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Rafet Rafet

24/02/2026

Rafet Rafet

1. Why do you want to represent students as a part time Officer?

I want to represent students as a Chester Campuses Officer because I have experience listening to students and helping them raise their concerns. As a Student Representative at the University of Bradford, I worked closely with students and staff to improve the student experience. I also led the Bangladesh Society, organising events and working with a committee team. Running for a Students’ Union Sabbatical Officer role taught me the importance of representing diverse student voices. I want to use these experiences to ensure students across all Chester campuses are heard and supported.

2. What would you want to change or improve for students in your role, and why?

I want to help create a stronger sense of community across the Chester campuses and make sure every student feels heard. Having been a Student Representative and a society leader, I know how important it is for students to have a voice and see real action taken on their feedback. I would like to improve communication between students and the University, support student wellbeing, and encourage more students to get involved in campus life. My goal is to help make the student experience more inclusive, supportive, and rewarding for everyone.

3. How would you make sure you understand and represent the views of the students you are elected to represent?

I would make sure I understand students’ views by being approachable, listening actively, and regularly speaking with students across different campuses and courses. From my experience as a Student Representative and society leader, I know that students want their concerns to be heard and acted upon. I would encourage feedback through conversations, events, and online channels, and make sure students receive updates on the issues raised. My priority would be to represent all students fairly and ensure their voices are reflected in discussions and decisions.

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Rebecca Aisosa Omoregie

1. Why do you want to represent students as a part time Officer?

I believe university should be about more than lectures, assignments, APA referencing and analysis. As we say back home in Nigeria, “When you pass through school, allow school to pass through you.” I want students to make the most of their university experience, regardless of how long they study. As a postgraduate student on a one-year programme, I’m determined not to let that time limit my experiences. With my experience in event coordination, communication and social media, I want to help create a connected community where students build friendships, discover interests and find their people.

2. What would you want to change or improve for students in your role, and why?

My vision is built around four pillars: CONNECT, GROW, PROMOTE and INCLUDE. I want to encourage collaboration between societies, help them attract and retain members, improve awareness of their activities and make every student feel welcome. I’m not here to make empty promises. I’m here to listen, collaborate and help societies thrive. I’d work with society committees to understand their challenges, explore better ways to promote events and encourage joint activities. As a student new to Chester myself, I understand the importance of finding your place, and I want to make that easier for others.

3. How would you make sure you understand and represent the views of the students you are elected to represent?

I’d listen to students and society committees through regular conversations, meetings, surveys, social media and society events. I’d make an effort to hear from different societies, including smaller groups, and understand why some students aren’t involved in societies. I’d share feedback with the relevant CSU teams, explore solutions collaboratively and keep students updated on progress. I want to be an approachable officer and a safe space for students to share their concerns without feeling judged. Most importantly, I’d listen without assumptions, represent students fairly and follow up on the issues they raise.

Zaara Mahmood

1. Why do you want to represent students as a part time Officer?

As a Biomedical Sciences student working towards a career in medicine, I believe healthcare knowledge should extend beyond the classroom. I want to introduce a First Aid and Basic Life Support role because every student deserves to feel more confident responding to an emergency. Medical emergencies can happen anywhere, including on campus, and knowing what to do in those first few moments can make a real difference. I want to turn my passion for medicine into something practical that benefits the wider student community, helping make Chester a safer place to study, live and socialise.

2. What would you want to change or improve for students in your role, and why?

I would like to improve students' access to first aid awareness and Basic Life Support training. Many students may not know how to respond to an emergency, perform CPR or use an AED confidently. I would work with CSU, the university and qualified training providers to explore accessible workshops, first aid demonstrations, night out first aid tips and clear information about emergency procedures, campus defibrillators, how to deal with spiking and lots more. My aim would be to make lifesaving knowledge more accessible, rather than assuming students already have these skills. Even helping one student feel prepared to act in an emergency could make a meaningful difference to our university community.

