduce isolation.

Finally employability should be a key focus. The SU can bridge the gap between academic learning and real world opportunities through skills workshops, networking events, and partnerships with local businesses and charities. Leadership roles in societies, volunteering, and governance also prepare students for professional success.

By addressing wellbeing, affordability, inclusion, and employability, the SU can deliver meaningful impact and ensure all Hallam students thrive during and beyond their studies.

How do you meet the criteria for being a Student Trustee?

I am Peter Agboola, a student of MSc Public Health at the University of Sheffield Hallam, with student number 35027820, and I will remain a student for the duration of the term. The Students' Union does not currently employ me, and I can manage any potential conflicts of interest.

As a student, I automatically belong to the Students' Union, and surely as a member, I will try my best to make a positive impact on the student experience passionately. I will also put the best interests of students first, without pushing any personal agenda. I am a man of my word, who looks for the best in people and always tries to bring out the best in people. A great influencer with good listening hear, communication skills, and a high level of confidentiality skills.

I know that the board of trustees is a collective body, and therefore I am ready with an open mind to work constructively with other trustees and the executive team to make collective decisions for the student union. As in my previous role as a Pastoral Administrator and Chaplain, I have worked effectively within a team to achieve a common goal, particularly one that involved members with diverse perspectives.

Notwithstanding, I am not an expert, but I am willing to undergo training and learn about strategic planning, risk management, and other skills needed for this role, and personal development.

What do you think the SU should prioritise in the coming year?

The Student Union has been doing so much and kudos to them, yet there is room for more to be done, improving on what has been and adding new things with the test of time. All in all, Prioritising student satisfaction, their sense of belonging and well-being, Students' Unions should continue to ensure their continued relevance and success in meeting the evolving needs of students and contributing positively to their university experience. The commitment to students should reflect the value of putting students at the heart of all that the student union should be doing and the unwavering dedication to serving the best interests of the student body.

How do you meet the criteria for being a Student Trustee?

Hello, my name is Gisele Kadesire and I am a first-year law student who meets the criteria for being a student trustee. The first reason is that I have had experience working as part of a team and acting collectively as a group. As someone who has been Student Council for two years in secondary school and Head Prefect for two years in sixth form consecutively for both, I am deeply humbled and so grateful to have received opportunities to work with people with different perspectives and ideas in order to impact students within an academic institution. From hosting talent shows to enhance sixth form culture and a Black History Month showcase to celebrate black heritage, black music and black culture (Equality, Diversity and Inclusion) to prolonging the time for lunch so students can enjoy their leisure time, I have the ability to work as a collective and to make sure that the voiceless have a voice and every idea is highlighted and portrayed. And as a result, I was able to enhance my communication skills by making sure all ideas presented had everyone’s input within which is a key trait to being a student trustee. Nevertheless, also having the ability to ask challenging questions and to critically engage with complex issues has allowed me to approach situations with a strong intellectual mindset and to navigate topics with emotional maturity.

Furthermore, I can carry myself in a professional manner by being someone you can rely on for advice and trust as I am able to give my honest opinions on topics of discussion. As someone who has been part of Sheffield Youth Parliament for nearly 2 years, I have the capabilities to discuss how certain topics need change and a positive impact towards the local community which is beneficial in terms of trusting each other and being amongst a comfortable environment. Overall, it would be a privilege to be chosen as a member of the Trustee Board at Hallam’s Student Union as I believe that my work ethic, my faith, and my experience will continue to guide me along the way! Philippians 4:13- “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me”.

What do you think the SU should prioritise in the coming year?

One thing that the Student Union should be prioritising this coming year is the quality of life. This is because as the Student Union has created a supportive environment for all students, addressing the cost-of-living pressures and to also provide advice for how students can save and invest their money whilst having to pay for accommodations and meals etc.

Another thing is promoting and hosting workshops, networking events, and internships for students from major corporations but to also give them an idea of what it is like to enter the job market where AI is fully involved and what skills is needed to become successful.

My final point is more student representation to ensure that students can relate to the Union and that it is approachable to every single person. Furthermore, increasing the social aspect of the Student Union Building itself so that more people can come often to the building to socialise, meet new people and to also get more insights on how welcoming the Student Union and its building is.

How do you meet the criteria for being a Student Trustee?

I believe I would make a strong Student Trustee because I bring experience in leadership, research, and community building, along with a genuine commitment to improving the student experience at Hallam.

As the President of the Postgraduate Research Society, I have had the opportunity to represent and support postgraduate researchers across the university. In this role, I have organised events, built partnerships with university departments, and created spaces where researchers can share ideas, find support, and collaborate. It has given me a solid understanding of how student representation works in practice and how to balance different views while making sure everyone feels heard.

Before starting my PhD, I worked in a range of research and project roles that involved collaboration, planning, and communication. I have managed projects from start to finish, worked with diverse teams, and learned how to stay calm and organised under pressure. These experiences have helped me develop a practical, problem-solving approach that I think is essential for governance work.

As a doctoral researcher, I have strengthened my ability to analyse complex issues, use evidence to inform decisions, and ask thoughtful questions that help get to the root of a problem, which are key skills for a Trustee. I also take pride in being reliable, professional, and approachable, and I always make sure to come prepared to meetings and discussions.

Equality, diversity, and inclusion are at the heart of everything I do. My research looks at how people share knowledge and collaborate across different groups, and I would bring that same perspective to the Trustee Board, making sure decisions reflect the diversity and needs of all Hallam students. Finally, I am genuinely interested in how organisations are run, including finance, strategy, leadership, and accountability. I see this role as a great opportunity to contribute my skills and experience while learning more about governance in practice.

