Congratulations to Blake Walker who has won Role Model of the Year at the 2024 Queer Student Awards.
Blake - the first openly trans officer at The SU - was nominated for the many qualities they possess as an excellent role model for other students. Highlighted within the nomination was 2023’s Transgender Day of Remembrance vigil led by Blake, and the work they have done organising and running training for Bath’s Nightline volunteers on how to better support LGBTQ+ students. In the last academic year, they have created a Gender Expression Fund to support students in accessing gender affirming items and been the lead organiser for MOGoff, working with seven different SU groups to give a voice those affected by a now-former politician's rhetoric after he was invited to speak on campus by another society.
QSA said in their announcement of the winner: “Blake has worked hard to ensure students have access to resources which can help affirm their gender and creating safe spaces to allow conversation, being unapologetically themselves and inspiring others. Their efforts not only support their peers but also educate and inspire the entire university, making them a deserving recipient of this award.”
Blake Said "It was lovely to be recognised nationally for some of the work I have done over the last year. I am particularly proud of the successful launch of the gender expression fund, and I am grateful for the financial and operational support this has received from the University and the Students' Union. It has been an honour representing and advocating for students over the past few years and I can't wait to see what the incoming LGBT+ committee achieve over the next year!"
The Queer Student Awards are an annual celebration of talented young LGBTQ+ people in the UK who are proudly leading in their lives and the communities around them. Created in 2021, by ED&I consultant Steve Keith, the awards also recognise the work that allies, schools, colleges, universities, and employers are doing towards creating inclusive spaces that support and reassure them that their sexuality and gender identity will not act as a barrier to their future success. For more information on other winners, see QSA’s website.
To get involved with supporting LGBTQ+ students, join the LGBT+ Group.