Candidates for UNESC Election 2024

Hello, my name is Phoebe.
I live in beautiful regional NSW and I am studying the Bachelor of Science. With extensive paid and volunteer leadership experience, I am dedicated to really hearing the individual's goals and needs.
I thrive on collaborative approaches and am passionate about further developing my skills in leadership while working with the student community. I’m excited to bring my commitment to inclusivity and effective leadership to the role of student representative. As a neurodivergent woman, I understand the value of individuals and the communities created around all of us.
Thank you for your consideration.

Hi my name is Chris, I am currently in my 2nd year studying a bachelor of exercise and sports science. I have been currently sitting as the deputy chair of the UNE student council and the SABL representative. I have had a change of direction in work life and started studying online with UNE in 2022.

Working alongside a great committee over the last 12 months has provided me with the ability to be a part of some great projects such as assisting in the startup of the UNESC scholarships (first ones given this year), representing UNE at the TEQSA conference in Melbourne, providing representation at the SSAF meetings, and assisting in UNE open days for new students.

The UNESC has provided me with the opportunity to work with course coordinators and sit on course advisory meetings helping get students concerns and opinions heard.
Being elected back on the UNESC will allow me to continue advocating for the student body and keep transparency between the University and students on the issues that matter.

As a student at UNE, what matters most to me is to enrich the academic experience and help the Council guide the development of future coursework, research and helping set the student direction at UNE as I think that our University can bring an unlevelled learning experience to future leaders and generations that aspire to complete their degree at a regional University.

I am Selim Cokyavuz, and I am a Bachelor of Arts (Psychology)/Bachelor of Laws student at the University of New England and Leadership & Management graduate. I am committed to improving governance of the University and improve serious decision-making processes at the University of New England without politicising the Council through drama.

I will deal with the issues on the Agenda objectively and decide on their entire merits without my ideological beliefs making it a barrier to casting votes.

- Work on improving student wellbeing and engagement services for younger online students who find it difficult to make social connections and create a sense of belonging.

Qualifications:

Certificate IV in Frontline Management, AGB Training (2015)

Diploma of Leadership & Management, Monarch Institute (2023)

Advanced Diploma of Leadership & Management (in progress - TAFE NSW)

MAICD MICDA

As an online student with both work and family commitments, I feel that I could help communicate the needs of the online students who are usually working around busy schedules both uni and other activities. I have both life experience, and the willingness to learn more and advocate for those around me. Working in school setting and with disabilities has broadened my life experiences and helped me gain vital compassion and understanding that everyone’s views need to be considered and tied into all aspects of life including education. I also have utilised many of the services available through UNE so have some prior knowledge of these also.

Hello, my name is James Hede, and I am a UNE alumni and current student. I recently completed a Bachelor of Psychological Science and am now completing a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours). The entirety of my study at UNE has been conducted online, and I recognise the importance and advantages of online study, but also its challenges.

I believe in fostering a supportive and inclusive online community where every student feels valued. My experience in psychology has taught me the importance of empathy, communication, and understanding diverse perspectives—skills I will apply to represent you.

I have a strong academic background and was awarded the Vice-Chancellor’s Scholar Award in 2023 and the S Barratt Memorial Award in Psychology in 2024.

I would be honoured to represent the online student cohort by voicing your opinions and needs to the UNE Student Council. Please consider me for the position of Online Student Representative.

Thank you for your support.

I’m Madeleine, a new student at UNE in 2024, registered for the Master of History. I grew up in Johannesburg, South Africa and came to Australia in 2003 with my family. After completing an honours degree in sociology in the pre-internet era, I worked in the corporate world in IT and management consulting for four decades while raising two children. I retired last year and am pursuing my passion for history with UNE, along with community involvement, my book club, travel and a nerdy interest in city-building PC games.

As an online student, I appreciate the technological wizardry but do sometimes miss the human element – my favourite memory of uni being the afternoons spent making friends on the library lawns in between lectures.

I bring my lengthy experience in international business and technology, along with a lifelong passion for the humanities which I believe are critical to understanding who we are as a society. I would love to work with UNESC to build closer connections between the online student community and UNE, and to represent your needs, especially older (ahem!) students like myself.

Hi Everyone,

I am Abbie Myers, and I am excited to announce my candidacy for the UNE Student Council. Although I am relatively new to UNE, currently in my third trimester of study, I am deeply committed to contributing to our community.

Before joining UNE, I was a professional tennis player. The discipline, resilience, and teamwork I developed on the court have shaped my approach to life and leadership. Additionally, my involvement with Rally4Eva campaigns has fueled my passion for advocacy and community engagement, emphasizing the importance of every individual's voice.

