The form will remain open for votes until 5pm on Friday 23rd January. Who you vote for is up to you, but remember, these are the people who will represent you!
The Nominees
Christ castle: for Vice President of Education or Vice President Academics and Resources
If I become a candidate for Vice President of Education, I possess a unique blend of collaborative spirit and decisive leadership essential for this role. My experience in team environments has honed my ability to foster open communication and encourage diverse perspectives, ensuring all voices are heard and valued. Furthermore, my proven track record in leading initiatives demonstrates a capacity to set clear goals, motivate individuals, and drive successful outcomes. I am adept at navigating complex challenges by working constructively with various stakeholders. My approach emphasizes building consensus and leveraging collective intelligence to develop innovative solutions that benefit the entire educational community. This collaborative foundation ensures that decisions are well-informed and widely supported, leading to more effective implementation. My leadership style is characterized by a commitment to empowering others and fostering an environment of continuous improvement. I believe in setting high standards while providing the necessary support and resources for individuals and teams to excel. This dual focus on aspiration and enablement is crucial for driving progress within our educational institutions. The Vice President of Education position requires not only strategic thinking but also the practical ability to execute plans effectively. I am confident in my capacity to translate vision into tangible actions, manage resources efficiently, and oversee projects from conception to completion. My leadership ensures that our educational objectives are not just defined but actively achieved. Ultimately, my dedication to teamwork and my strength in leadership are directly aligned with the demands of the Vice President of Education. I am prepared to serve with integrity, drive positive change, and contribute significantly to the advancement of our educational mission.

Katrina Shuttleworth: for Vice President of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion or Vice President of Environment and Sustainability
As a student at Borders College I strived towards fulfilling my academic potential. Studying the Higher Health Course has increased my knowledge and practical skills that are vital to working in the health and social care system. I was fortunate to be elected as both Student Vice President and Vice Course Representative. In my role as Student Vice President I have helped with problem solving, organising social events and used diplomacy in order to improve students experiences within the college. Maintaining equality and confidentiality are also demonstrated through my work with various students and staff. The Health and Safety Committee as well as the Equalities and Diversity Committee have given me a further insight into health and safety as well as equalities which are both important in health and social care.
Last year at Blackpool and Fylde College I studied foundation art and design level 3. This year, at Blackpool and Fylde College I am studying the level 3 photography. So far I have been fortunate to have been elected as student representative. I feel having studied at both colleges I can empathise with my fellow students and their learning experience here at the Blackpool and Fylde College. I want to listen to students feedback and help to give students a voice about their learning experience. I feel that my personal experience of neurodiversity and mental health have taught me about the value of support and the need for a focus solution approach to improving all students experience here at the Blackpool and Fylde College. I am passionate about breaking down the barriers to learning so help make education as accessible, valuable and enjoyable as possible.

Evie Hilton: for Vice President of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion or Vice President of Academics and Resources
I believe that I would perfectly fit this role as I wish for everyone's voices to be heard no matter race, gender, disability, etc. I have a background in volunteering and a strong sense of justice when it comes to this field.

Joan Onyinyechukwu Ogbonna: for Vice President of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
I want to become Vice President of Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion because I believe every student deserves to feel respected, valued, and empowered within our college community. As a class representative, I have already worked to ensure my peers’ voices are heard, but this role would allow me to expand my impact beyond my class and contribute to the wider student body. I see this position as an opportunity to champion fairness, celebrate diversity, and create a culture where differences are not only accepted but embraced.
By establishing feedback channels and safe spaces, I would ensure that students from all backgrounds have the opportunity to share their experiences and concerns.
Ultimately, I want to leave a legacy of inclusivity, where every student feels they belong and can thrive academically, socially, and personally.

Naomi Burvill: for President of HE or Vice President of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
My name is Naomi Burvill, I am 25 and have been a student at Blackpool and The Fylde College for 9 years. I am very passionate about learning and helping people out when I can. I am running for HE president, because I want to make a change and to be the voice of the people.
I was bullied growing up and that led to mental health and many health conditions, I never thought I’d make it this far. As someone who’s been bullied and has a mixed heritage, I had racial slurs thrown at me growing up, as I was darker than I am now, I had people calling me fat when I wasn’t and that led to being anorexic and having an eating disorder. Another thing I also struggled with growing up was discrimination because I have disabilities, I had words thrown at me that I can’t mention here but made me feel like I was as dumb as they said I was.
As someone who has experienced racism, discrimination and homophobia for my sexuality, I know how it feels to be on the receiving end of hate, hence why I’m applying for this position, as I feel like because I know what it feels like first hand that I can make a change and help anyone who is going through what I went through. I want to be the voice of the students, the voice of anyone going through hard times and just to support everyone I can so that they don’t have to experience what I did.
So, if you want a HE President who knows what people could be going through and will be the voice of the people to help make a change, vote me for President, and I promise I won’t let anyone down, I will fight for all the voices coming forward.

Any questions contact Philippa Reeves-Murray via Teams or Philippa.reeves-murray@blackpool.ac.uk