Hello I’m Ronak, your Ethnic Minority Students' Officer. During my time as an Officer, I want to make sure every student feels deeply represented and supported. One of my key focuses is addressing the disproportionate impacts and systemic issues faced by our global majority and ethnic minority students.
Community and Socials
I am fundamentally committed to strengthening the bonds of community. I want to do this by delivering initiatives that foster a deep sense of belonging, particularly for those facing intersectional challenges.
I successfully collaborated on a dedicated social event for Trans and Non-Binary People of Colour, ensuring these students feel represented. I know many students can feel isolated during the festive periods so I established the Cultures Connect Winter Social to reduce homesickness and preserve cultural ties. After speaking to students during Welcome Week, I am moving to re-establish the popular Fusion Night, ensuring student voices actively shape the cultural landscape of our Union.
Careers
My strategy centres on addressing the systemic opportunity gaps faced by ethnic minority students through proactive collaboration. A significant milestone is the Career Insight Day in London, partnered with the Business Society, which is scheduled for the last week of January, providing high-value industry exposure.
I am also planning on inviting successful minority ethnic leaders, to share their professional blueprints for aspiration and achievement.
Housing
My focus is on the critical concern of student welfare and the cost of living. I am actively engaging with the Renters’ Rights legislation, which has created unforeseen financial hurdles for international students needing UK guarantors. Recognising this welfare impact, the Guild of Students has established immediate support services to mitigate acute homelessness risks; consequently, I am now seeking a durable, long-lasting solution to guarantee housing stability.
Looking Ahead
My commitment remains unwavering. I will continue to rigorously lobby for stronger housing stability measures, ensure the successful implementation of our cultural and social events and work collaboratively to enhance the career prospects of ethnic minority students. Your participation is essential. Whether it concerns representation, housing or career access, I urge you to share your feedback.
You can email me or keep updated with my campaign work on Instagram.
Thanks for reading.