Reggie the lion at a voting booth photo

Manifesto

Candidate for the position of African and Caribbean Society - Head of Events

Image for Ayla CONTEH

Ayla CONTEH

Bringing the A & C Together – One Event at a Time.

As a student of both Jamaican and Sierra Leonean descent, I carry a deep appreciation for the vibrance and variety within African and Caribbean cultures. This dual heritage has shaped how I view community—not as one-size-fits-all, but as a dynamic space where differences are not just respected but celebrated. It’s this perspective that drives my desire to strengthen visibility for all diasporas within ACS, and why I believe I’m the right person to be your next Head of Events.

In my first year, I served as an Events Officer in the ACS. It was a meaningful experience that introduced me to the hard work that goes into creating events that feel authentic and inclusive. Where things felt discouraging—when events didn’t always go to plan—it was the ability to stay positive, remain cooperative, and keep the bigger picture in mind that pushed me through. I learned that the best events are born out of resilience, teamwork, and a shared purpose, and I want to bring that energy into the new year.

 

Outside of ACS, I’ve developed a strong connection to the creative world as both a music artist and DJ. This background has equipped me with valuable skills in curation, collaboration, and community engagement. Through my creative work, I’ve also built relationships with other artists and professionals who are just as passionate about sharing culture and inspiring others. I plan to tap into these connections to bring unique, fresh, and culturally resonant experiences to ACS.

 

That said, confidence didn’t always come naturally to me. I used to be shy—and to this day, I still get shaky in front of new people or big crowds. But over time, I’ve grown into someone who can do difficult things. That growth wasn’t just internal—it came from the support of the people I’ve built around me. That’s why I’m passionate about ACS being a space where people don’t just show up, but feel empowered to show *up as themselves*. I want our events to help people connect with others who inspire them to keep going, even when it’s tough.

 

My professional experience in the catering industry—as a bartender, waitress, and wine server—has strengthened my ability to think quickly, stay calm under pressure, and communicate clearly with all kinds of people. These are transferable skills I know will serve me well in this role, whether it’s managing event logistics, coordinating teams, or just making sure everyone feels welcome.

 

Last summer, I also worked as a youth leader, spending residential time with groups of 15 young people. That role stretched me in all the right ways: it taught me how to manage responsibility, navigate group dynamics, and be the kind of person others could rely on. These are the same qualities I would bring to the ACS committee—steadiness, adaptability, and a genuine care for others.

 

Looking ahead, I have a number of event ideas that I believe will help us grow as a community while making room for all voices:

 

- Study Group Kick-Offs: At the start of the academic year, I want to host structured study sessions for freshers and returning students to meet others who work similarly to them, exchange study methods, and feel supported during the hectic start to the year.

 

- Industry Panel Nights: Inviting professionals from a range of fields—including law, tech, arts, healthcare, and more—to share how they navigated their careers, and offering possible internship or mentorship opportunities.

 

- Heritage Nights: Creating space to celebrate underrepresented groups within the African and Caribbean diasporas—such as North, East, and Southern African cultures, as well as Caribbean countries beyond Jamaica. These nights would allow us to learn from one another and amplify voices that deserve more recognition within our own community.

 

At the heart of it all, my aim is to help ACS continue to be a space where people feel confident enough to grow. To try something new. To meet someone different. To share their culture, learn about another, and feel *proud* of who they are.

 

It’s not just about the parties (although I’ll make sure they slap)—it’s about using events to create genuine spaces of belonging. Spaces where people connect, uplift each other, and pass that same energy onto others, whether within ACS or out in the world.

 

I’m not just running to lead—I’m running to serve. To listen. To elevate. To build.

 

Bringing the A & C Together – One Event at a Time.

Let’s make this year unforgettable—together.