My name is Iperepolu Oluwaseun Racheal, and I am running to be your Welfare and Diversity Officer at the University of Gloucestershire. I believe university should be more than just earning a degree; it should be a place where every student feels safe, supported, respected, and empowered to succeed.
My ambition to become Welfare and Diversity Officer comes from my passion for creating inclusive environments, supporting student wellbeing, and reducing discrimination in all its forms. University life can be exciting, but it can also be challenging. Many students face pressures related to academics, finances, loneliness, and adjusting to new environments. No student should feel like they have to face these challenges alone. As your Welfare and Diversity Officer, I will work to ensure that every student, regardless of their background, culture, identity, or belief, feels valued and supported within our university community.
If elected, I will focus on three key priorities.
First, I will prioritise proactive mental health and personal support. I plan to introduce a “Let’s Talk” initiative, which will create student-led peer support groups where students can speak openly in a non-judgmental environment about issues such as stress, burnout, and loneliness. I will also advocate for more accessible welfare support, including improved virtual access and a more responsive support system so students can reach help when they need it.
Second, I will work to build a more inclusive and representative campus community. I will also want to promote cultural understanding by supporting events that celebrate religious and cultural holidays, bringing diverse traditions, music, and food into the heart of our student community. Additionally, I will advocate for engaging diversity and discrimination awareness initiatives that encourage respect and understanding across campus.
Finally, I will ensure accountability and real action. I will introduce anonymous termly surveys so students can share honest feedback about welfare and diversity initiatives. This will help ensure that the needs of students are heard and addressed effectively. I will also push for stronger reporting systems for harassment and discrimination to help maintain a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all.
I am friendly, approachable, and determined to make a positive difference. My goal is to ensure every student feels heard, represented, and supported.
Vote Iperepolu Oluwaseun Racheal for Welfare and Diversity Officer. Together, we can turn our differences into our greatest strength and build a university community where no one is left behind.