Description
I played a pivotal leadership role in the University’s successful journey toward achieving recognition as a University of Sanctuary. This designation marks a strategic institutional milestone under QUB’s Strategy 2030, reflecting our commitment to fostering an inclusive, and equitable environment for forcibly displaced individuals.My strategic Leadership and Institutional Impact: I actively contributed to the review, development, and submission of QUB’s University of Sanctuary application, including coordinating evidence of civic engagement, academic support, and community outreach. I was selected as a presenter and as a panelist for the assessment by the Universities of Sanctuary national team, a role reserved for key institutional contributors.
I represented QUB in external meetings and civic partnerships, including regular progress updates to Belfast City of Sanctuary and a formal consultation with the Lord Mayor of Belfast in November 2024.
I was an invited presenter at the Sanctuary Appraisal Panel (March 2025), where I delivered a presentation showcasing our inclusive practices, academic engagement, and civic collaboration—contributing directly to QUB’s successful accreditation. I was formally invited to contribute to the three-year strategy for the post-award Sanctuary implementation, ensuring sustainability and deep integration of Sanctuary.
Organised and facilitated two Sanctuary Coffee Mornings, fostering dialogue and social integration among asylum seekers and refugees
Delivered an inclusive NI Science Festival workshop, making knowledge accessible to a diverse audience and inspiring minority ethnic youth to pursue STEM careers.
Served as a Racial Equity Champion and Executive Committee Member of iRISE (QUB’s BAME and International Staff Network), integrating racial equity
Led the EDI in Curriculum Faculty Subgroup, developing an EDI Toolkit and delivering Decolonising the Curriculum workshops, ensuring fair representation, inclusive teaching, and equitable assessment practices across the Faculty.
A lead editor of the book 'Decolonial Perspectives in Biomedical Sciences, Anatomical Education and Healthcare: Advancing Equity and Global Perspectives' (Springer, 2025), reflecting international reach and scholarly impact
My work has been recognised by the Director of Civic Engagement, and my leadership has been acknowledged in the minutes of the Committee meetings.
Through visionary leadership, inclusive teaching practice, and civic engagement, I have significantly shaped QUB identity as a University of Sanctuary. My work reflects a deep institutional and societal commitment to equity, social justice, and transformative education, aligned with international best practice.
| Period | Aug 2024 → … |
|---|---|
| Held at | Queen's University Belfast |
| Degree of Recognition | Regional |