Niha Gudena

🏔️ Hi Hikers!

I’m excited to be running again for the role of Skills Officer.

The outdoors has always been a huge part of my life- from completing my DofE and hiking regularly, to teaching outdoor skills as a Sergeant in the RAFAC. For me, the best part isn’t just reaching the summit- it’s gaining the skills and confidence that get you there. That’s what I want to help every member of UCL Hiking build.

As Skills Officer, my focus would be on making skills sessions engaging, practical, and genuinely exciting- not just instructional.

🧭 Creative & Practical Core Skills

• Regular navigation and route-planning sessions
• Hands-on orienteering practice sessions
• Other specialist skills workshops

🌌 Collaborations with Other Societies

• Partnering with Space Society for a “Navigating with the Stars” session
• Working with Mountaineering Society on movement skills and mountain safety
• Exploring new cross-society workshops that blend outdoor skills with different interests

🚑 Building confidence

• Frequent first aid courses and refreshers for Walk Leaders
• Workshops on kit, packing, and trip preparation

Whether someone is brand new to hiking or preparing for a residential, I'd love to host sessions that challenge people and help them step outside their comfort zone.

UCL Hiking is already an incredible community. As Skills Officer, I'd hope to bring energy, organisation, and creativity to ensure our members don’t just go on walks but leave feeling more capable every time.

🏔️ Thank you for your consideration!