Vatsal Mandaliya Vice President External
My name is Vatsal Mandaliya, and I am a student at the University of Lethbridge, pursuing a Bachelor of Management with a major in International Management. I am actively engaged in the university community, having served as the Vice-President of the French Club, and currently serve as the Vice-President of the Bhartiya Club, which I co-founded to foster a sense of belonging and unity among students of Indian heritage. Additionally, I serve as an International Student Mentor, helping new international students adjust to life at the university and providing guidance on academic and personal matters. I also had the honour of winning first place in the KPMG competition, where my team and I showcased our problem-solving and strategic thinking abilities. These experiences have equipped me with a strong foundation in leadership, event organization, and building relationships within diverse communities. I am running for the position of Vice President External because I believe I can leverage my background in external relations, community-building, and cultural exchange to strengthen the university's external connections, ultimately benefiting all students.
What do you know about the position you are running for?
What are some of the initiatives you would like to implement if you are elected?
As your VP External, my primary focus will be on advocating for students and enhancing our presence within the wider community. I will prioritize maintaining strong relationships with local, provincial, and federal governments to ensure that the voices of University of Lethbridge students are heard. I will take a hands-on approach to researching and understanding the policies that impact students, acting as the chief advocate for our concerns at the City of Lethbridge and beyond. Additionally, I will focus on creating outreach opportunities that connect students with local organizations, government officials, and industry leaders, all while promoting the work of the Students' Union. By organizing events that engage the external community, we can establish the Students’ Union as a prominent voice in discussions around post-secondary education. I will also collaborate with the communications coordinator to ensure that our advocacy efforts are supported by clear, timely communication across all platforms, from the website to social media. Through these initiatives, I aim to foster a culture of active student engagement and ensure that the needs of students are at the forefront of all external discussions.