Victoria Wiltshire

The Student Equality Network is a group committed to promoting equality and ensuring the Union and University are shaped by diverse student experiences. The Network is run by paid part-time student leaders who share this commitment, and organise and lead the relevant meetings, ensuring that issues/concerns are being resolved and all students feel supported and celebrated. With this in mind, we wanted to introduce our Network Leader Spotlights giving you a bit more information about the wonderful team that make up the Equality Network. Each post will provide you with a personal insight into the Network Leaders, their experiences and ideas and why they have chosen to be part of the Student Equality Network. 

For our final Student Leader Spotlight, we talk to Yumna Baig- our Network Secretary. 

Hello everyone! My name is Yumna, and I am currently a second year Psychology student. As someone who is a person of colour and is passionate about making students’ voices heard, in particular those who are underrepresented in the university, being a part of the Student Equality Network is something I am very proud of.

Growing up in a relatively diversity area, there was some culture shock when I first arrived at university. I was so used to being surrounded by people with similar backgrounds that coming to a place where I suddenly stood out felt a bit unsettling and overwhelming at times. I was thankfully able to find my space however, I realised that creating an inclusive space plays an important part in someone’s university experience. This is one of the main reasons why I decided to join the Student Equality Network.

Becoming secretary meant I could become part of a network that provides a space where every individual feels heard and valued. This role is more than just making meeting notes, I am able to contribute towards making a diverse environment and be a part of a team that actively works to create changes within our university.

As someone who values diverse environments, it is important to me that students have a space where they feel like their voices can be heard, where they know that the university has provided them with a network that can contribute towards policy changes.

One of my main goals in becoming secretary is creating a supportive environment where students can come together and have meaningful conversations where they can learn from each other. During my time as secretary, I have seen students support each other and come up with ideas for changes within the university. Each subnetwork has a unique aspect to it, and they all come together to create a strong network that reflects the diversity of our student community. Working alongside the Student Union has allowed me to play an active role in turning the conversations we have into lasting changes that benefits students.

While my time as being secretary has come to end, I have learned a lot. The conversations we have had during our meetings made me realise how important it is for students to have a space where they can make their voices heard. Working alongside the other subnetwork leaders and the Student Union, I was able to push for tangible changes that make our university more inclusive. As students, we all play a crucial role in shaping our university, whether this is through discussions, getting involved with the Union or the values we stand up for. By joining the Student Equality Network, you are becoming a part of the wider effort that pushes for a fair and supportive environment that benefits the student experience. Every student’s voice is valuable, and this is why I encourage you to join the Student Equality Network, together we can make a difference by creating a space for honest conversations and breaking down stigmas that still surrounds the issues of representation.

The Student Equality Network is a safe space where you can share your thoughts or simply have a listen to. I cannot wait to see what the Network has in store for the next academic year, I am looking forward to seeing you all!

Through campaigns, events, paid opportunities, and projects that celebrate diversity and amplify student voices, we encourage you to get involved. Led by students, for students—make a change together. Find out more about the Network here.