Here are the manifestos for you to peruse at your leisure before the AGM on Thursday 15th March (5 til 7) where candidates will present their manifesto as a speech to the society.
Emma proposed by Laura Smith, seconded by Mary Frankland Sally proposed by Stuart Leedham, seconded by Jeni Skelland
The LUU LGBT society is of great importance to LGBT students, as it may be the first society within students can be ‘out’, and as such, we value it as an essential part of student life and would strive to make it the best it can be: as welcoming, friendly and non judgemental as possible.
As active members of the LGBT, we would be in close contact with many of the members and try to best represent their interests. We are both very organised, confident and have the required communication skills for liasing with various other institutions. Our varying skills complement each other well and the combination of Sally’s experience on the committee and Emma’s pragmatic personality would, we hope, do our members justice.
Our more specific aims include more involvement with other LGB(T) societies and charities, realisation of more diverse interests and more exciting and inclusive coffee hours.
Lots of love, Emma and Sally
Dominic Sefton
Proposed by Drew Britton Seconded by Tom Beardmore
When I hesitantly walked into my first LGBT Coffee Hour last year, I thought that I’d probably make a few friends in the group but not really get too involved with the Society as a whole. Now, though, I’m glad to say that I was very wrong. I’ve met some wonderful people in the Society and had a great time along the way. Now I want to make sure that it can carry on being as fab as I’ve found it.
I’m passionately interested in all things LGBT, and I love nothing more than to get people talking about LGBT issues. I’m friendly and easy to approach, and can be found (with alarming regularity) at Coffee Hour and as many events as I can attend. I’m open and honest with everyone, and can be as outspoken or as discreet as a situation needs me to be.
My experience on the committee during this term has given me insight into the Chair’s role, and I am confident I could perform this role effectively. I also understand from personal experience that some people might be discouraged from joining the LGBT when they arrive at Leeds University – writing about the society for the LUU and Societies Handbooks is one of the Chair’s key duties, and I feel that I will be able to interest these people in our group and inspire them to sign up.
-- Edited by forum admin next gen at 17:29, 2007-03-03
Proposed by: Drew Britton Seconded by: Chris Hibbins
Hey, I’m Martin, I’m a First Year Communications student and I’m standing for Secretary . I think I’d be good in this role as I have great interpersonal skills, and would be a good representative of the society and what it stands for. Due to my study area I keep up on current issues and topics – I’m very passionate for causes I feel strongly in and will take any case the society or its members want to get involved in very seriously. I’m also very orgnised an great at note taking – if any of this helps!
Although I haven’t had much (any!) experience in a role like this, I feel I do have positive qualities I can bring to both the position and in the society as a whole. I’ve had loads of volunteering and leadership experience in the past – I volunteer at the British Heart Foundation shop near where I live, and have been there for a little over a year. I feel I am committed but also friendly and helpful. If elected I plan to be as involved as I possibly can, and hope that I can help keep the society running as smoothly as it can be.
On a personal level, I like going out, gigs, music, cinema – the usual really! I’m also from Leeds so can offer lots of advice and insider information to new (and old!) members! I’ll be a drinking buddy or a shoulder to cry on – whatever you need! I’m looking forward to getting my teeth really stuck into this role, if you give me the opportunity. Thanks!
Vivien King Macdona
Proposed by: Phil Morris Seconded by: Scott Sullivan
The LGBT plays an integral role in uniting members of the wider university community, a role which many would be at a great disadvantage without. Having seen how much work goes into its upkeep, I would like to offer my own contribution as secretary.
As current editor of the nightclub review pages in the Leeds Student Newspaper I am used to working to strict deadlines on a weekly basis and organising our contributors' articles and my own. I hope to be able to transfer these skills in the position of secretary. As a member of the LUU English Society committee I have experience in helping organise meetings and socials and would be able to ensure information is easily passed between all members of the committee. I would also be more than willing to undertake any other duties within the society when needed.
To keep the LGBT as a strong presence, raise awareness and maintain its present fun and accessible atmosphere is of great importance and I hope to be able to help achieve this as committee secretary next year!
