I am Aaliya Shakil Saleh, international student and studying BA (Hons) International Business, I am standing for welfare officer because I have experience in motivating students, being part of student journey and to help others in every situation. That’s my words to everyone.

What inspired me to be Welfare Officer
I've had a lot of trouble adjusting as an international student whose native tongue isn't English and dealing with money issues. This motivated me to accept the position so I could assist other LBU students who had similar academic experiences to mine as well as everyone else. You must embody the change you wish to see in the world.

My Goals as Welfare Officer

1. Promote mental and physical health: I will organize regular mental and physical health programs and promote healthy habits and practices. I will be liaising with the Union Leaders to ensure that every student in our University has access to mental and physical health services.
    
2. Promote women empowerment: I will create a welcoming and inclusive environment for girls especially those who are in fear and have faced harassment or discrimination both in and off-campus. I am planning to distribute pamphlets containing the self-defence techniques, better techniques to utilise surrounding resources and also the helplines of students who will be acting as ‘Real Superhero/oes’ helping the victims in stress. I will also work with the job providers and promote them to create more jobs for women.
    
3. Provide support to new students: I will provide a welcome information package for first-year students that lists the welfare services that the University, Student's Union, and larger city community presently offer to students. I will also reduce the additional stress that a confusing signposting system produces, by creating better signposting for both students and staff to make receiving the support that students need as simple as possible.
    
4. Create educational programs and campaigns: I will organize educational programs and campaigns on various social and welfare issues to raise awareness and promote positive changes. I will also work to prevent discrimination and harassment in our community. I will be liaising with the Union Leaders to ensure that formulate University timetable and distribute to the students which will help students to get more time for themselves.
    
5. Foster a sense of community: I will foster a sense of community by organizing social events, workshops, and activities that encourage social interaction and collaboration. I will create a safe and welcoming environment where everyone can feel connected and valued by introducing ‘social meet‘ points both within City and Headingly campus’ where the students can socialise and counteract isolation and promote engagement among others. I also will introduce no-cost breakfast options both in Headingly and City campuses for the students.

In conclusion, I am committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for everyone in our community. I will work towards promoting well-being, inclusivity, and community spirit by actively listening to individuals, providing support, organizing educational programs, and fostering a sense of community.

#voteforaliya Let’s make our university our second home!