Tue Dec 10 03:55:09 UTC 2024: ## Cambridge Union Elects First Female President in a Year: Anoushka Kale to Prioritize Diversity and Access
**Cambridge, UK –** Anoushka Kale, a 20-year-old British Indian student, has been elected President of the prestigious Cambridge Union Society for the Easter 2025 term. Her uncontested victory marks a return to female leadership at the Union after a gap since last Easter term, making her only the fourth unopposed candidate in the past five elections.
Kale, who studies English Literature at Sidney Sussex College, is one of the few South Asian women to hold this position. Her platform focused on improving diversity and access within the Union, including strengthening ties with cultural societies like the India Society and reducing the cost of access tickets. This commitment directly addresses concerns following the Union’s recent membership fee increase.
In her acceptance statement, Kale expressed her delight and gratitude, highlighting her plans to expand diversity through collaborations with cultural groups and continue hosting international speakers and global debate motions. She also intends to prioritize member engagement, aiming to make future elections more contested.
The Cambridge Union Society, founded in 1815, is one of the world’s oldest debating societies and boasts a distinguished history of hosting prominent figures from across the globe, including past presidents and members such as John Maynard Keynes, Robert Harris, and Karan Bilimoria. Kale’s presidency promises a new chapter for this historic institution, focused on inclusivity and broadening its reach.
First Piper 