Disaster Risk Reduction and Humanitarianism Society: Welfare Officer

I am running for Welfare Officer because I am passionate about supporting others, and I believe that fostering a positive and inclusive environment is key to a thriving society. I have experience helping others, from using gentle parenting techniques to calm children as a babysitter, to being approachable and ready to speak with people and create connections. I’m friendly, happy, and want to create that same atmosphere for others in the society, whether they need a warm, comforting hug or someone serious to talk to for logical advice.

I understand that being a university student can be stressful, and I want to ensure that everyone in the society feels supported both mentally and emotionally. I am always happy to listen and work with people to find  solutions to any challenges they face.

As Welfare Officer, I will ensure that welfare is a priority in all our events, whether it's in tense debates or casual pub socials. I want everyone to feel welcome and included, regardless of the nature of the event. Given the sensitive topics discussed within the society, I will make sure that members are aware of event content beforehand and that we provide a range of perspectives to ensure all voices are heard and respected.

While there may be challenges in supporting the welfare of members, I am committed to addressing them with empathy, understanding, and a proactive approach, ensuring that everyone feels valued and supported.

I’m applying for the Welfare Officer role because I truly believe that resilience isn’t just about communities recovering from disasters—it’s also about people supporting each other every day. In a society focused on crisis response, it’s easy to get caught up in the big picture, but I want to make sure that our own members feel supported, valued, and heard too.

Through my BSc in Global Humanitarian Studies, I’ve developed a strong understanding of disaster resilience, crisis management, and the importance of mental well-being. My experiences—whether it was renovating schools and retirement homes in Costa Rica, assisting healthcare professionals during my nursing practice in France, or working with diverse teams in high-pressure environments—have all reinforced how important it is to have a strong support system in any setting.

With my TAS10 CPD Certified Training, I’m equipped with practical skills to provide mental health and well-being support, ensuring that members feel comfortable reaching out when they need help. If elected, I’d focus on making sure the society isn’t just a place to learn and engage with global challenges, but also a space where members feel safe, included, and empowered. This could mean welfare check-ins, stress-management events, or simply being a friendly and approachable person to talk to.

At the heart of it all, I want to create a community where no one feels like they’re navigating things alone, and to make the Disaster Risk Reduction Society a supportive, inclusive, and