Introduction

Hi, my name is Tõnis and I enjoy playing sports, learning new languages and challenging my friends at card games. I’ve been a part of student politics since middle school and have loved representing University of Aberdeen students during my role as Vice President for Activities this year.

What are your three priorities for the year?

My three priorities for the year are to:

1. Increase and diversify free activities.

This year I’ve continued “Give it a Kick“ free football sessions, and have expanded the initiative to different sports, such as boccia, tennis, and kendo. Other free activities I’ve hosted this year include games nights and yoga in the library. I would like to create more events which offer students the opportunity to better their physical, mental, and social health for free without commitment, which is important during the cost-of-living crisis.

2. Create an active, engaged and inclusive campus.

I would like to create a more engaged campus where more people from diverse backgrounds feel comfortable engaging in various activities. I’ve already started initiatives such as women and girls in sport week at our university, weekly accessible Boccia & Biscuits sessions, and affordable themed cooking classes. I also recently helped host Ukraine week, which brought together people from different backgrounds and made an impact on those that engaged with the events and exhibition. I heard many heart-shattering as well as heart-warming stories from students during the week.

3. Restore university sports facilities.

I started this project during my current year as VP, but due to the financial position of the university most projects have ground to a halt. There is a lot of pressure on facilities with current use, so I’m looking at external grants to help with projects such as replacing the Butchart floor, which would alleviate the pressure from the currently fully booked ASV indoor hall. Thinking ahead, I’ve also been working on a sport strategy with the university, ASV, and SSS, that sets out a long-term plan regarding all things sport. This includes plans to restore and create new sports facilities.

What unique skill/knowledge can you bring to the role to stand out from the other candidates? 

I’m a future-oriented and open person and never afraid to hear new ideas and try new things. I’ve been involved in student politics for 10 years, and have held the VP for Activities position for a year. Therefore, I know what is needed to be successful in the role and what issues currently need attention at the university. I’m also actively a part of various clubs and societies, and thus know what problems clubs and societies face day-to-day.

What do you think is the biggest issue that students are facing at the moment and how do you plan to tackle it?        

Unfortunately, my answer for this is the same as last year, the cost-of-living crisis. A whopping 12% of students have been homeless during their studies and 33% have had to skip meals due to not being able to afford them. I would like to expand the cooking classes to more accessible formats, such as video and livestream, and continue and expand current offerings of free activities. I have and will be fighting against cuts to education on a larger scale by working with other Students’ Unions and NUS.