Candidates & Voting Info

Arc Board Elections 2024

Voting

Voting for the Arc Board elections will be conducted online. 

Voting commences: Monday 15 April 2024 at 9:00am

Voting concludes: Thursday 18 April 2024 at 11:59pm

According to Arc Regulations, clause 10.7(b, ii), a minimum of two (2) Student Director positions up for election each year must be filled by women and/or gender diverse students.

Who Can Vote

All members of Arc with the exception of associate members as at the close of nominations (11 March 2024), are entitled to vote for the Student Director positions on the Board.

This means that:

  • that you must have activated or renewed, your Arc membership on or before 11 March 2024.
  • that your projected graduation date indicated as being 2024 or beyond.

How to Vote

All Arc members eligible to vote will be sent an email containing a link to the voting page. This link is assigned to your email address and will allow you to vote once. As soon as the link is used and a vote is cast, the link will expire and you will not be able to use that link again to vote (even if it is forwarded to another email address)

NOTE: the email will be sent to the address you nominated when completing your Arc membership form. It will not automatically be sent to your UNSW email address. If you are not sure which email you have provided, please log in to SpArc to view your personal details. 

Once you receive your voting link via email, vote for your preferred candidate by placing the figure 1 in the square opposite the candidate. Voters may place consecutive figures (commencing with the figure 2) in the squares opposite the remaining candidates, in order of preference.

Disclaimer

All Arc members by voting during this election, they acknowledge that they are current UNSW students.


*THIS INFORMATION WAS PROVIDED BY THE CANDIDATES AND THE RETURNING OFFICER ACCEPTS NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR ITS ACURACY. Statements containing more than 150 words may be cut beyond the 150th word so as not to exceed that limit.*

Aania Cheema (she/her)

Aania Cheema (she/her)

CANDIDATE | Arc Board Student Director

Hi, my name is Aania and I am a second-year psychology student. As the current secretary of Philip Baxter College, a residential college here at UNSW, I have experience working in roles representing a student body and communicating with the university. I am a proud Pakistani Muslim woman and know how important it is to have everyone's voices heard equally. I want to help ARC continue to listen to student voices and work to facilitate change where it is needed. When elected, I will make sure all voices are heard and acted on whether you live on or off campus.
I aim to bring a different perspective to ARC and vouch for student’s needs throughout the university.
I would really appreciate it if you voted [1] for Aania Cheema.

Aariyan Desai (he/him)

Aariyan Desai (he/him)

CANDIDATE | Arc Board Student Director

University can be pretty scary. You’re suddenly surrounded by 60,000 people you’ve never met in a completely new environment, potentially having moved in from a different city, state or even country. It can also be pretty overwhelming. You’ve got assignments, tests, exams (still trying to figure out the difference) and so many other things to keep on top of. Arc does an amazing job at addressing these, making the student experience less intimidating and more manageable. But Arc goes deeper than just improving the student experience, it encourages students to discover and strengthen their passions, whether it be a rugby club, underwater club, or underwater rugby club. As an Arc board member I would love to continue doing this, as well as facilitating new initiatives. If there’s anything you take away, know I would genuinely love to be on the board representing you and would give it my all.

Akash Nagarajan (he/him)

Akash Nagarajan (he/him)

CANDIDATE | Arc Board Student Director

Hey folks,
I’m Akash, a second year law/ppe student.
Uni can be difficult. Making friends isn’t the easiest and the constant barrage of work in our trimester system gets tough. From what I hear, most people make the trek into uni, sit in their classes and head straight home. But it doesn’t have to be like that. It can be better. I'm from western Sydney and travel an hour and a half into uni, so when I come in I want to make it worth it and fun. This is why I'm running for arc board, to make the student experience the best it can be. I want to ensure that students can get the most out of Arc through improving clubs, events, and opportunities. I’d love to be given the opportunity to represent students and advocate for a more equitable and accessible student experience.
Vote [1] Akash Nagarajan.

