As-salamu ‘alaykum (Peace be upon you), 

As a woman of colour, from a faith that can be visually perceived, I want to help BaME students. This is by making sure not only that they are heard, but also their cultures be commemorated.

Growing up as an individual of a minority group, I understand how easy it is to suppress or even end up losing parts of your cultural identity. Inevitably, often society puts us in boxes and decides to assume and label us because of stereotypes and being misinformed.

During my teenage/adult years, I found myself challenging those stereotypes and defining who I was as a person.

Therefore, I think it is important to represent BaME students and ensure that diversity is celebrated at every opportunity.

It is just as equally important to fight against discrimination, raise awareness and strive for equality.

Politicians such as Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Ilhan Omar continuously battle for equal rights and demand justice. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez said “They’ll tell you you’re too loud, that you need to wait your turn and ask the right people for permission. Do it anyway.”

This quote is motivational because it inspires to speak your mind and make changes for the better now, rather than later. That you should make those changes, even if it means stepping on toes and not conforming to the ‘standard general consensus’.

Starting my third year as a Animal Biology student, I have already fought the stereotype that is typically attached career wise to those of a Indian ethnicity. I embrace my British and Indian background, that have both contributed to the person I am today.

Your candidate,

Rumana Moolla