VP for UUSU Equality and Belonging

The Students With Additional Needs Network (SWANN) will be a cross campus community group initiated through recent UUSU Student Council policy. Core to its aims will be to create a space where students with additional needs, whether visible or invisible, can socialise, raise issues and lobby for the changes they want to see on and off campus.

To remain truly authentic and responsive to those it represents, UUSU is putting a call out to all those interested in getting involved in bringing the aims of this policy to life. Whether you have faced your own barriers to participation inside or outside of the classroom or are passionate in advocating for change please get in touch using the online form on uusu.org and we’ll be in touch with loads form information.

Continuing our weekly 'Brew Monday' events hosted throughout the year, and myself have had a special focus during this exam season.

Across this fortnight, we have held multiple brew mondays to encourage students to take a few moments away from their studies to feel replenished and able to continue working towards success!

# Ulster University Students'​ Union Ulster University

I had the privilege of attending a fantastic seminar on Artificial Intelligence at University, organized by the class reps of the AI classes in the Faculty of Computing. Dr David Glass, an expert in the field, shared insights on the potential of to transform our world, including enhancing healthcare and transportation systems and improving decision-making processes.
Dr James, Chair of BAME+ Network in Ulster University also spoke about the importance of diversity and inclusion in AI, stressing the need to address bias and ensure that these technologies are developed and deployed in a responsible and equitable manner.
It was exciting to learn from leading experts in the field and gain a deeper understanding of the opportunities and ethical implications of this rapidly evolving technology.
Thanks to Dr Shuai Zhang and Faculty of Computing for invitation.
I am grateful to have had the opportunity to attend this seminar and to be part of a community of individuals who are passionate about AI and its potential to shape our future.

~
Chaudhary Hamza Riaz
Vice President Equality anr Belonging
Ulster University Students Union
UK
17.02.2023

Today we celebrated diversity, inclusiveness, and equality with a cup of tea or coffee on at Ulster University! It was a wonderful opportunity to bring people from all walks of life together over a warm and comforting drink. We believe that every student deserves a warm welcome and a supportive community, regardless of their background or beliefs. Let's continue to promote unity and understanding, one cup at a time. ☕️💛

"Studying at university is not only about earning a degree, but also about , building relationships and creating memories that will last a lifetime. Engaging in activities can help you meet new people, learn new skills and broaden your perspective. Participating in societies can also enhance your resume and make you a well-rounded individual. So, make the most of your university by prioritizing your studies, but also taking time to have fun, volunteer and get involved in your community. Remember, a balanced approach to university life is key to success and happiness."

Believe in yourself and all that you are. Know that there is something inside you that is greater than any obstacle. ~ Christian D. Larson
You may have heard of Blue Monday but what about Brew Monday?
Some say it is the gloomiest day of the vear.
We know however that stress and mental health issues can affect us and our friends all year round.
That's why we are joining in reminding everyone to reach out for a cuppa and a catch-up with the people you care about.
Instead of being blue, lets get together for a brew!
We were on campus today with tea, coffee and a smile.
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Chaudhary Hamza Riaz, Vice President for Equality and Belonging in Ulster University Students Union says,
“It is a proud moment that Ulster University listened to us and announced Best Investigative Journalist Award after Arshad Sharif. We will not forget Arshad Sharif. He is proud of Pakistan and Ulster University. I would like to request other Universities across the globe to recognize his contributions towards Journalism. I would also like to pay tribute to his brave mother and family. May he rest in Peace.”

Arshad Sharif graduated in MA Media Studies from Ulster University’s School of Communication and Media 17 years ago. The senior journalist anchor, was killed in Kenyan capital Nairobi on October 23 where he was living in self-exile.

Ulster University will honour Arshad Sharif’s memory by giving an award named after him each year to one of its students for the best articles produced in investigative journalism, turning his fight for truth into a legacy to encourage a new generation of journalists. The university administration has also added Arshad Sharif’s name to its Tree of Hope in the university oratory in Coleraine as the “institute remembers him and his family at this time of the year”. Dr Colm Murphy – Subject Leader – said that the varsity will honour Arshad Sharif’s memory by giving an award named after him each year to one of its students for the best articles produced in investigative journalism.



https://www.instagram.com/p/CmqVTEVon7y/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

I am delighted to meet .oneill.sf , First Minister (Designate) and Former Deputy First Minister in . Thanks for your visit in Ulster University. Politicians play an important role in the developement of society. We discussed the impact of cost of living crisis on students, accomodation issues, International engagement and much more. I hope further steps would be taken to provide a better student life experience across the campuses.

