Hi my name is Daniel Joel Duke and I will be running for Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) Part-Time Officer. My journey experiences and being a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion motivated me to stand for this role. Due to my limited knowledge of DMU activites and schedules I decided to go for the part time role, rather than full time to also be able to focus on school. I recently joined DMU in January, I'm currently undergoing my masters in international business management. I am committed to assisting DMU amplify the voices of BAME students, ensuring our university is a place where everyone feels valued, heard, and supported.
Some challenges faced by BAME students are multifaceted, ranging from representation gaps in academic and leadership positions to cultural misunderstandings that affect our university experience. One of my major goals is to help bridge these gaps, and aid in building and fostering an environment of mutual respect and understanding. I plan to initiate a series of events that not only celebrate our diverse cultures but also educate our peers on the richness of our traditions and the challenges we face. A starting idea suggestion I have is each month, the Cultural Exchange Series will focus on a different culture, allowing students to take a deep dive into the histories and traditions of their peers. These events will not only provide an opportunity for celebration but will also include educational workshops and speaker sessions addressing the specific challenges faced by each community.
Collaboration is key to our success. I intend to work closely with university administration, departments, and student societies to ensure our needs are prioritized in decision-making processes. By establishing a BAME advisory board, we can provide direct feedback and policies affecting our community. Together, we can create a more supportive campus for all.