3. How would you make sure you understand and represent the views of the students you are elected to represent?

I would gather student feedback through short surveys, social media polls, conversations on campus and collaboration with societies and course representatives. I would ask students what first aid skills they feel least confident about, whether they would attend workshops and what barriers might prevent them from participating. I would use this feedback to prioritise students' needs and work with CSU and relevant professionals to explore realistic solutions. I would also share updates on progress and ask for further feedback, ensuring students could see how their views were being used to shape the role.

Farhana Parveen

1. Why do you want to represent students as a part time Officer?

I want to help create a university experience where students feel included, supported and able to make the most of their time at Chester. During my previous university experience, I served as General Secretary and coordinated events and volunteers, which taught me the importance of teamwork, communication and student engagement. As an MSc Applied Artificial Intelligence student, I understand the value of building connections beyond the classroom. I would like to use my experience to listen to students, support their ideas and help create opportunities for everyone to participate in university life.

2. What would you want to change or improve for students in your role, and why?

I would like to make student societies more accessible, visible and engaging, particularly for students who are new to the University or find it difficult to get involved. I would focus on improving communication about society activities, helping societies collaborate on events and encouraging participation from students with different backgrounds and interests. I would also explore what practical support societies need to organise activities successfully. These improvements could help students build friendships, develop skills, feel a stronger sense of belonging and enjoy a more rewarding university experience.

3. How would you make sure you understand and represent the views of the students you are elected to represent?

I would make listening to students a priority by speaking with society members, attending events and creating opportunities for students to share their suggestions and concerns. I would welcome feedback through informal conversations, short surveys and discussions with society representatives. I would make an effort to hear from students who are less involved in campus activities, rather than relying only on the most vocal groups. I would communicate key feedback to the relevant people, follow up on concerns and keep students informed about progress so they can see how their views are being considered.

Rafet Rafet

1. Why do you want to represent students as a part time Officer?

I want to represent students as a Chester Campuses Officer because I have experience listening to students and helping them raise their concerns. As a Student Representative at the University of Bradford, I worked closely with students and staff to improve the student experience. I also led the Bangladesh Society, organising events and working with a committee team. Running for a Students’ Union Sabbatical Officer role taught me the importance of representing diverse student voices. I want to use these experiences to ensure students across all Chester campuses are heard and supported.

2. What would you want to change or improve for students in your role, and why?

I want to help create a stronger sense of community across the Chester campuses and make sure every student feels heard. Having been a Student Representative and a society leader, I know how important it is for students to have a voice and see real action taken on their feedback. I would like to improve communication between students and the University, support student wellbeing, and encourage more students to get involved in campus life. My goal is to help make the student experience more inclusive, supportive, and rewarding for everyone.

3. How would you make sure you understand and represent the views of the students you are elected to represent?

I would make sure I understand students’ views by being approachable, listening actively, and regularly speaking with students across different campuses and courses. From my experience as a Student Representative and society leader, I know that students want their concerns to be heard and acted upon. I would encourage feedback through conversations, events, and online channels, and make sure students receive updates on the issues raised. My priority would be to represent all students fairly and ensure their voices are reflected in discussions and decisions.

Phoenix Pownall

1. Why do you want to represent students as a part time Officer?

Representing students is having a collective voice, speaking for all students even if the conversations are uncomfortable. I want to be a student officer to reassure all the students that their voices are heard, will be listened to and action will be taken to improve their academic life. Often being a student can feel as if you have little control over the situations you are in, such as having issues with a lecturer or feel you are missing essential information. I want people to know this doesn't have to be the case.

2. What would you want to change or improve for students in your role, and why?

I want to improve clarity and communication. Since joining the university, I have felt information and how to access it can be challenging. There are many different platforms to navigate through without a promise that you will find what you are looking for. such as needing to email someone about an issue, where can you find it because all the emails are not listed on the website - security, help desk, or catering. Finding facilities on campus is confusing due to the map lay out – organised but difficult. One location for information is easier for students.

3. How would you make sure you understand and represent the views of the students you are elected to represent?

Understanding people is easily done if patience is applied. Taking the time to listen to students and see their views on a situation, with no judgement or criticism, creates a positive environment. This means problems can be tackled more efficiently with changes make quicker. Giving students your time and attention on a matter which is important to them lets me represent them in a very simple manner, due to discussing the issue in detail for a complete understanding. Being positive, efficient, and understanding results in a successful way of representing the student body.

