When I first got involved with Students’ Union UCL, I didn’t plan to become President. I was studying for my MSc in Management and wanted to know more about the Union's activities and how I could be part of it. That curiosity led me to run in the Rep Elections - and I was elected Welfare Officer for Clubs and Societies.
In that role, I represented students in the Welfare & Community Zone and began attending Union Executive meetings. It was my first taste of student leadership, and it opened my eyes to the impact I could have.
“I had a word with Rachel, the Welfare & Community Officer at the time, and Shaban, the Education Officer. He said you should run for a Sabbatical Officer position in the Leadership Race.”
That encouragement planted a seed. I realised that leadership at UCL wasn’t reserved for a select few - it was open to anyone willing to step up. That first step was the start of my leadership journey.
My decision to run for a Sabbatical Officer position wasn’t just about personal growth; it was about building on my work as a Rep. As Welfare Officer, I often heard from students about issues I couldn’t resolve, like construction disruptions or campus concerns.
“I was in the kind of position where students used to come up with big problems… and I was like; this is not in my power!”
The campaign journey
My manifesto focused on connecting students at UCL East and the School of Management with Union activities and improving support for international students.
I’m an international student, and I've noticed that conversations around international students are growing increasingly problematic. So, I ran to get something done in that scene.
My motivations were to make sure no student felt left out of the conversation. When I decided to run for Sabbatical Officer, I faced a challenge: it was exam season. With no campaign team and limited time, I relied on social media and simple conversations to connect with students. My approach was personal and direct; armed with a stash of chocolates and a message: “Come talk to me.”
Despite the odds, I won the election with over 1,000 votes. That moment showed me what was possible when you put yourself forward and trust your ideas.
Growing into leadership
Taking on a leadership role at 21 is no small task. I was still finishing my dissertation while attending high-level meetings across the Union. I quickly learned that leadership isn’t about having all the answers. It’s actually about being willing to learn, listen, and speak up.
I found myself in spaces where my voice mattered. My input shaped decisions, and I saw firsthand how student leaders influence change across UCL.
My message to you
My journey started with the Rep Elections. I didn’t see myself as a typical leader - but I cared, I showed up, and I tried to make things better.
My advice? Leadership isn’t about being the loudest or most confident; it’s about making a difference, one step at a time.
“No matter how small your thoughts are, they still count as a change. Just remember that whatever you're thinking, it's a change. So go ahead! […] And remember, like at the end of the day, laugh at the mistakes, celebrate whatever wins you have […] and… never underestimate the power of free snacks!”
I’m interested… how do I start?
- Find a role that fits you: faculty rep, hall community officer, club/society rep, network positions, or student trustee on the Rep Elections page.
- Nominate yourself via the Rep Elections nomination form.
- Use Anam’s approach: Leadership is about listening and wanting to make change. If you have the passion, you’ll make a great student leader.
The Rep Elections are your chance to shape student life at UCL. Whether you care about wellbeing, education, sustainability or community - there’s a rep role for you.