Today marks the end of Ian Zahra’s adventure in SDM. Zahra’s first appearance in SDM was in 2011, when he contested unsuccessfully for the role of Public Relations Officers in that year’s Junior College Elections.
However, the lack of success which he achieved in those elections did not hold Zahra back from working for what he believed in. Soon after he became the Secretary General of the SDM’s Sub-committee at Junior College and then he went a step further to SDM’s University executive, where he held roles such as Secretary General, Vice-President and finally, President.
The Third Eye decided to interview Zahra on the final day of his experience in SDM.
1) How do you feel that your experience within SDM has come to an end?
I joined SDM way back in 2011 and although times have changed and new faces came along, I still see the same SDM spirit I instantly admired in 2011. In all fairness this has not been an easy decision to take but I believe that during this year, I’ve given it my all and naturally it’s time for new faces in the SDM leadership.
2) What was the highlight of your SDM experience?
Choosing just one moment would be an impossible task. In my opinion, the most important moments included SDM’s expansion in MCAST, Gozo and ITS, winning back KSJC in 2013, winning the 2015 KSU elections with a thousand votes majority and this year’s Draw the Line – Anti-Bullying Campaign
3) In your opinion, what was the main reason that SDM lost this year’s Junior College elections?
I think that there are a number of reasons for this outcome. The SDM executive has already started compiling a report to establish a detailed understanding of the reasons for the outcome but this was the students’ decision and SDM fully respects this. However, SDM’s 4 year run in KSJC provided students with countless projects and initiatives and we are immensely proud of our contribution. We look forward to continue working hard for Junior College students all year long.
4) What is your final message to SDM members?
Fight for what students deserve and never back down. SDM’s main focus should always be aimed at safeguarding students’ rights and working in the best interests of our democratic values. Don’t let anyone convince you otherwise.