The panel discussion on Navigating Minority Ethnic Identity in Postgraduate Research was a vibrant and thought-provoking event. It effectively united postgraduate researchers, YCEDE colleagues, stakeholders and other participants, creating a rich and varied dialogue. The members brought diverse perspectives and firsthand experiences to the discussion, making it a stimulating and engaging exchange centred around the essential topic of minority ethnic …
My YCEDE Advocacy experience
by Adam Chen, PhD candidate with the Strategic Joint Studentship between the University of Birmingham and the University of Nottingham Upon completing my undergraduate in Sociology at the University of Sheffield, I realised my aspiration to start a career in research. This realisation motivated me to pursue a Master’s degree in Social Research. After a few weeks into my Master’s …
My Experience with the Advocacy Scheme by Uzunma Okezie-Udokwu
My journey with the YCEDE Advocacy Scheme started with meeting George Gisborne from the University of Leeds. He connected me with an advocate from the University of Sheffield. Embarking on this journey with the Advocacy Scheme has been a transformative experience, enriching me both personally and professionally. I would like to share the experiences and insights that I gained through …
Barriers to Black PhD Students – A reflection on progress and the work that still needs to be done, by Ayo Barley (Chair, YCEDE External Advisory Board)
On the 14th of June 2024, Ayo Barley, MD Bakare Barley Ltd and Chair of the Yorkshire Consortium for Equity in Postgraduate Education (YCEDE) External Advisory Board will be chairing a panel session at the YCEDE Workshop 2024: The Journey to Sustainable Organisational Change for Equity in Postgraduate Research. It will be an in person interactive event during which YCEDE …
From Masters to PhD: My Journey with the Aziz Foundation, by Awais Hussain (YCEDE Scholarship Holder)
During my final year of undergraduate studies, I developed a strong interest in pursuing a career in academia. I envisioned myself teaching and conducting research, a path that not only aligned with my intellectual curiosity but also allowed me to give back to our community, a cause I deeply care about. However, funding opportunities for postgraduate studies, particularly for Masters …
Keys to Success in Arts & Humanities Applications, by Amirah Muhammad – Scholar’s Board Member and YGRS Scholarship Holder
Hello, I’m Amirah! I’m halfway through my first year of a part-time PhD in English and Related Literature at the University of York. My working research title is ‘Contemporary Black British Speculative Fiction, the Afterlives of Empire and Black Futures’ – which means I spend a lot of time thinking about aliens, time travel and how everything’s really a simulation. …
Reflections on two fantastic events in Sheffield, by Zenab Sabahat – Scholar’s Board Member
Thursday 25th April 2024 saw YCEDE hosting a wonderful event at The University of Sheffield about navigating a career in higher education as an ethnic minority. It was an incredible turnout, the likes of which included YCEDE Staff, Scholarship Holders and ethnically-minoritized PGR’s from all partner institutions ((The University of York, The University of Bradford, Sheffield Hallam University, The University …
Circle Mentoring Success
We held our pilot circle mentoring session on Tuesday 12th March. Our first session focused on local government and had two excellent mentors join our group of 8 PGRs. The session provided vibrant discussions and meaningful insights, setting the stage for expanding and enhancing the program’s impact in the future. We will be looking for future mentors, so if you have …
Bespoke Mentoring
We are in a final stage of developing a bespoke training package for our mentoring programme that focuses on developing a cultural humility of mentors in order to support all PGRs, especially those from Black, Asian and minority ethnic groups. The training will be delivered as part of the wider mentoring programme offered by YCEDE to future mentors and mentees. …
Black History Month – Why Black Women need recognition all year round (Saluting Our Sisters)
In this Black History Month blog, Ayo Barley writes about the importance of recognising Black women. In a world where recognition of the contributions of Black women often falls short, it’s time to shine a well-deserved spotlight on Black women during Black History Month (BHM). This year, we delve into the multifaceted theme that highlights the remarkable achievements and enduring …










