VOTE
NOW
BALLOTS CLOSE MONDAY 17 AUGUST
Vote now in the 2027 AUTSA Student Elections. Help shape the future of student representation at AUT. Every student who votes is automatically entered into the prize draw to win an iPad.
ABOUT THE SRC ELECTIONS
AUT students drive change on campus. By standing for the Student Representative Council or casting your vote, you help shape the student experience and ensure student voices are heard at every level of AUT.
This is your hub for all things AUTSA Elections — including key dates, how to get involved, and answers to frequently asked questions.
MEET THE CANDIDATES
BUSINESS, ECONOMICS AND LAW FACULTY REP
SOUMYA KRUPANANDA
Kia ora,
I am currently pursuing a Master of Business Management at AUT and am standing for the role of Business, Economics & Law Faculty Representative.
With a professional background in Human Resources, I bring experience in stakeholder engagement, structured communication, and understanding organisational systems. This has strengthened my ability to analyse feedback, identify concerns, and represent diverse perspectives in a balanced and practical way.
I have also been involved in academic research work and have supported faculty-level projects, including exposure to research environments such as NIMHANS, India. These experiences have developed my analytical thinking and ability to engage with evidence-based discussions.
As a student within this faculty, I understand the importance of academic quality, clear communication, and a well-supported learning environment.
If elected, I will represent student feedback in Faculty and Academic Board discussions, raise academic concerns constructively, and advocate for improvements that enhance the overall learning experience.
My approach is to represent students with clarity, fairness, and accountability.
Ngā mihi,
Soumya K
DAVID HOWIE
Kia ora! I'm David, a BEL student just like you. I'm honoured to be the current BEL Faculty Representative on the AUTSA SRC. I'm passionate about creating an environment of inclusion, fun, and growth for all students so that we can all have a truly rewarding and memorable university experience.
From my first day at AUT, I fell in love with its celebration of culture, its welcoming community, and its belief that business can make the world a better place.
However, I also noticed areas within the BEL Faculty where the student voice could help drive meaningful improvements. I believe every student deserves the best education possible, regardless of their background. That's why I put my hand up for this role in 2026. Since beginning the role I've been advocating on the issues that truly matter to students such as increasing access to workshop content and consistency across workshop streams.
I've loved representing the student voice within the BEL Faculty this year, and I would be honoured to have another crack at it in 2027!
CULTURE AND SOCIETY FACULTY REP
JASMIN (LE NGUYET MINH) NGUYEN
I’m excited to re-nominate as the Culture & Society Faculty Representative because I’ve genuinely enjoyed representing students and working with AUTSA throughout my first term on the SRC :D
Over 2026, I’ve represented student voices at SRC meetings, Faculty Board, Board of Studies, Academic Subcommittee meetings, and faculty discussions. These experiences have helped me better understand how student feedback can influence decisions and strengthened my confidence in advocating for my peers.
As a Bachelor of Education student, I understand many of the challenges students face, including balancing coursework, practicums, employment, and financial pressures. I’ve worked to raise these concerns while listening to feedback from students across the Faculty of Culture and Society :)
If re-elected, I want to continue improving communication between students, Academic Student Representatives (ASRs), faculty staff, and AUTSA so that students know their voices are heard and acted upon. I also hope to encourage greater student engagement and ensure concerns from all schools within the faculty are represented fairly.
I would be grateful for the opportunity to continue serving the Culture & Society community and to keep advocating for a positive and inclusive student experience at AUT !
GLORIA BONG
Kia ora! I'm Gloria, a psychology and criminology student at AUT. As a second-year, I've connected with students across different backgrounds, clubs like Student Life/Scholar's Society/Amokura Leadership Program, and I want to celebrate and support our faculty's student experience by helping students feel heard, safe and more confident.
I'm keen to listen and advocate for initiatives that directly affect us as students, including clearer communication between students and faculty, consistent assignment guidance and marking criteria, and stronger networking events tailored to our faculty.
I've worked in school leadership before as a prefect and volunteer ambassador, and I'll actively bring real concerns to faculty leadership. I'll work hard to be a reliable voice that expresses your voices. Thank you for considering me
DESIGN & CREATIVE TECHNOLOGIES FACULTY REP
RACHEL ROSE SHEARY
As students in the 21st century, we are standing on the edge of our future careers, facing a society fraught with insecurity. All the while trying to live on our own, its no wonder students struggle and resort to our "Cs get degrees" mindset.
