Schaun Shirkie
Hi everyone, I’m Schaun, your Co-President of Advocacy.
In this role, my remit is to represent and amplify the voices of students, ensuring your concerns, rights, and aspirations are heard and acted upon at every level — from college policies to national campaigns. I focus on promoting fairness, wellbeing, and equity across our student community, with a particular passion for environmental and social justice.
I aim to be a strong, approachable voice for change, working with staff and students to create real, lasting improvements in our college experience. Whether it’s tackling the day-to-day living, improving access to support, or empowering underrepresented voices, I’m here to advocate with integrity and determination.
Outside of this role, I’m a conservation student who’s passionate about nature, community, and building a better, more sustainable future. I’ve worked in some of Scotland’s wildest places, and I bring that same grit and commitment to my work representing you.”
Remit
The role of the Co-President of Engagement and Advocacy is to amplify student voices and create meaningful change within SRUC and beyond. The person who takes up this role will act as the lead student advocate, working closely with SRUC leadership, external partners, and fellow students to ensure that every student’s voice is heard in key decisions. They will represent SRUCSA on major committees, lead impactful campaigns, and drive efforts to make SRUC more transparent, fair, and student-focused. Whether it’s strengthening democratic structures or championing causes that matter to students, the Co-President of Engagement and Advocacy will ensure that change starts with the student body.
Collaboration is a big part of this role. The person in this position will work alongside the Co-President of Education and Quality to ensure that student feedback shapes academic improvements and learning experiences. They will also partner with the Co-President of Welfare and Community to support campaigns that focus on student wellbeing, inclusion, and building strong campus communities. Together, the Co-Presidents will create spaces where students feel empowered to participate, lead, and advocate for what matters to them. It might be running joint events, co-leading committees, or supporting campus-wide initiatives, the Co-President of Engagement and Advocacy will play a vital role in strengthening SRUCSA’s impact and ensuring that student voices are an essential part of every decision.