Tania Wanjiru Manyuira (Sandwell College of FHE)

Additional Learning Support, Hub Extra, Sandwell College of Further and Higher Education 

Election address

Standing Together for Change in Further Education 

Building a Thriving, Equitable FE Sector for All Women 

"No woman should have to fight twice—once to do her job, and again to prove she belongs." 

I am honoured to stand as a candidate for Women's Representative on the NEC, seeking your trust to represent and amplify the voices of women across Further Education. 

Since joining the sector in 2013 as a PGCE Maths teacher—a subject dominated by men—I have faced challenges beyond the classroom. As a Kenyan immigrant and Black woman, I have experienced racism and isolation in spaces where diversity should be celebrated. These experiences have strengthened my resolve to fight for equity and inclusion for every woman in FE. 

As a lone parent of two teenage girls and a domestic violence survivor, I understand the struggles working women face daily. My campaign is rooted in solidarity: real change demands unity, courage, and collaboration. Diversity must be our greatest strength, and I will work tirelessly to ensure every woman's voice is heard. 

Since 2020, as West Midlands Regional Treasurer and Women's Officer, I have championed motions protecting women's rights and safety. I supported campaigns like Pregnant Then Screwed on childcare costs and Reclaim These Streets for women's safety. In FE, I advocated for menopause and period policies tailored to our sector—policies that simply didn't exist before. 

At Sandwell College, where I first served as Departmental Rep from 2019, I helped secure permanent contracts for eight colleagues—mostly women—during the pandemic, when many faced furlough and job loss. I also contributed to the successful GTVO campaign that delivered a consolidated pay deal of 3-11% pay rise for all staff since 2021. 

Listening to lived experiences is central to my approach. From support staff to lecturers, students to senior leaders, I will ensure our priorities reflect real needs—not abstract promises. I pledge to demand transparency and measurable action: regular reporting on gender equity, pay gaps, and progression opportunities. Leadership must reflect our workforce's diversity, and discrimination must be challenged wherever it appears. 

As a UCU Left activist, I will champion women facing intersectional disadvantage—Black, Asian and minority ethnic women, disabled women, LGBTQ+ colleagues, and those in insecure roles. Together, with UCU Left comrades we can drive meaningful change that benefits the entire sector. 

If elected, I will fight for better pay, flexible working, secure contracts, and robust policies against harassment and inequality. I ask for your vote—not just for me, but for every woman whose ambition deserves recognition and whose voice must be heard. 

In solidarity and hope, 

Tania Wanjiru Manyuira