The origin of the word University can be dated back to the middle ages circa 1300. It was defined as;
"a body of teachers and students engaged in giving and receiving instruction in the higher branches of study and regarded as a scholastic guild" (Oxford English Dictionary, “university (n.),” June 2026)
Scholastic from Greek skholastikos, means "enjoying leisure; devoting one's leisure to learning," (D. Harper. "Etymology of scholastic." Online Etymology Dictionary)
At Auckland University of Technology, I want us to feel we are a part of a scholastic guild, brought together by our passion for academics and arts which may contribute to the world. I want to bring leisure back into learning, with goals of creation and spreading of knowledge that people want to hear, or that makes people think.
To achieve this I believe we need to cultivate a community where academic interests and efforts are rewarded. Not only by scholarships, honours and merits which may be recognised by future employers. But by direct opportunities within the university. I want to develop the culture of growth through apprenticeship, by bringing our professors and extensive resources closer to students who wish to achieve.
Resources I would prioritise as a Design and Creative Technologies student would include a makers space, and academic seminars for specific topics where students have the freedom to propose projects or just initiate discussions, with the guidance of our professors.
I believe University should be a community filled with opportunities to build and engage our passions, and to find leisure in learning. A place where no idea is too big.
What does University mean to you?
MATTE CADE PERRIN
I’m applying because I’d like to help make sure students in our faculty feel heard and represented.
I’m an Electrical Engineering student, founder of AUT Formula SAE, and part of IEEE at AUT. Through these roles, I’ve had experience organising events, working with students and staff, and trying to turn ideas into something practical.
I know the faculty covers a wide range of areas, and I won’t pretend to understand every programme straight away. I would make the effort to listen, speak to students across the faculty, and raise the issues that actually matter to them.
I’d aim to be approachable, reliable, and honest about what I can and can’t change. Most importantly, I would follow things up rather than letting feedback blow over.
HEALTH & ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES FACULTY REP
STORM WELMAN
I'm Storm, a nursing student and AUT ambassador involved with 'Are You Okay?'. I talk to students every day about what matters to them. That direct experience on campus puts me in a strong position to understand the Health & Environmental Sciences Faculty's real needs and push for changes that actually work for you.
POSTGRADUATE AFFAIRS REP
CHLOE MCDONALD
Being a postgraduate student is more than being a bragging right, it's a chance to celebrate your passions whilst shaping the future for learners to come. That's why your experience as a postgraduate student matters, because when we support our researchers we support a better society. This matters deeply to me and if I were to be elected as the rep for this cohort my first priority would be to address financial and economical barriers affecting access to studying. My second would be to make the experience more fun and social. Research can be incredibly isolating so I would like to open regular study clubs and events for us to unwind or even as an opportunity to rant about our beloved research areas (because I know we're dying to tell someone about it!).
AMAL SHAJU
I'm Amal Shaju, running to be your Postgraduate Affairs Representative. As a Level 9 Master of Engineering Project Management student, I approach university issues like projects that need fixing. I understand resource allocation, risk management, and execution. Beyond my studies, I bring real-world executive experience as Vice President of a major youth organisation, where I managed community funds with complete financial transparency and led hands-on disaster relief during local floods. Postgraduates don't need empty promises—you need someone who can manage budgets, optimise our study spaces, and deliver actual results. I have the technical skills of a project manager and the proven commitment of a community servant. Let's engineer a better postgraduate experience together.
DIVERSITY AFFAIRS REP
PEI–LIN HUANG
Kia ora, I'm PeiLin Huang, and I'm standing for Diversity Affairs Representative.
AUT is home to students from many cultures, backgrounds, identities, and lived experiences. Our differences make our community stronger, but every student should feel equally welcomed, respected, and included during their time at university. I believe diversity is not only something to celebrate. It is something that should be reflected in student representation, engagement, and decision-making.
Meeting and speaking with students from many different communities has given me a greater appreciation for the diversity that makes AUT such a vibrant place to study. This experience has shown me the importance of creating spaces where people feel comfortable sharing their views and know that their voices matter.
If elected, my priorities are promoting inclusion, encouraging meaningful engagement across diverse communities, and ensuring students from all backgrounds have equal opportunities to participate in student-led initiatives and events. I will also advocate for fair representation and work to ensure that students from all backgrounds feel heard when decisions affecting student life are made.
I am passionate about building an inclusive student community where everyone feels a sense of belonging. With SRC experience and a commitment to representation, I am excited to continue supporting and advocating for AUT students.
I'd be honoured to have your support and your vote.
Ngā mihi,
PeiLin Huang
INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS REP
SOUMYA KRUPANANDA
Kia ora,
I am currently pursuing a Master of Business Management at AUT and am standing for the role of International Affairs Representative.
