Councillors

Each SRC member has a specific area of student life that they represent. In addition to the DUSA Exec, the council is made up of the following SRC members and School Presidents.

Ewan McMahon
Housing Representative
Sage Cormack
Trans & Non-binary Representative

Nicole Okoro

VICE PRESIDENT OF REPRESENTATION

vpr@dusa.co.uk

As the Vice President of Representation, Nicole’s purpose is to spearheads initiatives aimed at promoting diverse perspectives, equality, and amplifying marginalized voices. Also, actively collaborating with student organizations, faculty, and administration to develop policies and programs that foster inclusivity on campus. Recognizing the importance of representation, Nicole aims to serve as a catalyst for change, creating an environment where every individual feels valued, celebrated, and empowered to thrive.

Maud verhoeven

SRC Chair

src.chairperson@dundee.ac.uk

I’m Maud Verhoeven, your SRC Chair and a third-year History and Psychology student from the Netherlands. Since starting at Dundee, I’ve been active in our student community – from being President of the History Society and a Class Rep, to volunteering with the Free Breakfast Programme and serving on the Volunteering Executive Committee. I believe in student-led change, and now, as Chair, I’m dedicated to ensuring our voices make a real impact.

My role as Chair is guiding SRC meetings, ensuring discussions run fairly and everyone’s input is valued. The SRC exists to create positive change on campus, and I’m here to ensure that your concerns and ideas lead our efforts.

As chair, I need to remain independent, so my manifesto is centred around SRC development rather than direct changes to student life. My main points include:

  • Broadening the SRC’s Scope: Ensuring we hear from all student voices across campus.
  • Building a Progressive, Accessible Campus: Advocating for progress and support that serves everyone’s needs.
  • Increasing SRC Visibility: I want to make the SRC more present in your student life – with more campaigns, transparency, and an active social media presence.

The SRC is here to amplify your voice, so I encourage you to get involved, attend our meetings, or share your ideas. Together, we can create meaningful change and a campus experience that supports everyone.

Marcus Flucker

Independent Member of Court

The Independent Member of Court (IMC) sits on the University Court, the highest governing body at the University of Dundee, providing an independent voice to ensure that the student body’s opinion is being heard.

The IMC works closely with student representatives to collect important feedback about the student experience and applies this knowledge when debating matters at Court meetings.

This position is voluntary and the post holder will undertake its duties alongside their studies. This role also gives them a seat on the Students’ Representative Council, the highest body of student representation at the University of Dundee.

chigozirim udeh-ibe

Employability Representative

src.employability@dundee.ac.uk

I understand that excelling in any career path can be challenging. As the Employability Rep, my goal is to enhance career prospects by making employability resources more inclusive, accessible, and impactful. Every student deserves the tools they need to succeed, regardless of their background or experience.

A key focus of my role is to boost access to skill development workshops. Whether it’s mastering interviews, building a strong CV, or improving networking skills, I aim to ensure these opportunities are relevant and available to all students.

I also plan to work closely with employability teams to bridge the gap between academic experiences and the job market. By incorporating industry insights and real-world opportunities, I hope to help students transition smoothly into the workforce.

I’m excited to represent you and look forward to unlocking your potential and achieving career goals together!

Emma sandiford

Research Postgraduate Representative

src.rpglearning@dundee.ac.uk

Working with the Doctoral Academy and DUSA to improve the PGR experience.

Organising events specifically for Research Postgraduate Students, to build a community and facilitate a network for PGR.

Helping DUSA to better support PGR’s to continue towards their PHD study and professional development.

Hannah ballingall

Disabilities Representative

src.disabilities@dundee.ac.uk

I’m Hannah, your SRC Disability Representative, and I look forward to representing the student voice on disability matters. With a background in school counselling and advocacy, I’m now pursuing an MSc in Psychology of Mental Health.

My goal is to reduce stigma and barriers for students with health conditions. I aim to create a safe space for students to share their experiences and use my own journey with disabilities to foster a more accessible learning environment.

This year, I plan to:

  • Establish drop-in sessions in the Global Room to advocate for students’ rights.
  • Organize talks and training to reduce stigma and improve the learning experience.
  • Distribute sunflower lanyards during disability assessments.
  • Arrange career and networking events tailored to students with health conditions.

