My name is Karina, and I am a second-year film student. I want to speak up for the underrepresented community of LGBTQIA+ students here at the University of Gloucestershire and become your network lead. It has been my passion and dedication to bring not only the society back to the forefront of university life but also to make sure the LGBTQIA+ community is heard. 

In 2020, over 40,000 students shared that they identified as LGBTQ+ on their UCAS application. Did you know that 42% of students who identify within the LGBTQIA+ community researched when choosing a university if there is a strong LGBTQIA+ network and community. It was shown to have influenced their decision whether there were safe LGBTQ+-friendly spaces and access to services. (UCAS, 2022) All students want to know if the university will listen and support them while studying for their degree. With those high statistics, many students must be represented and get their needs and voices heard.