As an international student, I understand the reality of adjusting to a new country, culture, and education system while managing academic pressure, visa requirements, and personal responsibilities. These experiences have helped me relate closely to the challenges international students face and the need for clear support systems.
Alongside my studies, I bring professional experience in Human Resources, where I have worked with communication, people processes, and stakeholder coordination. This has strengthened my ability to understand concerns, communicate effectively, and help people navigate structured systems.
If elected, I will focus on improving clarity around university communication, strengthening support for international students around administrative and visa-related processes, and promoting initiatives that help students feel more connected and included within the AUT community.
My aim is to help international students feel informed, supported, and confident throughout their journey at AUT.
Ngā mihi,
Soumya K
STEFAN ARGENTIERO
When I first came to Aotearoa, I saw a place that could enable me to live up to my potential, and it wouldn't be possible without the support networks this university has for us international students. I will advocate for opportunities and events that allow international students to form support networks so everyone gets to be at the best version of themselves.
AMAL SHAJU
I'm Amal Shaju, an international student from India studying Master of Engineering Project Management. I live the challenges our international community faces daily—moving countries, adapting to new academic systems, navigating financial and cultural shifts. I understand these realities firsthand.
I approach international student advocacy through a practical lens, combining lived experience with project management strategies like resource optimization and risk mitigation. As former Vice President of a youth organization, I managed community funds with strict financial transparency and coordinated emergency relief during local floods. That experience taught me how to execute strategically and maintain integrity under pressure.
I'm ready to bring personal understanding, strategic execution skills, and proven financial responsibility to this role. I'll manage student budgets transparently, defend your welfare, and deliver real results for our international community.
DISABILITY AFFAIRS REP
MARS COOK
My name is Mars, and I'm a student with multiple disabilities running for AUT Disability Affairs Representative.
I've been passionate about equity for disabled people my whole life. I have a background in advocacy as a founding Rangatahi Leader of Kick Back's The Front Door project, helping co-design a service for youth facing homelessness. I believe that when it comes to advocacy, 'nothing about us without us' is the most important principle, which is why I want every disabled student at AUT to be heard and to facilitate mutual trust and respect.
Due to my life experiences, I have had to overcome countless difficulties. Adversity has made me strong, and given me the will to persist in the face of seemingly hopeless situations.
I am: highly determined, a great networker, a creative thinker, open-minded, and friendly.
Many students at AUT are disabled, and many potential disabled students are not studying. Disabled people are often expected to give up on achieving our potential, just because it could be difficult. It doesn't have to be this way. I believe that Aotearoa can become a place where everyone recieves equal access to education. Accessibility is a principle that will benefit every student, and it is easier to achieve than people may think. We just need to think creatively, connect with our communities, and never stop fighting for the change we want to see.
As the Disability Affairs Representative, I will:
- Organise and facilitate regular social meetups for disabled students and those who want to talk about disability justice.
- Raise awareness of resources useful to disabled students.
- Help staff understand the needs of disabled students better, and help them navigate solutions to access barriers.
- Help organisations that provide resources outside AUT to be more accessible.
CHLOE MCDONALD
Kia ora AUT! Are you ready to take inclusivity to a whole new level? I know I am. That's why, if I'm elected, I won't just raise the bar for accessibility, I'll empower others to follow us too.
I'll expand our Disabled Students' Association to include more representative roles, ensuring the diverse voices of our cohort are equally uplifted. Adding on, I will actively engage with our cultural and queer spaces to ensure that intersectionality is recognised. In addition to addressing financial barriers to accessibility, I will also introduce semesterly accessibility feedback forms to hold our university accountable for taking care of its students.
Now, if that sounds like your cup of tea, you'll know to vote for Chloe :)
RAINBOW AFFAIRS REP
STEFAN ARGENTIERO
AUT gave me a space and community where I finally felt safe to express myself. I'll make sure every rainbow student feels the same going forward. Through my affiliation with Out@AUT and individual queer students on campus, I'm always in touch with what our community needs; through my strong sense of justice and outspoken nature we'll swiftly deal with the issue. I want to expand rainbow support services to cut down on long wait times for appointments, as these trying times are putting a strain on current support staff.
WELLBEING AFFAIRS REP
SOUMYA KRUPANANDA
Kia ora,
I am currently pursuing a Master of Business Management at AUT and am standing for the role of Welfare & Campus Student Wellbeing Representative.
Student wellbeing is something I deeply value, both personally and academically. During my own journey, I have experienced periods of stress and uncertainty, and it was through yoga and mindfulness practices that I learned how important emotional balance, resilience, and support systems are in helping individuals cope and thrive.