Together we rise🤩

I would like to Thankyou ✨all the Campus Navigators in helping out staff and students in New Belfast Campus.🤩
You are the best🤩😍

Pleased to meet Dr James Uhomoibhi, Chair BAME+ Network, to discuss about Equality and Diversity in . We I recognize the work of BAME+ Network and university in promoting Equality, Diversity and Inclusion for all. James appreciated all the policies and work fone by to promote Equality, Diversity and Inclusion.

We were privileged to have the Lord Mayor, Sandra Duffy in Ulster University Magee Campus. She took time to meet with new international students of Magee and Coleraine Campus. She was delighted to hear how much UU Students are settling in the campus.
International Department] International Department]

Such a nice experience. Had an Induction with International Students.✨🤩 Thanks to ✨
Really Looking forward to you all✨
If you have any query, please reach out to UUSU. Happy to Help🤩♥️

First Month Update✨😍
Hi Everyone. ✨Hope you all are doing well and enjoying the summer. As you all know, I took up post of Vice President Equality on 1st of July 2022. I with my team are working constantly with passion throughout the summer to make everything accessible for all the students of Ulster University including freshers. We are trying to develop and making the strong, cooperative , ensuring that everyone can enjoy the benefits of being physically active regardless of their background.
Following are some important events to mention.
✍️Induction sessions with all the staff members of UUSU to understand and discuss several needs and demands of the role.
✍️Shifting from Jordanstown Campus to new Belfast Campus.
✍️Student Union Training in Dundalk to learn different aspects of roles from different perspectives.
✍️Working in groups with staff members to ensure that all points in our manifesto must be accomplished.
✍️Attended Student Executive Meeting in UU Magee Campus
✍️Attended the Lead and Change 2022 conference in Leeds.
✍️Arranged the Belfast Pride Festival 2022 with cooperation of and and represented Ulster University in parade with and 🏳️‍🌈

Congratulations🎊 to all who got admission in , we are looking forward to welcome you all in coming academic year with gratitude.
If you have any kind of query or idea, please do not hesitate to drop me an email [email protected]

Home Welcome to the UUSU Impact Report 21-22, a celebration of our successes over the past year. The report offers just a snapshot of ways we have worked to improve the lives of our students and outlines the impact of our activity on your student experience.

A Formal Post Buddies✨
I am Chaudhary Hamza Riaz, your new VP Equality and Belonging. I am going to look after all aspects of Equality Diversity and Inclusion, responsible for the coordination of equality councillors and oversees a range of policy matters surrounding the EDI portfolio. I will be Leading on engagement and change locally and at a national level, this role will represent the opinions and life experience of members and help educate on a broad range of equality and inclusion issues.
My Message to all my University Fellows,
"Hi everyone. It's an honour and pleasure to be elected as VP of Equality and Belonging at USU. I can see this opportunity to contribute to a forward-thinking UUSU. I feel I can do so by promoting equality across the campuses, as well as a sense of belonging that UUSU cares for every student. I will be creating and encouraging
a safe environment for work and study. I will be working to promote and advance equality, respect and value diversity.
I plan to develop a collegiate environment of excellence with equality; in which the human rights, responsibilities, and diversity of all students and staff are recognized and
respected. All voices matter regardless of anything, so feel free to get in touch with me if you need any kind of help."
Drop me an email if you have any query or need any help, [email protected] .
Love and Support from me to every single student of Ulster University.✨✨🎊🎊

Our phone line closes next week! ☎️
UUSU’s UOK? We’re Here For You phone line closes on 10th December!
If you have a query or concern about your course, finance, mental health and well-being, settling in to university life or anything else, give our phone line a call on 08088010844 Monday to Friday, 10am to 6pm