Aleina Daiby (she/her)

Aleina Daiby (she/her)

CANDIDATE | Arc Board Student Director

Dear members,
I would like to humbly announce my candidacy for a Student Director position on the Arc Board. Using my experience working alongside and within the Arc community and more than three years of extensive community engagement and leadership experience, I am committed to advancing this beloved organisation’s mission and dedication to providing the best student experience.
My past roles as the student coordinator of Funner Summer and Volunteers United, alongside my involvement as a casual within Arc and my various leadership roles within societies have equipped me with a deep understanding of UNSW’s community and what they need most from their student life.
If elected, I pledge to serve this organisation and its members with the people at the forefront and contribute my skills, knowledge, and leadership to this esteemed board to fulfil my purpose dutifully.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Aleina Anna Daiby

Ally Egan (she/her)

Ally Egan (she/her)

CANDIDATE | Arc Board Student Director

Hi! I’m Alexandra, a third year Medical student from sunny Singapore. I’m running for Arc Board for a few key reasons.
Having completed two years of my degree at a Rural Clinical Campus in Port Macquarie, and having lots of international student friends from home, I would love to help work closely with Arc to ensure that every student’s voice is heard. I am especially passionate about rural equity schemes and resource allocation and this is a cause I hope to champion if elected.
I hope to continue delivering the best student experience through implementing and supporting more wellbeing initiatives and sexual advocacy events, and ensuring that campus remains a safe space for all.
I’m a quick learner with leadership experience and love working in teams. I am excited to help facilitate the amazing work Arc does, and to ensure that student voices remain heard.
Please vote Alexandra Egan!

Alicia Tung (she/her)

Alicia Tung (she/her)

CANDIDATE | Arc Board Student Director

Hi everyone! I’m very excited about this leadership opportunity and would love to grow during the process! I do this by actively seeking and applying constructive criticism ;) I’ve really enjoyed participating in the events hosted by different societies so far, such as Lost in the Arcade by Puzzle society, and would love to contribute towards everything student life has to offer. People usually say I am quite calm, so I can be that source of logic and stability on the Arc Board. I am also quite patient, and willing to listen and accommodate any concerns or ideas you guys might have for Arc. Currently, I do not have many obligations, so I will properly devote my time to being a student director if I am nominated. Thank you for reading and I hope you will nominate me!

Amy Wang (she/her)

Amy Wang (she/her)

CANDIDATE | Arc Board Student Director

Hi, I'm Amy. As someone who have actively participated in various societies over the past two years, I understand the exact plight of societies who have their great ideas trashed - Arc grant. With the cap set at 35% for general Arc grant and an intolerable duration between application to approval, any event incurring costs becomes hugely troublesome – this discourages event organisers and causing the greater student community to miss out.
If elected, I will be working closely with Arc to develop a more efficient, elastic, and equitable funding framework to resolve this long-lasting pain - a framework that enables a HIGHER reimbursement proportion, a LARGER funding pool and a SHORTER processing time between application and approval.
Vote for me, so your society can have the funding to actualise its imagination and flourish student life. Together, we’ll nurture a greater UNSW community where dreams become actions.  

Arsh Zair (he/him/she/her/they/them)

Arsh Zair (he/him/she/her/they/them)

CANDIDATE | Arc Board Student Director

My name is Arsh Wafiq Khan Chowdhury, I’m a postgraduate student here at UNSW, doing a Master of Commerce. Prior to UNSW, I was a student at Monash University. I identify as gender fluid, and my pronouns are he/she/they. Ever since my undergraduate days it has been my inherent passion to create an inclusive and safe space for university students campuswide. As a testament, I took up several roles, that liaised with university representatives and student bodies to create a holistic and welcoming experience for students of diverse backgrounds. As a member of a minority group, it is vital for me to represent a social support system for students; something that as a new student myself recognize profoundly. I would be honored, to undertake the role of an Arc board member, and in every capacity fulfill all responsibilities to ensure that all students at UNSW can have an unsurpassed experience.

