College: St. John’s
Year: 3rd (technically 4th)
Studies: Theology
I met Naz in Café Nero in town and, as neither of us looked our best, we decided a photo of our drinks would document the interview far better than a photo of us. Naz is the head of DUCK (Durham University Charity Kommittee), which involves not only all of the organisation any head of a society would do, but also managing the teams in each college.
How long have you been involved with DUCK? I’ve done various things throughout uni. In first year I did events and also an expedition in the summer, I was a college rep for DUCK in 2nd year, research and development officer in 3rd year (a position which has now been removed) and now I am the chair.
Is it far more challenging this year? Yeah, now that the position of sabbatical has been removed I am leading the entire exec team who are in turn leading the college teams…it takes coordination! DUCK awareness week was bigger this year which was a challenge but we’ve made steps forward in things like finances to support those sorts of things. We’ve also improved the way we choose charities to support, working on a basis of impact, so this year has been busy!
What’s the best thing you’ve ever done with DUCK? [After being unable to narrow it down to just one] Two things! First was the Peru expedition last year; we trekked in Machu Pichu and did 3 weeks of charity work with young people and extra-curricular activities for them to get involved with. Being leader of the expedition was excellent! There were 13 of us so I had to be organised but it was so much fun. The second is tough guy. Girls are better at it! Maybe because they expect it to be so awful and it turns out to be better than they think, but everybody is buzzing afterwards and loads of money is raised. Last year we raised £35,000 on just that event! It’s also good how the participants get to choose their own charities.
Do you have a favourite cause? The RT Projects we’ve been supporting for the past 2 years are a great cause. We’ve helped to fund local art classes in Gilesgate for those with mental conditions, it’s a very worthy cause.
And lastly, what events are coming up that people can get involved with? This term there is the rubber duck race on the river where you can win £500! It only costs a pound to enter. Next term there is a new event that we are still developing called Durham Destination. We will be hitch hiking to Amsterdam, with a few challenges along the way, and staying in a hostel where we will have a celebration party. There are a few things after exams like the bungee jumps.
Ever tried the bungee jumps or sky-diving? No…I always thought I’d do everything but I think I am too scared!
For more information on DUCK’s charities and events to get involved with, visit http://www.durhamduck.org.uk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=109&Itemid=242