Ankit Kumar - Manifesto

Title: Stronger Support, Better Opportunities, One United Student Community

As an international postgraduate student, I understand the challenges many students face — from finding part-time work and understanding UK systems to building confidence and feeling truly included on campus. I am standing for International Students & Employability Officer to create practical, realistic improvements that directly support students’ academic and career success.

My priorities are:

Increase awareness of part-time job opportunities and campus roles
Work with the Careers Team to organise skill-building workshops (CV writing, interview preparation, LinkedIn optimisation)
Improve communication between international students and the Students’ Union
Promote networking events connecting students with local employers
Ensure international student concerns are clearly represented in decision-making

I believe representation should be action-based, not just promises. I will actively gather student feedback through surveys and conversations to ensure your voices are heard and reflected in initiatives.

University should not only be about studying — it should prepare us for life and careers. My goal is to help students feel supported, informed, and confident about their future in the UK and beyond.

Vote for practical change. Vote for opportunity. Vote for representation.
— Ankit

Abigail Hughes - Manifesto

Hello, I’m Abi and I’m campaigning to be your VP Student Life!

I have experienced student life from every angle: as a society committee member, as a Modern Languages student on a year abroad navigating a new country and someone who now supports students, just like you, as Front of House at CSU. I’ve worked in universities and international corporations so I’m confident in speaking up and representing you in formal spaces.

Student life should feel welcoming, safe and accessible to everyone.

My priorities:

Inclusive and accessible events: more sober socials and better communication about activities throughout the year, so everyone can build community in ways that suit them.
Visible wellbeing support: clearer signposting of support services, so no one slips under the radar when they’re struggling.
A Freshers’ Buddy Scheme: having experienced those first weeks both in Chester and abroad, I know how isolating they can feel. Pairing new and current students as mentors and organising regional group trips to create leadership and reduce isolation.
Student owned spaces across all three sites: improving and promoting well-equipped spaces where students can study, relax and connect between lectures.
Societies and Sports: advocating for improved funding, facilities and equipment through sponsorships and partnerships, including proper support for teams representing our university.
Women’s Safety: reviving Reclaim the Night and working together to make our streets feel safer for everyone.
Timetabling: support the VP Education in raising concerns affecting commuters and part-time workers.

Abigail Hughes - amplifying your voice.

Instagram: abihughes4studentlife

Hamanth Padala - Manifesto

Who Am I?

Hi, I’m Hemanth, a first year student of MSc in Banking and Finance. I am passionate about ensuring that the University of Chester doesn’t just talk about "going green" but leads the way in student-driven environmental action. I believe sustainability should be accessible, affordable, and integrated into every part of our student experience.

What I Will Achieve

If elected, I will focus on:

Revolutionizing Waste & Circularity

Expand the "Drop n' Swap" Scheme: Lobby to bring the Eco Box and Eco Cup systems to every single catering outlet across all sites, making zero-waste dining the default, not the exception.

The "Sustainability Shop" 2.0: Increase the visibility and stock of the community fridge and zero-waste initiatives to help students tackle food poverty and food waste simultaneously.

Empowering the Student Voice

Carbon Literacy for All: Work with the Sustainability Unit to ensure Carbon Literacy Training is advertised more widely and integrated into more diverse course modules.

Green Action Grants: Lobby the SU to create a small "Green Fund" for student-led projects, like community gardens or DIY repair workshops.

I don't just want to attend meetings; I want to be the bridge between the Sustainability Action Groups and the everyday student. I have the experience to ensure your ideas are heard at the highest levels of the University.

Jeevitha Baskar - Manifesto

Vote me for President
This year, as your Women’s Officer, I’ve sat across from students who felt unheard. I’ve listened to stories about choosing between essentials and food. I’ve heard frustration about slow responses, unclear decisions, and feeling like just another number.

