“I will definitely miss persuading people (or trying to…) that Medway is the best campus, because it is!”. Mayo Femi-Obalemo was one of Greenwich Students’ Union’s (GSU) Officers for the 2020/21 academic year, and is a fiercely loyal advocate for all Greenwich students – but in particular those that study at Medway!”
Having studied Electrical and Electronic Engineering, graduating in 2019, Mayo spent most of her time based at Medway campus. As a GSU Officer, her ‘Medway Matters’ campaign sought to raise awareness about our Kent-based campus. “Medway students are Greenwich students, so they should never be left out. The Medway campus is unique in its shared nature (it is shared with the University of Kent and Canterbury Christ Church University), and sometimes students forget they are actually Greenwich students and not ‘Universities at Medway’ students.”
However, it could have all been very different, as Mayo had originally thought she would be studying at the Greenwich campus. “I had originally chosen to study at Greenwich as it was close to where I lived. That was until I got told I was going to Medway! After my first year, I thought about leaving, but I got involved with Greenwich Kent Students’ Union (GKSU) through my society, Believers LoveWorld, and that was what kept me here.”
Mayo initially accessed GKSU as a course representative, before starting her own society. Then in her final year she got involved with the Students’ Union at Greenwich. “I came across a flyer asking, “Do you want to be the next GSU Officer?” I wish I had gotten involved earlier, but I’m glad I had GKSU. The Students’ Union provides so many opportunities for life beyond the classroom, but also provides representation in the classroom to ensure you have a great experience all-round.”
When asked to pick her proudest achievement as GSU Officer, three instances came to mind. “Firstly, I don’t think I’ve ever been prouder than the day I signed the Medway Transfer Deed – literally bringing Medway home! Secondly, hearing how supported our faith groups felt throughout the year in the final Faith Forum I held. Finally, our Breaking Barriers: BAME Leadership Conference 2020 when I saw first-hand students feeling empowered to be the change they want to see. Including a student who, after the conference, ran for a national-level position with her professional body – and won! This is the reason I do what I do: to show others what is possible and empower them to make change and lead.”
Looking towards life after Greenwich (Mayo’s Officer term ended in June 2021), she wants to continue inspiring others. “I will be going on to build my career in leadership, and working with young people to develop their leadership skills and empower them to change the world. Coming into the GSU Officer role, I didn’t know my life would change. But today, I can boldly say standing in the elections was one of the best decisions I ever made, and a life-changing one.”
