International Women's Day – showcasing colleagues within the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Business that Inspire Inclusion

Colleagues and students within the faculty have been nominated to showcase their roles and work
International Women's Day
For International Women's Day (IWD) the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Business hosted an Athena Swan Showcase event which highlighted significant contributions in their respective fields. These valuable insights focussed on fostering inclusivity and diversity, within our policies, practices and teaching resources. The event raised awareness of areas that are supporting the advancement of women and gender equity across our schools and also empower colleagues to value inclusion.
We had inspiring talks from Julie Parsons and Karen Ellis, who outlined their writing retreats or career journeys from different career angles; academically and professionally.
Women themselves aspire to be included, there's a sense of belonging, relevance, and empowerment. Hence, the theme for this year's IWD is Inspire Inclusion.
Here are several colleagues and students within the faculty who have been nominated to showcase their roles and work as they model inclusion and inspire us in many ways.
 

Zoë James

Dr Zoe James

My work is all about inclusion, or the lack of it, for people who are marginalised due to their identity. My research aims to highlight how inclusion of marginalised peoples can not only make the world a fairer place, but more importantly provide the opportunity for those people to flourish.

Zoë JamesProfessor Zoë James
Professor of Criminology

Q&A with Zoë
Who are you? And what motivates you in your work?
I am a Professor of Criminology in the School of Society and Culture. My research and teaching specialism is on Gypsies, Travellers and Roma experiences of crime and justice, specifically focusing on their experiences of hate harms. I’m not sure what motivates my work. I am very aware of my privilege and want to use it as best I can to challenge injustice. That sounds trite, but is true.
In your work you inspire and have an impact on many colleagues, students – Who inspires you? Why?
It is so lovely that this question suggests I inspire others – I am constantly inspired by the people around me. I have colleagues who are incredible, they have much more on their plates than I ever had and they meet the requirements of the neoliberal higher education sector with immense bravery and often with significant style too! Young people likewise have significant burdens as they are required to exist effectively on multiple plains in online and offline spaces and meet the competitive forces of everyday life. All of these people, in my personal and professional life, make me feel motivated and inspired.
What is a fear you’d like to conquer?
Oh my, I am quite terrified of lots of things. I still really struggle to send my work to colleagues to read – imposter syndrome never really disappears.
How do you respond when faced with a problem?
I guess I try to face it straight on, with an open mind and an organised attitude. I try to take time to take stock, get help from colleagues, talk it through and strategize resolution. Problems at work shouldn’t become problems at home.
What do you know of that you believe could really change our world for the better?
That is such a big question. My answer would be that people need to realise that society can function differently: we just need to stop scapegoating people who are different to us as the problem to life’s ills and accept that the neoliberal capitalist system is the problem that needs addressing. The rampant economic race we are in will simply result in us destroying each other and the planet itself.
What do you want the world to look like in 10 years? What are you optimistic about?
I think things can and do get better, though it doesn’t feel like that at times. I have a brilliant son and a lovely step-daughter and they are great humans. I am optimistic about what they and other young people who are prepared to challenge the status quo bring to the world.
 
 
 

Farah Amer

Farah Amer, 3rd year BA (Hons) English with Publishing student

Inclusion as a whole is a vital part of any community, it’s what makes individuals feel seen and heard, but the way to go about being inclusive goes beyond simply representing individuals from different walks of life. I want everyone to feel seen and be heard and understood without feeling like outcasts or different to everyone around them. It’s the main reason behind me seeking out a more vocal role in anything I do.

Farah Amer
3rd year BA (Hons) English with Publishing student – School of Society and Culture EDI Undergraduate Student Rep – Course Student Rep