I am a certified Yoga Instructor and Therapist trained at S-VYASA University, India, and I am currently pursuing an MSc in Yoga Therapy. Through my experience supporting individuals with mental health challenges and my research work in this field, I have developed a strong understanding of the importance of early support and accessible wellbeing services.
If elected, I will focus on strengthening awareness and accessibility of student wellbeing services and working closely with AUT Counselling and Health Services to ensure students feel supported at the right time.
My goal is to help create a campus environment where students feel mentally supported, emotionally balanced, and able to thrive.
Ngā mihi,
Soumya K
STORM WELMAN
I'm Storm, a nursing student and AUT ambassador involved with 'Are You Okay?'. I talk to students every day about their mental health and wellbeing. That direct experience on campus puts me in a strong position to understand the general wellbeing of students and push for changes that actually work for you.
PEI–LIN HUANG
Kia ora, I'm PeiLin Huang, and I'm running to be your Wellbeing Affairs Representative.
Over the past year as a Student Representative Council member, I've had the opportunity to hear directly from students about the challenges they face at university. From academic pressure and financial stress to balancing study, work, and personal commitments, I know these issues affect many students every day.
Student Wellbeing means more than access to support services. It's about feeling connected, included, supported, and able to succeed both inside and outside the classroom. Every student deserves a university experience where their wellbeing is valued and their voice is heard.
If elected, I will focus on improving awareness of wellbeing resources, advocating for initiatives that help students manage stress, and supporting opportunities that strengthen connection and belonging within our diverse AUT community. I also want to ensure student feedback plays a meaningful role in shaping decisions that impact student life.
As a returning SRC member, I bring experience, a strong understanding of student concerns, and a commitment to representing your interests. I am ready to continue working with students to help create a positive and supportive environment for everyone.
I'd be honoured to have your support and your vote.
Ngā mihi,
PeiLin Huang
GLORIA BONG
Kia Ora! I'm Gloria, a psychology/criminology student at AUT. As a psychology student, I prioritise raising awareness on mental health.
I'm keen to listen to diverse student perspectives and advocate for initiatives that genuinely address concerns about campus culture, accessible wellbeing resources and student safety around campus.
I've worked in school leadership before as a prefect and volunteer ambassador, and I want to respond as an active student voice, bringing up real concerns and issues that we deal with. I'll work hard to be a reliable voice that expresses your voices. Thank you for considering my candidacy.
CITY CAMPUS REP
MATTE CADE PERRIN
I’m applying because I’d like to help improve the everyday experience of being a student at City Campus.
A lot of student life is shaped by things that can seem small until they affect you directly, such as study spaces, building access, maintenance, cleanliness, safety, food options and the general campus environment. I’d like to make it easier for students to raise concerns and suggest improvements, then I'll work with AUT and the relevant teams to make sure these are properly considered and followed up.
I pay attention to how spaces and facilities actually work for students, and I’m comfortable communicating with staff to get clear answers. As City Campus Rep, I’d listen to students across campus, keep them informed about what is being raised and focus on practical changes that make campus safer, more useful and a better place to spend time.
NORTH CAMPUS REP
STORM WELMAN
I'm Storm, a nursing student and AUT ambassador involved with 'Are You Okay?'. I talk to students every day about what matters to them. That direct experience on campus puts me in a strong position to understand the North Campus students' real needs and push for changes that actually work for you.
SOUTH CAMPUS REP
ISARA PARAMORE
Talofa and Kiaora I’m Isara, and if there’s one thing about me, it’s that I’ll always show up for people. I’m not the type to sit back and hope things change I actually want to make things happen. South Campus deserves someone who’s easy to talk to, listens to what students have to say, and isn’t afraid to speak up when something needs to change. Whether it’s creating more opportunities, improving student life, or simply making sure everyone feels included, I’ll always give it 100%. I’m passionate about building a stronger South Campus community where everyone feels seen, supported, and proud to be here. If you vote for me, you’re voting for someone who genuinely cares, works hard, and will always put students first. Let’s make South Campus the best it can be.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the SRC and what do they do?
The Student Representative Council (SRC) is a group of AUT students, elected by their peers, who represent the student voice on campus. SRC members sit on university committees, advocate for change, and ensure the student perspective is heard—whether it’s about academic policies, campus facilities, or student services. They’re here to make sure AUT works for you. If you have concerns about something at AUT or an issue affecting students across New Zealand—like rising transport costs—your SRC is the team to talk to. For more information about the SRC, the structure of the SRC, sub-committees, and role descriptions, visit: autsa.org.nz/representation
What does being on the SRC involve?
