I am delighted to announce that I have graduated from Durham University with Upper Second Class Honours with a Bachelor of Arts in Politics and International Relations.
As a first-gen student, this has been an enormous achievement for myself, my family and my community. Durham and its opportunities have truly shaped me into a stronger and more resilient person.
One of the highlights of my academic journey was achieving a 76% on my dissertation, titled "Unleashing the Potential of the Arts in Mitigating Youth Violence: Challenges and Opportunities in Policy Integration." My research, which used qualitative methods, involved interviewing key stakeholders from institutions such as the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, the Ministry of Justice, the National Criminal Justice Arts Alliance, and Redhills. These participants, who work with young offenders, arts organizations, or within the government, provided valuable insights into fostering change within the complex issue of youth violence in the UK.
Beyond academics, some of my highlights include being the Founder and President of Perception Theatre Company (South College’s First Theatre Society) in my second year, as well as modelling in the Durham University Charity Fashion Show raising £230,000 for Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM).
Receiving the Vice-Chancellor Scholarship for the Arts, Music and Sport has allowed me to do wonderful things with Durham Student Theatre. Whether that’s performing as Desdemona in Othello, Mickey in Mojo or going to Edinburgh Fringe to perform a 5-star show, named by Theatre Weekly. And, to be in the Durham Showcase for not just a Durham run but at the Tabard Theatre in London. These experiences have truly shaped my craft.
A proud moment was writing and directing my first-ever play for the Durham Drama Festival: The Whole of England Stopped when a Policeman Murdered a White Woman. My love for class politics, and alleviating social exclusion through the medium of art, rap and spoken word brought this narrative and vision to life. A massive thanks to the cast and crew that poured their heart and soul into this project. I am eternally grateful.
A special thank you to the Durham University Student Leadership Framework for their unwavering support. Receiving a certificate of accomplishment from the Durham University Leadership Academy Programme, and participating in the Speaker Series, think tanks, workshops, and a residential programme, has been invaluable in honing my leadership skills. Lastly, a shoutout to my incredible mentor, Katie Vause, who has supported me to better my leadership skills throughout the year. I have learnt a lot about the inner workings of government through such a kind and palatable lens.
I am immensely grateful for the support of my mentors, peers, and those who continue to kindly help me in all my endeavours.
Durham you have been amazing!
Here is to the next chapter! ✈️
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