Q&A with Farah
Who are you? And what motivates you in your work?
I am a 3rd year Ba (Hons) English with Publishing student, a Course Student Rep and the Undergraduate Student Rep for my School’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) committee. I’ve always wanted to figure out what I could be doing with my life, whether it be on a personal or professional level, to leave some sort of positive impact, and my degree and experience at university has helped me reach that realisation rather quickly. I quickly realised that I wanted to help develop a more equal environment, where no one felt tokenised, overlooked or silenced. I also realised that for me, the lines between personal and professional will remain blurred when it comes to matters of equality; the personal stake that I seem to have in the matter only motivates me to put in more effort. Through my role as a Student Rep, I’m constantly talking to lecturers and EDI committee members about how we could work to make curriculums more inclusive and decolonising curriculums where possible. I also hope to provide students with a safe space to share their experiences on diversity within an educational setting as many are often reluctant to discuss any issues, comments or experiences they have.
In your work you inspire and have an impact on many colleagues, students – Who inspires you? Why?
My sister – she’s the only person that I can say I had looked up to again and again at different stages in my life and the reason why has changed with every new stage I found myself in. But a constant reason why has always been that she’s one of the most hardworking people I have ever known and her hardworking nature is one of the main reasons why she inspires me. She has never let herself be forced into a box, she has always proved people wrong and she is constantly growing as a person and a professional.
What is a fear you’d like to conquer?
Not having a conventional future in terms of my academic and professional careers. There will always be outside pressure to follow through with one specific route, the route that ‘makes sense,’ and I am trying to ignore it. I am trying to follow through with any route that will help me enact any form of positive change, even if it’s very slight.
How do you respond when faced with a problem?
I panic, just like everyone, but I persist as I panic. For me, persisting can come in so many different forms, whether it’s just pushing through out of sheer spite, ambition, motivation or even just wanting what I need to get done to be done with. Persisting can also mean revaluating my plans or options. It can mean so many things. I find a lot of comfort in the fact that things are momentary – that the problems that I have experienced and will experience will only ever be momentary. My world doesn’t stop spinning even when it can feel like it sometimes might and even when I might even want it to stop so I can catch my breath without needing to have an immediate solution to my problem. My goals have remained fundamentally the same even if the plan needs to change from time to time whenever I hit a bump.
What do you know of that you believe could really change our world for the better?
That the tides are constantly changing. People are choosing to loudly address systemic issues. So many people are constantly evolving, for the better.
What do you want the world to look like in 10 years? What are you optimistic about?
I hope that it is more inclusive, GENUINELY inclusive. I hope that it offers individuals of all walks of life the opportunity to be heard and seen as opposed to having their voices, cultures, beliefs and identities supressed.
If you had the chance to share one message to the whole world, what would it be? Why this message?
Don’t let yourself be suppressed if you can help it. There’s so much potential for change to be enacted, even the absolute slightest change, through the actions of one person.
More about Farah
  • For my dissertation I am looking into the ways in which the cultural identities of displaced or exiled Palestinians have been impacted as a result of their displacements. It looks into how they identify and connect with their cultural identity as a result of their lived experiences. Provisional title is: Al-Ghurba and Cultural Identities: Palestinians in the Diaspora.
  • I will be expanding on my dissertation by interviewing Palestinians in an attempt to offer as many of them as I can with a platform to share their experiences as well as how they connect with their cultural identities.
 
 
 

Lingyuan Osgathorpe (Marilyn)

Lingyuan Osgathorpe - TNE & Articulations Manager

Inclusion is a cornerstone of my responsibilities as the Postgraduate Student Experience Manager. Our school prides itself on welcoming a diverse array of students into our postgraduate programs. Each student arrives with a unique set of backgrounds and challenges, making it imperative for me to provide tailored guidance and support. My role is to ensure that every student swiftly adapts to our learning environment and is equipped with the necessary tools to succeed. By fostering an inclusive atmosphere, I aim to empower all students to not only adjust but to excel in their academic pursuits.

