AUESS
Adelaide University Economics
Students' Society
2026 COMMITTEE NOMINATIONS
Due to a high level of competition, rather than conducting a one-minute verbal defence during the AGM, nominees have instead been asked to submit a short textual pitch promoting themselves. These are listed below.
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Please read these pitches carefully before casting your vote.
1. PRESIDENT
The President leads the Committee, providing executive direction and oversight to all other committee members by calling and chairing all official meetings from the onset of the 2025 AGM through to the 2026 AGM. Consequently, the President acts as the public face of the organisation by liaising directly with sponsors, YouX, other clubs/societies, and other collaborators.
Katherine Varley
Uncontested
2. VICE PRESIDENT
The Vice-President (VP) assists the president with this role for the same term as the President. The VP provides administrative support and guidance for other committee members, assisting them with their tasks and projects. This role requires significant involvement over the summer holidays.
Ellie Pontifex
As a first-year representative for the AUESS, I have gained valuable experience in organising and supporting events and promoting engagement among my peers. This involvement has given me a clear understanding of the behind-the-scenes effort required on a constant basis and is something I am excited to continue contributing to as Vice President.
My current job as a paralegal with the Gambling and Associations team at Consumer and Business Services, the state regulator of organisations (and societies) including the AUESS, also makes me uniquely equipped to understand the governance processes involved in running associations effectively. I am enthusiastic about helping the society make a transition into the new University. I would apply my knowledge to help complete tasks such as the updating of the AUESS Constitution, and as an initiative would like to encourage a more formal membership recognition with the AUESS for interested economics students.
Megan Shaw
As a committed and high-performing economics student, I will bring strong leadership experience, organisational capability, and a collaborative mindset to the vice-president role. Having served as a Stage manager and Symphonic band captain during high school, I have developed the ability to coordinate people and projects with professionalism, empathy, and clear communication.
Through my role on the St Mark’s college Charitable Foundation this year, I’ve gained valuable experience planning and delivering large-scale fundraising events, strengthening my skills in logistics, teamwork, and event management. These experiences have reinforced the importance of preparations, initiative, and collaboration in achieving shared goals.
My vision for the Economics society is one of engagement, inclusion, and excellence. I aim to support the President and committee in delivering meaningful initiatives that connect students, enhance academic and social opportunities, and promote a strong sense of community within the society.
Mannat Walia
As a first-year Bachelor of Economics (Advanced) student majoring in Financial Economics, I am eager to apply my leadership, organisational, and communication skills to support AUESS operations as Vice-President. I am drawn to this role because it offers the opportunity to contribute to a committee that enriches both the academic and social experience of economics students. My focus is on assisting the President and committee members in coordinating projects, ensuring clear communication, and maintaining professionalism across all activities. I take pride in being proactive, approachable, and attentive to detail; qualities I believe are essential for fostering a cohesive and motivated team. Through this role, I hope to strengthen member engagement, encourage collaboration within the committee, and continue building AUESS’s reputation as an inclusive and forward-thinking academic community.
3. TREASURER
The Treasurer manages the Society’s finances, applies for grants and manages all payments. This role demands great organisational skills and requires the Treasurer to stay up-to-date with the committee’s events calendar throughout the year to ensure effective management of all necessary payments and prompt submissions of grant applications.This role requires significant involvement over the summer holidays.
Jack Kirkwood
As a continuing member of the committee, I’m hoping to take a step up from my positions this year to cap off my degree. Treasurer would be a very suitable position for me both due to my skillset and connections for the role. My close relations with the 2025 Treasurer will allow for a seamless transition and a strong continuation of our surplus from this year to next. My goals for next year as Treasurer are to ensure we’re able to capitalise on the potential benefits stemming from the merger. The Society will be acting as representation for twice the student body next year, and therefore there will be many more opportunities for us to find funding and generate revenue from events. Keeping this front of mind will allow us to hold a very strong budget next year, and hopefully for the years following.
