“It is important to me that the LGBTQ+ community is supported, especially trans+ communities and allies, given the current political climate.”
As Deputy President (Welfare) at Imperial College Union (ICU), Anson To has spent the past year creating tangible change for students across Imperial. Inspired by their time as LGBTQ+ Officer, they were elected to the role in the summer of 2025 and have since graduated from their degree in Molecular Bioengineering.
Advocacy in action
Anson first got a taste for advocacy in the volunteer role of LGBTQ+ Officer within the Liberation and Community Networks at ICU. They expected the role to mainly involve planning events but found the focus on advocacy rewarding.
“Being LGBTQ+ Officer gave me experience of grassroots committees and meetings, but I really wanted to know who influences what, and how decisions are made. Being in the Deputy President (Welfare) has opened my eyes to that.
“In a position with more access to senior leaders at Imperial, I have had the opportunity to influence decisions.”
Real world impact
Supporting and representing marginalised groups at Imperial, such as the LGBTQ+ community, is a key part of Anson’s elected role.
“It is important to me that the LGBTQ+ community is supported, especially trans+ communities and allies, given the current political climate.”
They have worked with the Student Counselling and Mental Health Advice Service to share ideas on LGBTQ+ awareness training for staff. They also met with the Imperial College Health Centre to discuss issues that trans students face when trying to access health care at university.
This work has inspired Anson to go into a career in public health: “Looking forward, I am hoping to get into public health or advocacy work. Being Deputy President (Welfare) aligns with my values and has really influenced the way I see my career. It has helped me realise what I enjoy doing.”
Reflecting on other achievements in the role, Anson is proud of seeing manifesto goals become a reality. They advocated for cheaper meals on campus to help with the cost-of-living crisis and to extend the food provision in the library cafe for students studying in the evening. They also campaigned to extend the hours of the shuttle bus service for students.
Finding community
Anson found a supportive community through their involvement in student societies such as the Imperial College School of Medicine Students’ Union’s drama society and IQ, Imperial’s LGBTQ+ student society. This sense of belonging and support from friends inspired them to run for student representation roles and advocate for change.
This Pride Month, Anson encourages students to run for advocacy roles.
“Being involved in IQ and taking on the role of LGBTQ+ Officer was a really good learning experience. I am always happy to talk to anyone about my experience and would encourage others to consider applying. Even if you don’t want to run for a role, you can be involved in other ways. Theses spaces are really accepting and always welcome new ideas.”