☀️ Get to Know Them ☀️: Haroon Sagheer
Name:
Haroon Sagheer
Role elected to:
Sabbatical Officer, University of Cumbria Students’ Union
What motivated you to run for this role in the student union?
Having completed my master’s in International Business Management at the University of Cumbria, I felt a strong connection to the student community. I wanted to give back and make a tangible difference in student life, particularly by representing student voices and improving their university experience. My passion for leadership and community engagement made this role a natural next step.
What do you hope to achieve during your time in office? Are there any specific projects or issues you’re passionate about?
I aim to foster better communication between students and university leadership, support student entrepreneurship, and create more inclusive events and activities. I’m especially passionate about enhancing support for international students and encouraging mental well-being through fitness and creative expression.
What do you think will be the biggest challenge in your role, and how are you preparing to tackle it?
One of the biggest challenges will be balancing the diverse needs of students across campuses. I’m addressing this by actively building networks and using digital tools to stay connected with different student groups and ensure that everyone feels heard and supported.
How do you plan to engage with students and ensure their voices are heard?
I plan to be approachable, visible on campus, and proactive on social media. I’ll host regular drop-in sessions, run surveys, and collaborate with societies to gather student feedback and take action on their priorities.
What does being part of the student union mean to you personally?
It’s an opportunity to lead change and empower others. Being part of the union allows me to stand up for students’ rights, build meaningful initiatives, and contribute to a stronger, more united university community.
What did you study (or are currently studying), and how has that shaped your approach to student representation?
I studied International Business Management at the University of Cumbria. It gave me a strategic mindset and a global perspective, helping me understand diverse student needs and how to manage projects effectively.
Have you had any previous leadership or volunteer experience before taking on this role?
Yes, I’ve managed my own clothing brand, run a YouTube channel and a meme page, all of which have sharpened my communication, leadership, and time-management skills. I’ve also been involved in community and cultural events that focused on student well-being and multicultural inclusion.
What’s one lesson or skill from your studies or past experiences that you think will help you most in this role?
Adaptability. Whether it’s switching between languages, managing different creative ventures, or solving problems on the fly, being adaptable helps me connect with people and make things happen, even under pressure.
What’s one thing people might be surprised to learn about you?
I can speak six languages and am currently learning Japanese!
What’s your go-to way to unwind after a busy day?
A gym session followed by listening to music or working on creative content for my YouTube or meme page.
Do you have a favourite spot on campus (or in the city/town) and why?
I love the quiet corners of the library and the green spaces around campus—they’re great for reflection, planning, or just relaxing with a book.
If you could have dinner with any historical or public figure, who would it be and why?
It would be Elon Musk. I admire his ambition and innovative mindset, and I’d love to talk about entrepreneurship and the future of tech.
What’s a song, film, or book that inspires you or you always come back to?
The film *The Pursuit of Happyness*. It’s a reminder that perseverance and belief in yourself can overcome almost any obstacle.
How would your friends describe you in three words?
Creative, driven, approachable.
What's one goal—personal or professional—you’d like to achieve by the end of the academic year?
To launch a successful student-led project that supports entrepreneurship and to grow my clothing brand into a recognized name among students.
