14 - In the meantime: creating change through community

Summary

My childhood was by no means perfect, but it was a safe and nurturing environment full to the brim with love and community. I have vivid memories of swinging on swivel chairs at the office of the Claudia Jones Organisation in Stoke Newington, where my mum dedicated time as a volunteer, and I later attended Saturday school. My understanding of my culture was nurtured by both the natural flow of life among family and friends, and the intentional efforts of my mum, who lovingly and purposefully guided me in finding a connection to our roots and traditions. Together, we took African dance classes, and she joined me in exploring and embracing my Dominican heritage through Kwéyòl (French Creole) lessons. I learned early on to value wisdom and knowing created and taught by people like me. These cherished experiences, among others, still resonate with me deeply, even decades later. As a new mother, I navigate these aspects of parenthood extremely aware of how meaningful spaces shaped my identity and sense of self. I have witnessed first- hand the transformative power of community.

Aspirations for me to go to university came from my mum. Neither of us imagined me not only attending but also forging a career in higher education. Reflecting on my early career, I often describe my attitude as ‘ignorance on fire’, without which I probably would have left higher education long ago. I was unaware of the magnitude of the Russell Group and its influence, lacked a clear understanding of postgraduate research, and remained oblivious to the entrenched notions of deficit that plagued my work in access and widening participation. What I believe grounded me during that time were the values instilled in me by my mum. Despite my naturally introverted and reserved nature, my deep pride in my Blackness and a genuine passion for my work gave me confidence. Over time, however, narratives across the sector surrounding raising aspirations for Black students and the depiction of the Black community being hard to reach began to bother me. This perception was in direct conflict with my upbringing and my personal experience of my community, and it made me uncomfortable.