Introduction:
Hi, my name is Stephen. I’ve just finished my 3-year data Science and Computing degree. Ever since I joined Birkbeck I’ve been heavily active and involved in many sports clubs and societies. I’ve been skiing with different universities that are part of UoL every year and I was the captain of the badminton society in year two and revived it from being a dead society, ensuring we had training sessions and matches against other unis (I even won Sports Club leader of the year award in the 2024 SU awards, which I’m very proud of).
Manifesto:
1. Improve the student community at Birkbeck: To ensure that there are more and better events for students and more student lead societies.
2. More student job opportunities around campus: A lot of the jobs on campus are given to externals (or not even advertised to Birkbeck Students). It’s wrong that our own students are not even given a chance.
3. To implement some form of gym on campus: Whether that be our own gym, a partnership with a near by university or a partnership for discounted memberships exclusive to Birkbeck Students with local gyms.
4. To create a safer space where students feel more confident reporting issues to the Union or university: I’ve met a lot of students who have disabilities or other issues, and they don’t know who to speak to or are afraid. I will change this, so all voices are heard!
5. To create a one-time event policy for students who want to host events. Currently this does not exist.
6. Free Transcript and Award Letters: Students should not have to wait 6–8 weeks for a free transcript and award letter. Currently, earlier access costs £15 for home delivery or £15 per email to institutions. For job and study applications, this quickly becomes unfair and expensive. After paying for our degree, proof of our achievement should be free and timely.
A Bit About Me...
Tell us a bit about yourself…
I’m 24 years old, was born in Nigeria and I’ve lived in London since arriving when I was 3. Before Birkbeck, till around 16, I played football. Notably, for Westham, QPR and Southend till around 16 when I didn’t get a scholarship. My love IT started after I completed a 2-year apprenticeship when I was 20.
Why did you run in the elections?
In my last year of university, I was elected as the Chair of Parliament for the SU. This gave me an insight into the Union and I saw that major changes and restructuring were needed!
I came to Birkbeck when I was 21 and I struggled in my first year to make friends or attend events. As Birkbeck is adjusting its philosophy to target younger students, I don’t want them to go through the same thing. I want all students to have a good experience while they are here.
Birkbeck has given me a lot of opportunities. From being a student ambassador and going to different amazing events to doing an internship from the careers team in my second year. I look for opportunities and I like to get the best out of any situation or any place I find myself. I understand that not everyone is like me, and some people need a helping hand. I love to bring the best out of people and support them!
I believe in the roles I’ve held at Birkbeck as a student ambassador, badminton captain and Chair of parliament I have made huge impacts. I want to continue to make positive changes at the university and hopefully when my time here is over, I can leave something behind for those who will come after me!
Tell us a fun fact about yourself?
I’m a sucker for rick and Morty! I rewatch episodes all the time! My favourite episode is Pickle Rick!