Debating Society: Welfare Officer

I am standing because I have been on the team for two years and feel that I will make an excellent welfare officer with my vast experience on the team. I have been the President/Vice President of five clubs in the past, and thus possess the necessary skills to successfully complete the job. I regularly attend meetings and have thus seen how the society is run and will be able to smoothly continue this process for next year.

Feeling comfortable enough to get involved is hugely important, whether thats through ensuring there are financial support options to help you get involved competitively, feeling like you're never too late to join, or just creating an environment where you feel like you can truly be yourself without the fear of discriminated against. An amazing activity, debating can take you around the world to meet a whole range of people through fast paced and fun motions, and I want to make sure that everyone who wants to can do this and have a great time! 

My 3 main aims:

• maintaining a happy and comfortable society by ensuring members feel confident enough to speak up when they feel offended by something and facilitating discussions to try and avoid repetition - it's easy to make mistakes in the heat of the moment, but it's something that can always be raised for future reference!
• Working to ensure that no one is precluded from competitions due to finances 
• Increasing publicity and working with the social secretary to make sure that everyone knows they are welcome to join at any point during the year, and still be a central part of the society.

Working towards a happy society where everyone can have fun, and that doesn't care whether you joined last year or yesterday! All are welcome!

Hi there! My name is Tjun Yi and I’m a second year Law student. Over the past year, I have come to appreciate the Debating Society, for opportunities to develop my skills and to engage with the wider debating community. As an active member with plans to continue debating and judging next year, you can be sure that I will be a friendly face and open ear at both trainings and competitions.

My first aim is to make debate society a safe and welcoming space for everyone, regardless of ability or skill level. Debate can be a daunting activity, especially for beginners. Often, I have spoken to newcomers who would like to get more involved but are reluctant to because they feel overwhelmed or simply don’t know many people in the society. I hope to establish a process of following up with those who are interested to be contacted by the society, either over chat or in person. I believe that this will be an effective way to also promote inclusivity in the society, my second aim.

Diversity is having a varied range of people and experiences; inclusivity is making sure that people feel a sense of belonging so that everyone can express, contribute, and learn regardless of who they are. When looking over motions, I will ensure that they do not unfairly represent certain viewpoints, especially those of minorities and under-represented backgrounds.

I look forward to seeing you around – whether in Hustings or at the next debate training!