Cathy Dinh (she/her)

Cathy Dinh (she/her)

CANDIDATE | Arc Board Student Director

Chloe Oliver (she/her)

Chloe Oliver (she/her)

CANDIDATE | Arc Board Student Director

As a candidate for the ARC Board, I would be humbled to contribute to fostering a vibrant and inclusive student community. With a background in advocacy, I am committed to representing the diverse voices and needs of our student body.
If elected, I will prioritise transparency and accessibility, ensuring that all students feel heard and valued. I will strive to enhance student welfare services, support diversity initiatives, and promote sustainability efforts on campus.
As a regional student, I am particularly passionate about addressing the needs of students from low-socioeconomic backgrounds and rural areas to ensure they also have access to everything UNSW has to offer.
I aim to facilitate meaningful engagement between students and the university administration, advocating for policies and resources that enhance the overall student experience. Through collaboration and proactive communication, we can create a campus environment that empowers every student to thrive.
Vote [1] Chloe Oliver

Dhruv Patel (he/him)

Dhruv Patel (he/him)

CANDIDATE | Arc Board Student Director

As a candidate for the ARC Board member position at UNSW, I bring a unique blend of strategic vision and grassroots experience. My commitment to fostering innovation and excellence in research is unwavering, driven by a deep understanding of the transformative power of knowledge. With a proven track record of collaboration across disciplines and sectors, I am dedicated to championing diverse perspectives and ensuring equitable access to opportunities. Drawing on my background in Architecture, I offer fresh insights and a proactive approach to addressing emerging challenges in academia. If elected, I will prioritize fostering an inclusive research culture that empowers scholars to push boundaries and make meaningful contributions to society. Together, let's embark on a journey of discovery and impact, advancing the frontiers of knowledge for the betterment of our community and beyond.

Eva Stewart (she/her)

Eva Stewart (she/her)

CANDIDATE | Arc Board Student Director

Hello! I’m Eva, and I’d love to represent you as a member of the Arc Board in 2024.
I’m a second year Commerce / Law student from Sydney. UNSW is such a special place I’ve been fortunate enough to call home for the past two years, living at Phillip Baxter College. As a member of Baxter’s House Committee as Social Director this year, I have gained extensive experience and insight into how important and rewarding bringing people together is.
My vision to improve student life at UNSW is to:
1) Enable students to interact with the broader university community to find their friends for life.
2) Create communities for rural, inter-state, international and gender diverse students to feel more supported and at home at UNSW.
3) Make the vast Arc resources more accessible to all students be that clubs, sports, legal advocacy and more.
Please vote [1] for Eva Stewart!

Grace Li (she/her)

Grace Li (she/her)

CANDIDATE | Arc Board Student Director

Hi, I’m Grace Li and I'm running for arc director because I'm deeply passionate about student life. Student life is not just about classes and assignments; it's about friendships, memories, and community. Student life is driven by passion, and I want every student to experience the opportunity to pursue their passions to the fullest.
Thank you.

Hannah Arthurs (she/her)

Hannah Arthurs (she/her)

CANDIDATE | Arc Board Student Director

As a woman, neurodivergent individual, postgraduate student, and international student, I bring a passion for change and a commitment to amplifying student voices to the Arc Board.
Drawing from my diverse background, I offer a unique perspective that champions inclusivity and advocates for the needs of underrepresented groups. My experiences have instilled in me a deep understanding of the multifaceted challenges students encounter daily.
I am dedicated to fostering an environment where every student feels heard, valued, and empowered to enact positive change. With a proactive approach and a strong belief in collaboration, I am eager to work alongside fellow board members to shape policies and initiatives that enhance the student experience.
Together, we can create a more inclusive and vibrant community at UNSW.