I’m excited to serve on the SRC and contribute to making the university more inclusive.

MAHIMA RAVICHANDRAN

International Representative

src.international@dundee.ac.uk

I’m Mahima Ravichandran Sivajyothi, your International Student Representative on the SRC. Originally from Kerala, India, I’m passionate about fostering cultural connections and creating a welcoming environment for students worldwide. As an MSc Business Analytics student, I’m here to ensure your needs are met.

Manifesto: My Commitments

  1. Enhancing Support for International Students
    I aim to push for tailored support, such as orientation programs, to help international students adjust and feel at home in Dundee.

  2. Promoting Cultural Inclusion and Diversity
    I will create opportunities for cultural exchange through events and language-sharing sessions to celebrate Dundee’s diversity.

  3. Prioritizing Mental Health and Well-being
    I’m committed to advocating for better mental health resources to support international students.

As your representative, I’m here to listen and support you. Let’s make this year impactful! For support, email me at src.international@dundee.ac.uk

Maryam Forghaniallahabadi

Environment & Sustainability Representative

src.environment@dundee.ac.uk

As the Environment and Sustainability Representative and a PhD student in Environment and Sustainability, I advocate for sustainable practices and aim to build a community that values environmental stewardship. Sustainability is a responsibility to ourselves and future generations. My role on the SRC allows me to champion initiatives addressing both the immediate and long-term environmental impacts of our university’s actions.

A key priority is raising awareness about sustainable practices, from waste reduction to responsible consumption. I plan to work with student groups, staff, and local organizations to support programs on energy efficiency, biodiversity, and sustainable transport. Together, we can make our university a model of eco-friendly innovation.

I’m committed to making our sustainability efforts inclusive and accessible. Whether you’re passionate about recycling, reducing carbon footprints, or environmental justice, I want to ensure you feel empowered to get involved. My role is about listening to students who care about our planet.

Let’s work together to make our campus greener. I encourage anyone interested in environmental issues to share ideas and help drive change. Together, we can make a meaningful impact.

Samantha flight

Women's Representative

src.womens@dundee.ac.uk

As Women’s Representative on the SRC, I feel strongly about supporting women on campus. From personal experience and listening to others, I understand the struggles women face in everyday life. I joined the SRC to make a difference and be a supportive listener for any concerns women may have about their student life.

By the end of my term, I aim to raise awareness about period poverty and menstrual health, ensuring these issues are well known to the university and students. Addressing these concerns is vital to helping women feel seen and reducing stigma.

Safety and empowerment in education are also key areas I want to impact. Women should have a strong voice during their studies, and it’s important their voices are heard.

Feeling safe on campus is essential for comfort. I want to ensure everyone feels secure or knows who to turn to when things don’t feel right, and I hope to help make this a reality.

Similoluwa Abe

Black & Minority Ethnic Representative

src.bme@dundee.ac.uk

As the BME (Black and Minority Ethnic) representative for the SRC, I aim to address challenges faced by BME students and provide support through increased sickle cell awareness, targeted mental health resources, and improved support services.

Sickle cell disease is a genetic disorder mainly affecting African, Caribbean, and Mediterranean communities. To address this, I will promote blood drives and fundraisers to raise awareness and support organisations emphasizing the importance of blood donations for sickle cell patients.

Mental health issues often impact BME students differently. I will advocate for tailored mental health resources and work with university counselling to ensure appropriate support. Additionally, I will strengthen peer support groups where BME students can share experiences and cope with pressures.

I will actively engage with the student body to ensure your voice is heard and your needs are met.

TOM CHRISTISON

LEARNING AND TEACHING REPRESENTATIVE

src.learning@dundee.ac.uk

Since its founding in 1969, the SRC has championed student needs. As a student of English and History, I’m excited to join this legacy as this year’s Learning and Teaching Representative. I also serve as Vice President of a student society and Section Editor for The Magdalen, reflecting my commitment to enriching the student experience. Through the SRC, my focus will be amplifying your voice and shaping our learning community.

My platform centres on three priorities:

  • Amplifying Student Voices: I’m committed to ensuring student feedback on learning and teaching is acted upon. Your insights are essential, and I’m here to make sure they are heard.

