Bainborough talks equity, social media outreach, and commuter-friendly initiatives
The Strand: Why are you running?
Tess Bainborough: I’m running because I really enjoyed my time on my high school student council. My favourite part of the job was seeing my classmates let loose at council events and knowing I had, in some small way, helped make the year less stressful for them.
TS: What sets you apart from other candidates?
RB: The other candidates are amazing this year, so I know that no matter who gets elected, you’re all going to be in good hands, but I do think I have something unique to offer in terms of my previous experience as an advocate for students. In my grade 11 year, two local high schools were amalgamated, and I ran an independent survey to find out from my peers what the biggest issues were with the new situation. I then contacted the school board and made a presentation at their monthly meeting. I really care about the student voice being heard by whatever administration is guiding us.
TS: What events or programming do you plan to assist with during your time?
RB: As a part of VUSAC, I would love to be able to assist with planning/setting up more events that are commuter-student friendly; for example, more events during the daytime, or in the earlier evening.
TS: What is one issue you are passionate about? (i.e: equity, transit)
RB: I’m really passionate about equity, so in terms of making events accessible, I want to make sure that our events are fun for everybody, regardless of financial situation, living situation, or any other factor that might cause a student to feel ‘othered.’
TS: How do you plan to make events accessible?
RB: When planning events, I really want council to be aware of students with sensory sensitivities, students with physical disabilities, and students who are part of the LGBTQIA+ community. It’s so important that everyone at Vic feels welcomed, respected, and encouraged to participate at council-organized events. For example, making pronoun pins available at every event.
TS: How do you plan to increase event attendance or engagement in VUSAC?
RB: In an effort to increase event attendance, I would like to see VUSAC rely more heavily on Instagram, and maybe even Snapchat or Reddit. I think that part of the reason some students don’t show up to events is that they don’t know they’re happening. So, I would like to see a shift away from Facebook, and a shift toward social media platforms that I believe students are using more often.
TS: What will do in your power to persuade students to opt into VUSAC levy fees?
RB: As for encouraging students to opt-in to their levy fees, I would never want to make students feel uncomfortable if they are simply less well-off financially. However, it’s important that the fees are paid if possible, so I think the best way to encourage students to pay their fees is to truly advertise what Vic would be like without the levies. Potentially, a poster or social media campaign with a list of services we would not have without the levy fees. I hope you all get online and vote, even if it’s not for me.
TS: What will you do if you do not win?
RB: If I don’t get elected, I still plan to get involved at Vic, and I hope everyone has a great year!
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
You can vote now until October 4th at voting.utoronto.ca
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