Omar Malik reveals the winners of the Strathclyde Union elections 2024…

By Omar Malik (he/him)

Some had to endure multiple stages of competition; others were decisively elected before another round was required.

But one common theme with this year’s election was the persistent passion and drive among each of the candidates as they endeavored to represent the vibrant and diverse Strath community.

With many lucrative Strath Union Rep positions on offer, a total of 11,112 votes were cast throughout the election campaign by 2,622 voters – representing 12% of the student body!

Chances are, you will have encountered an array of eye-catching campaign posters – with catchy slogans, inspiring promises and handy QR codes to cast your vote.

Eva’s Campaign Poster

(Image Credit: John James Logue – Strathclyde Telegraph)

As shown in the above poster, incumbent Strath Union President Eva Curran was running once again for the position.

Her cheerfully memorable slogan “Viva Strath Vegas!” has become widespread throughout campus over the past several weeks.

In total, there were three categories – all of which included various levels of representation; emblematic of Strathclyde’s inclusive values.

As crisps, fizzy juice and cheeky glasses of white wine were passed around tables, the curtains were drawn and the results were to be announced imminently…

(Image Credit: John James Logue -Strathclyde Telegraph)

Starting off were the Non-Executive Officers that were chosen by the Strath community. These positions are all about representing the dynamic facets that make the university what it is.

It’s almost a requirement for each Strath election to include elements of fierce competition – among candidates and voters alike.

This is particularly exemplified when it comes to the role of International Students’ Rep. Strathclyde has around 30,000 international students – so it is naturally filled with an array of excellent candidates.

The candidate who succeeded – Darshana Vispute – had to campaign alongside 15 other hopefuls; only being declared the winner during the thirteenth stage!

Here’s the full list of this year’s newly elected Non-Executive Officers:

Non-Executive Officers

After a lot of celebratory cheers, it was now time for Faculty Reps to take to the stage.

It’s certainly an important role – with a host of students from so many departments relying on you for authentic, reliable representation.

As such, congrats to the Faculty Reps that will be representing the four Strath faculties shortly!

See below for the chosen four:

Faculty Reps

As the event was drawing to a close, it was now time for the most senior positions of the Strath Union to be elected.

Representing students on a wider level, the Executive Officers take a year off of their studies to fully commit to the role.

From campaigning for students’ rights to influencing the university’s entire social and political direction – it’s a demanding yet thoroughly rewarding role.

Congrats to each of the six Executive Officers – here’s a list of those who were recently appointed:

Executive Officers

Eva Curran, the incumbent Strath Union President, was decisively reelected – leading to her becoming overwhelmed with ecstatic surprise as she took to the stage.

(Image Credit: John James Logue -Strathclyde Telegraph)

“I was quite emotional, I think it’s just been a very intense week – but I’m delighted to have it again. It’s a great privilege,” a teary Eva said.

The Strath Union President was frank about her gratitude to everyone who helped her succeed with her reelection campaign.

Eva said: “Thanks so much – it means a lot. Everyone’s been so, so kind to me. So, so lovely. So thank you for reminding me why I love this job so much – and thanks for having me again. Viva Strath Vegas.”

Well done to those who partook in this election cycle. Regardless of whether the candidates were ultimately successful with their campaigns – it is encouraging to see such an array of productivity, inclusiveness and diversity among the Strath community.

Omar Malik

Since high school, I have been immersed in numerous areas of journalism.

Volunteering and interning at establishments focused on sports journalism, media reporting on underrepresented groups including disabled people, as well as writing monthly articles in my own time, the field of journalism has always captured my attention over the past decade.

I graduated in 2022 in English Literature MA Hons from the University of Edinburgh, and I feel as though those analytical and stylistic teachings have only aided my pursuit for a career in media writing and reporting, especially as I undertake a Masters in Digital Journalism MLitt at Strathclyde University.