Hi everyone, my name is Leonie Gildea (she/her) and I’m a 3rd year Events Management student. I would love the opportunity to be the activities and event officer at Leeds Beckett University, I’m approachable, outgoing and proactive with a huge passion for underground music and making the scene more accessible to students.

Providing equal opportunities for everyone is something that lies close to my heart and I am currently launching a collective for those who identify as female/non-binary specifically focusing on providing support, opportunities for growth and empowerment to underrepresented artists and DJs. I’m currently working at the iconic underground music venue. Beaverworks, and am heavily involved with events brand Habits, both of with have taught me a range of skills and provided connections that I will be able to utilise in this role.

 I absolutely loved my time at Leeds Beckett University, and I think that the experience you have makes an enormous difference to the value of your degree. Especially with Covid-19 affecting student’s experiences it is more important than ever before to ensure that students make the most of their time at university. Not only to meet like-minded people but to have fun because let us be honest it is half of the experience! I understand that students have different interests and therefore, I want to ensure there is a breadth of event opportunities that can suit all students. Other objectives include:

• More University trips and making these more affordable and accessible: This will focus on working with societies and working directly with the university . Some examples include trips to watch football matches, climbing and hiking trips and industry relevant trips. These trips will help to bring a sense of community to the university.

•Promoting diversity and inclusion: Providing events that promote inclusion and diversity, with a focus on minority groups, offering further outreach to societies and individuals and creating better social environments.

• Focus on safety, mental health and wellbeing: Creating a positive community and helping students de-stress in a fun environment by creating a scheme specifically looking at mental health such as mindfulness classes.

•Improving Student Union platforms: Improving Student Union platforms and their social media presence means that students can easily access upcoming events, volunteering opportunities and other activities with complete ease. This could open students up to more opportunities whilst the events will also appeal to a wider student audience.