Union President

Hi, my name is Hammad Mahmood, but you can call me Hammy. I’m a proud Business Management student at Canterbury Christ Church University and I’m not applying for Student Leader for the title. I’m applying because I believe we can do better. University shouldn’t feel like something that just happens to us; it should feel like something we shape. Too many students have ideas, concerns and ambitions that never get heard. I want to change that. Leadership isn’t about being the loudest voice; it’s about making sure every voice counts. I wrote a quote a few years ago: “We rise by helping others."

If elected, my priority is simple: make student voices impossible to ignore. Right now, too many students feel unheard, whether it’s about academic pressure, communication gaps, wellbeing or opportunities outside the classroom. My first priority would be strengthening the connection between students and decision-makers so concerns don’t disappear into emails…….they lead to action. Secondly, transparency. You deserve to know what’s being discussed, what’s changing and what isn’t. Third, opportunity. University should be more than lectures and deadlines. I want to push for more accessible events, career-building opportunities and spaces where students from all backgrounds feel they belong. I don’t claim to have every solution on day one. But I promise this: I will listen first, act boldly and keep you informed every step of the way. Because right now, what is most important is not another promise. It’s progress you can actually see.

I have been involved in welfare and community work since childhood from supporting my classmates to serving my wider community. At present, I am the Acting Vice-President of the Pakistani Student Society (CCCU). Alongside this, since January 2024, I have been working with an organisation in the UK known as EMIC (Ethnic Minorities in Canterbury). For the safety and wellbeing of people in our community, I am also a member of the IAG (Independent Advisory Group) that works with Kent Police. My involvement in societies and community initiatives is not about self-promotion or building a name for myself. It is for the sake of serving others and seeking the pleasure of God through contributing to the welfare of people. I firmly believe that whoever saves one life, it is as if they have saved all of humanity. If you vote for me, you are voting for clear communication, real action and accountability you can actually see. No empty promises. No vague updates. Just progress. I’m here to turn “someone should fix this” into “we’re fixing it.” Let’s make this the year students feel powerful, not overlooked. Vote for change you can feel.