AUSA Election Candidate Interviews: Engagement VP

Craccum interviews Anais Khellaf on her campaign for Engagement Vice-President.

Note: All candidates running for this role were contacted for an interview. Rachana Rajeev, Michael Ynclino (Cg), and Kalana Piramanage did not respond.

Question 1. How would you describe yourself in 5 words?

Creative, expressive, curious, a listener, and fun!!

Question 2. Which of your policies/visions are you most excited to implement next year? 

My vision as the engagement VP is less about strict policies and more about naturally helping the campus reach its full potential. With financial & academic stress, it's disheartening for students to come to uni and feel that lack of connection/ liveliness.

I want to create a campus that celebrates the diversity and creativity of students. Live music, DJs, good food, sports, etc. Creating 3rd spaces for students of all backgrounds and interests. With the support of club executives and the student community, the UOA campus can be so much more!

Question 3. What would be the first event that you would organise in 2027?

A carnival-style fair would be a great opener for O Week! Food stalls, classic carnival games, live music, photobooths & a petting zoo. It would also be the perfect way to introduce some of the clubs to new students. 

Question 4. Do you think it’s true that AUSA events need to be more centred around networking/job-hunting, rather than fun social activities? Which would you prioritise?

Clubs such as Women in Business do a great job at creating a balance. Networking / job-hunting events are needed. However, in my opinion, Social events should be the priority. Sometimes the best networking happens unconventionally!

Question 5. Why should students care about AUSA elections? 

The AUSA team allocates money to student services and events. You have a say in who those people are; the choice is yours :)

Question 6. If you win this election, you will be a part of the team that decides Craccum’s budget for next year. Would you increase Craccum’s funding in 2027 to at least $120k? (Yes/No). If you were in the executive this year, why was the budget decreased to the lowest it’s ever been in recent years?

Craccum showcases the voice and creativity of UoA students. Depriving the magazine of funds is wrong!! So yes, I would increase its funding.

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