2026 is here, and it’s full of possibilities. Over the winter break, many of us took time to reflect on what went well last year and what we’d like to do differently this year. Whether you’re setting personal goals or aiming for academic milestones, now is the perfect moment to plan for success. 

We asked your Student Leaders about their hopes and ambitions for the year ahead—and they had plenty to share. Here’s what they told us. 

Jay 

1. Focus on growth, not for the sake of growing, but growth aligned with purpose.  
   When I talk about growth, I don’t mean growth just for the sake of it. To me, success is about discovering your purpose, developing yourself for that purpose, and then using that purpose to make a difference. This role gives me a real sense of fulfilment and the opportunity to do exactly that. Advocating for students and seeing change happen, even if it is gradual, reminds me why I’m in this role. Last year, I often questioned whether I was doing enough or if the impact I was making mattered. Sometimes it was hard not seeing immediate results. This year, my resolution is to develop myself more intentionally as a leader, stay aligned with my purpose, and celebrate every effort and every small win along the way. 

2. Be kinder to myself because I'm still learning and be honest about not having all the answers. 
   I am also committing to being kinder to myself. Leadership comes with pressure, uncertainty, and constant learning. I am still learning about myself as a leader, how I respond to challenges, and how I can make the most impact. Accepting that progress does not always happen overnight has helped me lead with patience, clarity, and perspective. 

3. Be kinder to others and lift people up. 
   At the same time, I want to be consciously kinder to others. Everyone is navigating their own challenges, often quietly. One of my favourite Nigerian Afrobeat artists, Davido, says we rise by lifting others. He shows it in how he relates with the people around him, and I truly believe that kindness and encouragement can have a lasting impact. So, taking that from his book and encourage you to do the same this year. 

4. Show up fully, and create a space where every student feels supported, heard, and empowered. 
   Finally, my resolution is to show up fully by being myself, listening, being present, and more importantly, helping create spaces where every student feels supported, heard, and empowered. Turning student voices into action remains at the heart of my work. 

Jessica 

1. Showing up for myself when no one is watching  
   In the year ahead, I am committed to showing up for myself consistently, even when no one is watching. I plan to do this by building structure, discipline, and accountability into my daily life, understanding that long term growth is created through small, intentional actions. Each day, I will focus on developing new skills that support both my personal independence and my long-term goals.  

2. Building new skills every day 
   A key part of this commitment involves investing in practical learning. I plan to enrol in short-, one- or two-day classes that allow me to gain hands on skills I can apply immediately. For example, services such as nail care and makeup, which I enjoy but have become increasingly expensive, are skills I can learn to do well myself. By taking classes in these areas, I am not only investing in self-improvement but also building self-sufficiency and reducing unnecessary expenses. In the same way, I want to learn essential skills such as repairing and altering my clothes, empowering myself to extend the life of what I already own. 

3. Celebrating myself when I’ve done well 
   Equally important, I am committed to celebrating myself when I have done well. I believe in recognizing effort and progress, even in the smallest wins, because acknowledgment fuels motivation and self-worth. I plan to celebrate my achievements in ways that bring me joy whether that means treating myself to a special dinner, hosting a small celebration, or rewarding myself with a meaningful experience such as a trip or a moment of rest. By intentionally honouring my progress, I reinforce positive habits and remind myself that growth deserves recognition.  

Victoria  

1. Be more intentional with how I manage my time and energy 
   This year, I want to be more mindful of how I use my time and energy, so I don’t feel constantly overwhelmed or burnt out. As a student, it is easy to say yes to everything and that can lead to stress and exhaustion. 
   So, I intend to: 
   - Set clear priorities by focusing on what truly matters each week.
   - Use planners and calendars to organise meetings, deadlines, and personal time. 
   - Learn to say no when my plate is full without feeling guilty 
   - Schedule regular breaks and rest time to protect my mental and physical health.
   - Reflect regularly on what drains my energy and motivates me and adjust accordingly. 

2. Communicate early and more clearly especially when something isn't working right- so issues don't build up, and things can be addressed constructively. 
   This year, I want to improve how I communicate by speaking up earlier and more clearly when challenges arise. Addressing issues early helps prevent misunderstandings, stress, and bigger problems later. 
   So, I intend to: 
   - Be honest and respectful when something isn’t working rather than keeping it to myself. 
   - Ask questions and seek clarity when I’m unsure instead of assuming. 
   - Share concerns early with teammates so solutions can be found together. 
   - Practice active listening and be more open to feedback from others. 
   - Use clear, kind, and constructive language in both verbal and written communication. 

3. Be more intentional about how I support my team, being present, supportive, and contributing to a positive and respectful working environment. 
   I intend to show up fully for my team and be someone others feel supported by. Being part of a students’ association means working together, respecting differences, and creating a welcoming space for everyone. 
   To achieve this, I plan to: 
   - Respect different perspectives, backgrounds, and working styles. 
   - Communicate kindly and professionally even during disagreements. 
   - Effectively engage during meetings, events, and group discussions. 
   - Always celebrate team achievements and recognise everyone’s contributions. 
   - Offer help and encouragement to team members when they need it.