Samuel Arikawe

Students First. Accountability.Real change

I’m standing for Student Trustee because I genuinely care about how decisions made at the top affect students day to day — in lectures, on placement, with finances, wellbeing, and access to support.

As a student and Student Representative, I’ve already seen how important it is for students to be listened to properly, not just consulted after choices have been made. I regularly raise concerns from my cohort, communicate with staff, and make sure information is shared clearly so students know what’s going on and how to get help.

If elected, I would bring a calm, practical student voice to the Trustee Board — one that focuses on transparency, fairness, and long-term thinking. I’m especially passionate about improving communication between the Union and students, supporting those on demanding courses and placements, and making sure decisions reflect the real diversity of experiences across our campuses.

Being a Trustee isn’t just about having ideas — it’s about responsibility, governance, and making sure the Union is working in students’ best interests. I take that seriously.

This role is not about personal recognition — it is about service. I want to make sure every student, from first year to final year, feels represented, supported, and proud of their Students’ Union.

I will listen carefully, challenge constructively ask the difficult questions, challenge respectfully, and make sure policies are shaped by the realities students face — whether that is placement pressures, academic workload, wellbeing, cost-of-living concerns, or access to services,and always put students first.