What do you think the SU should prioritise in the coming year?

I think the Students’ Union should focus on three main priorities: student wellbeing, inclusivity, and creating opportunities for growth.

1. Supporting student wellbeing: Students are facing real challenges from financial stress to mental health struggles. The Students’ Union should continue strengthening its support and advice services while also campaigning for long-term improvements across the university.

2. Building an inclusive community: Every student should feel represented, respected, and able to take part. The Students’ Union should continue leading on equality, diversity, and inclusion, and make sure decisions are shaped by the voices of students from all backgrounds and study levels, including postgraduates, part-time, and international students.

3. Creating opportunities for development: The Students’ Union can play a big role in helping students build confidence and transferable skills by offering more volunteering, training, and leadership opportunities and by connecting with local employers and community partners.

Above all, I think clear communication is essential. Students should be able to see what the Students’ Union offers, how to get involved, and how their feedback leads to action. By focusing on wellbeing, inclusion, and growth, the Students’ Union can continue to be a space where students feel supported, connected, and empowered to make the most of their time at Hallam.

How do you meet the criteria for being a Student Trustee?

I believe I meet the criteria for being a Student Trustee through my diverse experience, leadership, and commitment to representing all students with integrity and fairness. As a veterinary doctor who studied in the Philippines from 2015 to 2022, I actively engaged in student affairs and successfully won the Student Union elections during the COVID-19 period. Despite the challenges, I worked hard to maintain a strong bond between students and the university—ensuring their voices were heard, their concerns addressed, and their wellbeing prioritised.

Later, while pursuing my Global MBA in Paris (2023–2024), I was elected as the Student Relations Officer, where I strengthened communication between international students and administration, creating a supportive and inclusive environment. These experiences helped me develop strong analytical, ethical, and decision-making skills—essential for overseeing the governance and accountability of a Students' Union.

Now, as an MSc Public Health student in the Sheffield Hallam University I continue to carry the same passion for service and inclusion. I understand the real challenges students face—academic pressure, financial difficulties, and cultural adjustment—and I aim to bring that empathy and experience to the Trustee Board. My goal is to ensure that every decision made truly reflects the interests and wellbeing of all students.

What do you think the SU should prioritise in the coming year?

The Students' Union should prioritise improving student wellbeing, financial stability, and equal opportunities for both local and international students. Many students today face increased academic stress, rising living costs, and a lack of awareness about the support available to them. I believe the Union must focus on creating stronger financial assistance programs, affordable campus meal options, and improved access to mental health and academic guidance.

A second key priority should be enhancing communication and transparency. Too often, students feel disconnected from the Union's work. Regular updates, open feedback sessions, and interactive forums can help students feel more involved and confident that their voices truly matter.

Inclusivity must remain at the heart of every initiative. Whether it's supporting new international students adjusting to life in the UK, empowering student leaders, or encouraging collaborations between societies, the Union should continue building a campus where every student feels represented and supported.

Finally, the Union should work towards stronger employability support by connecting students with training, internships, and networking opportunities. By focusing on wellbeing, inclusion, and empowerment, the Union can truly shape a positive and impactful student experience for everyone.

How do you meet the criteria for being a Student Trustee?

I believe I am well-suited to the role of Student Trustee because I combine academic dedication, leadership experience, and a strong commitment to representing the interests of students.

As a postgraduate student currently undertaking my MSc, I have developed critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills that are valuable in understanding complex issues and contributing to strategic decisions. My background in leadership roles, including serving in organizations by mentoring other people, has strengthened my ability to listen, communicate effectively, and represent diverse perspectives.

I am confident working with people from different backgrounds and understand the importance of teamwork, accountability, and professionalism in governance. My previous experiences as a teacher and social media strategist have equipped me with strong organisational skills, the ability to simplify complex ideas, and the confidence to speak up in formal settings.

I am motivated by the opportunity to ensure that student voices are heard at the highest decision-making level and to contribute to shaping a positive student experience. I am passionate about inclusivity, welfare, and ensuring that every student feels represented and supported.

By combining my leadership skills, academic experience, and genuine commitment to advocacy, I believe I can add value to the Trustee Board and contribute meaningfully to its mission of improving the student experience.

What do you think the SU should prioritise in the coming year?

I believe the Students’ Union should prioritise three key areas in the coming year: student wellbeing, career development, and inclusivity.

Firstly, student wellbeing must remain at the heart of all activities. The pressures of academic study, financial challenges, and adjusting to university life can take a toll on both mental and physical health. The SU should strengthen access to mental health support, create more peer-support networks, and promote wellbeing campaigns that encourage students to seek help early.

Secondly, the SU should focus on employability and skills development. Many students are deeply concerned about life after graduation. By expanding workshops, networking events, and collaborations with local employers, the SU can give students greater confidence in their career paths. Opportunities for leadership, volunteering, and entrepreneurship should also be highlighted as ways to build transferable skills.

Finally, inclusivity and representation should be central. Our student body is diverse, and every student deserves to feel valued and represented, regardless of background. The SU should ensure marginalised voices are actively heard, create safe spaces for dialogue, and celebrate cultural diversity through events and campaigns.

By focusing on wellbeing, career development, and inclusivity, the Students’ Union can ensure that students are supported not only academically but also personally and professionally, preparing them for success during and beyond their time at university.