Lingyuan OsgathorpeMrs Lingyuan Osgathorpe

Q&A with Lingyuan
Who are you? And what motivates you in your work?
I am Lingyuan Osgathorpe, full time staff and part-time EdD student (stage 6).
I deeply resonate with the belief that "Education transforms lives." My own life stands as a testament to this truth, where education has not only paved pathways to potential careers but has profoundly reshaped my worldview. The empowerment and freedom I've experienced through my educational journey have been transformative, guiding me through life's myriad aspects. This personal evolution fuels my desire to ensure every student accesses these transformative benefits of education.
Having navigated the challenges of being an international student myself, I empathise with the feelings of trepidation and frustration that come with adapting to a new country. My journey began in an unfamiliar "arena," where I was expected to "play a new game" without a clear understanding of its rules or expectations. The feeling of being a "fish out of water" is an indelible memory that continues to influence my approach to student support. Drawing from this personal experience, I am committed to aiding our students in their educational journeys, ensuring they find empowerment, understanding, and success in their new environment.
In your work you inspire and have an impact on many colleagues, students – Who inspires you? Why?
I don’t think it’s my place to judge how my work impact others. However, when it comes to who inspires me, I would have to say the French Sociologist Pierre Bourdieu. Bourdieu’s theoretical constructs and concepts, have illuminated the complexities underlying the struggles faced by both students and institutions in cross-cultural learning environments, shedding light on the sources of tension and conflict. This insight has been instrumental in shaping my approach to work, allowing me to remain objective, empathetic, and systematic. While I recognise that I'm still at the nascent stage of comprehending these intricate social and educational dynamics, I'm eager to deepen my understanding.
This doesn't imply a lack of inspiration within my workplace. By its very nature, a higher education institution serves as a beacon of inspiration. Over my 13 years of association with this university, both as a student and a staff member, the countless instances of inspiration I've drawn from colleagues and students are too numerous to count. Remarkably, it's not the grand achievements that leave the deepest impression on me; rather, it's the everyday gestures of kindness and positivity that I find most inspiring.
What is a fear you’d like to conquer?
I would like to conquer the fear of thinking what I am doing has no meaning or value. This is a thought crucial for maintaining a sense of purpose and job satisfaction.
Of course, all fears are irrational. This particular fear could also be interpreted as the struggle of remaining positive and motivated at all times, which is a universal struggle.
How do you respond when faced with a problem?
It would really depend on what the problem is. Addressing a work-related issue often necessitates a collaborative approach. To effectively tackle the problem, it's essential to thoroughly grasp the context and specifics involved. This understanding will guide the identification of the relevant individuals or teams best equipped to contribute to a resolution. Equally crucial is assessing the urgency of the situation to set a feasible and timely action plan. By combining a clear comprehension of the problem with a coordinated team effort and a practical timeline, the path to a solution becomes more achievable and efficient.
It is also important to remain objective and do not take things personally when faced with a work-related problem. This approach ensures that emotions do not cloud judgment or hinder problem solving. Unless obviously if the problem was a mistake on my part, I would resolve it directly with a sincere apology.
What do you know of that you believe could really change our world for the better?
Embracing the belief that "education transforms lives," both through formal and informal avenues, underscores the transformative power of learning in shaping individual perspectives and societal norms. In our socially constructed world, meanings, practices, and norms are not only created but also shared collectively, laying the groundwork for potential conflicts. These conflicts often arise when individual agency is constrained by overarching structures or when differing cultural meanings collide, challenging established norms.
Understanding the intricate dynamics of social constructs and societal operations can be a liberating force, empowering individuals to pursue personal fulfilment rather than conforming to prescribed societal roles. This enlightenment, fostered by education, encourages a critical examination of "taken-for-granted" norms and inspires a pursuit of happiness that aligns with one's values and aspirations, rather than societal expectations.
What do you want the world to look like in 10 years? What are you optimistic about?
I would want to see the world with more kindness, towards oneself, others and the environment. This vision of kindness encompasses self-care and self-compassion, recognising that emotional well-being is the foundation for extending care outward. It's about creating communities where empathy and support are woven into the social fabric, where differences are met with understanding rather than judgment, and where every interaction is an opportunity to uplift one another.
I am optimistic that we are moving towards that direction, especially in the younger generations. It's this collective shift towards empathy and sustainability that makes me believe in the potential for profound, positive change in the next decade.
If you had the chance to share one message to the whole world, what would it be? Why this message?
Do things that make your eyes sparkle.
This is a message inspired by my late colleague Dr Patrick McMahon, who passed away in January 2024, at the age of 58.
The sudden and tragic lost of Patrick made me realise how short and cruel life can be. Patrick was the most genuine and positive person I have ever known, he lived life fulfilled with love and joy. Throughout the 13 years I knew him, his eyes would light up with enthusiasm, whether he was playing the piano, sharing stories about his wife and children, or recounting his travel adventures. He loved his students and loved teaching. It’s this love that brought him joy, and it’s this joy that’s worth pursuing.
More about Lingyuan
  • Staff profile
  • I used to teach various of Mandarin classes including the Mandarin Chinese Elective module. My current teaching involves Academic Culture in the UK and Intercultural Competence as part of the Postgraduate Academic and Professional Development module.
  • My research focuses on direct entry pre-sessional Chinese students’ learning experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic and its aftermath.
 