Ellie Pontifex
My current job (as mentioned in my VP pitch) has provided me with both legal and practical knowledge surrounding finances within societies. Through this experience, I have become well-versed in the financial obligations that the AUESS holds, including compliance with relevant regulations and proper record-keeping. This insight is essential to ensure transparency and accountability within the society.
Furthermore, I believe my personality equips me with strong organisational skills, which are crucial for responsible fund management. These skills also support other key responsibilities of the role, such as planning ahead for expenses, maintaining accurate financial records, and completing applications. As a treasurer, I aim to be relentless in my pursuit of all possible grants, allowing the AUESS to run quality events without financial strain.
Jayesh Sachdev
I am applying because I believe that I have the ability and experience required for this role which i have gained from my past work experience and academic qualification along with understanding of budget and effective management of funds with the analytical skills required for comparison and alternative option available .
Megan Shaw
As a student studying a Bachelor of Economics (advanced), with extensive leadership experience, I bring diligence, analytical precision, and strategic foresight to the role of Treasurer. My time on the St Mark’s Charitable Foundation this year assisted me in developing skills directly applicable to managing the Economics society’s finances, through planning and executing large fundraising events which provided practical experience in budgeting, financial organisation, and accountability.
During my time in high school, I took on the roles of Stage manager and Symphonic band Captain, helping me to develop advanced organisational skills and communication skills, learning to balance logistics, timelines, and team coordination effectively. These roles have strengthened my ability to plan ahead, adapt under pressure, and maintain accuracy in every detail.
I am committed to ensuring the Society’s finances are managed transparently and efficiently, with systems that support both fiscal responsibility and innovation. My goal is to enable the committee to deliver ambitious, well-resource initiatives that benefit all members and enhance the society’s long-term impact.
Mannat Walia
I am applying for the Treasurer position to combine my developing financial expertise with a commitment to accuracy, responsibility, and transparency. Studying Financial Economics has equipped me with an analytical mindset, strong quantitative reasoning, and an understanding of core financial principles; all of which I aim to apply to the Society’s budgeting and grant management. I value precision and organisation, and recognise the importance of sound financial oversight in supporting AUESS initiatives. I hope to contribute by maintaining accurate records, providing clear financial guidance, and ensuring that every event and project is effectively resourced and financially sustainable. I am eager to support the Society’s continued growth by upholding accountability, improving efficiency, and ensuring the long-term stability of its financial operations.
Edward Davies
Puthiroth Moly
Daniel Would
4. SECRETARY
The Secretary takes official notes (minutes) of every committee meeting and carefully disseminates information within the committee and to general members when required. Strong organisational and interpersonal skills are essential.
Edward Davies
I am applying for this role as I feel it will enable me to most efficiently contribute to the growth AUESS. I say this because I feel one of my most prominent strengths, is my communication and inter-personal skills, both of which are crucial for such a role. Throughout my life, I have been able to develop such skills through my involvement within team sport, having held leadership roles at the semi-professional football level over the past 3 years. Furthermore, I think I am just a very approachable and friendly person, which would help significantly in my role as secretary, where I would be able to serve as an intermediary between group members and group leaders. Finally, I also feel I am a very reliable individual, with strong organisational and intellectual skills, having never scored below a HD on an economics subject, highlighting my work ethic and management skills.
Ellie Pontifex
My current job (as mentioned in my VP pitch) has provided me with an advanced knowledge of the administrative processes essential to running a society such as the AUESS. Recently, I have also completed an IPAA course on writing minutes as part of my employment, a skill key to the role of Secretary, who is responsible for recording all meetings. I am practiced in writing clear, accurate, and professional minutes, and would gladly transfer these skills the use of the AUESS.
Additionally, my time as a first-year representative for the AUESS gave me hands-on experience supporting events and working closely with other members, a skill I know will help me in this role. One initiative I would like to introduce as Secretary is the broader distribution of committee meeting minutes. This would promote greater transparency of the current issues, events, and priorities within the AUESS.
