New Student Union Presidents elected for 2025/26
Bethan James, Somadina Emmanuel-Chukwudi, Troy Maclean and Heather Spencer will work to enrich the college experience and ensure learners have a voice
Grŵp Llandrillo Menai’s new Student Union Presidents for the 2025/26 academic year have been elected.
The newly elected presidents are Bethan James (Coleg Llandrillo), Somadina Emmanuel-Chukwudi (Coleg Menai), Troy Maclean (Coleg Meirion-Dwyfor) and Heather Spencer (Higher Education).
They will give students a voice across the Grŵp’s campuses, and will work to enrich the college experience.
Here’s what they had to say about being elected to represent their fellow learners:
Bethan James (Coleg Llandrillo)
Bethan is in the second year of her Level 3 Sport and Exercise Science Diploma at the Rhos-on-Sea campus, and was Coleg Cymraeg ambassador in her first year.
She pledged to continue promoting the Welsh Language, support the Grŵp’s charity of the year Wales Air Ambulance, and enhance the learner experience at Grŵp Llandrillo Menai.
Bethan said: “I would also love to encourage students to focus more on both their mental and physical health.
“I want to help make college the best possible experience for all students by helping to make any changes necessary for college to be a fun and safe place.”
Somadina Emmanuel-Chukwudi (Coleg Menai)
Somadina is in her second year studying Level 3 Health and Social Care at the Llangefni campus. She pledged to ensure learners have more opportunities to be heard, promote mental health awareness and encourage peer-support networks, work closely with class representatives and be a visible point of contact for learners.
“I am passionate about creating a positive and inclusive environment for all students,” said Somadina.
“Coleg Menai has been my first educational experience in the UK, and I’ve been fortunate to find a safe, welcoming, and non-judgemental environment. This experience has inspired me to give back to the college community and help other students feel equally supported, involved, and valued.
“My goal is to make sure every student, regardless of background or experience, feels like they belong, has a voice, and enjoys their time at college.”
Troy Maclean (Coleg Meirion-Dwyfor)
Troy, who studies Skills for Life and Work at the Dolgellau campus, is in his second term of office as Student Union president after an outstanding first year in the role.
Troy aims to continue enhancing the well-being and mental health of students, and to promote a more supportive landscape where all students can feel comfortable discussing their course issues. He also wants to work to increase the quality and affordability of food at all campuses.
He said: “I enjoy being a voice for learners. I would like to support everyone whilst at college and listen to everyone's opinions and ideas.”
Heather Spencer (Grŵp Llandrillo Menai Higher Education)
Heather is in the final year of her BA (Hons) Degree in Culinary Arts Management at the Rhos-on-Sea campus, and will continue as HE Student President.
Heather did an excellent job last year, especially in supporting the new HE Student Council. She pledged to enhance mental health support, and to raise awareness of the resources already available to learners, including counselling.
She said: “Currently, we have mental health staff available, but many students may not be aware of their presence. Raising awareness about these resources is crucial.
Heather said events such as “workshops, guest speakers and social gatherings”, would “strengthen the college community, helping students feel connected even when facing mental health challenges”.
Grŵp Llandrillo Menai’s Student Enrichment Officer Aaron Beacher said:
“I would like to congratulate Bethan, Somadina, Troy and Heather on their success in obtaining their posts for the 2025/2026 academic year.
“I would also like to thank all the applicants who put themselves forward for these roles. Those candidates who were not successful this time are encouraged to participate in voluntary roles within the Student Union to support the presidents, where they will be a great asset.
“Grŵp Llandrillo Menai is also recruiting class representatives, who are a vital part of the organisation. Class representatives communicate directly with the Student Union team and attend Learner Voice Panels to ensure learners contribute positively to the ongoing development of their course, campus and overall college experience.”
For more information about Grŵp Llandrillo Menai’s Student Union, please email studentunion@gllm.ac.uk or undebymyfyrwyr@gllm.ac.uk or visit gllm.ac.uk/college-life/student-life/student-union