Cara Cui - Student Trustee

As a student at the University of Southampton, I believe that our Union should be a place where every voice matters, every concern is addressed, and every student is empowered. If elected as a Trustee, I will strive to ensure that the Students' Union not only meets its legal and financial responsibilities, but also acts as a bold, inclusive and forward-thinking force for positive change in student life. 

What sets me apart is my deep sense of responsibility and my ability to balance strategic thinking with empathy. I will take my statutory duties seriously - scrutinising decisions, safeguarding resources and upholding the Union's charitable aims. But beyond the boardroom, I will work to connect with students from all backgrounds and ensure that our strategy reflects real needs, not assumptions. 

Being a trustee is more than attending meetings - it is about leadership, collaboration and engagement. I am prepared to question, listen and act. With integrity and accountability, I will help steer the Union to serve all students, not just for today, but for the future we want to create.Our Students' Union should be more than a support system, it should be a voice, a vision and a force for meaningful change. I'm standing for Trustee because I believe in the power of student representation and I want to make sure that every student, regardless of their background, identity or circumstances, feels seen, heard and supported. 

If elected, I will bring a strong sense of purpose, strategic thinking and a deep understanding of student needs to the Board. I recognise that the role of Trustee is a serious legal and ethical responsibility. I am committed to making decisions that protect the long-term sustainability of the Union, while upholding the values of inclusivity, integrity and student empowerment. I will ensure that our limited resources are used for maximum impact and that our priorities always reflect what matters most to students. 

But good governance is not just about compliance - it's about vision. I want to contribute to a Students' Union that is more proactive in tackling issues such as mental health, cost of living, accessibility and climate justice. I will campaign for greater transparency, stronger accountability and more spaces for students to directly shape policy. Through regular communication with the wider student body, I will act as a bridge between the boardroom and real-life experiences on campus. 

I also believe that diverse perspectives make governance stronger. As a current student who understands the academic pressures, social challenges and financial struggles many of us face, I will bring a grounded, empathetic voice to the Board of Trustees. I am prepared to ask difficult questions, challenge assumptions and ensure that decisions are not only legally sound but also ethically correct.  

I see this position not just as a title, but as a commitment, to the future of our Union and to the students who depend on it. I will listen with care, act with integrity and lead with ambition.