Tell us a bit about the guy behind the ‘Fro – what did you study at Leeds and what are your interests?
I’ve been heavily involved in all things Leeds long before the ‘Fro was unleashed onto campus. I studied Politics and Economics but was also President of my Hall Exec, School Rep for POLIS and a Bar Supervisor in Terrace for 2 years. My interests cover everything from music and films to baking and technology – not forgetting a cheeky bit of Fruity every Friday, of course.
For the readers still in the dark – what exactly does the role of Union Affairs Officer entail?
My role covers governance, where I chair our board and oversee how the Union is run; finance, to ensure that every penny spent benefits our students; and democracy, so that our processes and reps ensure that there is always the opportunity for students to have their voices heard.
What is your proudest achievement as the current Union Affairs officer and why?
My proudest achievement so far is probably around the future of LUU – the biggest news is embargoed for another few weeks but I can’t wait to reveal what I’ve been working on recently to the students of Leeds! I’ve also really enjoyed being the lead officer on the Express Yourself research which saw over 4,000 give us their thoughts on the world around them and help shape our vision for the next four years. I’ve also helped build the proposal that means (subject to the approval of a full business case) the University will be investing in the redevelopment of the Union building.
What are three things at the top of your list to achieve if you get re-elected?
I’ve got quite a few ideas so it’s hard to whittle it down to three, but I’d probably say:
ensuring that the business case for the Union redevelopment is accepted and that there is a focus on student enterprise and society space; taking LUU on Tour so that no matter where you are on campus, students can still access our services and shops; and enhancing representation to improve the sense of belonging for postgraduates and international students.
What do you think your real chances are of re-election? Do you think it’s a risky move?
It was always a difficult decision to re-run, but the support of other staff, students and members of the Exec really encouraged me to go for it. It’s definitely a risk, but if I am re-elected the outcomes would be worth it. I don’t think we can underestimate the value of a second year officer with the knowledge, experience and relationships to provide continuity in some of the critical projects that we are working on at the moment.
You’ve become a BNOC for your famous posters and memes – which one is your favourite and why?
Haha, why thank you! There’ll be plenty more to come at www.votebrad.co.uk too. I think the Afromore – Thrift Shop parody (editor’s note: see video below) has been my favourite so far as it was so much fun to film and produce, but I’m also a massive Disney geek when it comes to Frozen so couldn’t resist doing a FROzen meme either!
Her Campus prides itself on being written by women for women. What would persuade an undecided reader of ours to’ Go with The ‘Fro’?
I really want to help promote the great work that societies just like Her Campus do. With a ClubMatch system that matches students’ interests to their perfect society and tailored communications; I think we can really personalise our University experience. Most importantly, regardless of all the ideas I have, I love representing students and will remain dedicated to creating the change that your readers really want to see.
And finally – for the Fromies out there – what’s the secret to keeping a fabulous ‘fro?
Haha- great question! There’s a top secret formula but I’m happy to share it with you as a Her Campus exclusive.
F(resh ideas) + R(eliability) + O(riginality) = A fabulous FRO!
Thanks Bradley! Good Luck!
Molly Forsyth