Hemakshi Pillay (she/her)

Hemakshi Pillay (she/her)

CANDIDATE | Arc Board Student Director

As a passionate second-year Actuarial Studies student from the vibrant landscapes of Fiji, I, Hemakshi Anjali Pillay, am excited to express my intent to join the ARC organization's board. My academic journey has not only sharpened my analytical skills but also nurtured a deep-seated love for engaging with diverse communities. My fervor for socializing and meeting new individuals is matched by my enthusiasm for cultural expressions, such as dancing and singing. Beyond these, I have a proven track record in organizing events that bring people together, fostering a sense of community and shared experience. My aim is to leverage these skills and passions to contribute to ARC's mission, ensuring it remains a dynamic and inclusive environment for all. I am eager to bring a fresh perspective, rooted in my unique cultural background and academic discipline, to further enrich the ARC community.

Jahanvi Jariwala (she/her)

Jahanvi Jariwala (she/her)

CANDIDATE | Arc Board Student Director

Lexine Ramia (she/her)

Lexine Ramia (she/her)

CANDIDATE | Arc Board Student Director

I believe in the social significance of University governance. The manner in which matters are brought to fruition, is indicative of a broader system of governance. Thus, I hold that my Politics-IR Major, has provided me with a foundation for governance comprehension. I wish to promote transparency and diplomacy within the ARC board. Ultimately, my potential election seeks to enforce the comfort and voices of all UNSW students. Student needs are of primary importance to my personal and professional development. Moreover, I believe that my unfailing dedication to the study of the law is of ARC interest. The communication skills which I have developed throughout my studies and extracurriculars (such as mooting), have solidified my ability to liaise with my colleagues and comfortably collaborate. My trilingualism has further exacerbated such and inherently entrenched me into cultural flexibility. Having attended a French School , I pride myself on my intercultural wisdom.

Luke Cox (he/him)

Luke Cox (he/him)

CANDIDATE | Arc Board Student Director

G’day! I’m Luke, a third-year Law/PPE student running for Arc Board.
As the first in my family to finish high school and attend university, I know what an opportunity that university is. This makes me passionate about improving campus experiences so every student can make the most of their time at UNSW.
Why vote for me? I’ll bring to Arc an honest voice who says it as it is and delivers for students, especially those of you who feel shut out of campus life. By supporting me, you want Arc to do better in improving campus experiences for students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds and those who work and study by making club fees affordable and providing more support programs for students dealing with heavy work and study-loads.
It's time that students can know that Arc has their backs! So, vote [1] in the box for Luke Cox.

Mahar Safdar Ali Qas Qasim

Mahar Safdar Ali Qas Qasim

CANDIDATE | Arc Board Student Director

Melissa Mahi (she/her)

Melissa Mahi (she/her)

CANDIDATE | Arc Board Student Director

I believe I can bring a rich tapestry of cultural experiences rooted in my French background. This has instilled in me a deep appreciation for the importance of cultural diversity and inclusion. University is not just about academics, but also about fostering connections, experiences, and growth beyond the classroom.
My eagerness to meet new people is matched by dedication to promoting student well-being. I understand the significance of a holistic student experience. Through my involvement in extracurricular activities, I have witnessed the transformative power of community and engagement. I’m committed to facilitating these opportunities for students.
I’m not content with the status quo; rather, I’m driven by a desire to innovate and implement change. By working with peers and leveraging our collective talents and perspectives, we can create a more inclusive, dynamic, and fulfilling university experience.
I’m eager to contribute, and excited about the opportunity to make a meaningful impact.

Nasya Lilananda (she/her)

Nasya Lilananda (she/her)

CANDIDATE | Arc Board Student Director

Fresh ideas and real change come from people and the institutions they run. At UNSW, one of those institutions is ARC. I am Nasya Lilananda, a Food Science undergraduate student, and I am running to be a Student Director in the ARC Board. I grew up in Indonesia, and coming to UNSW has allowed me to experience more diversity than I ever have.
In high school, I have been in roles including Secretary-General for Model United Nations and MC for student and school-to-school events. Additionally, I have joined the UNSW Orchestra ever since my first term here. Through various experiences, I have gained organizational, communication, and teamwork skills which, rest assured, I will utilize to the fullest to give back to the UNSW community.
If elected, here are some goals we can accomplish together: more solutions to problems, more voices heard, more equity. Vote and let’s improve everyone’s university experience!

