GeoPlan Society awarded Gold status for the first time

The GeoPlan (Geography and Planning) Society has been awarded status Gold by the Students’ Union for the first time — a major milestone that recognises the committee’s outstanding commitment to community, collaboration and student experience.

Gold status is awarded to societies that meet at least three requirements across ten key categories, highlighting excellence in areas such as events, inclusivity, fundraising, and member engagement.

In the past academic year, only around 10% of societies within the Students’ Union achieved Gold or Platinum status, making the GeoPlan Society’s recognition especially significant.

Professor Gill Bristow, Head of the School of Geography and Planning, said: “We’re incredibly proud of the GeoPlan Society for achieving Gold status. This award recognises the creativity, energy and inclusivity that the committee has shown in bringing our Geography and Planning students together as a supportive community. Their success is a wonderful reflection of the enthusiasm and sense of belonging that define our School.”

Among its standout achievements this year, the society:

• Hosted a fundraiser for Planning Aid Wales
• Organised a Joint Valentine’s Night in collaboration with five other course-based societies
• Partnered with the Liverpool Planning Society for a joint social event
• Provided consistent student feedback and support during the university-wide restructuring process

The Joint Valentine’s Night event has also been shortlisted for the Societies, Volunteering & Media Awards (SVMAs) – the society’s first-ever nomination – while GeoPlan was also named Society of the Month (February) by the Students’ Union.

Eve Chamberlin, VP Societies and Volunteering for Cardiff Students' Union, said: “In February, the GeoPlan Society hosted a ‘Valentine’s Night’ in collaboration with five other course-based societies. They also organised a movie night, a social at the Real Ale and Cider Festival, a pronoun badge stall for LGBTQ+ History Month, and a LinkedIn Photoshoot 🤩.”
(Source: Cardiff Students’ Union Instagram)

The dedication and teamwork shown by the GeoPlan Society Committee throughout the past year reflect their shared commitment to enhancing the student experience and fostering an inclusive, welcoming community within the School of Geography and Planning.