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Empowering Students, Building Community
Hi, I’m Genna and I’m the Student Engagement Manager at Heriot-Watt Student Union. My role is all about helping students get the most out of their time here, whether that’s through societies, volunteering, events, campaigns or creating change. I lead an amazing team who work to build a community where students feel connected, supported, and empowered to shape their experience.
I was born in France, but I travelled a lot over the years. We moved to Malaysia when I was three, then to the Philippines, and finally to the UK. I grew up in England and eventually made my way to Aberdeen to study psychology. That’s when I fell in love with Scotland, I found my independence, my people, and my future in a way.
I’ve been working at the Union since 2019. Due to Covid, within my first year, the world flipped upside down, and like many of us, my role changed overnight. But that’s one of the reasons I love this job, it’s always evolving. I’d previously spent two years as a student officer during my own uni experience, a hugely rewarding but challenging time that taught me a lot about leadership and resilience. After a break (including a stint living on a remote island!), I found myself drawn back to the student world and I’ve never looked back.
No two days in my job are the same. There are lots of meetings, yes, but what drives me is seeing students and staff grow. Whether it’s someone gaining the confidence to lead a project or watching our Full-Time Officers develop their voice. I’m proud to play a part in that journey. The energy students bring, and the change they drive, is the best part of my work.
The Union values that speak loudest to me are student-focused and empowering – because my job doesn’t work without them. You can’t support growth without putting students at the heart of it all.
Outside of work, my biggest passion is my son, he’s hilarious and keeps me on my toes! We spend loads of time outdoors and at the zoo. I also love baking. Cakes are my love language – lemon and poppy seed with Swiss meringue icing is a personal favourite. Oh, and once upon a time? I used to swim with sharks in Malaysia. True story.
Ways to get in touch with me...