Tobiloba Osogbiye (née Adeyemi) (MA Int Relations and Diplomacy, 2020)
What motivated you to run for the position of Guild President?
Having served as the Postgraduate Officer a year before, I knew my work was far from finished. I saw the role of Guild President as a powerful opportunity to expand my impact, champion student voices, and drive meaningful change on a larger scale. Beyond that, I felt a deep responsibility to continue my efforts in improving BAME engagement within the Guild and the wider University community, ensuring that underrepresented voices were not just heard but truly valued and included.
What lessons did you learn in your role that have been valuable in your career?
I learned that no experience is too small – every opportunity is a chance to grow. It’s important to stay open to learning and to build strong networks, as connections made along the way can prove invaluable in the future. I also became more confident in speaking up and understood the power of stepping into gaps to become an agent of change.
What do you consider your biggest achievement during your time as Guild President?
One of my proudest achievements was giving students hope during the pandemic. My team worked closely with the University to secure student rebates and propelled initiatives like the Black Voices Campaign. Additionally, I wrote and successfully implemented a policy proposal to increase board diversity, leading to the recruitment of BAME student trustees for the first time. While these accomplishments were significant, the most rewarding part was being there for students during a time of uncertainty and making them feel heard and supported.
Can you share a memorable, funny, or poignant story from your time as Guild President?
There were many unforgettable moments, but what I cherish the most is the bond I built with my officer team. We supported, challenged, and learned from each other in ways that extended beyond our roles. Even now, we continue to cheer each other on whenever possible, which speaks to the lasting impact of that shared experience.
What advice would you give to current and future Guild officers?
Be yourself – don’t try to be someone you’re not. Authenticity is one of the most important qualities of leadership, as it builds trust and credibility with the students you represent. Stay true to your values, embrace challenges, and remember why you stepped into the role in the first place.