Alice Mpofu Coles - PhD Human Geography student
I would like through my work for the University of Reading to be a Civic University, bridge the gap, be embedded in the community and contribute to its local communities through the United Nations sustainable goals
Student Community Champion Role: EDI Community Engagement Researcher
For over 16 years, I have volunteered at refugee organisations, both as vice-chair and chair, I am currently a trustee for local charities and an Ambassador for the City of Sanctuary.
I am an activist, advocating and portraying a positive image of refugees, people of colour, women, young people by participating in numerous projects. I have have been involved in a BBC television documentary and interviews on refugees' plight, poverty, women and I speak at events and conferences.
Martina Mabale de Burgos - Politics and International Relations student
I would like to bring all the work that is being done to the surface and prove how essential community work is for the well-functioning of a university, especially when it comes to young minorities whose academic success can be determined by certain social, economic and cultural barriers all the way from primary school to university. Reading is a very diverse town and as a student from an ethnic minority background, I would like to generate and improve people’s choices and opportunities, which is why I believe we need to invest on community and include them in our conversations as an educational entity who has institutional power.
Student Community Champion Role: Student Community Champion
The reason why I’m in this role is because I want to embed the community within the university’s culture and build sustainable channels of communication and resources with the community. This process involves innovating on methods and dynamics whilst improving our relations through our influence as university students.
My particular areas of interest, which are interconnected, are the following:
- Systemic action
- Racial equity and inclusivity
- Career progression
- Mentoring
Saif Maher - English Language and Linguistics student
It’s important for me to identify barriers in community engagement between communities and the university so we may best break them down.
I’ve been working with communities around Reading for a long time and have always thought there was a more effective way to make an impact. This role is the perfect way for me to implement my skill set and reach out to more communities!
As an Equality, Diversity and Inclusion officer, I’d like to achieve the idea of the university being a community hub and safe space for all. There is a large piece of land in the middle of Reading that a lot of people see as a divide in the town, however, it can be the key to linking them all together! Whether it is through going on walks through the Harris Gardens or showing interest in research projects, my goal is to link communities to the university so we may all thrive!
Currently, my role involves attending community events held by a variety of different organisers around Reading and getting myself known! It’s important for me to identify barriers in community engagement between communities and the university so we may best break them down.
I also connect students with various community organisations around Reading to help support them in any work they do as well as being able to benefit the students with various experiences.
Sheldon Allen - Law student and RUSU Ally
I think it’s so important that we ensure we build partnerships across the community, and this includes our own little community here on campus so I’m very excited to continue my work with RUSU to ensure RUSU and the Uni are delivering for our students and local communities.
Student Community Champion Role: Student Community Champion
Hi, I’m Sheldon, one of the Student Community Champions here at UoR! I’m from South London and have been active with my community there before taking this experience to Reading. I thoroughly enjoy my role and, along with the team, have achieved some great initiatives and projects. From an equalities conference to going out near Café Yolk to chat with returning students and residents as we start the new academic year.
As I continue in the role:
- I would love to achieve a services of mini community events on campus and ensure that RUSU is actively part of these.
- I want to foster and develop new partnerships between RUSU/Uni and community organisations across Reading.
- I want to engage with fellow students to get more involved with our local community.
Laura Byrne - Atmosphere, Oceans & Climate (Meteorology) student
Student Community Champion Role: Student Community Champion - University Ally
Hi I am Laura and I am particularly interested in the environment and sustainability initiatives. My passions include hedgehogs and gardening. I'd like to connect up people through shared interests and help develop networks between communities to share ideas and support each other.