Candidate for the position of Students' Union Trustee

BLESSING BULAUN

What relevant experience, skills and qualities do you have that make you a strong candidate for this elected position?

As a dedicated mentor, I support students in their academic and personal growth, fostering a warm and engaging environment. My involvement in the RGU Access Programme enhanced my ability to inspire confidence and encourage participation. As treasurer and sports prefect in secondary school, I managed finances responsibly, ensuring transparency while achieving success in sports competitions. As President of Beulah Ladies, I increased membership from 70 to over 200, demonstrating strong leadership and strategy. Additionally, I served as Secretary for the Saint Machar Parent Council, updating the constitution and maintaining meeting records. My volunteer work with the Cancer Research Centre, Volunteer Matters Scotland, and the RGU Buddy Scheme reflects my commitment to the community. I am among the 70 tutors for BP student tutors in the North Sea region year 2025, I’m passionate about empowering others to overcome challenges and reach their goals, providing personalized support along the way.
 

Priority Aim 1

Aim: People First – Championing Transparency, Diversity, and Bold Progress. (TDBP) To champion a transparent, inclusive, and forward-thinking approach that prioritizes the needs of students, fostering an environment where every voice is heard, and all have the opportunity to thrive, by Promoting diversity, equity, and access for all students by advocating for resources and policies that support underrepresented groups, ensuring they have the tools and opportunities to succeed.
 

Priority Aim 2

Advocacy and Financial Support: In the spirit of community, we will encourage more financially secure students to participate in peer-support initiatives. Collaborating with university management and external stakeholders, we aim to raise awareness of available financial resources and how to access them and offer practical budgeting workshops. Additionally, we will partner with local businesses to create employment opportunities specifically for RGU students, helping them gain financial independence.
 

Priority Aim 3

Affordable Campus Solutions: We will work to make campus life more affordable by negotiating discounted meal plans, advocating for subsidized transportation options, and exploring rent-freeze initiatives for on-campus housing, which will favours both the student and the school. These measures aim to ease the financial burden on students while maintaining quality living and learning conditions.
 

What is the biggest issue currently facing RGU students, and how will you work with the rest of the Student Presidents and Vice Presidents to tackle this?

One of the biggest issues is the rising cost of living, which affects students ability to focus on their studies and participate fully in university life. Many students struggle with managing rent, utilities, transportation, and food expenses alongside academic commitments, which can lead to stress, isolation and sometimes depression. To address this, I would collaborate with the Student Presidents and Vice Presidents to develop a multi-pronged approach, some already mentioned above.

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