Debating Society: Welfare Officer

From a riveting discussion with our current secretary, Javi, I have the knowledge on what a secretary in debate society is supposed to do and I believe that I am very suited for this role. Here, a secretary must:

1. Attend every training session to organise allocations of debate rooms and aid logistics on the day.
2. Regularly check committee emails and redirect them to the suited person(s)
3. Create and manage social media posts for the society

Applying these to myself,

1. I have been a regular member of the debate society, often going to both training sessions per week, since the first taster session I attended back in Term 1, 2025. I remain dedicated to the society and have helped out at UCL Debate-hosted competitions multiple times as a judge, runner, and wing speaker over the course of only two terms. 
2. I am already holding a similar position, as a logistics core member, in a competitive engineering society, UCL Racing: Mars Rover. There, my role is to aid communications with our partners and sponsors, such as MathWorks, Autodesk, and Babcock International. Communication here is done not only over email, but also in-person meetings, giving me experience in managing live events, alongside efficiently redirecting and writing emails.
3. I have substantial experience in graphic design and video editing (Canva & Procreate). This is due to both engagement with school and external work, but also creating over 200 short form videos. (Flex lol: I achieved a 9/9 grade in GCSE Art, Crafts & Design)

Hello everyone! My name is McKayla, and I’m running for the Debate Soc Welfare Officer this year. Debating at UCL has been one of the most fun and safe spaces during my first few months of uni. As Welfare Officer, I will work hard to ensure I continue fostering this environment so everyone enjoys it as much as I have. 

Here’s what I will do:

• Accessibility: Having heard multiple concerns, I will work with the committee to create a structured plan to address any feelings of exclusion. I know speaking up can be daunting - this is why I will create an anonymous Google form for any equity concerns. Together, we will make debating feel welcoming for everyone. 
• Sessions - online and offline! Catching someone during debate sessions can be hard, which is why I'll have weekly sit-in hours. I also know talking in person can feel confronting or be logistically difficult (especially if you’re in UCL East!), which is why I will be available on WhatsApp, email, and Messages 24/7 if you want to chat - debating or otherwise :)
• Socials: Arguably the best part of debating is the socials after - together with social secretary, I will help organise more pub, park, and food socials. 

If you’re in Debate Soc, I know you share my love of debating. But I also know that debating can be annoying, frustrating, and even disappointing at times. As Welfare Officer, I will be there for you beyond the equity talks, working with you to make every training and competition as fun as possible!