 
 

Shaofeng Liu

Shaofeng Liu

Inclusion is extremely important because it means kindness, generosity and caring. Inclusion has improved me as an educator to give my students belongingness, acceptance and community spirit.

Shaofeng LiuProfessor Shaofeng Liu
Professor of Operations Management and Decision Making, Deputy Director of Doctoral College, former Associate Head of School (Research and Innovation)

Q&A with Shaofeng
Who are you? And what motivates you in your work?
I am a female professor from an Asian background and was educated in both eastern and western systems. As a person, I am understanding and open-minded. As a professional, I aim to pursue excellence in work and set an example for my students. I am genuinely motivated by educating the next generations to do their best and to realise their dreams. Seeing my students to make progress in developing their knowledge, skills and competence is rewarding, no matter who they are, where they come from and what they want to do in the future, as long as they are trying and improving, I never give up on encouraging and supporting them wherever and whenever I can. I believe the most precious resources in this world is our people. Being able to educate and influence our next generations is my dream coming true. It is this very reason that I am one of the six female professors in England to have started a cross-institutional, collaborative project, called “Generation Delta” which aims to improve the access, progression and confidence of female Doctoral students from Black, Asian and minority ethnic background, by providing them with safe network spaces, mentoring opportunities and training workshops. More information about the “Generation Delta” project can be found:
In your work you inspire and have an impact on many colleagues, students – Who inspires you? Why?
The person who inspires me most is the fictional character, Hermione Granger, from Harry Potter book series created by JK Rowling. Born in a “muggle” family, she enters a completely new world – the magic world, but she fits in bravely and excels. Whenever there is a problem in front of her, she never shies away but finds a solution using her knowledge and wisdom. Even though she cannot even share her school experience with the nearest and dearest – her parents, she is mentally strong and resilient. More importantly, there is never hesitation or moaning from her but continuous growth and improvement until she achieves the ultimate success.
What is a fear you’d like to conquer?
I don’t have one at the moment.
How do you respond when faced with a problem?
When faced with a problem, I go to search for solutions to solve the problem. I believe that no problem is too big and most problems have solutions if we seek for them hard enough!
What do you know of that you believe could really change our world for the better?
I believe that women students from all backgrounds are just as resilient and intelligent, and can do just as well, as “Generation Delta” project has demonstrated. If more of us join the force to create more opportunities for women students, from all backgrounds, so that everybody has the space and platform to flourish and give back to the world, which will lead to a more inclusive, diverse and prosperous world.
What do you want the world to look like in 10 years? What are you optimistic about?
Women from all backgrounds can have chances to prosper and achieve their dreams! Nobody will be left behind just because of their race, origin, education or social background.
If you had the chance to share one message to the whole world, what would it be? Why this message?
Be confident in yourself and be kind to people around you, helping each other and looking after each other! Together, we can make the world become a better place for all!
More about Shaofeng
  • Staff profile
  • My teaching is mainly in the subject area of operations and supply chain management, research methods for business research, and applying theories to professional practice.
  • My research addresses key decision issues in product and service value chain management, with a focus on agri-food value chains, “from farm to fork”, including food supply chain risk management and resilience, cross-boundary knowledge mobilisation, food sustainability, food quality and security, food innovation and market analysis, and the acceptance and adoption of emerging technologies to improve agri-food value chain performance.
  • Communities involved include local and regional food-sharing community, farming community and UK supply chain community. Since 2023, I have been on the Steering Committee for the UK Digital Supply Chain Hub – Academic Network () and Chair for the international community – Euro Working Group on Decision Support Systems (EWG-DSS, ). I am also part of the UK Black Female Professor Forum ().
 
