Hey Roeys, my name is Jeanne. I'm a third-year part-time Anthropology student. Anthropology as a study has greatly inspired me to understand all aspects of what truly makes us human, in a holistic way.  As a social and political egalitarian and future Anthropologist I am a fervent believer in the famous quote “ Be the change you wish to see in this world.” Running for Black Students Officer I feel will be the perfect opportunity and platform for me to combine my knowledge on human cultures, my passions and my acquired skill sets into one. 

I have a great deal of experience with mental health services and student support services on and off-campus and would like to help disadvantaged students get in touch with these well-being and welfare services. 

If I were elected as the next Black Students Officer I will campaign on the following things:

Black History Month is not just a month but a lifetime, during BHM I will raise awareness on social issues that impact black communities. 

Highlight all the great achievements accomplished by positive black figures throughout history and at this university. Expect to see some great black history during this month.

Music is a great way of bringing people together, during this month I aim to host a music event. I also aim to bring more cultural awareness during this month through fun and creative projects. Studies have shown that people who feel strongly about their cultural identity are less likely to be distressed by racism. Medical News Today (2020).  

Representation matters, Sharon Azams our current BSO has raised some great campaign points, I intend to uphold the values raised by her 2021 campaign.

Mental Health 

Almost 1 in 10 black students is bound to drop out of university due to a variety of factors. I would like to bring your concerns to the student engagement team. Fostering a sense of community on campus can be vital in combating this social and structural issue. I would like to help you find your tribe.

1 on 1 Drop-in: Talking to someone from a similar cultural background can be incredibly therapeutic, I would like to be that support for you. Confidentiality is vital in peer support, I have a level 1 training qualification in peer support as a ward visitor. I would like to get black students more involved at university by getting them in touch with culturally relevant societies and student support services through signposting. 

Please consider voting for me because:

The well-being and safeguarding of BAME and other vulnerable students is of utmost importance to me. I know that our experiences at university can sometimes be very disheartening filled with enormous social pressures and anxiety. I may not have all the solutions available at hand but collaborating with students, student representatives and other student services is one way I wish to improve my skills in this role. 

Vote Jeanne for Black Students Officer.

If you have any further questions, please get in touch with me at masikinj@roehampton.ac.uk