Full name: Emma Lovatt Smith
Age: 24
Course & year of study: English Literature BA, final year
Give us your pitch! Why do you want the job and why should students vote for you?
I’m super passionate about this job! I have got so much out of being involved in the eco-societies of the SU in my time at Sheffield. Now I have four years’ worth of know-how which I can put into effect in this role, getting students more involved in sustainability and making sure Uni is an environment-friendly haven. I want to continue to invigorate the eco-scene and believe there is a LOT of potential for this in Sheffield!
With an unlimited budget, what three things would you do to improve student-experience?
- Empower them with knowledge ahead of the general election, with a strong focus on the pressing nature of climate change.
- Build a support network for those affected by climate-anxiety, or the effects of violence within current global crises.
- Instigate and take part in the network of SUs countrywide to tackle cost of living crisis-related issues like student loans and rent prices.
Why is sustainability important to you?
Sustainability is the defining issue of our generation. It should be the central concern around which everything else is pivoted. Mitigating climate change is the most important issue facing us today. But despite being driven by worrying statistics and reports, when institutions become more sustainable, everyone benefits, and a ripple effect of positive change is created.
Three words to describe yourself?
Determined, jolly, sensitive.
Who would play you in a film of your life?
Emma Corrin!
What’s the best city in the UK?
Brighton or Bristol… the greenest cities politically – but Sheffield is on its way there, hence the excitement of the moment!
What’s your greatest fear?
Being immobilised whilst everything carries on around me. Yikes.
You can time travel to any year in history anywhere in the world. Where, when and why?
I’d like to try living in a roundhouse with a load of pagans. So pre-“civilisation” for me please Mr Time Traveller.
What’s your meal deal? Not Tesco-exclusive, you can be edgy and pick a different shop…
I actually have a distaste for the meal deal (sorry). Too much unnecessary packaging, and, come at me for this, but I don’t actually think you’re getting a deal half the time… I mean, a tiny bottle of OJ where you could have a carton? Come on!
Given the choice… pub, club or coffee shop? & Name your favourite pub/club/cafe in Sheffield depending on your answer.
Definitely pub. I don’t believe in things like ghosts, but I do believe in magic. But it’s the kind of magic that exists in nature – and pubs. My absolute favourite pub in Sheffield (and probably the UK): the Dorothy Pax.
What superpower would you choose?
Cliché, but flyinggggg (extra g’s added to emphasise the fun and ultimate freedom).
Which living person do you most admire and why?
Satish Kumar – an environmental activist. Check him out if you haven’t heard of him! He is a real man of action, and a true carer for the planet and defender of his values. I aspire to imitate his steadfastness, passion and endless energy brought about by his hopeful visionary mentality.
What’s your guilty pleasure?
Listening to epic film soundtracks really loud.
What’s your favourite thing about Sheffield?
The amazing groups of people, many who have set up organisations to help others or build community, which I think there is huge strength and people power within. I love this underground network in Sheffield, it is heart-warming and empowering.