Omg, Ekin-Su is speaking in a debate about influencers at The University of Oxford

In possibly the wildest crossover in history, Ekin-Su Cülcüloğlu is going to be speaking at The Oxford Union this term.

She will be speaking in a debate at The University of Oxford on Thursday 2nd November about the “influence of influencers” alongside TikToker GK Barry and StudyTuber Ruby Granger who has just started a master’s degree at Oxford.

On the opposition, they are debating against Celebs Go Dating and Made in Chelsea’s Mark-Francis Vandelli, Conservative MP and a literal member of the House of Lords, Lord Parkinson, and journalist Sophia Smith Galer.

The Oxford Union is a debating society at The University of Oxford set up in 1823 where famous and influential speakers are invited to talk.

The debate description reads: “A survey by First Choice found that more than 75 per cent of six to 17-year-olds said they would consider a career in online videos. Influencers have dominated our TV screens, social media feeds, and magazines.

“While many blame the rise of influencers for detrimental impacts on mental health and body image, others cite them as a tool to promote accessibility in media and entertainment, support for charities and social activism. Is this shift in social power worth regretting or is it a force for good?”

Ekin has actually already spoken at The University of Cambridge earlier this year when she did an interview at The Cambridge Union in May. During the talk, she spoke about her experience of being bullied as a child and recalled when someone “chucked a bottle of piss on [her] and pushed [her] down a hill.” She said this traumatised her but made her strong. As she finished the talk she told the audience: “If the girl that someone chucked urine on can win Love Island, you can do anything.”

Ekin-Su speaking at Cambridge (Via YouTube)

Her profile on the event reads: “Model, actress and television personality who won Love Island in 2022, and competed in series 15 of Dancing on Ice.”

On Ekin’s side is also GK Barry who is huge on TikTok and hosts the Saving Grace podcast where she interviews celebs including lots of Islanders. Her profile reads: “Social media personality who has gained over 3.3 million followers on TikTok. Her podcast, Saving Grace sees her interviewing various celebrities and influencers.”

StudyTuber Ruby Granger who is huge on YouTube for posting wholesome study content also joins them on the opposition. Her profile for the event reads: “One of Britain’s most popular StudyTubers, sharing educational tips and advice, She has amassed over 100 million views on YouTube.”

Other speakers at The Oxford Union this term include Katie Hopkins, whose invitation stirred controversy, Tom Hanks, Geri Halliwell and Aitch. Membership to the Union can cost up to £314.95 for a three year course-length membership or £350 for lifetime membership.

Featured image before edits via Tim Wildsmith on Unsplash and Instagram. 

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