✨ Big change is coming to UUSU! ✨

Next year, the UUSU Student Executive team will look a little different!
With teaching wrapping up on the Jordanstown campus, and I have been working hard to create a new role entitled “Equality and Belonging” to replace the VP Jordanstown. This role will focus on Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and will be a fantastic addition to the new Officer Team next year!
Student Council met last week and the role has been approved so it will be exciting to see the candidates for this position in the next leadership elections! If you have any questions on the role, feel free to give Grace or myself a shout

🎄Still time to sign up for some festive volunteering!! 🎄
Thursday 25th Nov in Belfast at Mission Christmas headquarters to lend a hand! Register via uusu.org/volunteering
Travel costs will be reimbursed

🌤Some gorgeous views on top of Cavehill this morning🌤
(And I don’t just mean VP for UUSU Belfast! 😉)
Great to see so many of you choosing our sunrise hike over a few extra hours in bed!

☀️ Move in weekend! ☀️
Had such a fun couple of days meeting so many of you moving into Jordanstown halls!

Next week, in partnership with Queen's University Students' Union and Nus-Usi we will be asking you to .

We shared stories of thanks and praise for our dedicated healthcare students earlier this year but, now we are taking action, and you can get involved.

All next week we will be sharing stories from Healthcare students and ways you can get involved in the campaign to ask Stormount to support student health heroes.

Hi everyone, I’m Rebecca Allen, your new VP Jordanstown! ✍🏻

Before I start to talk about my aims for the year ahead, I’d love to congratulate our graduating class of 2021! 🎉🥳
In the wise words of Elle Woods from Legally Blonde, “We did it!” You should all be so proud of yourselves and I’m looking forward to seeing you all again when we’re able to have an in-person ceremony! Belle and I had some very quiet celebrations yesterday (we spent most of the day trying to get a nice photo together) but whatever you got up to, I hope you all had fun and stayed safe!! 🎓

Just to give you a little bit of an insight into my journey through UU, I’m a Law with Criminology graduate 👩🏻‍🎓 (saying ‘graduate’ instead of ‘student’ will take some getting used to!) During my time at Ulster, I’ve been a course rep, a school rep, a faculty rep and a PASS leader so I’ve always had a passion for student representation and developing the student experience!
I’m also planning to complete a Part Time LLM in Employment Law and Practice at UU, beginning in September! 📝

Looking forward to the year ahead then, it’s going to be another busy year for all of us at UUSU!
🏫 Of course, being VP Jordanstown, one of my main priorities will be the move to the Greater Belfast Development and doing my part to ensure the transition as seamless as possible! 🏫
📢 I’m also keen to work with our VP Education for UUSU and our reps to adapt the UUSU handover documents so that every student’s voice can be heard and amplified, providing our reps with some additional support! 📢
📧 Another area I’m keen to work on is the University email service and looking into what can be done to ensure inboxes are more streamlined and relevant to students! 📧

This is just a brief snapshot of my own personal aims and goals for the year ahead but of course, I’ll be involved in plenty more throughout the year.
I would say my door is always open but since we’re working from home for now, I’ll say my inbox is always open! Please don’t hesitate to drop me a message or an email if you have any issues or queries, I’m here to help!!
You can get in touch by emailing [email protected]
In the meantime, stay safe and take care and get some well earned rest over the Summer! ☀️

Hi Everyone!!!

Got a lot of new people added to the page so just wanted to introduce myself!
I'm Oisín and my job is to make sure everyone has the best time possible during their time at Ulster University Jordanstown!

I was elected last year to represent you and your issues and most importantly to !

In the pipeline: I'm sorting out a kitchenette unit for students to be able to make their own food, I'm working with Limelight and other venues to get our students in faster and cheaper and I'm working on bringing an alcohol license to our Union space so you can have a few drinks in-between classes.

If you're interested in following what I'm doing, or have any ideas of your own you'd like me to do for you then Like my page or email me at [email protected].

Hey! Give this page a like/follow to help me

Exam stress care packages will be rolled out in Belfast and Jordanstown today and tomorrow!! Check your SU bathrooms for our little mascots 💕