  • Integrating AI Responsibly: I aim to promote initiatives that use AI to enrich education, while addressing concerns about academic integrity and working with staff to ensure safeguards regarding AI, especially GAI.

  • Enhancing Career Opportunities: I’ll work with the Academic Skills Centre and Careers Service to expand programs supporting skill development and employability, preparing students for success beyond university.

My goal is to foster a dynamic learning environment that reflects your needs and aspirations. I’m here to listen, advocate, and ensure your voices are at the heart of every decision.

Victoria simpson

Student Parent Representative

src.studentparent@dundee.ac.uk

Hi, I’m Victoria, a final-year Business Management student. I’m your Student Parent Rep, representing students who juggle academic work, raising children, and often working part-time. Balancing these roles with university life can be tough, but I aim to engage fully with all aspects of student life.

In my previous role as a Rep, I worked with DUSA and ISE (now SpAH) to organize a Dip and Sip event where student parents could bring their children, enjoy the pool, and have coffee at The Liar bar. I’m keen to reinstate this event and secure funding to make it an annual tradition.

I want to work with DUSA and the university to better signpost family-friendly events, as many parent students feel their student life and family life can’t mix. I’ll also highlight existing support to ensure student parents know how the university can help them.

I’d also like to improve campus food options. As we spend more time on campus, having limited choices is a challenge. I’d love to showcase foods from different cultures, helping students appreciate diverse cuisines and engage with each other.

Whether or not you’re a parent, I’m committed to improving the student experience. Please reach out with any suggestions to help us better represent you.

Aaqil Hussain

Facilities Representative

src.facilities@dundee.ac.uk

I will work with the Library and Learning Centre (LLC) and Estates and Buildings (E&B) to improve student learning and recreation facilities. I will liaise with the DUSA executive to ensure students have access to good facilities, not only on the main campus but also in Kirkcaldy and Ninewells. I’m committed to supporting DUSA in providing spaces that allow students to make the most of their recreational, learning, and study time.

Currently, I’m the Vice-President of Energy, Environment, and Society within the School of Humanities, Social Sciences, and Law. I’ve also served as a class representative for Politics and International Relations for the last three years, and as Vice-President of Humanities and class representative for Philosophy for two years.

I’m the right person to electrify the structure and ensure everything runs smoothly. As Facilities Representative, I will promote fairness and equality for all, delivering for the many, not the few. I promise to bring more vending machines, bike racks, and water fountains. There’s a lot to do, and I’m ready to fight for a better campus for all.

Jesse Victor-Igwe

First Year Representative

src.firstyear@dundee.ac.uk

Engaging with first year students to improve services, helping them transition into university life and make the most out
of their first year.

Working with the University and DUSA, feeding back issues that first year students face, helping them progress towards second year.

Laure Neveu

Taught PG Representative

src.tpglearning@dundee.ac.uk

My name is Laure, and I’m your Taught Postgraduate Representative (TPG Rep) on the SRC this year.

Originally from France, I came to Dundee in 2018 for my undergraduate degree in Anatomy and returned for my master’s in Science and Health Communication. My undergrad experience, enriched by campus involvement and a strong sense of community, inspired me to step into this role to help create a more engaging environment for TPG students.

Although TPG students have diverse goals, I believe we share three key needs that I’m committed to addressing:

  • CONNECT: Strengthen the sense of community at the TPG level.
  • GUIDE: Improve signposting to support services.
  • ELEVATE: Enhance academic and professional skill development.

I aim to build on UoD’s support systems, ensuring TPG students’ voices are heard and their needs met, advocating for a thriving, enriched experience for us all.

Molly Wilson

LGBT+ Representative

src.lgbt@dundee.ac.uk

I’m Molly, and I will be your LGBTQ+ Representative this year. I study History and Politics and work on campus, so please feel free to come up to me and say hi. I enjoy reading, writing, and my favorite movie is 9 to 5 starring Lily Tomlin, Jane Fonda, and Dolly Parton.

I believe that this role is vital to a functioning and inclusive student body that welcomes and celebrates queer students in student life. My role is to ensure that LGBTQ+ students feel represented and have a voice within the SRC. One way I will achieve this is by liaising with the LGBTQ+ Society.