Neha Sharma (she/her)

Neha Sharma (she/her)

CANDIDATE | Arc Board Student Director

I am delighted to submit my candidacy for the UNSW Arc student board. I believe that students have the ability to shape the vibrant and rich culture seen at UNSW. With a passion for fostering collaboration and representing student needs, I am committed to representing a diverse range of perspectives in this role. I have been an active participant in various clubs ranging from volunteering at HWA, an active member for the Student Advisory Committee, a Cultural Mentor and Language Facilitator for T1-2024, and finally the President of the Indian Society. Thus, I have honed my leadership and communication skills. My goal would be to create a safe and enriching environment for all the current and new students, where everyone feels heard and empowered. I wish to initiate and further develop on the existing student engagement opportunities. Together we can build a stronger, and more connected student community at UNSW.

Pratham Gupta (he/him)

Pratham Gupta (he/him)

CANDIDATE | Arc Board Student Director

Hi, I’m Pratham! I’m a 4th year Commerce/Law student who is passionate about improving student life at UNSW by making it a more vibrant, dynamic and exciting place! I am motivated to represent and enact what you want to see at UNSW from a student-life perspective but also ensure ARC continues to meet its objective of creating memorable experiences for all students during their time at university.
I have developed a plenitude of leadership skills through my experience as a Councillor on the SRC and involvement in various law-related societies which have taught me the requisite advocacy and communication skills needed for a role like this. I have learnt how to engage with people from many different backgrounds and how to further address student community wants with the utmost rigour and solution-focused mindset, which is crucial in a multi-stakeholder role like ARC Board Director.
So please vote [1] Pratham Gupta.

Priscillar Napoleon (she/her)

Priscillar Napoleon (she/her)

CANDIDATE | Arc Board Student Director

I’m honoured to nominate for the 2024 UNSW ARC BOARD ELECTION for the Student Director position on Arc Board! As a dedicated and passionate postgraduate student, I’m committed to representing the student body's voice and contributing to enhancing the university experience for all. If elected, I will strive to foster a more inclusive and vibrant campus community, advocate for the diverse needs of students, and work collaboratively to implement positive changes that benefit us all. My experiences and leadership roles have equipped me with the necessary skills to effectively serve in this capacity. I’m eager to leverage my abilities to address the concerns of my fellow students and ensure that their perspectives are heard and valued. I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute to the continued success of Arc UNSW and the student community at large. Your support in this election would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for your consideration.

Sam Baker (he/him)

Sam Baker (he/him)

CANDIDATE | Arc Board Student Director

Hi, I’m Sam! I am a second year Commerce/Law student, and I’m currently the Treasurer at Philip Baxter College, one of the residential colleges at UNSW.
Living on campus, I understand the crucial role Arc plays in making UNSW such a vibrant and exciting place to be. I have experience working with University management on student experience initiatives, such as the organisation of the college O-Week program to welcome new students to Sydney, and I would love to continue to foster a strong relationship between Arc and the University.
I am particularly passionate about the impact Clubs have on student life, and hope to help Arc continue to empower student groups. Importantly, I will be a voice for all students, ensuring that Arc continues to provide vital student support and wellbeing services, so that everyone can have a great time on campus.
So please, vote [1] Sam Baker.

Sam Sethi (he/him)

Sam Sethi (he/him)

CANDIDATE | Arc Board Student Director

Hi, I'm Sam, running for ARC Board elections. Having cherished UNSW as my dream university, I've observed ARC's positive impact over my two years here, yet believe there's more to be achieved. I envision avenues for ARC to enhance student life and community engagement further. As a student ambassador, I see my responsibilities towards Arc in the same light which is to make this university the best it could possibly be. I'm dedicated to improving campus experiences and with a strong connection to the UNSW community, I aim to be the voice advocating for student needs. If elected, I'll prioritize transparency, accountability, and accessibility, ensuring students have a say in shaping their university journey. Together, let's make UNSW an even better place. Vote for me to amplify student voices and foster positive change.