Megan Shaw
Strong communication, precision, and reliability are qualities I would bring to the role of Secretary. My leadership experience as Stage Manager and Symphonic Band Captain During High School has equipped me with exceptional organisational and interpersonal skills, enabling me to manage complex schedules, facilitate communication, and maintain structure within teams. Through my involvement on the St Mark’s College Charitable Foundation, I gained firsthand experience in event planning and administration, learning to manage documentation, logistics, and correspondence effectively. These experiences have taught me the value of clarity and attention to detail in supporting a team’s collective success. As Secretary, I aim to uphold professionalism through accurate minute-taking, timely information-sharing, and effective coordination of meetings and records. By fostering transparent communication and a cohesive administrative framework, I will support the committee’s smooth operation and contribute to the Society’s continued growth and success.
Kevin Sun
I am applying for this role as I head into my fourth year as a Bachelor of Economics (Advanced) and Laws student. I am also a Duty Manager at Majestic M Suites. I’ve been around the AUESS since I’ve started uni attending events and making mates within the cohort. I believe I would be a great fit for this position mainly due to the operational, administrative and secretarial roles I undertake at my current job. I am significantly experienced in tasks relevant to the role e.g. taking minutes, collating notes and organisational skills. Additionally many of my mates have played a part in the AUESS since we started our degrees and I have not had a significant impact. I would love to take the chance to contribute to the society I so dearly love before I exmatriculate. (Also would help my resume)
Daniel Would
5. DIRECTOR OF CAREERS AND SPONSORSHIPS
The Director of Careers and Sponsorships serves as the primary liaison with our industry partners. They are tasked with writing and sharing our annual sponsorship prospectus over the summer break before the start of Semester 1. Throughout the academic year, they are chiefly responsible for organising our professional events, including Careers Night.
Aidan Luther
I’m Aidan, this year’s Vice-President, previous First Year Representative and President. After serving in the Committee’s leadership positions, our careers portfolio is another prominent interest of mine. While serving in leadership roles over the past two years, I have helped to secure new and recurring sponsor relations from an array of companies throughout Australia. I will utilise the organisational and communicative soft-skills that I have sharpened as an executive leader of the AUESS to revitalise these professional links and seek out additional sponsors throughout SA. The historic successes of our professional events signal the incomparable significance of our professional networks to our student members. Therefore, I will ensure that we maintain and expand our relationships with industry leaders to provide the AUESS with strong offerings to our existing and prospective student members, ensuring our ongoing success in the new Adelaide University.
Aditi Ramkumar
I am excited to apply for the Director of Careers and Sponsorships because I genuinely enjoy connecting people with opportunities that can shape their future. Over time, I have seen how valuable it is for students to meet industry professionals, gain insight into potential careers, and feel supported as they explore their options. I want to help make that possible by building strong, lasting relationships with AUESS’s industry partners and ensuring our sponsorship prospectus clearly reflects the value of these collaborations. I am looking forward to organising professional events, from Careers Night to smaller networking sessions, that give students the confidence to explore their interests and ambitions. I enjoy coordinating, communicating, and bringing people together. This role is a chance to make careers and industry connections more accessible and meaningful for all members.
Mannat Walia
I am applying for the Director of Careers and Sponsorships role to strengthen AUESS’s professional networks and expand career development opportunities for members. As an Economics (Advanced) student with a keen interest in connecting theory with real-world practice, I am enthusiastic about collaborating with sponsors, coordinating professional events, and building partnerships that benefit both students and industry. I bring strong written communication, professionalism, and attention to detail; qualities that are essential for managing sponsorship proposals and maintaining lasting relationships with external stakeholders. My goal is to enhance AUESS’s visibility through purposeful outreach and innovative career events, creating more avenues for students to engage with industry professionals. This role presents an exciting opportunity to bridge academic learning with professional experience, and I am committed to contributing to AUESS’s ongoing growth and reputation.