-- Edited by forum admin next gen at 14:22, 2007-03-03
Proposed by: Charlotte Goodwin Seconded by: James Wilcox
Hey there, my name is Matthew Hornsey; for those of you who don’t know me I’m the blonde one who is quite literally always in coffee hour. I am currently in my second year doing electronic engineering. I have been a member of the LGBT for two years (Mission card on the first day) and I think it’s a great society with a wonderful eclectic set of members.
I have always wanted to be a part the committee and help out with the running of the society and now with the treasurer’s seat I believe that I can fulfil that wish and do a good job as well.
As an engineering student I am very competent with handling numbers and the nature of my course means I am well organised and good at keeping things in order.
I would like to carry on managing the finances to the same high standard of the previous treasurer. I will distribute the finances fairly to give the society’s member’s maximum benefit in the quality and fun of it’s events, to help ensure events are profitable, and of course to keep us in tea and coffee every lunchtime (because lords knows I drink my way through enough of that budget). I will also do my best to ensure the society maintains the funding it receives and investigate new ways to obtain more.
Most importantly I would like to be treasurer because I will work hard and I would love the opportunity to help guide the new committee into the new year of university. I believe I can do a good job.
Proposed By: Matthew Hornsey Seconded By: Dominic Sefton
I would like to stand for the position of men’s officer at the upcoming AGM. I feel that I’m a suitable candidate for this position for the following reasons.
Firstly I have enjoyed my membership of the LGBT this year; it has been a very valuable part of my university experience thus far. I’d like to be a friendly face to new members as I’m personally aware how going to your first coffee hour can be quite a scary prospect for a lot of people. I’d like to try and make everybody feel welcome when attending events by being both friendly and approachable.
Secondly I think I’m a good listener, I enjoy talking to people and would be more than happy to try to help any of the members out if they were having any difficulties. I would also respect individual’s confidentiality. I’m a very tolerant person, not prone to fits of bi-phobia or anything else of that ilk. I think I’m reasonably well informed of issues gay men often face, I’m aware of the welfare aspect of the position I’m running for and would like that responsibility.
Finally I’m an English student with the empty timetable to match. I have plenty of free time to give to the LGBT.
Proposed by: Gemma McCormick Seconded by: Charlotte Goodwin
I am applying to be Women’s Officer because I am friendly, bubbly and approachable. I feel I could help people with their problems by listening and being supportive or pointing them in the right direction. I will ensure full confidentiality so women feel safe coming to me for help and information. I would also promote women’s welfare by providing sexual health information and LGBT women’s events and campaigns information.
After joining the LGBT, I have become a very active member and met some wonderful people. I remember how the committee, in particular, made me feel welcome when I first joined. This is exactly why I am applying. I want to ensure that all newcomers feel included and accepted. Having a lovely, friendly committee really helps people to want to get involved and have fun! I would love to see the less active members join in more and I feel I can help by providing a supportive, but fun, environment for them to be part of.
Things I think that could be improved are our ties with the other LGBTs in surrounding areas. I would work with the Events officers to make sure that the women, and everyone else, of all the LGBTs had the opportunity to meet up and socialise.
Trans issues can often be confusing and not as well understood as the ‘G’, ‘L’ and ‘B’ parts of the LGBT; but it is just as important that these members are welcomed and included in the society and given any support or information they may need.
Whilst not being a trans student myself, as someone who has developed a real interest in gender issues through studying for a degree in Cultural Studies, as trans officer I would endeavour to continually expand my knowledge and keep up to date with trans issues, whilst always being around to listen and give support. I would also try to raise awareness within the LGBT community of trans and gender identity issues.
I am a friendly, reliable person who always maintains a non-judgmental attitude. I always value and respect other people’s ideas and opinions and enjoy learning about other’s perspectives on gender. I will be around at many a coffee hour for a chat and the usual fun and games!
Proposed by: Chris Hibbins Seconded by: David Wynn
I’m Hannah Bithell, I study geography (don’t hold that against me). I’d like to run for events.
I think it’s worth you voting for me because: • I know how to organise events, with experience talking to venues, and getting great deals (I got a leavers ball at the Hilton hotel for £19 per person). • I was president of my college NUS (and started an LGBT) which involved organising a range of events. • I understand that being on a committee not only means caring about your own role, but also supporting other members of the committee with their jobs. • I’m game for a laugh (I dressed up as a condom for THT). • I’m willing to stand up for your rights.
