My time at Anglia Ruskin University has been a deeply enriching journey of leadership, community building, and a commitment to fostering a more inclusive and understanding world.
Since 2021, I’ve had the privilege of serving as President of the Nigerian Student Society, a role that has allowed me to build a thriving community of over a thousand members from the ground up. Together, we’ve not only grown in numbers but also in impact. I’m incredibly proud to have nurtured eight official leaders across our campuses, many of whom are now creating opportunities for others in their own workplaces – a true testament to the power of collective growth. We’ve organised numerous initiatives, from orientation programmes and educational workshops to vibrant cultural events and consistent well-being support, all aimed at empowering our members to thrive.
Building bridges and fostering understanding has been a central theme of my involvement at ARU. In 2021, as a buddy on ARU Campus Connect, I connected with students from diverse backgrounds, facilitating their integration into university life and expanding my own intercultural awareness.
More recently, my PhD research, which I embarked on in 2021 and am now in its final year, reflects my commitment to intellectual inclusivity. My work aims to bring an underrepresented African perspective to broader philosophical discussions, encouraging a more diverse and comprehensive understanding of our world.
This commitment to inclusivity extended to my role as a Race Equality Advocate in 2023/24. Leading a diverse group of individuals, I championed a sense of belonging for all students at ARU, spearheaded efforts to decolonise our curriculum, and nurtured an academic environment where every student feels represented and valued.
These experiences, alongside my involvement in postgraduate research representation and challenges like Impact 24, have honed my leadership, communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills. The Gold Volunteer Award I received for my dedication to the Nigerian Student Society is a humbling recognition of this journey.
My time at ARU has reinforced my belief in the power of leadership that serves and empowers others. As I look towards future opportunities, I am eager to bring this passion for inclusivity, community building, and impactful leadership to an international environment, whether in the UK or Africa. The skills and experiences gained here have not just prepared me for the future; they have shaped the leader I aspire to be.
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