Daniel Would
6. CO-DIRECTORS OF PUBLICATIONS
The Co-Directors of Publications (2) write and edit our frequent publications for OnDit, and share responsibilities for website maintenance with the Director of Socials and Communications. This role requires digital and media literacy, as well as introductory web-design skills.
Jack Kirkwood
As one of the two Co-Directors of Publication for this year, I understand the pre-existing goals of our publications team. I think it would be incredibly suitable to have someone with experience in this role ready to support an incoming co-director, similar to the case we had this year. Looking to next year, I’d love to be able to continue to expand our internal publications, whilst we performed well on frequency of our newsletters, the goal for next year should be to continue to develop our scope and range of publications. Looking for more standalone publication pieces and more written articles by other members of the society and student body. Our publications have done very well this year to blend articles with university happenings, and no doubt there will be a much larger load for this going into the next academic year.
Kevin Ratanak Rath
I am applying for the role of Co-Director of Publications because I am passionate about bridging economic theory and real-world financial practice. My goal is to help the Economics Adelaide Student Society produce engaging publications that promote academic growth and practical learning for students across ABLE and other faculties.
With experience in the financial sector, I have developed strong analytical, communication, and report-writing skills, allowing me to convey complex ideas clearly and concisely.
If selected, I plan to introduce regular publications such as International Economic Report, Macro Economic Report, Equity/Corporate Fixed Income Reports, Market Wraps, and Industry Insights to enhance students’ exposure to market trends and applied economics.
I look forward to collaborating with other committee members to shape the society’s publications and contribute meaningfully to its academic and professional impact.
Kevin Sun
I am applying for this role as I head into my fourth year as a Bachelor of Economics (Advanced) and Laws student. I am also a Duty Manager at Majestic M Suites. I’ve been around the AUESS since I’ve started uni attending events and making mates within the cohort. I believe I would be a great fit for this position mainly due to the operational, administrative and secretarial roles I undertake at my current job. I am significantly experienced in tasks relevant to the role e.g. taking minutes, collating notes and organisational skills. Additionally many of my mates have played a part in the AUESS since we started our degrees and I have not had a significant impact. I would love to take the chance to contribute to the society I so dearly love before I exmatriculate. (Also would help my resume)
Clinton Guterres
Ally Nguyen
Daniel Would
7. DIRECTOR OF SOCIALS AND COMMUNICATIONS
The Director of Socials and Communications actively manages our social media engagement throughout the year, designing multimodal content and responding to any queries communicated by students & members through our social media channels in a timely manner. This role also requires digital and media literacy, as well as introductory web-design skills.
Becca Adams
I have chosen this role as my first preference because I’m a social, organised and enthusiastic individual who will ensure our social media pages are regularly updated with engaging content and that any questions or queries asked through social media are promptly answered! I also have a few new ideas that I would love to bring to the role including creating a TikTok page to increase publicity, improving the new Linked In profile and enhancing our general social media presence. I would absolutely love to be your director of socials and communications next year, thank you so much for reading :)
Aditi Ramkumar
I am applying for the Director of Socials and Communications because I enjoy using creativity and digital skills to engage and connect with people online. I am proficient in tools like Canva and Figma and have experience designing a website for another club using Elementor, which gave me hands-on experience in web design and content creation. Having held two previous roles with similar responsibilities, I understand the importance of maintaining an engaging social media presence, responding promptly to queries, and creating visually appealing content. I am excited to manage AUESS’s social media and design content that resonates with members. I am creative, enjoy designing, and know how to make content that connects with different audiences. This role is a great opportunity to use my skills to support and engage members while showcasing the energy and inclusivity of the AUESS community.
