Jazz Society: Welfare Officer

Welfare is a crucial role in any society, I've always found Jazz Soc to be an incredibly inclusive, welcoming, and supportive community and want to ensure that this continues next year, creating an environment where every member feels valued, encouraged, and heard.

If elected, I’ll focus on making sure that welfare remains a priority, especially around shows/jams and other events. While music is a huge part of what brings us together, the experience should always be positive and accessible to all and I want to ensure that everyone, from experienced performers to those wanting to step onto the stage for the first time, have equal opportunities and encouragement .

This means ensuring open communication, looking out for members' well-being, and creating a space where people feel safe expressing themselves. I’d also love to introduce more welfare initiatives, such as check-ins during show weeks,  a form for any welfare related concerns/queries and generally just being a friendly face you can reach out to whenever you need.

Jazz Soc is a great society, and I’d love the chance to give back by making sure it stays as welcoming and supportive as it’s always been!

Having been a shy and overwhelmed fresher last year, I joined no societies. But in my second year, I decided I would join a society that I had always wanted to be a part of. I remember dauntingly attending the first taster session, worried if I would fit in (as well as being scared to sight read - which I am still terrible at). However, my worries instantly melted away as I was welcomed with a positive and go-with-the-flow energy of big band. Little did I know I would be part of such a talented, diverse and passionate community that I would look forward to attending every Thursday.

Having experienced firsthand the warmth and encouragement of the jazz society, I want to give back as Welfare Officer. My goal is to ensure that everyone, whether a new or returning member, feels the same support and belonging. I’ll work to maintain an open, friendly environment where members feel comfortable voicing concerns and seeking support. Promoting inclusivity, respect, and well-being will be my priority, whether through well-being surveys, check-in sessions, or mental health awareness initiatives.  

Jazz has always been largely driven by creative expression and connection, and I want to foster an atmosphere where everyone can thrive and feel supported, both in their playing and within the community.

Jazz society is such a dynamic place to make music, meet like minded jam enthusiasts and a brilliant space for to decompress amidst our busy chaotic schedules. So far I've loved participating in all the shows and events and just appreciating how talented some of you folk are and I want to ensure the jazz scene remains a vibrant, inclusive and fun environment across all of our groups! I hope to be a friendly face who is around for a chat and I will strive to listen to any thoughts on direction and improvements relating to our range of jazz ensembles and projects. I will be a voice to support any additional needs and be there to help resolve any conflicts or welfare concerns, ready to signpost you to any support services you might need. I have been involved in lots of music ensembles where I have participated in several wellbeing centred roles for instance in the Eustones A capella group as well as previous external choirs and small bands. I have also completed a Level 2 mental health peer mentoring course which has enabled me to improve my communication, co-ordination and listening skills to increase my confidence in supporting and encouraging others. Overall, I just hope to get more stuck in with all the brilliant things going on here at UCL and help us make even more memories and music together!