Merna is going into the final year of her Law degree. Originally from Iraq, she lived in Canada for ten years before coming to the UK. Last year, along with being a member of LISN, she was also the treasurer of the European Union Affairs Society, and a member of the Law Society negotiation and debate teams.
“I am tremendously passionate about social justice and creating safe spaces. This passion is why I wanted to be a part of LISN in the first place!” – Merna
During its first year, LISN advised on multiple projects, including drug and alcohol harm reduction, the Guarantor Scheme, and international student orientation. Network members engaged in Better Forums, with three policy ideas submitted, one idea passing at the Spring Better Union Forum, and one member also acting on the panel for the Summer Better Union Forum. LISN members organised and delivered three key events throughout the year, including a Cultural Quiz Night for Winter World Unite Fest, a Fundraiser for Humanity Iftar event, and Let’s Talk About… International Student Housing forum.
“To me, LISN is a safe space that aims to create more safe spaces on campus. The mission is to empower students and make our campus more inclusive. For example, we talked a lot about what we can do to make international students feel more welcome. We then organised an event for the World Unite Festival. This experience really brought LISN members together and was a great opportunity to make new friends and connect with other international students.” – Merna
LISN has encouraged members to get involved with LUU’s opportunities for student voice as we saw three members attend the NUS Liberation Conference and one member run in the Lead LUU elections.
Being a part of the network has given the members the opportunity to develop their communication, leadership, teamwork, and organisation skills. The members got to meet diverse people from across the University and LUU, fostering a sense of belonging at Leeds. The members were empowered to take a stance on various issues and to contribute to making a difference.
“I’m really proud of the friendships I made at LISN. I’ve met truly amazing, kind, and caring individuals. My university experience would really not be the same without them! I’m also proud of all my personal growth that happened as a result of LISN. I have become a better communicator and a more confident person in general.”
“LISN has broadened my perspective of the world and greatly increased my social awareness. I’m really grateful I got to be part of LISN – it has truly been one of my favourite experiences at Leeds.” – Merna
Interested in being a student leader at LUU next year?
