The Institute of Directors (IoD) has appointed two new ambassadors to its Surrey branch committee to represent the student community and future directors.
The ambassadors, both from Surrey universities, were appointed as part of an initiative to establish closer links with the region’s educational sector and future director community, as well as to support the Surrey branch’s growing membership.
Naheemah Salahou, a second-year International Business Management student at the University of Surrey, and Christian Thomarel, a first-year Business and Management student from Royal Holloway University of London, both join the Surrey branch as volunteer student ambassadors.
As part of the role, the ambassadors will enjoy free IoD student membership and access to networking opportunities with high-level contacts, as well as the support of seasoned, experienced directors.
Naheemah said: “I am eager to offer suggestions for improving the interaction between businesses and students, with a focus on encouraging diversity, equality and inclusion.
“Building an inclusive atmosphere is essential to generating opportunities and deep connections that are long-lasting for all parties.”
Christian said: “Finding out I’d been chosen for the role was a truly proud moment. As a student ambassador, I’ll be the bridge between Royal Holloway and the IoD, helping to connect students with the wider business world and play a part in creating a business climate that allows students of all backgrounds to flourish.”
Jarmila Yu, founder of YUnique Marketing Ltd and chair of the IoD Surrey, added: “We received many exceptionally high-quality ambassador applications, a real testament to the quality of students in Surrey, who the IoD hopes will play a key part in growing Surrey’s future business community.
“The judging committee, led by Abigail Maino, IoD Surrey, ambassador for education, employment and HR, was impressed by the new ambassadors’ leadership, commitment and previous experience. Naheemah and Christian will work with us to engage with young aspiring directors in the region.
“As members of the IoD, we all have a role to play in inspiring directors of tomorrow and we welcome the fresh insights and ideas that Naheemah and Christian will bring.”