For this academic year, I aim to increase awareness for LGBTQ+ History Month in February and the beloved Pride Month. This would include socials and events that put queer people at the center.

In addition, I will work toward increased support for students who may be questioning their gender and/or sexuality, particularly for those who do not have their family’s support.

Ridwan Busari

Mature Student Representative

src.mature@dundee.ac.uk

I am an international student from Nigeria, currently studying for an MSc in Sustainability and Renewables.

I first learned about the SRC during Open Week when I arrived in Dundee, and I loved everything about it. It reminded me of the Student Union Government (SUG) back in my home country.

My aim as a member is to ensure mature students feel just as supported and included as younger students on campus.

I also want to broaden the SRC’s reach by:

  • Raising public awareness about its role and benefits for students.
  • Offering helpful welcome tips to new students upon arrival.

Let’s prioritize sustainability in everything we do—sustainability is the key!

Kaima Fabian-Egun

General Representative

src.general@dundee.ac.uk

I’m Kaima Fabian-Egun, your SRC General Representative and an international student from Nigeria. Balancing studies and work while adjusting to a new environment has shown me how important it is for all students to feel supported and comfortable at university. That’s why I’m committed to addressing key challenges with practical solutions to improve student life.

I also understand the importance of affordable nutrition, especially when budgets are tight. I’m working to bring more budget-friendly grocery options closer to campus so we can all maintain a balanced diet without added financial pressure. My role on the SRC is to support you and create a university environment that meets our needs, ensuring everyone can thrive academically and personally.

Anna Melnichenko

General Representative

src.general@dundee.ac.uk

I’m Anna, one of General Representatives on the SRC! I’m excited to help make change happen through open communication with students and by identifying areas that may need attention.

My goals are simple: I want the University of Dundee to be a welcoming place for everyone, where every voice is heard and students know exactly who to reach out to with their ideas. I want to be SRC who can listen, support, and act— the more feedback I receive, the more SRC team can work towards real change. I think of the university as a large organism: every part plays a role, each signal matters, and together, we can create a better experience for everyone.

It’s great to see student engagement so my goal is to make sure that students who have any thoughts about the educational process or other topics, know that they’ll be considered at the SRC’s monthly meetings.And finally I want everybody to know that raising your voice—it’s important and valued!

Elisabeth Taylor

General Representative

src.general@dundee.ac.uk

My name is Elisabeth, and I am one of three General Representatives on the SRC. I joined to help improve the student experience and because I find the workings of DUSA fascinating. As an MSc Health and Science Communication student who also completed a BSc here, I’ve been in Dundee since 2019 and care deeply about the community.

My main goal is to increase student blood donations with Scotblood. Donating blood saves lives daily, and only about 3% of eligible people donate. Whether on campus or at Ninewells Donor Centre, I want to encourage students to get involved (plus, free biscuits!).

I also plan to collaborate with our BME Representative, Simi, to raise awareness of Sickle Cell Anaemia, a blood condition mainly affecting people of African heritage.

Lastly, I’ll work with the other representatives to maximize our impact during our time on the SRC. I look forward to serving as your General Representative and hope we all have an amazing year!

Ivy GUO

President of Art & Design

president.artdesign@dundee.ac.uk

School Presidents work closely with your school’s Vice Presidents, Class Reps and academic staff to ensure representation reaches every level in your School.

This opportunity allows you to achieve change by working with your school on student issues, attending important School meetings and being a voting member of the Students’ Representative Council (SRC).

To run you need to be a registered student of the School you wish to be School President for.

The School President has a range of important tasks that they take on and it is a role that can demand a lot of time and dedication.

Bradley schreiber

President of Science & Engineering

president.scieng@dundee.ac.uk

School Presidents work closely with your school’s Vice Presidents, Class Reps and academic staff to ensure representation reaches every level in your School.

This opportunity allows you to achieve change by working with your school on student issues, attending important School meetings and being a voting member of the Students’ Representative Council (SRC).

To run you need to be a registered student of the School you wish to be School President for.

The School President has a range of important tasks that they take on and it is a role that can demand a lot of time and dedication.

Banga Liepute

President of Life Sciences

president.lifesci@dundee.ac.uk

School Presidents work closely with your school’s Vice Presidents, Class Reps and academic staff to ensure representation reaches every level in your School.

