Salsa Society: President

Hey everyone. I’m Christopher Behnert-Smirnov, an enthusiastic and open person that wants to be your Salsa Society President this year!

Salsa is an exciting and rewarding dance, but my love for it comes from our community. No matter who you are or where you’re from, there’s a home for you in Salsa. This is why further developing this “open to all” culture will be my primary focus as president. To help achieve this, I will host workshops and socials specifically designed to bring new and existing members together - perhaps a boat party!

As Student Rep Committee Co-Chair this last year and Boys Rowing Captain for two years prior, I am well-versed in the responsibilities of this position. I hosted events of up to 500 people, created support programs, and oversaw the retail of merchandise. Through it all, I overcame various challenges via communication, trust, and hard work. These have taught me valuable leadership skills, including how to unify and motivate a team. In short, these experiences have made me a dependable and effective leader. 

Salsa is not just a society, it’s a family. I would be the dad who makes sure everyone is okay and stays up late if you’re not. My communication channels would always be open to anyone who has a concern or query.

If you believe in the importance of a welcoming and inclusive community, I encourage you to vote for me as your Salsa Society President. Together, we can create lasting memories to cherish for a lifetime!

✅ RUNNING FOR PRESIDENT ?

Hello! I'm Alexa and salsa has taken over my life.

Let me explain. From someone who couldn't dance, I have somehow not been able to stop dancing for the past two years through this society, and I wouldn't have had it any other way. I find it incredible how even after 15 hours of classes, socials, and training a week, I can still come home humming Yo Vengo de Cuba (??).

Between bumping into you guys during basics (I'm so sorry) and bumping into you guys on campus, being part of Salsa Soc is one of, if not the biggest, highlight of my university life. This society has introduced me to such an amazing community, art form, and culture that I just can't get enough of - which is why this year I am running for President.

I love this society and my past year in the committee as Communications Officer has only shown how much it means to me. It makes me so happy to see how anyone regardless of their dance experience can walk in as a complete beginner and emerge with a whole new room of friends, confidence, and killer dance moves. 

Given the chance, I hope to continue creating that welcoming atmosphere next term and spur Salsa Soc to even greater heights. Having served as a Society Rep in the Student Union, Departmental Rep, Events Officer and Changemakers project leader, I'm experienced with organisation, problem solving, and communication. I'm dedicated to making this society the best it can be, and hope to have your support in doing so!