Candidate Profile

Tell students about yourself

Hi, I’m Ifejuola and I’m running for Liberation Officer.

I’m currently in my second year studying Social Sciences and am at John Snow College. I’m Nigerian and was raised in East London. I’m the current Secretary for Durham ACS and I also do cheer and netball. I also modelled for Revival Charity Fashion this year!

I am really passionate about promoting positive change and addressing inequality. I hope to do this in Durham.

If elected, what sort of Officer can students expect you be?

I believe I am an empathetic listener and good communicator, traits which would be key as Liberation Officer. I want to create an environment where people feel comfortable to voice their concerns to me. My experiences on a previous Diversity and Inclusion Committee and as a mentor have developed my capacity to support individuals, understand their unique challenges and advocate for inclusive environments.

In hearing and understanding the issues that the student body face, I can, in this role, act as a spokesperson and promote change. This coupled with my passion to promote change mean that I will be effective.

Why is this role important to you?

All students have the right to feel safe and as though they belong in Durham – however for many this is not the case. I, myself, have seen how isolating and alienating it can be. Racism, sexism and classism especially are rife. This must change. I want Durham to be a place where everyone can thrive.

To achieve this, both cultural and material disadvantages must be addressed. We need to promote a genuine culture of diversity and inclusion in Durham.

My priorities;

• Review the university’s “Report and Support” System – to ensure incidents of abuse, bullying and harassment are adequately investigated and dealt with
• Ensure students are aware of the support available to them and how to access them
• Address the “college lottery” in which students from some colleges have access to more financial support
• Establish a regular forum to hear students’ concerns. I want to amplify your voice and ensure I prioritise your concerns

What is your pitch to students?

Durham is very expensive, and this means for many students a lot of university life is inaccessible. Also, many students feel they do not receive adequate support and outcomes when reporting incidents to the university. These are issues I hope to address and work to improve.