EDI Enhancement

Dr Lennie Foster has demonstrated exceptional leadership in advancing equity, diversity and inclusion through sustained impact across research, education and institutional culture. By embedding inclusive practices through UK SCALE Centre activities, she is strengthening recruitment and engagement, and championing accessible, representative communications, she has helped create a more welcoming and equitable environment for staff and students.

Through his leadership of the REACH Staff Network, contributions to race equality initiatives and creation of impactful cultural and creative programmes, Dr Chukwuma Ogbonnaya has fostered greater understanding, belonging and collaboration across diverse communities. His innovative approach to connecting arts, culture and STEM has created inclusive spaces for dialogue, celebration and learning, helping to strengthen a vibrant and welcoming University culture for staff and students alike.

The STEAM Team has created an inspiring and inclusive platform that celebrates diversity, creativity and cultural exchange across the University community. By bringing together staff and doctoral researchers from science, engineering and the arts, the initiative has fostered greater understanding, belonging and appreciation of different cultures through performance, storytelling and shared experiences. Its collaborative and innovative approach has opened new spaces for expression and engagement with EDI themes, helping to build a more connected, inclusive and vibrant University culture that continues to grow in reach and impact.

Dr Kerri Akiwowo has made an outstanding contribution to creating a more equitable, diverse and inclusive University through the transformative Diverse Voices in Textiles initiative. By combining creative practice, research and advocacy, she has created powerful opportunities for students and staff to explore identity, representation and belonging. Her exhibitions, teaching and community-focused projects have amplified underrepresented voices, fostered meaningful dialogue and celebrated cultural diversity across the University.