This year we have had some great events, which I will repeat, I’d also like to have some less alcoholic events (shock horror) like; • Cinema trips. • Bowling. • Bingo trips . I’d also like a BBQ during freshers week and more activities in coffee hour - I am a particular fan of blockbuster.
I hope this has given you a taste of what I am about and that you will vote for me.
Charlottle Goodwin
PROPOSED BY: Kate Benny SECONDED BY: Jennifer Lee
Manifesto:
I'd like to be events officer because I like meeting new people and having a good time. I'm organised and will work hard to make events successful, fun and inclusive for all.
To achieve this I'll ask and listen to members requests and suggestions on what events to run and I'll try to space them in such a way that there's always something fun to do without completely packing peoples schedules. I'll also ensure that, where possible, plenty of notice will be given on the forthcoming events to give you time to make awesome costumes for fancy dress events, which of course will be rewarded with prizes, and organise yourself in such a way that you can enjoy as many events as possible whilst still managing to drag yourself into lectures for that all important degree. I'll still run all the traditional events, such as Otley runs, as well as bringing some fresh ideas such as a fresher's week ****tail party for people to meet and greet without been dragged to different places. I'll also try to organise a speed dating night, which promises to be a laugh and a giggle if nothing else. I'll also organise some non-drinking events for those who don't fancy the headache and humiliation of the morning after the night before.
Above all if elected I promise to behave, or amuse you all with drunken antics.
Hani
proposed by: Mary Frankland seconded by: Vivien King Macdona
I want to be events officer because.....
----- I'm a friendly, outgoing and fun person who enjoys meeting new people and, ofcourse, the nights out.
-----I'm already an enthusiastic and committed member of the society
----- I've been at Leeds for long enough (next year is my 4th year) to know this city very well and all it has to offer.
I plan to organise loads of fun & new events........
-----more non-alcoholic events like go-karting, paintballing, mini-golf, trips to the Playhouse and theme parks nearby
-----Trips to the moors and towns outside of Leeds
----- Go to other gay nights in York, Manchester & Sheffield.
----'Gaying up' nights out to other clubs in Leeds (yes, i know its a shock, there's a life outside of mission) & to clubs with other kinds of music to cater for all tastes.)
-----I also have many ideas for freshers week such as an intro party and speed-mating to get new members to the society in a hopefully non-intmidating way
I intend to be.........
----- committed and active member of the committee & do my best to support all other committee members in their various roles whilst being approachable & listen to what people want out of events
-- Edited by forum admin next gen at 19:04, 2007-03-03
Proposed by: Drew Britton Seconded by: Stuart Leedham
I'm running for communications officer because… I'm a geek. And proud.
I have plenty of experience with the interweb, as from the age of fifteen I've helped out on a variety of websites, either updating them or modding a variety of forums. Furthermore, I studied GCSE IT, which included Communications Key Skills. I am hardworking and determined, helping the Young Enterprise company (of which I was the managing director) become the successful, prize winning group that it was.
I am reliable and have been involved in various committees and groups throughout my school and university life, including the Classics department staff/student committee, numerous school and governor's meetings, and was an active member and help for the local Scouting and Guiding associations.
If elected, those weekly emails will be a treat to receive. You'll all be hanging on the edge of your seats waiting for them. The forum and website will be maintained, and I'll revamp the society notice board area (with the help of my husband and other minions).
Jeni.
Carl Onwochei
Proposed by: David Wynn Seconded by: Phil Morris
I am composing this manifesto to explain why I wish to put forward myself for the position of communications officer. My chosen rationale used to justify my application is to play a key role in events publicity using various media formats, which may appeal to active members of the LGBT, and hopefully non-active members who would wish to become more involved in LGBT hosted events.
I propose to work in collaboration with events officers to provide varied publicity measures utilising my limited knowledge of media (however, I am willing to learn more!) and implementing both traditional and alternative publicity measures. I feel timing is essential in publicising events, so given the right time scale and effective utilisation of resources (i.e. the internet and posters & flyers, which is a bit more artistic!) in collaboration with events officers, events can be publicised earlier in an appealing format with the intention of LGBT members to prepare for future events maximising member participation.
Thank you for taking the time to read this manifesto.
-- Edited by forum admin next gen at 14:25, 2007-03-03