Indian Dance Society: Welfare Officer

Hey everyone, I’m Naina, a second year law student and I would love to be considered for IDS Welfare Officer! Dance has always been a huge part of my life as I am classically trained in Bharatanatyam, so being part of IDS these past two years has been an amazing way for me to continue doing what I love in such a welcoming and enjoyable environment. It has also given me many great opportunities to experiment with new styles and get out of my comfort zone which has allowed me to learn and evolve as a dancer. For example participating in Naach in 2024 gave me the chance to meet new people (who I’m still friends with today) and gain inspiration from them.

I would love to make meaningful contributions to IDS as Welfare Officer by ensuring members continue to feel as supported and included as I have. My previous experience in leading dance clubs and workshops in school has given me excellent organisational and communicative skills as I oversaw 60 students and prepared them for an annual show. I am great at working with others in a group environment and constantly aim to make it friendly and comfortable for everyone. I volunteered with children for 4 years so the Bollypop scheme is something I would enjoy getting involved with to have a further positive impact externally through IDS. 

Through IDS I have developed considerably as a dancer and have met the most amazing people. It would be a privilege to be able to give back to the society by taking on the role of Welfare Officer.

I'm Samadhi Herath, a 2nd Year Neuroscience MSci student. I'm standing for Welfare Officer because IDS has been such a positive, grounding space for me, and I'd love to help nurture that feeling for everyone else. As much as we all love performances and competitions, being able to feel comfortable at rehearsals, laugh when things go wrong, and knowing there's someone you can talk to is just as important. Those small things are what make a society feel welcoming and supportive, and I'd love to be such a point of contact for everyone. Through my experience in other societies and volunteering, I've learnt the importance of empathy, listening and creating environments where people feel safe and cared for. As someone who has grown up between cultures, I really value spaces where people can show up exactly as they are and still feel like they belong, and I'd love to help create small, thoughtful initiatives that make our society feel even more supportive and inclusive - whether that's casual socials or simply being an approachable presence. As the Welfare Officer, I'll make sure every member feels seen, heard and genuinely cared for.

I’d love to nominate myself for Welfare Officer of Indian Dance Society. Being part of IDS this year has been such a fun and meaningful experience. From weekly classes to performances, it’s been amazing to see how dance brings people together so naturally. The energy, encouragement and sense of community within IDS is something I really value, and I’d love to help nurture that as Welfare Officer.

As a Bharatanatyam dancer, I came in feeling comfortable with my classical background, but IDS has pushed me in the best way. I’ve had the chance to try so many new styles, step outside my comfort zone, and grow as a dancer. That supportive atmosphere is something I’d really want to protect and strengthen as Welfare Officer.

Previously, I was Welfare and Health & Safety Minister on my school council, where I supported students and helped ensure events were safe and inclusive. That role taught me how to listen carefully, handle concerns with sensitivity, and create spaces where people feel comfortable speaking up. I understand that during busy periods welfare is especially important, and I’d aim to be someone that people can rely on.

I’d also love to build on our community outreach, whether that’s organising dance workshops for local schools or collaborating with other societies for charity events.

IDS has given me so much confidence, joy and community this year. I’d love the opportunity to give back and make sure every member feels supported, valued and excited to keep dancing!