We've been receiving manifestos to fill the void left by the departure of our Men's and Women's officers before Christmas.
Candidates will give a short speech and be voted on, along with a discussion of the running of the society, at the EGM at 6pm on Monday the 26th of January. This will take place in the Arc (upstairs part of the Union), meeting room 2. Come along and show your support!
Here are the manifestos for the positions:
WOMEN'S OFFICER
Jo Franklin
Proposed by Jonny Bridge Seconded by Adam Crocker
As a mere young snip of fresher, venturing out into the gay scene for the first time I have found the LGBT society a real lifeline, and has made my transition into university an enjoyable experience. I therefore feel I would like to give something back to the society by offering my services as women's officer. What I lack in experience I can more than make up for in enthusiasm and a willingness to learn and to experiment with new things. The key issue I would like to address during my time as women's officer is the casual harassment of lesbian and bisexual women, which is sadly commonplace across the university. I would also be prepared to organise workshops in order to tackle issues such as safe sex and relationships. It almost goes without saying that I would be prepared to make many cups of delicious tea.
MEN'S OFFICER
Andy Bailey
Proposed by Jo Franklin Seconded by Stuart Forward
Why would I like to be the mens officer for Leeds Universitys LGBT society? Since my arrival here in September 2008, the society has given me so much; a place to make great friends, have a laugh, and the possibility to genuinely feel good about myself. As cringe worthy as it may sound, I look up to those on the committee whose hard work has allowed all the events and moments that have made my year to take place. It would be an honour if I could contribute in some small way to the running of the society, and have the feeling of providing something that would make my fellow society members feel that little bit better about themselves in whatever way possible, whether that be through helping with any problems, or merely serving a selection of hot beverages. I believe that I have the level head needed for the job, and would like to think that if I was approached by a male member with a problem, or someone who just wanted to talk, I could assist calmly and objectively, thinking of his best interests.
Matt Whitehouse
Proposed by Jo Turner Seconded by -
I think I would be a good candidate for men's officer because I am organised and work well as part of a team. I have experience in dealing with any issues which young gay members may have since I worked as a youth counsellor for one and half years during which I took calls and e-mail from young people all around the UK and helped with problems ranging from relationships to suicide. During this I gained skills in empathy and fully understand confidentiality. I have been told that I am an approachable person which I think is crucial in a position such as Men's Officer. I am very happy to talk to anyone who needs help with something. I will be a commited to helping organise events and other things the LGBT need.
Sean O'Callaghan
Proposed by Mark Wingham Seconded by -
As your Mens Officer, my primary goal will be to advance the wellbeing of every student who chooses to access the services of the LGBT Society.
But first things first. My name is Sean and I am on a study exchange placement from Brisbane, Australia. I have spent the last year as my home Universitys Queer Officer. A typical week for me back home in this role would include attending Union Executive meetings, supporting LGBTQI students, organising and running fundraising events, liaising with community and health service groups as well as (gay)lording over the collective meetings held in our queer space. Typing all of this has made me realise what a miracle it is that I passed last semester. I won the position of Queer Officer in a general student election which proves I am rather likable and yes, there were other candidates running!
If entrusted with looking after the men at the University of Leeds, I will offer support including (but maybe not limited to) personal advice on sexual health, referrals to experts when Im over my head, a shoulder to cry on or drink with, tea and biscuits and even soy milk. I will strive to be as involved with the society as I possibly can and will be a willing participant in all social and political events backed by our collective.
In closing (about time), I would be honoured to be a part of this amazing commitee and promise to do all I can to assist all queer and queer-friendly students at the University of Leeds.
