Let's say hello to...
From the Sidelines to Centre Court
Hello! I’m Mo, your Student Union President. I was born in the US but I’m originally from Iran, grew up in Dubai, and eventually ended up in Edinburgh when my family moved here. I think living in so many different places has given me an interesting perspective on people and culture. I feel very connected to my Iranian roots and the Middle East still feels like home in a personal way because that’s where most of my childhood memories are from, but Edinburgh has absolutely become home too. It’s where I finished high school, started university, and slowly built something for myself.
My journey with the Union started because I missed my own Freshers’ Week. I saw an advert to become a Freshers’ Rep and sent a very last-minute “is it too late?” email after missing the availability deadline. Thankfully, it worked out. I then became part of the Welcome Team, and before I knew it, the Union became such a huge part of my university experience. I realised how important representation is and how much students care about being supported and included. Becoming President felt like a natural next step because I genuinely want to make campus life easier in whatever way I can.
My role now is basically being the voice for students. Whether it’s meetings with the University, campaigns, or everyday concerns, my job is to represent them and make sure their experiences matter. There are definitely a lot of meetings involved, but honestly, my favourite part is always speaking face-to-face with students. Those conversations are what keep everything grounded and real.
The Union value I connect with most is Brave. Putting myself out there, running for President, all of that came from stepping outside my comfort zone. I used to be incredibly anxious about speaking to people, now I feel like I can connect with almost anyone, and that’s something I’m genuinely really proud of. It reminds me that growth usually starts with doing the thing that scares you a little.
Outside of the Union, I’m a huge basketball fan (Phoenix Suns forever!) and Devin Booker will always be my favourite player. I also make my own music, mostly pop and R&B, which somehow made its way to Spotify.
A quirky fact? I loved going to Kid Laroi’s LA concert but I’m forever waiting for the day Frank Ocean finally decides to appear on a stage again.
Ways to get in touch with me...