When students told me period products weren’t accessible on campus. It was about being able to attend lectures without stress or embarrassment. I took that issue into meetings, pushed it consistently, and refused to let it be brushed aside.
Being an Womens officer i had a chance to be part representing Refreshers fair and meet a lot of new faces.

That experience changed me. It showed me how decisions are made at the University of Chester Students' Union.

As President, I want to be that pressure.
I want clearer feedback deadlines so you’re not left guessing about your grades. I want stronger cost-of-living support so students aren’t silently struggling. I want open forums where leadership answers to you honestly and directly. And I want every student, whether commuter, international, mature, or first-year, to feel like this university is built for them.

I’m not running to hold a title.
I’m running because I’ve seen what happens when students are ignored and I know we deserve better.
Let’s build a university that listens.

Luis Martell Correia - Manifesto

I am running for re‑election because meaningful change takes time, persistence and consistency. Over the past year, I have listened to students across all campuses, raised your concerns and begun work on issues that won’t be fixed overnight. I am standing again to continue what we have started together and ensure your voices remain at the centre of every decision.

TIMETABLE - Timetabling remains one of the biggest challenges students face. Unpredictable schedules make it difficult to work part‑time, commute, or manage personal responsibilities. I will continue pushing for more consistent, student‑friendly timetables, fewer long gaps, and earlier releases so you can plan your lives with confidence.

ACCESSIBILITY AND INCLUSION – I am committed to improving disability support and inclusion across all campuses. Students with disabilities often face barriers that go unseen, and I will continue advocating for accessible teaching, timely adjustments, and better coordination between academic teams and support services. Inclusion isn’t optional, it’s essential.

INTERNATIONAL STUDENT COMMUNITY - Our university is home to a large international community, yet many students still feel under‑supported. I will keep advocating for clearer guidance, better integration support, and stronger representation for international students across all levels of the university.

STUDENT OWNED SPACES - Students at Chester, Warrington, and Birkenhead have all highlighted the need for more student owned spaces. I will continue campaigning for dedicated areas to study, socialise and build community spaces shaped by student feedback.

WELLBEING - I will continue tackling the stigma around loneliness, expanding wellbeing initiatives, and pushing for faster access to support.

Jason-Ellis Platts - Manifesto

Hello! I am Jason (he/they) and I am running for the role of Access and Inclusion Officer!

If elected, I will:

Advocate for the creation of accessible study rooms so that no student misses out
Create sensory friendly socials to ensure all students are included, both independently, and in collaboration with groups and societies
Ensure local and university support is easily available, so you're aware of what support you can access, such as assistance with inclusion plans, DSA, and local resources outside of the University
Monitor and ensure the campuses remain fully accessible, with regular walk/wheel arounds to assess whether they're meeting student needs

I have previous experience as the Disability and Inclusion representative of my college, as well as more recent volunteering within the University, which will lend me the skills necessary to create change and advocate for students like you!

If these are things you'd like to see, I'd really appreciate your vote, thank you!

If you want to find out more, email me at 2314830@chester.ac.uk, or find me on insta: jason_2314830

Srijan Yadav - Manifesto

ELECTION MANIFESTO
Vice President Student Life

YOUR VOICE MATTERS

I'm Srijan Yadav, and I'm running for Vice President Student Life because I believe every student deserves to feel heard, supported, and valued at Chester.

As a final-year student and Young Enterprise award winner, I understand the real challenges we face—balancing studies, wellbeing, and making the most of university life. I want to use my leadership experience to ensure every student has opportunities to thrive both inside and outside the classroom.

WHAT I STAND FOR:

Thriving Sports & Societies
More funding, better facilities, and enhanced support for clubs and societies. I'll fight for additional sports opportunities, new society initiatives, and resources that help student-led groups flourish. Your passions deserve proper backing.

Outstanding Co-Curricular Life
University isn't just lectures—it's experiences, skills, and memories. I'll push for diverse events, workshops, networking opportunities, and activities that enhance your employability and personal growth. From competitions to cultural celebrations, let's make campus life unforgettable.

Student Wellbeing & Support
I'll champion campaigns addressing mental health, safety, belonging, and loneliness. More accessible counselling, safe spaces, and genuine support systems—because no student should feel alone.