I am running for the Student Representative Council because I want to advocate for positive change. As a new student, I have quickly realised the unique challenges we face, from navigating academic pressures to building a sense of community and belonging. My goal is to help create an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and supported. I am committed to advocating for better academic resources and more opportunities for student involvement and professional growth.

I am passionate about making UNE a place where every student can thrive. With your support, we can build a vibrant, supportive community.

Thank you for your consideration.

I'm a first-year student with concurrent candidature in Bachelor of Criminology/Laws, and Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science. I served as the Youth Minister for Health, Mental Health and Medical Innovation under the Youth Parliament Program in 2022/23. I was recognised by then Premier, the Hon Dominic Perrottet for my service in the Sydney electorate, especially with homelessness support, with the NSW Government Community Service Award.

I was a keynote speaker at the 2022 Australian Medical Association National Conference for the session - COVID-19: What worked, what didn’t and what’s needed now.

I have active leadership experience as I have served as a Panelist Judge for Youth Action's Youth Work Conference for 2 years, and was a semi-finalist in the 2023 7News Young Achievers awards.

I have 3 published Journal Articles as co-authors; in the Lancet Child and Adolescent Health, and PLOS One and currently working with the University of Sydney in research on Youth Participation concerning Mental Health and well-being.

I am also an elite athlete. I have represented Australia at the 2022 FINA Junior World Open Water Championship in Seychelles. I'm also extremely proud to have represented UNE at UniSport Nationals for Swimming this May.

Hi I am Sarah Roumieh and I would love to be on the UNE Student Council and have the opportunity to rep resent UNE students like myself to help and represent other students in their learning journey at UNE. I am from Sydney, currently studying a Bachelor of Social Work part-time. This is my first year in this degree and I am enjoying the different health, practical aspects, frameworks and theoretical perspectives of social work. My future aspirations include working in a school environment as a social worker to advocate for young people and guide them through the challenges of school environments and mental health issues. Social justice and human rights and the environment are my passions and I wish to contribute to raising awareness about the barriers that hold people back including disabilities (as have a lived experience of this) and contribute to making the world a fairer and better place free of discrimination.

Dear fellow students,

It would be my pleasure to be one of your online student representatives.

I'm enthusiastic about supporting UNE to offer the best and most engaging experiences and opportunities for online students.

A bit about me… I'm a mid-career communications specialist who aims to make a career change. I have a BA in Media and Communications, and I am studying the 3-year Bachelor of Laws online. I live in the beachside suburb of Coogee.

I bring 14 years of experience in communications and stakeholder engagement, working with diverse teams on stakeholder relations and campaign development with an eye on efficiency and return on investment. I have supported major projects, brand launches and business transformations for everyday companies.

I would describe myself as an organised and motivated self-starter. I love working with people and have led teams of all sizes, including remotely. I really enjoy coaching people to reach their goals.

Overall, my personal motivation is to help create a better world through innovation and social progress. Outside work and study, I'm a volunteer ethics teacher in primary school. I have two daughters, I love to paint and draw, sing, hike and play tennis.

Thanks for reading :)

As a student at UNE, what matters most to me is to enrich the academic experience and help the Council guide the development of future coursework, research and helping set the student direction at UNE as I think that our University can bring an unlevelled learning experience to future leaders and generations that aspire to complete their degree at a regional University.

I am Selim Cokyavuz, and I am a Bachelor of Arts (Psychology)/Bachelor of Laws student at the University of New England and Leadership & Management graduate. I am committed to improving governance of the University and improve serious decision-making processes at the University of New England without politicising the Council through drama.

I will deal with the issues on the Agenda objectively and decide on their entire merits without my ideological beliefs making it a barrier to casting votes.

- Work on improving student wellbeing and engagement services for younger online students who find it difficult to make social connections and create a sense of belonging.

Qualifications:

Certificate IV in Frontline Management, AGB Training (2015)

Diploma of Leadership & Management, Monarch Institute (2023)

Advanced Diploma of Leadership & Management (in progress - TAFE NSW)

MAICD MICDA

As an online student with both work and family commitments, I feel that I could help communicate the needs of the online students who are usually working around busy schedules both uni and other activities. I have both life experience, and the willingness to learn more and advocate for those around me. Working in school setting and with disabilities has broadened my life experiences and helped me gain vital compassion and understanding that everyone’s views need to be considered and tied into all aspects of life including education. I also have utilised many of the services available through UNE so have some prior knowledge of these also.

Hello, my name is James Hede, and I am a UNE alumni and current student. I recently completed a Bachelor of Psychological Science and am now completing a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours).

I believe in fostering a supportive and inclusive community where every student feels valued. My experience in psychology has taught me the importance of empathy, communication, and understanding diverse perspectives—skills I will apply to represent you.