William Tinkler
As the current Director of Socials and Communications for 2025, I’m reapplying for the 2026 role after a rewarding and growth-filled year. This year, I introduced reels as a new content format, which helped us reach a wider audience and bring a fresh energy to our online presence. We not only strengthened engagement within the society but also expanded our reach to a broader community of students. For 2026, I’m eager to build on this momentum, continuing to grow our digital presence, make better use of the reels format, and push AUESS further in the social media space.
Puthiroth Moly
8. DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION
The Director of Education serves as the primary liaison with the School of Economics and Public Policy. Similar to the Director of Careers and Sponsorships, this role is chiefly responsible for organising our educational and academic events throughout the year.
Phil Kalogeras
As a mature student finishing my double Masters in Economics and Public Policy, (and subjects at UniSA) I bring over twenty-five years of instructional and management consulting experience across vocational training, systems design, and public-sector consulting. I hold formal qualifications in vocational instruction and course design, and have led national training programs, business education, and startup mentoring. I’ve also chaired the Flinders University Clubs & Societies Council and currently serve as Sponsorship Director for both the Disability Students’ and Mature Students’ Associations. My focus is on working with students and faculty to make learning more effective in an AI-shaped world, strengthening engagement, clarity, and confidence while navigating the university merger. Having led multiple organisational and tech cycle transitions, I understand how to preserve what works while building what’s next. As Education Director, I’ll promote effective collaboration and best-practice disability-informed pedagogy and processes which ensure frictionless access, adaptability, and genuine learning equity that benefits all economics students.
Aidan Luther
I’m Aidan, this year’s VP, previous First Year Representative and President. After serving in the Committee’s leadership positions, our education portfolio has become a particular interest of mine. I am applying for the Director of Education role to maintain and strengthen our relationship with relevant university faculty. Liaising with faculty is a consistent cornerstone of our success, but will be especially crucial during Adelaide University’s inaugural year next year given academic restructuring and the entrance of new competitor clubs. To improve our collaboration, my goals for the portfolio as Director of Education include continuing past events, such as our Honours FAQ sessions, and offering new events like panels, guest lectures on timely economics trends/topics, and a 3-Minute Thesis competition. By organising these events, I hope to unite undergraduate, postgraduate and research communities to ensure our success as a frontrunning student society in the new Adelaide University.
Daniel Would
9. DIRECTOR OF WOMEN IN ECONOMICS
The Director of Women in Economics connects the AUESS to the Women in Economics network, helping to organise joint-events and promote a welcoming space in economics for women in the university setting.
Ellie Pontifex
As a feminist, I am passionate about uplifting women in all areas of life. Promoting greater participation of women in the field of economics ensures that diverse perspectives can be heard, and as a consequence furthers the pursuit of economic equality, addressing issues such as the gender-pay gap.
As Director of Women in Economics, I would work to create an inclusive society that celebrates the achievements of women in the field, while also encouraging greater participation through events and visibility. A particular interest of mine in this role would be to see how the AUESS could work to further encourage school-leavers to consider the field as a course of study.
Aditi Ramkumar
I am applying for the Director of Women in Economics position because I am passionate about building a stronger, more supportive community for women studying economics. Throughout my time at university, I have seen how meaningful it can be to connect with others who share similar goals and challenges, and I want to help create those spaces for others too. By strengthening the connection between AUESS and the Women in Economics Network, I hope to organise events that are both professional and welcoming, such as panels, mentorship programs, and networking opportunities. I want every woman studying economics to feel seen, encouraged, and confident in her path. Through collaboration, creativity, and advocacy, I aim to make the economics community within AUESS more inclusive, empowering, and supportive for everyone. I believe this role is a valuable opportunity to make a lasting and positive impact.
Eleanor Saies
My name is Ellie and I am a mathematics student majoring in statistics, but I do a lot of economics electives because I am aspiring to be an actuary.
