Candidate: Sarah White

Kia ora, my name is Sarah White, and I’m running to be YOUR Council Representative for 2025. Our university experience is about more than the piece of paper at the end; it's about the memories, the experiences and the opportunities along the way. The way forward to true student inclusion and partnership is through a leader with your best interests at the forefront of their motivations.

This year, I have had the privilege to be your AUSA Vice-President of Finance and Operations. It has been an honour to represent you on some of the highest decision-making bodies at the University, but I am ready to take it to the next level. Through my role, I’ve developed a strong understanding of the University processes and how students are an integral part of the core functions of the University. I’ve come to understand the role of student governance and the power that we can have to enact change. For students to have an equal seat at the table, we must elect a student leader with the knowledge and passion to be the voice of the students. As an elected representative for AUSA, I’ve developed connections with student groups across our campuses and recognise the need for the Council Representative to do the same. To be the voice of 46,000 students, I am dedicated to reaching out to students far and wide. I aim to continue to meet with the Presidents of Ngā Tauira Māori, AUPISA, and other student associations so that the voice on the Council is one of true representation.

Throughout my time at the University, I’ve also been the Commerce Student Association President, been involved with various clubs, and volunteered my time on various committees and working groups, such as the Student Consultative Group, the Clubs Support Committee, the Equity Leadership Committee, and more. These discussions have included key conversations about the University’s future operations, the Student Levy, and the Student Voice policy. We, as the students, play a key role in the university's operations. Through these experiences, I've developed key connections and relationships with university staff, which make me confident about stepping into this role and being able to represent YOU effectively. I am a leader with a track record of getting things done and advocating for effective change in every space I've been in. It's critical that we not only elect a representative who knows the right levers to pull, but also someone who is a passionate advocate for students.

With your vote, we can work together to be the powerful voice of ALL students. I am determined to listen and be the respectful and approachable leader that you deserve. I am passionate about leadership through service and empathy, and it would be an honour to represent you to the University Council.

I look forward to this journey alongside you and kindly ask for your vote to represent YOU in 2025.