Welcome to Diversity Fest, a celebration of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at Arden University!
We're delighted to share this series of events, talks, competitions with prizes, learning opportunities and more to provide you with a chance to celebrate and share diversity. We’re looking forward to seeing you there!
Monday 18th September 2023 – Diversity in Higher Education
The traits and characteristics that make each person unique are known as diversity elements. These aspects of diversity contribute to the complexity and richness of the human experience, influencing our thoughts, actions, and relationships with others.
Recognising and appreciating diversity is crucial for creating fair and inclusive environments, promoting respect, empathy, tolerance, understanding, and learning.
Online events
Session Title: Barrister at No5 Chambers with Nabila Malik
Time: 10am – 11am BST
Webinar overview: With almost 25 years of experience, Nabila Malik, a Barrister from a state school background, overcame challenges to forge a successful career, becoming the only Muslim female pupil Barrister at the Chancery Bar in her training year. Nabila won 'Barrister of the Year' in 2020 while mentoring disadvantaged pupils and advocating for women in law.
Session Title: 10,000 Black Interns and 10,000 Able Interns Opportunities
Time: 12pm – 13:15pm BST
Synopsis: Come and meet Julie from 10,000 Black Interns and 10,000 Able Interns and find out about their paid summer internships working in a variety of career sectors across the UK. Julie will explain the opportunities and application process for Arden students keen to benefit from this excellent scheme, designed to support and champion under-represented talent.
Learning module:
In this module, we will examine how Arden University supports diversity in various fields while exploring the meaning of diversity.
Tuesday 19th September 2023 - Inclusion in Higher Education
A culture of inclusivity in higher education benefits all individuals as it fosters learning, growth, and advancement for the entire community. It promotes a sense of value, respect, and the ability to reach one's full potential. Additionally, it creates a positive and supportive atmosphere.
Online events
Session Title: Neurodiversity in Higher Education
Time: 10am – 11am BST
Session overview: A session looking at Neurodiversity in Higher Education, addressing education experiences, career identification, interview strategies, academic advantages, well-being management, barriers, and diverse career paths.
Session Title: Inclusion Team: Mental health and well-being
Time: 11.30am – 12pm BST
Session overview: This session will focus on Mental Health and wellbeing support for Arden students, including wellbeing advisor assistance, the online platform Togetherall, external resources like Problem Shared, and accessing the Inclusion Portal.
Session Title: Breaking the Boundaries with Angela Ferreira
Time: 17.30pm – 18.30pm BST
Synopsis: Despite facing objections from her school and a lack of role models, Angela, born to working-class immigrant parents in Birmingham, pursued her dream of becoming a journalist and is now an internationally acclaimed television producer. Angela shares her journey and inspires others to surpass limitations and fulfil their potential.
Learning module:
In this module, you will learn about Arden University's commitment to inclusivity across various areas and explore the concept of inclusivity.
Wednesday 20th September 2023 – Access and Participation
To ensure that every student has the chance to achieve academic success, it's crucial to remove any barriers and implement policies and programs that promote inclusivity. It's a big task that requires a collaborative effort from educational institutions, policymakers, and local communities.
Online events
Session Title: Inclusion Team: Hardship and Welfare Support
Time: 11.30am – 12.00pm BST
Session overview: This webinar will cover Hardship and Welfare Support in Arden. We will aim to cover the support you can access from a welfare adviser such as one-to-one support for queries about financial hardship or housing concerns.
Session Title: Student Voice at Arden University
Time: 12.30pm – 13.30pm
Synopsis: Arden University values student input, driving positive institutional changes via feedback. Join our Insights and Marketing Research Manager, Jessica Delaney, and our Student Communications and Events Manager, Molly Hunt, to explore recent Arden University Satisfaction Survey results and consequential actions, and the significance of the student voice across a diverse student body.
Learning module:
In this module, you will explore how Arden University is committed to providing equal opportunities for all students to learn and grow.
Thursday 21st September 2023 – Disability Advice
Ensuring equal opportunities for all students, irrespective of any disabilities or learning difficulties they may have, is a crucial aspect of higher education.
To achieve this, it is essential to provide suitable facilities, advanced technology, customised curriculums, and specialised services that cater to the unique requirements of each student. By offering such personalised support, we can empower every student to realise their full potential and succeed in their academic pursuits.
Online events
Session Title: Inclusion Team: Neurodiversity and Specific Learning
Time: 11.30am – 12.00pm BST
Session overview: This webinar will be discussing the essential support Arden can provide to students who experience neurodiversity and Specific Learning Differences (SpLDs). We will aim to give a deeper understanding of neurodiversity and Specific Learning Differences and explore Arden’s provision of assistive technology sessions for students.
Session Title: Tragedy to Triumph with David Follett
Time: 12.30pm – 13.30pm BST
Session overview: In 2007, David Follett's Road Traffic Accident caused a Spinal Cord Injury. He spent seven months in Salisbury Spinal Unit for rehabilitation, before returning to study and earning a university degree. Join us for an inspiring session as David talks about how he turned tragedy into triumph.
Learning module:
In this module, you will discover Arden University's dedication to offering disability support and advice in different areas and explore the concept of disability.
Friday 22nd September 2023 – Being an Inclusive Student
To truly promote inclusivity, it is important to act rather than just talk about it. You can start by joining a student organisation or attending events that prioritise acceptance and tolerance for all participants. It is crucial to speak up if you witness any discriminatory behaviour or language. Additionally, it is important to be open to learning and growing as an individual.
Online events
Session Title: Inclusion Team: Inclusive Language Introduction
Time: 11.30am – 12.00pm BST
Session overview: Join us for a brief introduction to inclusive language. We’ll be talking about what it means to be inclusive, how we can change our language to be more inclusive, and why this is important in supportive roles, for example, the importance of using plain English.
Session Title: The Art of Taking Positive Action with Zoe Bennett
Time: 12.30pm – 13.30pm BST
Session overview: Zoe Bennett, BEM, is a Multi-Award-Winning Inspirational Speaker and Mindset Resilience Coach with a flair for success. As well as being a dedicated Arden University student, Zoe is known as the Motivational Queen, as she inspires confidence and creates transformation in other people.
Learning module:
In this module, you will learn helpful tips and strategies for becoming a more inclusive student, supporting your peers, and contributing to the welcoming environment at Arden University.