Candidates for Wellbeing, Sport and Physical Activity Officer

Why do you want to be elected as Wellbeing, Sport & Physical Activity Officer?

I would like to be selected to be the welfare, sports, and physical activity officer for Hallam SU. I would like to be elected because I believe I could represent the university in this role in new and inventive ways while also continuing and enhancing the work done by prior officers, I have a significant interest in university sport ,motivating people to be active, and promoting their well-being. I would also like to be selected because I am aware of the importance of wellness, especially at university, and the role that sports play in enhancing wellbeing.

What skills and experience do you have that would make you a good Officer?

I have experience working with people of all ages, skill levels, and occupations in a variety of roles that call for proactive group communication, I constantly try to find a balance between my extracurricular and academic obligations. I am well-organised and have a great work ethic. Being a lead representative has helped me better understand how the student union operates and what it's like to interact with students and other university members. My experience volunteering as a student and a game changer ambassador has also enhanced my public speaking skills and fuelled my passion to promote physical activity.

Which three HSU policies do you think are the most important?

• Mental health and wellbeing support
• Cost of living
• Timetabling

What other two issues/topics should be prioritised by your role?

Students coaching- trying to get more students coaching with Hallam teams as well as give them the tools to run interactives and free session for students.

Promoting and planning more activities for students to take part in to benefit their own wellbeing and physical activity for example walking groups and activities to bring people together.

Why do you want to be elected as Wellbeing, Sport & Physical Activity Officer?

I advocate for physical activity to boost mental health and well-being. As a Sports and physical activity officer, I will create inclusive, accessible opportunities for all, ensuring everyone at Hallam benefits from sports. I spent my first year not engaging in any sports programs or societies that Hallam had to offer; this caused my mental health to suffer. Since then, I joined a team and have seen a massive personal boost in my mental health and grades.

I would use this opportunity to help encourage others to engage and participate in sports at Hallam and improve the experience of those already involved.

What skills and experience do you have that would make you a good Officer?

I have effective communication skills that are vital for this position; relating to fellow students is vital to understanding their ideas and concerns. I can then analyse the data and see trends to make the improvements and changes students want.

I am an innovative and creative thinker who can generate new ideas within a decision process and collaborate with a team to find the best solutions.

Lastly, my passion for sports and well-being will benefit business processes and bring results to students directly.

Which three HSU policies do you think are the most important?

• Mental health and wellbeing support
• Community, belonging, and academic societies
• University communications

What other two issues/topics should be prioritised by your role?

- Community engagement

I aim to build relationships between societies and students to promote collaboration and understanding of the benefits of physical activity, fostering a diverse and inclusive environment. I'm passionate about sharing experiences among students to strengthen community and unity.

- Sports team committee education through wellbeing and support training

There are no courses or support opportunities to help sports committee members learn how they can support members of their team in well-being; I want to empower people with the ability to advise and support well-being within teams.

In addition, the training required should be given so that team members and committee members can report professional issues.

Why do you want to be elected as Wellbeing, Sport & Physical Activity Officer?

As a current officer, I've built strong relationships with university staff, gaining valuable insight into how to support students effectively. I've much to offer in further developing a unified wellbeing and sports community, building on ongoing projects while exploring new initiatives!

Supporting students' wellbeing and providing more opportunities for physical activity are my top priorities. My own university experience was incredibly fulfilling, and I want others to have the same, or better, experience.

I've led on key initiatives, including wellbeing, club and student financial aid, varsity engagement, expanding access to sport and providing more sporting opportunities for international students.

What skills and experience do you have that would make you a good Officer?

As a current officer, representing students IS my top priority.

At university, I've been highly engaged, holding leadership roles such as Vice President, Treasurer, and Charity Officer across several sports clubs. This gave me experience managing events and finances, while building leadership and communication skills.

With a Sports related degree and competing in multiple Sport Hallam clubs, I understand the positive impact sport has on mental health.

I've enhanced public speaking skills, allowing me to effectively advocate for students. Strong organisational skills, developed through a busy schedule, enable me to achieve positive outcomes while staying involved in university life.

Which three HSU policies do you think are the most important?

• Mental health and wellbeing support
• Cost of living
• Timetabling

What other two issues/topics should be prioritised by your role?

Inclusive Practice - Sports and societies should be accessible to all, encouraging clubs and students to prioritise the inclusion of minority groups. Clubs should be motivated to adopt best practices related to equality, diversity, and inclusion. I believe it is vital for everyone to feel welcomed and valued in the university environment.

Promote Physical Activity - Make social sports accessible to everyone, especially during the cost-of-living crisis. Students need affordable or free opportunities to participate in sports. The goal is to promote sports at Hallam, encouraging as many students as possible to stay active and engaged.