Candidate Statements for the position of Finance & Operations Vice-President 2025

Preniven Naicker

As a dedicated economics student at the university of Auckland, I bring a robust understanding of sustainable economic growth and a strong track record of leadership. My academic journey has been marked by leading insightful presentations throughout my journey in university, equipping me with a deep understanding  of economic factors that can influence university finance and operations. 

If elected as vice president  of finance and operations, my primary goal is to improve financial transparency  and efficiency within the student association. I plan to implement a digital dashboard that provides real time insights into budget allocation and expenditures. This tool will ensure every student can easily access and understand where their fees are actually going. This creates a greater sense of accountability  and trust within the  student body. 

Additionally, I aim to focus on sustainability, advocating for investments in student mental health resources and wellness initiatives on campus. This includes expanding on mental health support services, creating more wellness programmes and integrating sustainable practices into our campus operations. By doing so, we make our campus support the overall wellbeing of our student community. 

Through open forums and regular consultations with students, I will ensure that our financial decisions are student focused and aligned with their needs and aspirations. My goal is to create a more inclusive and  clear financial environment that supports all students in their university experience. 

Ananya Garg

As a Bachelor of Commerce student majoring in Accounting I hold a strong foundational knowledge of Financial management and Strategic planning. My leadership roles include having served as a treasurer with Generation Zero and a Secretary with the New Zealand Hindu Student Forum. These have roles along with my Accounting background have honed my budgeting, financial management and resource allocation skills. Additionally, I facilitated financial literacy workshops with saVy New Zealand, empowering students with essential money management skills. If elected as the Financial and Vice President Officer of the Auckland University Student Association, my primary initiatives will focus on enhancing financial transparency, increasing funding opportunities for student initiatives enhancing Student Experience on Campus. 

Praneel Gupta

Hello I am Praneel. I am doing Bachelor's of Commerce right now and my goal is to become a CA. I have experience in Accounting and managing assets. In the past I have experience working as an associate and a manager. I am skilled in public speaking and communication with exponential debating and negotiation skills. I am experienced in editing and marketing with many successful clients.

 If I am elected for this position, I will propose effective and efficient strategies for healthy and smooth running of the Association. I have amazing information absorbing capabilities with a healthy and prosperity mindset. If elected my main focus would be increasing the transparency and optimisation and allocation of resources through cost benefit analysis which is positively effect the overall health of the association. I am open to learning and I love discussing and communicating my thoughts. I will learn and co-operate with my seniors to make the best financial decisions possible while keeping an eye out for the public interests.

Thankyou for your time and consideration.

Kyara Wiriadinata (Second Option)

Hi! I'm Kyara, a second year pursuing a Bachelor of Science, majoring in Data Science. I come from the bustling city of Jakarta, Indonesia. I'm running for this position as I understand the feeling of being clueless and lost as a new international student (I still feel that haha). I understand feeling out of place and not understanding the world around you. Feeling homesick, away from home, and missing everything you left behind at home. So, I want to help people feel more comfortable here!

If I get elected, I'll help foster a sense of belonging for all international students so you can confidently say to your parents that you enjoy being here and don't regret your decision :)

Some initiatives I would do include culture night, hosting more events through AUSA Buddies, collaborating with UoA clubs to host more fun activities, and others! I'm planning to do some education space as well about understanding employment and part-time jobs in New Zealand, renting a flat, etc. 

However, it doesn't matter how good an event is if *you* don't enjoy it. So, I'll constantly ask for your suggestions! What kind of events we should make, how we can support you as an international student, and general improvements.