VP ACTIVITIES CANDIDATES

Ameena Ibrahim Ladan

Innovative | Empathetic | Driven

Why are you applying for this role?

From the moment I set foot on campus, I recognized that our university is more than lectures—it’s a vibrant community brimming with untapped potential. I am running for VP of Student Activities to bridge the gap between academics and student life. I envision introducing life coaching seminars, practical workshops, and low-cost events like cultural fashion shows, and authentic cultural food tastings, BBQ nights, and bonfire gatherings to foster lasting connections. I am passionate about empowering every student, especially our international community, by collaborating with departments such as the EDI Team and the Faith Centre to ensure every voice is heard. Through initiatives like a monthly magazine, study buddy programs, and an online suggestion platform, I aim to transform our campus into a home for growth, inclusivity, and genuine support. I am dedicated to leading with empathy, creativity, and unwavering commitment.

What skills and experience would you bring to the role?

My diverse skill set makes me an ideal candidate for VP of Student Activities. As a highly organized and creative individual, I excel at planning and executing engaging events that bring students together. My strong time management ensures I can juggle responsibilities effectively, from coordinating activities to addressing student concerns.

With a deep understanding of student well-being, I am passionate about creating support systems, such as life coaching seminars and study buddy programs. My empathetic and intuitive nature allows me to connect with diverse student communities, ensuring inclusivity and representation.

I have a eyes for aesthetics and branding, which will help in promoting events through visually appealing posters, flyers, and social media campaigns. Additionally, my strong communication skills will allow me to advocate for students, collaborate with key university departments, and foster meaningful conversations. I am committed to making our campus a space where students feel heard, supported, and engaged.

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Ata

Bold | Charismatic | Real

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Why are you applying for this role?

I’m running for VP Activities because I’m deeply passionate about creating spaces where students can connect, have fun, and take a break from the pressures of university life. Throughout my time at university, I’ve hosted social gatherings and made it a priority to bring people together, even if they didn’t know each other. I understand what it’s like to feel isolated, and I want to ensure that no student has to go through that experience without support. I believe events and social activities are a crucial part of the student experience, and they shouldn’t be overlooked in the balance of academic life. I want to bring that same energy to a larger scale, where every student can feel supported, included, and part of a community. As VP Activities, I would focus on organizing diverse events that allow students to connect, unwind, and form lasting bonds that enrich their university experience

What skills and experience would you bring to the role?

I’m an empathetic person who cares about how others feel and can easily spot when someone is disengaged. When that happens, I make adjustments to ensure everyone is involved and having a great time. I’m sociable, friendly, and easy to talk to, so I’m able to keep conversations flowing and make sure no one feels left out. Additionally, having worked in hospitality all of this past year, my efforts have been appreciated and praised by hundreds of happy guests.

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Beulah Okeke

Innovative | Impactful | Receptive

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Why are you applying for this role?

I am applying for the role of Vice President Activities because I am passionate about creating a vibrant and engaging student community. I believe student involvement in extracurricular activities such as employability events, sports, social events, and volunteering positively impacts student's well-being and development. Also, I want to create a more inclusive environment that celebrates student's diversity and contributes to their personal and professional growth. My goal if elected as your VP Activities, is to advocate and promote students' interests. I will ensure that every student feels valued and excited to be part of the University of Essex Community.

What skills and experience would you bring to the role?

My skills and experiences showcase my ambition, self-motivation and adaptability in coordinating events and engaging students in enriching opportunities.

As a Warwick Economics Summit Ambassador, I collaborated with EBS, Economics Society Execs and the Department of Economics to organise the successful participation of 26 students at the summit, thereby improving my event planning, communication and promotional skills.

As a peer mentor, student representative and faculty department committee member, I supported students by gathering feedback and advocating for improvements that reflect students' interests. which also equipped me with the ability to work with university staff, societies and student organisations.

Additionally, I possess strong organisational and leadership skills, enabling me to chair meetings, support fundraising initiatives and foster inclusive, engaging student activities. My experience in promoting events, facilitating communication, and understanding student needs will allow me to contribute positively to the growth and success of Essex Blades, Vteam, Societies and Rebel Media.

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Kamran Abbas

Relatable | Proactive | Dependable

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Why are you applying for this role?

I’m applying for VP Activities because student life should be more than just lectures and deadlines. It should be fun, engaging, and accessible to everyone. Essex has an incredible student community, but there’s always room to make things better.

This role isn’t just about running events; it’s about making sure societies, sports teams, and volunteering groups have the support they need to thrive. I want to make it easier for students to get involved, connect with others, and create experiences they’ll remember long after graduation.

Also, let’s talk about the disappearance of the £2 dish of the day. Students deserve affordable food options, and I’d love to push for its return. Because let’s be real, a meal shouldn’t break the bank.

I’m running because I care about student life, and I want to make it better, one event, one society, and one meal at a time!

What skills and experience would you bring to the role?

For the past three years, I’ve been involved in Essex student life, taking on roles like VP of the Indian Society, Treasurer of the Crypto & Blockchain Society, Community Organizer for the SU, Student Ambassador, and Student Rep at the International College. I have been part of planning events, supporting societies, and engaging with students.

I have worked with societies, sports teams, and volunteering groups, participating in events and discussions to understand what students need. I have collaborated with the SU and contributed to student-focused initiatives.

But let’s be real, student life isn’t just about meetings and policies. It’s about creating experiences that actually matter to students. More funding, more accessible opportunities, and events that people actually want to attend. I want to bring fresh energy, listen to what students really need, and make Essex a place where everyone feels connected. Let’s build something great—together.

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