There are many reasons that I have elected for this role. Firstly, I am on a scholarship for a women in mathematics at the university, and whilst this is perhaps not as relevant as someone studying a fully-blown bachelor's degree in economics, I believe I can bring some alternative and unique insights to the group since I am from a different faculty. I also have networking and social experience in the sector; I did the foundations programs for both KPMG and Deloitte, so I am well equipped with knowledge and connections from these companies. I am currently also a clerical assistant in a law firm, adding to my professional and corporate experience which has allowed me to obtain skills suitable and relative to this society. Additionally, my roles in school in higher roles of captaincy have allowed me to develop skills of innovation and leadership, allowing me to thrive as a leader and individual.
Most importantly, I think it will be a lot of fun to connect with like-minded students and people I don’t necessarily get to see or spend time with on a day to day basis and connect with those having the same experiences as me, trying to navigate the entrance into the corporate world and workforce.
I hope you elect me for one of my chosen roles, and I will work hard to give a lot to society in 2026.
Ally Nguyen
10. GENERAL COUNCILLORS
The General Councillors (2) provide support liaising with the student community and conducting day-to-day business of the committee throughout the year. These students help coordinate and run events by assisting behind the scenes. These students must show initiative and a keen interest in the AUESS to effectively support the committee.
Becca Adams
I have applied for the position of general councillor because I am reliable, approachable, and happy to help out wherever the committee needs me. I know this role is all about pitching in and supporting different parts of the society, whether that’s helping organise events, sharing ideas, or just making sure things run smoothly. I’m organised but also easy-going, and I love working with others to organise events etc. I would absolutely love to contribute in making next year’s Economics Society fun and welcoming for everyone. Thank you so much for reading :)
Edward Davies
I am applying for a general councillor as I would love to be involved in some format within the AUESS. I have a really strong passion for economics, and I feel this role would allow me to be involved in a diverse range of tasks, all of which I would find really interesting and enjoyable. I also view myself as a strong team player, and I understand a crucial element of this role is supporting the committee in whichever fashion is necessary at the time. I would happily do this, as I take a great level of satisfaction in knowing I am helping people out around me, particularly if they are within my team and we are working toward the same goal. I also think I am very proficient at following instructions to a high level, which I feel would be of use within this role.
Jack Kirkwood
If nothing else, I’d still aim to support the committee in my final year, and having someone step into this role with experience and context of the Society’s goals and objectives will allow me to effectively support all of the functions of the committee, and in particular those who are stepping into positions for the first time. I understand that we will have a very large intake this year, due to how many people are stepping out, and I also understand how daunting the demands can seem initially. Being able to take on a support role for all those stepping into new positions will allow for an easier and more effective transition from this year into next.
Jack O'Farrell Maitland
Hello! My name is Jack Maitland and I am currently in my fourth year studying a double degree of Bachelor of Economics (Advanced) and Bachelor of Laws. I have gotten a lot out of going to society events in recent times and I want to help out particularly with organising and running them next year.
I’ve applied only for a general councillor role, due to the fact that I will be studying abroad for the first half of 2026 and so will be of limited use in this time. Notwithstanding this, I will try to help in the ways I can - in particular I feel I can help the publications and socials portfolios from abroad. In the second half of the year I want to play an active role in organising events and supporting the rest of the committee.
I think the society is a great way that economics students and others can learn about the opportunities available to them and interact with likeminded peers in a positive environment, and I want to see it continue to succeed!
Anika Nawar
I’m applying because I want to actively contribute to the Economics Club’s growth and community. I bring curiosity, a steady willingness to learn, and a thoughtful approach to supporting others. While I don’t have formal leadership experience, I’ve volunteered in the past and understand the importance of being reliable, collaborative, and open to new perspectives. I’m excited to help with event planning, communications, and any behind-the-scenes work that strengthens the club’s presence and impact. I believe the club is already a welcoming space, and I’d love to help maintain and enhance that — making it a place where students feel connected and supported. As an economics student, I see this role as a chance to build practical skills while contributing meaningfully. I’m ready to listen, learn, and work hard to support the team and create a positive experience for all members.