IDEA Society: Welfare Officer

IDEA Society attracts students from hugely diverse backgrounds — different countries, cultures, disciplines, and levels of experience with development work. That diversity is our strength, but only if every member feels genuinely welcomed and supported enough to contribute. The Welfare Officer's role is to make sure nobody falls through the cracks.

I'd focus on three things. First, onboarding: new members (especially those unfamiliar with social enterprise or emerging markets) should have a clear pathway in, not feel overwhelmed by jargon or assumed knowledge. A buddy system pairing new members with experienced ones would help. Second, ongoing support: members on intensive IDEAS Globally projects can face real pressure, and regular check-ins would ensure people are coping and enjoying the experience. Third, accessibility: making sure our events, communications, and culture are inclusive regardless of background, and connecting members with UCL SU welfare resources when needed. Having lived and studied across multiple countries, I understand how it feels to enter unfamiliar spaces. I want IDEA Society to be a place where people feel they belong from day one.