This opportunity allows you to achieve change by working with your school on student issues, attending important School meetings and being a voting member of the Students’ Representative Council (SRC).

To run you need to be a registered student of the School you wish to be School President for.

The School President has a range of important tasks that they take on and it is a role that can demand a lot of time and dedication.

Caleb hunter

President of Dentistry

president.dentistry@dundee.ac.uk

School Presidents work closely with your school’s Vice Presidents, Class Reps and academic staff to ensure representation reaches every level in your School.

This opportunity allows you to achieve change by working with your school on student issues, attending important School meetings and being a voting member of the Students’ Representative Council (SRC).

To run you need to be a registered student of the School you wish to be School President for.

The School President has a range of important tasks that they take on and it is a role that can demand a lot of time and dedication.

Manaswi Budhathoki

DUSA PRESIDENT

president@dusa.co.uk

Manaswi, aka Manu, is the main spokesperson and lead for the entire student body. She is responsible for managing and supporting the DUSA Executive team and is keen on ensuring all aspects of student issues are addressed effectively and well heard on campus. She closely works with DUSA’s Board of Trustees and Senior Management Team to achieve DUSA’s strategic vision and goals. Manu is from Nepal and has graduated from the Dundee Law School in June 2024. She was the VP Community (23-24) and has been an integral part of the Dundee University’s Boxing Club. Manu is passionate about international political issues and values people’s unique perspectives and expressions. She is set on establishing campus vibrancy through expressive arts, culture and events on campus.

Dani McFawns

Vice President OF ACADEMIA

vpa@dusa.co.uk

Dani graduated with English and Philosophy in June, and she’s your new Vice President of Academia! She has journeyed through all the levels of student representation (Class Rep, Society President, School President) so is well-seasoned in all things learning and teaching. Her puppy, Dougal, may also make appearances at DUSA’s Dog Therapy.

Her job is to make your learning and teaching experience the best it can be by working with the University on policy and quality assurance, and the Advice & Support Team to help students facing academic issues. She also has a keen interest in technology, and will be working year-long on policy and strategy to shape the Dundee experience in the age of AI! You can follow her on Instagram at @dani.vpa

Nihin Akanni

VP of Student Wellbeing

vpsw@dusa.co.uk

Nihin, our VPSW and campus Zen Master, is passionate about leading DUSA’s welfare campaigns, which covers mental health, sexual health, wellbeing, and healthy living. She works closely with the University of Dundee. As VPSW, Nihin is focused on creating a welcoming and safe environment at the University for everyone, with special attention to addressing common concerns. This year, she’s especially excited about supporting all genders. Instagram account : @nihin_vpsw

RAVI BARAL

VP of Student Activities

vpsa@dusa.co.uk

Hi I’m Ravi, your new Vice President of Student Activities (VPSA), and I’m here to make your student life vibrant and engaging! I’m currently completing my degree in Biomedical Sciences along with
managing societies.

My job is to oversee societies and events, ensuring that there’s always something exciting happening on campus. Whether you’re looking to join a club, start a new society, or simply find out what’s happening, I’m your go-to person. I’m here to support and empower student groups, working closely with them to enhance the Dundee experience

ALISHBA AHMAD

Vice President of Community

vpc@dusa.co.uk

Alishba, your Vice President of Community (VPC), is in her final undergraduate year studying law. Her focus this year is to create awareness around intersectional identities, she’s responsible for highlighting and celebrating all the uniqueness and diversity in our campus through social and cultural events and projects! Alishba firmly believes in the saying “it takes a village.” She will also be an advocate for building support networks for students, by students.

To stay up to date with all things Community, make sure to follow her Instagram: dusa.vpc.alishba

Esther Ajayi-Akinsulire

VP of Fundraising

vpf@dusa.co.uk

Esther is a second-year Biomedical Sciences undergraduate from London who oversees and commandeers DUSA’s Raising and Giving (RAG) initiative. She is in charge of raising funds for this year’s chosen charity, Barnardo’s, as well as assisting societies in their fundraising efforts where possible.

Esther aims to foster an environment where the student body can remain passionate in donating to worthy causes and giving back to their community to make a local and national impact. To be up to date on all things VPF makes sure to follow her Instagram account @esther.vpf and @ragdundee