Candidate Statements for the position of Women's Rights Officer 2025

 

Ishita Seth 

My name’s Ishita, I’m in my fourth year of uni studying a LLB/BHSc conjoint. As a queer woman of colour, it’s really important to me to make sure our university is a safe space and that people feel seen and heard.  I understand the unique challenges and opportunities we face in both of these communities. 

My goal is to create an inclusive and supportive environment where everyone's voice is heard and valued. I believe in the power of community and am committed to advocating for initiatives that promote equality, diversity, and acceptance. I remember when my university journey was starting out, I didn’t know many people in my faculty and it was very nerve-wracking. I did not put myself out my there until this year and I want to help others in similar positions who may not know about the opportunities at uni, and also ensure that everyone feels comfortable being themselves on campus.


Emelia Martin Moses

Kia Ora! Vannakam! Selamat Datang!  

My name is Emelia Nishanti Martin Moses, and I am running for AUSA’s 2025 Women Rights Officer! I am a 4th year student doing a Bachelor of Arts and Global Studies! Over the years, I have had experiences in leadership, advocacy, and community engagement, particularly around youth development. I previously held leadership positions in UN Youth New Zealand and work as a youth advisor with the electoral commission.

A big part of the reason I am running is for the University of Auckland to be safer and more empowered for all self-identifying women. Yes, it is a cliche to say this, but it is because of a continuum of work that still needs to be done. Women have the right to be safe and empowered to be bettered, especially in a tertiary space. Creating holistic support for women is needed throughout the university's service, from strengthening the women’s space and mana wahine committee to creating a safer and more inclusive environment and protecting women through prevention mechanisms within all university spaces, particularly in university accommodations. Lastly, holistic support should be provided by connecting services to those who have experienced harm. If I am elected as your WRO, yes, your voice will be heard, and your experiences will be heard.


Mair Marulli de Barletta

I have spent the past four years at UoA in pursuit of an LLB (hons.); what began as an ill-disguised attempt to achieve ‘favourite child’ status (it didn’t work, my little brothers doing med), has become an incredible voyage of self-discovery. 

2025 will be my final year at UoA, as such, I have spent significant time reflecting on the highs and lows of my university journey. A definite low for me has been the significant disparity of treatment between students as a result of the disjointed nature of the faculty system. As any student (who has the willpower to make it onto campus) will know, the resources available between different faculties and university buildings varies wildly. 

The arts faculty merger of 2024 brings with it a unique opportunity to heighten overall interfaculty cohesion. I strongly believe that as we all pay the same student levy (over $1000 each!), we should have equitable access to women’s spaces, to sanitary products, and appropriate pastoral care, regardless of our chosen degree path. 

Agree? Vote Mair for AUSA Women’s Rights Officer 2025.


Neha Desai (Second Option)

With extensive experience as both a faculty member and an administrator in the Indian academic world, I bring a unique and comprehensive perspective to the role of International Students Officer. Currently, I am pursuing my Master of Educational Leadership as an international student, giving me a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by students in a global academic environment.

My professional journey has equipped me with a solid foundation in academic policies, student support services, and administrative procedures. This experience allows me to empathize with international students' experiences and advocate for their needs effectively.

Proposed Initiatives and corresponding Action Plans:

If I get elected for the said position, I would like to focus my attention on:  

  1. Enhanced Support Services (including but not limited to - Accommodation, Bank account opening, understanding UoA, enabling buddies/mentors in faculties where there are none, mental well-being, developing study support etc)
  2. Advocacy and Representation (including but not limited to - regular meetings with international students and office representatives, gathering regular feedback, understanding and addressing their concerns)
  3. Career Development (including but not limited to - curating networking opportunities for international students to navigate NZ job market and build professional connections)

I am committed to enhancing the international student experience and build a supportive, inclusive community. If elected, I will work sincerely to ensure that every international student feels valued, supported, and empowered to succeed.