I have a strong academic background and was awarded the Vice-Chancellor’s Scholar Award in 2023 and the S Barratt Memorial Award in Psychology in 2024.

I would be honoured to represent the undergraduate student cohort by voicing your opinions and needs to the UNE Student Council. Please consider me for the position of General Student Representative - Undergraduate.

Thank you for your support.

Hi I am Sarah Roumieh and I would love to be on the UNE Student Council and have the opportunity to represent UNE students like myself to help and represent other students in their learning journey at UNE. I am from Sydney, currently studying a Bachelor of Social Work part-time. This is my first year in this degree and I am enjoying the different health, practical aspects, frameworks and theoretical perspectives of social work. My future aspirations include working in a school environment as a social worker to advocate for young people and guide them through the challenges of school environments and mental health issues. Social justice and human rights and the environment are my passions and I wish to contribute to raising awareness about the barriers that hold people back including disabilities (as have a lived experience of this) and contribute to making the world a fairer and better place free of discrimination.

I'm a first-year student with concurrent candidature in Bachelor of Criminology/Laws, and Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science. I served as the Youth Minister for Health, Mental Health and Medical Innovation under the Youth Parliament Program in 2022/23. I was recognised by then Premier, the Hon Dominic Perrottet for my service in the Sydney electorate, especially with homelessness support, with the NSW Government Community Service Award.

I was a keynote speaker at the 2022 Australian Medical Association National Conference for the session - COVID-19: What worked, what didn’t and what’s needed now.

I have active leadership experience as I have served as a Panelist Judge for Youth Action's Youth Work Conference for 2 years, and was a semi-finalist in the 2023 7News Young Achievers awards.

I have 3 published Journal Articles as co-authors; in the Lancet Child and Adolescent Health, and PLOS One and currently working with the University of Sydney in research on Youth Participation concerning Mental Health and well-being.

I am also an elite athlete. I have represented Australia at the 2022 FINA Junior World Open Water Championship in Seychelles. I'm also extremely proud to have represented UNE at UniSport Nationals for Swimming this May.

I believe I would be a great candidate for the UNESC. I have undertaken many years of public speaking and debating. As well as representing my school and local area in volunteer work and fund raising. I am currently studying a Bachelor of Criminology (first year) and am willing to help others with taks or general assistance.

I am a first year student studying for a BA majoring in Modern and Medieval European History. I am eager to broaden my horizons and get some experiences for when I leave university. As an on campus student I know how important attending class in person is and hope to encourage peer interaction, as there have been times where I was the only person in the class. I want to make the campus a place people come to for class rather than watching the lectures online at home.

I will be committed to voice the concerns and ideas of my fellow and junior students and I will try to minimize the communication gap between students and staff by representing them. I’ve made some quality connections with UNE teachers and staff members during Trimester 1, 2024 and I believe I can be the voice of those who are bit hesitant to convey their ideas to seniors, especially international students who struggle to adjust in new environment and face difficulties in communicating with teachers. Beside being their voice, I can help them build their confidence level. My goal will be creating a positive an inclusive learning environment where each student feels heard and empowered to succeed. I am interested to provide academic mentoring also as I hold research master’s degree already and aspire to go into PhD very soon. I ensure to listen the concerns of students and advocate for their rights in University. I hope to work in collaboration with faculty and administration (whenever required) in order to make my institute a better place to study.

As an online student with both work and family commitments, I feel that I could help communicate the needs of the online students who are usually working around busy schedules both uni and other activities. I have both life experience, and the willingness to learn more and advocate for those around me. Working in school setting and with disabilities has broadened my life experiences and helped me gain vital compassion and understanding that everyone’s views need to be considered and tied into all aspects of life including education. I also have utilised many of the services available through UNE so have some prior knowledge of these also.

I'm a first-year student with concurrent candidature in Bachelor of Criminology/Laws, and Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science. I served as the Youth Minister for Health, Mental Health and Medical Innovation under the Youth Parliament Program in 2022/23. I was recognised by then Premier, the Hon Dominic Perrottet for my service in the Sydney electorate, especially with homelessness support, with the NSW Government Community Service Award.

I was a keynote speaker at the 2022 Australian Medical Association National Conference for the session - COVID-19: What worked, what didn’t and what’s needed now.

I have active leadership experience as I have served as a Panelist Judge for Youth Action's Youth Work Conference for 2 years, and was a semi-finalist in the 2023 7News Young Achievers awards.

I have 3 published Journal Articles as co-authors; in the Lancet Child and Adolescent Health, and PLOS One and currently working with the University of Sydney in research on Youth Participation concerning Mental Health and well-being.

I am also an elite athlete. I have represented Australia at the 2022 FINA Junior World Open Water Championship in Seychelles. I'm also extremely proud to have represented UNE at UniSport Nationals for Swimming this May.

