Let's say hello to...
Stitching Together Some Change
Hello! I’m Joey, your VP Academic, and I’m originally from Dunfermline, although Edinburgh definitely feels like home these days. I’ve just finished my Fashion degree down at the Scottish Borders Campus, and honestly, I loved my time there. Gala has such a creative and supportive atmosphere that it really gives you the space to grow into yourself. It sounds a little corny, but I genuinely love fashion, especially the sustainability side of it. There’s something really exciting about being trusted with creative freedom and having access to all the studios and resources to bring your ideas to life.
I first got involved with the Union as a class rep before becoming the Galashiels Assistant, which ended up completely changing my university experience. Through that role, I started speaking to students about the issues they were facing academically and personally, and I realised how important it is for students to feel heard in those conversations. Appeals, mitigating circumstances, academic support… these things can feel really overwhelming when you’re going through them alone. I wanted students to feel supported and included in decisions that directly affect them.
As VP Academic, no two days are really the same. One minute I’m replying to emails and sitting in meetings, and the next I’m chatting to students at events or gathering feedback at town halls. That’s definitely my favourite part of the role. I love hearing people’s stories, celebrating their wins, supporting them through challenges, and helping students bring their ideas to life. Whether that’s starting a society, improving academic conditions, or campaigning for issues they care deeply about, I want students to feel brave enough to take up space and speak up.
Brave is definitely the Union value I connect with most. I think it takes courage just to be at university sometimes. You’re constantly learning, adapting, and putting yourself out there. For me, bravery is about creating spaces where people feel empowered to do exactly that.
Outside of the Union, I’m really into spirituality and sustainable fashion. I also love reading autobiographies from people in the fashion industry because I’m fascinated by the journeys people take to become who they are.
A quirky fact? I read tarots and it started as a family tradition from my grandmother, so it’s something that feels really personal to me.
Ways to get in touch with me...