We are delighted that, in Pride Month, we can bring you Lauren's report of just some of the things she has achieved this year as LGBTQ+ Officer
Lauren has been our elected LGBTQ+ Officer this year. We are delighted that, in Pride Month, we can bring you her report of just some of the things she has achieved this year in the role. Added to all of this, Lauren has been shortlisted for two national awards this year - National Student Pride Awards for Overcoming Adversity and Queer Student Awards in the Unsung Hero category - and has run the London Marathon!
Lauren's Report
This year has been full of meaningful opportunities, events and conversations that have helped amplify LGBTQ+ voices and create inclusive spaces within the university community.
Throughout the year, I’ve attended and supported several of Katie’s Home Away From Home events, including prize night, social nights, winter light trail, craft sessions and the final "hurrah" meal. These events have been a great way to build community and talk to students.
For LGBTQ+ History Month, I created an interactive board in the SU Social Space for students and staff to engage with this year’s theme: Activism and Social Change. The board included prompts such as:
- What does inclusivity mean to you?
- What’s an example of activism and social change that inspires you?
- Activism comes in many forms – how do you express yourself or support social change?
Alongside this, we displayed posters and fact sheets highlighting LGBTQ+ individuals throughout history, helping to educate and celebrate our community’s contributions.
Collaborating with the LGBTQ+ and D&D Societies, we hosted a Games & Pizza Evening at Langden Games, which was a fun and welcoming event for new and returning students.
Another highlight was Reclaim the Night 2025, where I helped organise the event and gave a speech. It was a powerful evening focused on solidarity and empowerment and I’m proud to have been part of it.
We also ran a Quiz and dinner Night at Mix, which was another fun, social event bringing students together.
To round off my time as Student Officer, I ran a final Lunch & Crafts session- a relaxed and creative way to engage with students and reflect on the year.
I also had the opportunity to meet with MP Jack Abbott and take part in a discussion with Helen Pankhurst. Additionally, I had the pleasure of meeting the Mayor, which provided a lovely opportunity to discuss issues and student representation with local councillors.
All in all, it’s been a fantastic second year as LGBTQ+ Officer. This role has given me the platform to pursue what I’m passionate about, while ensuring that student voices continue to be heard.