Welfare Officer

Inclusivity thrives in both UCL and its societies. As a first-generation immigrant who is part of the LGBTQ+ community, I wish to continue this legacy in UCL Dodgeball Club by applying to be the Welfare Officer. I have taken ambassadorship roles in my previous academic years, as well as my role as a tutor, assisting the younger years during the exam period for an easier transition onto the next year. These past experiences have created a foundation for me to apply for this role which I aim to utilise to ensure further promotion of inclusivity and support everyone in the UCL Dodgeball Club!

Hello I’m George and I’m running for the position of Welfare Officer. I believe it’s vital that every member of the society feels included in the events the society offers and knows there is someone in the society who they can reach to out with any welfare issues. Indeed, welfare is something I’m passionate about I’m currently involved in an evaluation of the Active Bystander programme with the Student Union to improve the student experience on campus and I’d love to bring what I’ve learnt on that program to Dodgeball. If elected I would like to implement the following plans:

To create an anonymous feedback forum to see what can be done to improve inclusivity in the society and to give you the opportunity to raise any issues which can be brought up in committee.

Run a bimonthly coffee hour on campus for the society.

Having been a member of the club for the past two years and coming to the end of my time at UCL I would love to have the opportunity to give back to the club and ensure that new and existing members enjoy the same positive and welcoming environment I found when I first joined the society and if my plans appeal to you, I hope I can count on your vote!

[curtains open, crowd applauds]

To the people of the world,

I am kind, I am happy, I am relatable, I sometimes run, I sometimes cry. I wake up early, I breathe air intentionally, I drink, but not too much, I am mindful, I believe in God, I am Sajean, I am your welfare officer. 

As a uni student (and an empath), I know that the life of a student can be a struggle. Some may say infuriating due to the amount of work and stress endured.  I can relate to this, but I want to remind you that during the darkest hours, there is light (?) and positivity at the end of the melancholy.

Inspiring the future and your wellbeing is a vital step we have to take as a society. I am willing to help you take that first step. I am willing to remind you of the greatness you have, and give you the according spiritual crystals to aid in that. I am willing to sit, or stand, to listen to you guys, to help build a better community. I will be here to support your mental health (and not your performance on court). Let's all take a leap of faith (safely) and make sure our mental health is as good or better than our physical health, through dodgeball. 

Remember my name. Sajean Sathiyakumar.

[curtains close, crowd roars: standing ovation]

I am Hamza Mirza, a first-year student studying Politics, Sociology and East European Studies. I have a strong desire to help others and see this opportunity as a way to develop my leadership skills and positively impact the UCL Dodgeball Club and the university community.

I have always been passionate about working with young people and helping them navigate the challenges of life. This has been demonstrated in my experience as a mentor supporting students and young people from under-represented areas with university applications when advancing through the difficulties of the British education system. As a welfare officer, I will have the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of students. My ability to listen and empathise and my problem-solving skills will make me an effective support for students.

In addition to helping others, this role is an opportunity to build my leadership skills. As a welfare officer, I will create a positive and inclusive campus environment and promote all students’ well-being. This was reflected during my experience as Head Boy of my secondary school, where I oversaw all of my prefects and offered one-to-one sessions with those who needed a safe space to discuss any difficulties they faced. 

Overall, I am confident that my skills and experiences make me an ideal candidate for the role of welfare officer at UCL. I am excited about the prospect of positively impacting students’ lives while building valuable skills and experiences.

" So no one told you life was gonna be this way [1].

[Four FAST claps.]

"If you ever find yourself stuck in the middle of the sea
I'll sail the world to find you
If you ever find yourself lost in the dark and you can't see
I'll be the light to guide you [1]"

Your job's a joke, you're broke
Your love life's DOA
It's like you're always stuck in second gear
When it hasn't been your day, your week, your month
Or even your year, but

I'll be there for you
(When the rain starts to pour) 
I'll be there for you
(Like I've been there before)
I'll be there for you
('Cause you're there for me too) [2]"

1. The Rembrandts. "I will be there for you." Friends. United States of America.

2. Bruno Mars, "count on me." 2010. Doo-Wops & Hooligans. United States of America.