Prospective SRC members should expect to commit up to 10 hours to duties per week during the academic year. What you do during those ten hours ranges across roles and will vary from week to week. You can expect to spend some time answering emails or messages from students, attending meetings, writing reports, and attending AUTSA events.
Why should I run for a role?
Running in student elections is a fantastic way to drive change and represent your fellow students at AUT. If you have an issue you want to address, why not be the one to make it happen? Participating in student elections also offers valuable insights into the inner workings of the university. You'll connect with like-minded and interesting peers, and receive support from a leadership team that includes a President, two Vice Presidents, and AUTSA operational staff. Additionally, you'll develop important skills such as leadership, teamwork, advocacy, time management, communicating effectively, and demonstrating empathy just to name a few. Running for a position is not only a way to make a difference, but also a great opportunity for personal and professional growth.
Do I get paid for the role?
Being on the SRC is considered a voluntary role, but SRC members receive an honoraria twice a year (at the end of each semester The exception to this is the President which is considered a salaried full time role of 40 hours per week for a two-year term. Vice President Academic, and Vice President Community positions are considered a salaried part time role of 20 hours per week for a two-year term. For more information about the roles, click the link at the bottom of the page.
How do I nominate myself or someone else for a position on the SRC?
Nominating is simple! On Monday, 15 June, you’ll receive an email from AUTSA with a link to the nomination form. In the form, you’ll specify the SRC position you’re standing for and provide endorsements from two other AUT students by entering their names, emails, and student IDs. If you know someone who would make an excellent SRC representative, encourage them to fill out the form—or nominate them yourself by completing the form on their behalf. Nominations close on Friday 24th July, so be sure to get yours in on time! Once you’ve submitted your nomination and we have received all the necessary information to complete your nomination/confirm your candidacy, you will get an email from our Returning Officer, confirming your candidacy. You will then receive a candidate briefing booklet which outlines the rules of campaigning and offers some tips. The link to the nomination form can also be found at the top of this page.
How do I vote?
You’ll receive an email from AUTSA on Monday, 3 August, with a link to view candidate profiles and vote securely. Voting forms will be sent to your AUT email address, and you can cast your vote between 3 - 17 August. Please note: Due to the large number of emails being sent, delivery times may vary. If you notice that other students have received their voting email before you, don’t worry, yours is on its way. If you haven’t received your voting form email by 5 August, please contact us at elections@autsa.org.nz
When am I able to start campaigning?
Campaigning starts on Wednesday, 29 July and can continue until Monday, 17 August. Candidates cannot campaign outside these dates. The campaign period has been adjusted to allow sufficient time for candidate nominations to be finalised and election materials to be prepared. Election rules will be supplied to all candidates.
How do I prepare for my campaign?
1. Identify Your Priorities: Reflect on what’s important to you as a student. Consider what aspects of AUT you’d like to maintain and what areas you’d like to improve. 2. Focus on Key Issues: Narrow down to about three main issues you want to address during your term as a representative. Think about how you can articulate these in a clear and compelling way. 3. Create a Campaign Theme: Develop key words or a phrase that sums up your campaign. This should be something that distinguishes you from the competition and highlights what makes you unique. 4. Design Campaign Materials: Start planning your campaign materials, such as posters and videos. Make sure they are visually appealing and effectively communicate your message. 5. Timing of Your Campaign: Remember, you cannot release any information about your campaign to the student body until Monday 11th August. Plan your campaign activities accordingly to ensure compliance with this rule. Campaigning must end by Sunday 24th August. By focusing on these steps, you'll be well-prepared to run a successful and impactful campaign.
Who do I contact if I need more information?
Please email elections@autsa.org.nz
FULL LIST OF POSITIONS
Academic Subcommittee
Design and Creative Technologies Faculty Representative
Culture and Society Faculty Representative
Health and Environmental Sciences Faculty Representative
Business, Economics and Law Faculty Representative
Community Subcommittee
Diversity Affairs Representative
Māori Affairs Representative
Mature Students Representative
Pasifika Affairs Representative
International Affairs Representative
Disability Affairs Representative
Rainbow Affairs Representative
Postgraduate Affairs Representative
Wellbeing Affairs Representative
Campus Subcommittee
City Campus Representative
South Campus Representative
North Campus Representative
Accommodation Representative
Is training provided?
Yes. It will cover skills such as effective communication, meeting etiquette, event planning and general AUTSA awareness. The expectation is that all SRC attend this training.