Hi, I'm Daveen. I’m currently studying Psychology and Counselling with The Open University. I’m running for BAME Representative because I believe students deserve to feel seen, heard, and genuinely supported throughout their studies.
When I first started at the OU, I didn’t even know spaces like the Student Union or Student Connect existed. Like many students, I was focused on managing my studies alongside real life, and there wasn’t always clear visibility around where to go for support or community. That experience stayed with me because I realised how easy it is to feel disconnected, even in a university designed to be accessible.
For me, this role is not just about representation as a title, but about making sure students actually feel the difference. I want to help make support, communities, and opportunities more visible and easier to access, especially for students who may already feel on the outside.
As a BAME student, I understand that representation is not just about being included, but about being genuinely understood. Experiences around belonging, identity, and even how people respond to representation can have a real impact on students. These issues are not always loud or visible, but they matter, and they deserve to be recognised and heard.
My approach is simple. I listen. I take time to understand different perspectives, and I focus on making sure that what students say leads to something meaningful. It’s about creating a space where students can express themselves and know their concerns will lead to action.
I also want to make sure things feel more open and accessible. Students shouldn’t feel like they have to figure everything out alone or already be part of something to feel included. Whether someone is just starting, returning to study, or balancing other responsibilities, they should feel like they belong and know where to go.
I’m running because I want to contribute to a more connected, visible, and supportive student experience. One where students feel confident that their voices matter and that they truly belong, not on the outside of it 
Officially approved by my campaign manager 
Good Luck Daveen!