Ellen Scott

I’m excited to run for Postgraduate Representative on the UNE Student Council. I have completed my undergrad, an online Master’s in Teaching, and am now working on a Master of Arts in Writing by distance, so I know the challenges of juggling online studies with work, family, and life.

As an online student myself, I get how important it is to stay connected. I want to support you and make sure your concerns are heard and addressed. I hope to help make our postgraduate experience smoother and more connected. I’m looking forward to the chance to support and connect with other students.

Carolyn Williams

Let me introduce myself….I am Carolyn, a mum of 5, wife, grandmother and a Mental Health Clinical Nurse, with 20 years’ experience. I am currently enrolled in my second Masters degree and plan to make a totally new career move, once study is complete.
As a post-graduate student, I understand the challenges that face students looking to enhance their careers with further study or even make a career change, as I am doing. My aim, if I am successful in becoming a UNESC Representative, is to ensure that the post-graduate student voice is heard and their needs met.
Post-graduate study can be hard at times, especially when it usually involves fitting study in with current careers and family life. I hope to be the connection between post graduate students and their academic and student support community. I will work hard to promote a partnership that will ensure their post graduate study experience is an amazing and fulfilling one!

Nico Edillo

Hi everyone! My name is Nico Edillo, and I am an international student from the Philippines, studying Bac helor of Arts (Sociology Major) and Bachelor of Laws. I would like to humbly nominate myself for the position of International Student Representative on our university's student council.

Since beginning my studies post-pandemic, I have witnessed the remarkable growth and resilience of the international student community at UNE. As a full-time international student residing on-campus in Armidale and working casually in various jobs such as the foodservice sector, I have firsthand experience with the unique challenges that international students face here in Australia.

Based on my background and experience interacting with other international students, I believe I am competent to represent international students at UNE and the entire student community. I am eager to work collaboratively to ensure that our student interests are represented and to contribute to the broader goals of our university.

I kindly ask for your support and the opportunity to serve as your representative. Thank you.

Nivetha Sivarajah

My name is Nivetha Sivarajah originally from Sri Lanka. I am writing to express my strong willingness to serve as International Student Representative at the UNE Student Council. As an enthusiastic and dedicated PhD student in my second year of study, I believe I can contribute effectively to the council’s agenda and be the voice of international students to enhance the relationship with students and staff. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Botany and a Master of Business Administration (MBA). I have actively engaged in research projects and voluntary activities throughout my academic journey. Currently, I serve as the Resident Leader at Wright College and Village and take action to incorporate international students to be part of college life. I am committed to dedicating the necessary time to attending regular meetings and contributing constructively to the council’s initiatives. My skills include effective communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, and a strong commitment to teamwork. These attributes will enable me to work collaboratively with the council and make meaningful contributions.

Anjula Rawat

My name is Anjula Rawat, and I am pleased to announce my candidacy for the position of Residential Representative. As a Nepali student, my background in agriculture and extensive community service, combined with my commitment to this role, afford me a unique advantage.

I attained a Bachelor's Degree in Agriculture from Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University, India. Throughout my education, I actively participated in various organizational activities. My involvement in the National Service Scheme (NSS) enabled me to contribute to projects promoting women's empowerment, environmental conservation, and aiding children. These experiences enhanced my ability to communicate in public and articulate intricate concepts to diverse audiences.

My work with the Dolphin Student Welfare Council, where I orchestrated blood donation campaigns and guided farmers on sustainable practices, demonstrates my commitment to community welfare. Proficiency in Hindi, English, and Nepali allows me to effectively engage with a diverse range of individuals, addressing their inquiries and needs.

As a Residential Representative, my objective is to foster an environment that encourages and includes all residents. I pledge to ardently champion your needs, support cultural diversity, and work ceaselessly to enhance our UNE experience.

Thank you for your support.

Bobbie Balassa

I am a proud Aboriginal woman from the Ngemba Tribe of Brewarrina. Being an Aboriginal person, I understand and respect other Aboriginal people in the community where I live, and work. I grew up in a community with mostly Aboriginal people, therefore it has provided me with a great sense of our history and understanding around vital issues.

I have the proven ability to build partnerships and engage community to assist with the facilitation of programs, liaising with professional and regional Aboriginal communities, relevant industry, and public sector organisations. I am an active member of many Aboriginal communities and have extensive connections with community organisations and people across NSW. Relationships have always been vital to me in the several positions that I have held in the community and education sector.

I firmly believe that education is key for all individuals, there are many factors that play a pivotal role and can shape a students learning, this can be a teacher or a designated learning space. I hold a strong passion for education, I am always striving to deliver and support a positive education.
I strive to provide all students with the opportunity to develop a rich and prosperous education.