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Leila: A year as your president
As my time as President ends, I’ve been reflecting on the incredible journey we’ve taken together.
This year has been full of energy, community, and meaningful change, and I wanted to share with you just how much we’ve accomplished. Here's what we made happen:
🌍 Sustainability, Belonging & Money Matters
The Union Cupboard was born out of rising costs, as well as the increase in waste we’ve seen. We knew something simple could help with both.
Throughout the year, the Manchester Met community have been donating quality items they no longer need. So far, from our 4 giveaway events, we’ve ended up sharing over 2,500 items, from books and winter coats to kitchen gear, folders, and even an air fryer! It’s been a beautiful cycle of giving and receiving, and a reminder that support can be circular, community-led, and joyful.
Want to get involved? Well, it’s not over yet. Check out how you can donate on The Union website. Events are running every other month and will be back next academic year. Stay tuned!
Working with staff, I also supported the launch of the Community Fridge - a simple, brilliant project that gives away surplus food from campus outlets for free. Since February, we’ve shared over 1,000 food items, preventing waste and helping students stretch their budgets just a little further.
The Manchester Met community has truly shown what’s possible when we come together. Your donations, time, and support made these projects what they are. Every small action has made a big difference in someone’s life. So, thank you. Never forget that the kindness you put out into the world matters more than you know.
🛋️ Spaces That Feel Like Home
During University, there is a lot going on. Academic, financial, life and social pressures come from all sides and it can be hard to just… be.
One of the things I’ve worked on is the Union Living Room, a space inside the Union to relax between lectures, eat lunch, have a chat, or just take a break from the chaos. We wanted to create a place where you could just exist - no pressure, no performance. And judging by your feedback, we nailed it.
If you haven’t checked the place out yet, it’s located on the second floor. There’s the Heat and Eat station, games, a book swap and loads of blankets.
I’ve always been passionate about creating social spaces where people feel confident being themselves and comfortable connecting with others, even strangers. So, together with your Societies and Development Officer, we also launched the Big Union Socials. These are monthly events designed to give students a regular space to unwind, have fun, and meet new people. Whether it was for a Mario Kart Competition, Karaoke or a relaxed crafts session, over 500 students joined us throughout the year. Watching friendships form and seeing students come back each month reminded me exactly why we started this.
Keep talking to strangers, keep being yourself, remember it is empowering to be you.
🗣️ Your Voice, Amplified
A huge part of my job has been making sure your voice is heard and not just at the Union, but across the university, city, and even nationally.
This year, I’ve taken your concerns straight to the University, where I’ve pushed for change based on what matters to you. Whether it’s about support services, wellbeing, or academic life, I’ve tried my hardest to stay true to the promises in my manifesto.
On a bigger scale, I’ve represented you through NUS and GMSP, helping shape campaigns and policy across the country. Including campaigning for more affordable, better and safer transport for students. One of the most exciting moments? Seeing our lobbying work pay off when our calls to abolish guarantors were heard in Parliament. Two amendments to the Renters’ Rights Bill followed.
💬 Thank You
Honestly, thank you. Thank you for donating a jumper, showing up to an event, laughing at a social, offering feedback, sharing your story, or just even being part of the community we’ve built this year.
This is my last article as your Officer, and it’s been an honour to be part of this community.
Keep showing up for each other. Keep the kindness going. As The Union continues to grow I can’t wait to see what comes next.
Thanks,
Leila