Sienna Forrest (she/her)

Sienna Forrest (she/her)

CANDIDATE | Arc Board Student Director

Hi UNSW Friends!
If you don’t know me, my name is Sienna and I'm running to be your representative on Arc Board!
Arc is our student organisation responsible for our much loved societies and clubs, but also runs programs like O-Week, Volunteering and Wellness initiatives. As a woman highly involved in student life at the uni, I understand how integral Arc’s role is to students.
Membership on the Board represents a remarkable opportunity to actively influence the trajectory of Arc's offerings, thereby ensuring their optimal alignment with the needs and aspirations of both students and members.
By voting for me, you are supporting:
1. A tireless advocate who listens to student voices;
2. Someone who will work to improve diversity in Arc spaces;
3. An advocate for students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.
Please take a moment to vote [1] Sienna Forrest. It won't take a minute!

Suhani Sharma (she/her)

Suhani Sharma (she/her)

CANDIDATE | Arc Board Student Director

My name is Suhani Sharma and I am a first-year international student. I am studying Bachelors of Economics.
As an enthusiastic and devoted student, I am excited to contribute to our university's lively community by joining the Arc community. I am a big believer in the potential of collaboration and collective action to promote positive change on our campus and beyond. I hope to not only advance my personal development but also offer my talents and experiences to attaining the organization's aims.
I am certain that by embracing diversity, cultivating leadership, and promoting inclusivity, we can work together to make the university experience more vibrant and enriching for all students.

Thusanda Dewamitta (he/him)

Thusanda Dewamitta (he/him)

CANDIDATE | Arc Board Student Director

Hello fellow students! I’m Thusanda, and I'm running for the Arc Board because I believe student experience focused advocacy needs a seat at the table. As a Law and Economics student living in Basser College, I've come to understand the diverse needs and aspirations of our university community. I’m not just passionate about student advocacy—I'm committed to turning those passions into action.
By electing me, I will prioritise your voices and champion ideas that are substantive, meaningful, and actually make a difference to students. I would work tirelessly to improve student life for all of us. I believe in the power of collaboration and inclusivity, and I'm ready to work with all the Arc councils as a student director to promote beneficial ideas. Let's shape the future of UNSW together. A vote for me is a vote for a stronger, more vibrant student community. Thanks for your support!

Milky Ye (she/her)

Milky Ye (she/her)

CANDIDATE | Arc Board Student Director

Hello everyone, I’m Milky a first-year graduate student. A person who is responsible, respectful, emotionally stable, easygoing, and not impatient. My life motto is ‘Everything happens for the best’. I'm proficient in English, Mandarin, and Cantonese. I usually have a unique way of thinking, love learning, and enjoy the sensation of new things entering my mind. I have good athletic abilities, especially in ball sports. In my spare time, I like to explore various places, stunning scenery and enjoy being in nature. I have a fondness for all kinds of animals, with them, I feel immensely comfortable and healing. Additionally, I'm passionate and curious about the world, and I enjoy trying new things and adventures, often discovering unexpected joys.

Yiwen Liao (he/him)

Yiwen Liao (he/him)

CANDIDATE | Arc Board Student Director

Hi there, I'm Yiwen! As a third-year Advanced Computer Science student and a casual academic at UNSW, I've got an insider's perspective on the everyday needs of students as well as the insights on how to enhance our learning experience from an educator's viewpoint. Being an international student who's actively immersed in numerous activities within the Australian community has allowed me to understand and navigate the complexities that come with our diverse backgrounds. I'm also deeply involved in many student welfare projects, backed by lecturers and UNSW Founders, aimed at improving our student life. If I'm elected, my priority will be to ensure that the Student Services and Amenities Fee directly benefits our educational and community spaces. I invite you to vote for a more unified and fulfilling student experience. Let's make a positive change together!

Returning Officer