 
 

Miranda Spicer

Miranda Spicer

In a large institution, such as 鶹ý, significant work has been carried out in order to attempt a more inclusive culture and atmosphere for both staff and students. Until ours, and other universities, follow through on inclusivity to include diversity in senior roles, is it imperative that action and training both remain paramount, and budget is required to follow through. Targeted decision making can result in positive culture change, but the will has to be there, with strong leadership in place.

Miranda SpicerMs Miranda Spicer
Associate Head of School - Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

Q&A with Miranda
Who are you? And what motivates you in your work?
Associate Head of School (Art, Design and Architecture) – Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and Lecturer in Publishing.
I take my hat off to women, both from the recent past and from history, who have made a difference to lives today. Woman’s Hour (BBC Radio 4) consistently features women of courage and resilience who are, or have been, change-makers. I turn to both non-fiction and fiction, seeking out women writers who bring women of the past to life on the page. Jill Craigie’s short film To Be A Woman (1951), hailed as being ahead of its time, had the theme ‘equal pay for equal work’. There is still work to be done:
“The clearest insight into the gender pay gap is provided by analysis across age groups. For groups aged under 40 years, the gender pay gap for full-time employees … is low, at 4.7% or below…for the age group for those aged 40 to 49 years and older, the gender pay gap for full-time employees is much higher, at 10.3% or higher. The gender pay gap increased across all age groups between 2022 and 2023, except for those aged 18 to 21 years. The largest increase was seen among employees aged 30 to 39 years, where the gender pay gap increased from 2.3% to 4.7%.”
In your work you inspire and have an impact on many colleagues, students – Who inspires you? Why?
Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Malala Yousafzai could have simply been grateful that she recovered from being shot in the head, but she is a champion for girls’ education.
Greta Thunberg could give up her activism, defeated by the trolls attacking her on social media, but she persists. Several politicians have found it unwise to underestimate the will of this neurodivergent young woman!
Many across the world who are not in the public eye, are working to combat the effects of climate crisis in a way that they can: some fashion brands are breaking away from the fast-fashion business model, aiming to set the trend for conscious clothes shopping against the tide. Some have spearheaded ‘pre-loved’ clothing and simply consuming less. Food producers, retailers and restaurants that apply sustainable standards, rather than simply waving a policy document, set a great example.
Close to home, Dawn French has contributed more than the wit and enjoyment of British humour, breaking the mould with Jennifer Saunders, as they made their way in the comedy circuit dominated by men. Dawn French supports the , founded by her mother, providing safe recovery refuges in Devon, using her earnings from fame to contribute to the wellbeing of other women.
How do you respond when faced with a problem?
When faced with a problem in the workplace, I call on the networks and professional relationships that I have built up over time. It’s often helpful to discuss a solution with a trusted colleague or friend who works elsewhere, to help gain a different perspective. I enjoy working as part of a team, and discussion with colleagues, especially those with more experience, can often be helpful and supportive.
What do you want the world to look like in 10 years? What are you optimistic about?
I am optimistic that, out of adversity, the grass-roots informal groups of people who are independent of government, are making important changes at local level and that this will continue. An example of this is the , brought to light in the UK by ‘ordinary’ people, led by Mr Alan Bates. Strength in numbers, persistence and courage have made the authorities and the public take notice. With famous actors, such as Toby Jones, playing such parts, we found drama reaching far more people than news reports did. When celebrities take up such roles, and independent broadcasters continue making documentaries, it is hoped that there is opportunity for change.
More about Miranda
  • Staff profile
  • Miranda brings commercial business experience and industry contacts to Publishing studies at 鶹ý, including Programme Lead for MA Publishing and lecturing: MA Communication Design; BA English with Publishing. Miranda has worked for a variety of publishers of both fiction and non-fiction, books and magazines. She relocated to Devon and became Editorial Director of David & Charles. Her publishing career spans editing, commissioning, production, training, consultancy and senior management. Training includes the Advance HE Aurora Women's Leadership Programme, courses at Book House; Women in Publishing; London School of Publishing and Capita. She offers one-to-one sessions with authors and advises on careers in publishing. She runs workshops and one-to-one session at the NCB Festival. Supporting students towards positive mental health through the Arts is a key area of interest. Please see [link] to the Spring Equinox Festival on campus, 21 March 2024.
 
 
 

Heidi Morstang