Disaster Risk Reduction and Humanitarianism Society: Communications Officer

I always feel a sense of pride when applying for a role in the DRRH Society, not just because of the incredible work conducted by the Committee, but becuase I am a proud student of its sister Department, Risk and Disaster Reduction.

I am standing for Communications Officer because I want to strengthen our community voice through our media representation, propelling the society further than ever before.

As Head of Communications for the Aga Khan Youth and Sports Board's 7-17 portfolio, I have led campaigns and promoted events in a professional, value-driven and creative way, creating reels with over 100K+ engagement. In my role as UCL Digital Student Ambassador for the Mathematical and Physical Sciences Department, I have developed an understanding for what this role might entail, whilst strengthening my Marketing and Comms skills.

Currently, the Communications being pushed by the society are great, but I feel we can elevate it even further: 

• The introduction of more reels would boost engagement exponentially, especially when focussing on large events, such as the Society Balls and showing off the Disaster Dribblers! 

• Crisis Communication Workshops: teaching members and beyond how to communicate during a crisis. 

• Lecture Series: Posted as reels and on YouTube, can focus on a specific topic, or be an 'In Conversation With'/Actors on Actors-style, where viewers learn more about the work conducted by their lecturers.

I hope to gain your vote this election.

I want to help shape the voice and public identity of this society, communicating its mission of values-driven community impact. As Communications Officer, I want to make individual perspectives on disaster risk reduction and humanitarianism a priority, bringing together student, professional, and academic perspectives on humanitarian issues together in a series of social media posts. This will ensure that the society’s work is visible and spotlight current humanitarian crisis and how you can help or get involved. 

The Disaster Risk Reduction and Humanitarian Society has created a space where students can develop skills, share knowledge, and explore themes of environmentalism, preparedness, and justice; areas often overlooked in mainstream humanitarian narratives. Communicating this work effectively is essential to the society’s longevity and impact. Strong communication not only amplifies the society’s activities but also helps students understand the breadth of opportunities within disaster risk reduction and humanitarianism.

Because the society already connects students with staff and professionals who are shaping the sector, I am motivated to support these crucial conversations through strategic, thoughtful communication. In this role, I would focus on strengthening the society’s outreach, ensuring that event promotion, collaborations, and campaigns are engaging, and align with current debates and a young audience.