Glass invited all Guild election candidates to submit a statement explaining why they are running and why they deserve your vote. This is your chance to hear directly from those who want to represent you—so take a moment to get to know their priorities and visions for the future.
Voting opens on Monday, 21st October 2024. You can check out the rest of the candidate statements here.
My name is Ren (she/they), and I study a Bachelor of Human Services. I’m not aligned with any specific political parties, but my core beliefs centre around my deep commitment to advocating for LGBTQIA+ rights and ensuring that queer students are fully supported, represented, and celebrated at QUT. I am running for Queer Officer because I believe in amplifying queer voices in decision-making processes and working toward systems that ensure equitable access to resources and opportunities for all students. It’s important to me to make attending university and having a positive and safe experience as accessible as possible.
I have extensive experience supporting LGBTQIA+ students through my roles on the SRC, as well as my previous positions as Deputy Convenor and Engagement Officer of the Queer Collective. In these roles, I’ve advocated for students’ needs across different university settings. Additionally, my five years volunteering with headspace have equipped me with valuable skills in supporting queer young people and fostering inclusive environments. This experience has prepared me to take on the role of Queer Officer and continue advocating for LGBTQIA+ students, reaching as many as possible. I haven’t done everything I need to for the queer community at QUT, and I’d love the opportunity to continue these efforts.
The Guild plays a vital role in representing students, ensuring their voices are heard in university decisions, and providing essential services that support student life. This election matters because it determines who will lead these efforts and offers a chance to choose leaders committed to making the university more inclusive, equitable, and supportive for everyone. Together with the rest of the Elevate candidates, I see the Guild becoming a stronger advocate for all students while fostering a safer, more accessible campus environment that reflects the diverse needs of its student body.