Amplifying Your Voice
I'll represent YOU on university committees, listen to your concerns, and turn your ideas into action. Together, we'll strengthen our community and improve campus life for everyone.

YOUR VOTE = YOUR VOICE
Let's make student life better, together.
Vote Srijan for VP Student Life.

Anirudh Ramisetti - Manifesto

I am standing for Vice President Education to ensure that every student at the University of Chester receives not just a degree, but real value from their education.

As a postgraduate student, I understand the importance of clear communication, fair assessment processes, and career-focused learning. Education should prepare us for the real world, and student voices must shape how our academic experience evolves.

If elected, I will focus on three key priorities:

First, improving academic transparency. I will work with faculty to ensure clearer assessment guidelines, consistent feedback timelines, and better communication around marking and module expectations.

Second, strengthening career-focused learning. I will advocate for more practical workshops, industry guest sessions, and skills-based opportunities that help students feel confident and employable before graduation.

Third, amplifying the student voice. I will introduce structured feedback mechanisms and publish clear updates on actions taken, so students know their concerns are being heard and addressed.

Education should be empowering, inclusive, and forward-looking. My goal is to bridge the gap between students and academic leadership while promoting practical learning that supports future careers.

Together, we can build an education experience that truly prepares us for success.

Vote for clarity. Vote for opportunity. Vote for progress.

Kelvin Ezema - Manifesto

Vice President Education

Education for All. Opportunity for Everyone.

At the University of Chester, education should not feel confusing, unfair, or isolating. It should empower us.

I know what it feels like to work hard and still question feedback. I know the pressure international students face adapting to a new system. I understand the challenges disabled students experience accessing support. And I stand proudly with LGBTQ+ students and every society that makes our campus diverse and strong.

As your Vice President Education, I will fight for:

• Fair marking and clearer, timely feedback

• Stronger academic support and revision workshops

• Better transition support for international students

• Inclusive teaching practices and accessible learning for disabled students

• Real student voices shaping academic decisions

I will listen. I will represent. And I will act.

This is not just about policies — it’s about people. It’s about making sure every student, from every background, feels seen, supported, and capable of success.

Let’s build a university where no one feels left behind.

Vote Kelvin Ezema — Because your education matters.

Kati-Leigh Newson - Manifesto

I’m Kati, a Business Management and Marketing student with a strong passion for sport and student experience at Chester. Alongside studying, I’m actively involved in university sport through my role as Team Captain and Social Media Officer for Women’s Rugby Union, where I’ve worked closely with SportChester to develop the club and supported teammates on and off the pitch. Through this, I’ve seen first-hand how important accessible and well-organised sport is to student life, wellbeing, and community.

I believe I would make an excellent Sports Officer because I understand sport from both the participation and organisational side. I’m approachable, organised, and genuinely invested in improving opportunities for all students, whether they’re competitive athletes, social players, or completely new to sport. I want sport at Chester to feel inclusive, well-communicated, and worth getting involved in.

As Sports Officer, my aims are :
• Improve communication between students, clubs, and SportChester making opportunities, updates, and support clear and accessible
• Increase inclusivity and participation, particularly for beginners and students who may feel intimidated by university sport
• Support club committees with practical guidance, promotion, and development
• Enhance the student sport experience

I’m passionate about making sport at Chester something students are proud to be part of. If you want a Sports Officer who listens, represents you, and works hard to make real improvements, vote Kati.

Peter Davies - Manifesto

Hi, my name is Peter Davies, and I am running for the position of Non-Traditional Students’ Officer on Union Assembly.

I am a Postgraduate student studying Psychology

If I am elected, I will ensure that all commuting students have their voice heard. I am currently the Vice President of the Mature Student Society (Matsoc).

I am approachable and a good listener. I will listen to any concerns you have and try and get them resolved as quickly as possible.

I am a very proactive person and would ensure that your voice is heard and your concerns addressed.

Voting is on 11^th and 12^th March starting at 9am on 11^th.

So if you do nothing else vote Peter Davies for Non-Traditional Students’ Officer.

The Students’ Friend who listens