Candidate Profile: Nwadiuto “DT” Amajoyi
By Asa Hess-Matsumoto
As a student who fights on behalf of the struggles and necessities of minority communities, Nwadiuto “DT” Amajoyi believes in outreach, unity and diversity.
Born in Nigeria and raised in Los Angeles, Amajoyi said she is very passionate about the issues of diversity both on- and off-campus. For her, “It isn’t just work — it’s coalition-building.”
Amajoyi believes the best way she can serve as the commissioner of diversity would be by building a community among UC Santa Cruz’s various ethnic or minority communities in an effort to combat students’ sense of loneliness and underrepresentation.
“It is truly heartbreaking to witness students fighting for resources that they not only need, but deserve and have a right to,” Amajoyi said. “These students are building futures not only for themselves but for entire communities and peoples.”
Amajoyi said the primary campus issues involve the ethnic diversification of the student body. The campus’ lack of prioritization when it comes to issues concerning diversity and students of color is also a note of concern for Amajoyi.
Currently serving on Engaging Education’s board of directors committee and as an advocate for the Lionel Cantú Queer Center, Amajoyi sees the commissioner of diversity position as integral to resolving these issues. If elected, Amajoyi would push to enact a “checks and balances” system among the ethnic resource centers, women’s center, and the Lionel Cantú Queer Center, thereby maximizing their utilization in terms of outreach and on-campus events.
Having experience interacting with the LGBTIQQI and ethnic communities both inside and outside of campus, Amajoyi feels confident and capable of the responsibilities that she would handle as the commissioner of diversity, if elected.
“I know I am qualified for this position because I have done work similar to that which I wish to accomplish as the commissioner of diversity,” Amajoyi said. “This campus literally breeds leadership and it’s a beautiful thing to be a part of.”