125 UEL Stories: Staff
Welcome to 125 UEL Staff Stories, a campaign celebrating the diverse University of East London community.
Staff members are essential to UEL as they are the behind-the-scenes heroes who ensure the university's daily operations run smoothly. Their dedication underpins the institution's ability to deliver a high-quality educational experience. Their commitment to creating a conducive environment for learning and research directly impacts the student experience. Recognising their contributions in the campaign celebrates the collective efforts of all staff members who contribute to its success.
Explore the portraits below to gain a deeper understanding of what sets UEL apart, as highlighted by our dedicated staff. And visit our 125 UEL Stories Instagram account.
Isaie Bloch
Course Leader, MArch Architecture (ARB/RIBA Part2)"Without a doubt, what I love about UEL is the life experience and embedded energy of our students."
Dr Shrehan Lynch
Senior Lecturer in Initial Teacher Education"The trainee teachers we have the opportunity to work with make UEL special, they are passionate about being the change in education and creating learning experiences for young people in the 21st century!"
Sahra Asiaban
(HPL) Lecturer - Department of Engineering & Construction"There’s clearly something special about UEL. The great multicultural and friendly environment and giving everyone a chance to grow in confidence and abilities makes me feel so satisfied."
Lisa Taylor
Senior Lecturer in Early Childhood Studies and Education Studies"As a former University of East London New Beginnings and undergraduate student, I feel privileged to be able to work with our current and future students in the university that supported my academic journey."
Sonya Dineva
Course Leader - MSc Occupational and Organisational Psychology and MSc Business Psychology."I belong to UEL because we have amazing professionals dedicated to our students' success in every respect as well as incredible students who are and will always be part of our UEL family."
Seyed Ali Ghorashi
Senior Lecturer - Department of Computer Science & Digital Technologies"UEL is special because of the friendly atmosphere between my colleagues."
Rawad Hammad
Technology Enhanced Learning Research Group Leader and Course Leader - MSc Computing"UEL is a very vibrant institution with a continuously evolving vision."
Romina Novaku
Lecturer - MSc Data Science"UEL is the place of opportunities, challenges, knowledge and dreams. It shaped my future and gave my work life a new purpose, a much better one - to become a data scientist."
Adam Wiseman
Senior Lecturer and Course Leader for BA (Hons) Commercial Photography"UEL is a space to freely experiment and explore, where learning is never confined to the classroom."
Tristan Parkes
Senior Lecturer - Performing Arts"I love how UEL brings people together from all over the world to study in a friendly, caring, inspiring and innovative learning environment, and being a part of this is truly special."
Kamilla Jones
Lecturer - Fashion Business and Management"What is special about UEL is that it is filled with talented staff and students striving for success."
Clare Penny
Course Leader – Landscape Architecture"UEL’s greatest strength is its diversity. Our students and staff come from across the globe, from all walks of life, and bring this diversity together to achieve great things."
Viraj R Nair
Lecturer in Business and Strategy"The positive impact that joining UEL has had on me professionally and personally is immeasurable. UEL's journey to becoming a pioneer in an industry-oriented curriculum and a Net Zero institution is worth mentioning."
Dr Alina Vaduva
Lecturer and Interim Associate Director"UEL is a diverse, multicultural and inclusive place to work, where our passion for learning and sharing light the path to knowledge and future success."
Ravindra Jayaratne
Reader in Coastal Engineering / Chartered Civil Engineer"UEL is a unique and diverse university focusing on addressing some of the burning socio-economic and environmental issues in the neighbouring councils."
Charlotte White
Events Manager"UEL is a unique institution. Every individual who is part of UEL brings something different and special with them. I love the diversity this institution offers and the opportunity to meet and speak with a mix of people every day."
Shaherah Jordan
Sustainability Research Institute (SRI) Research Fellow"I enjoy the view from the Docklands campus. I enjoy doing impactful research with inspiring colleagues."
Habeeb Sohail Al-Aidroos
Student Support Advisor"UEL is a young university, imparting imagination into information and vice-versa; there is more to come as it grows with age."
Emily Enock
Senior Social Media Channel Manager"I like that UEL offers career-led degrees - we offer more than just a degree."
Lina Alisauskaite
Social Media Intern"Inspired by our innovative community and empowered by the diversity of voices, to create engaging online content. Together, we are shaping a digital landscape that celebrates knowledge, inspires change, and leaves a lasting impact."
Katy Jebson
Student Recruitment Events Officer"UEL make it possible for anyone with commitment and drive to forge a fantastic future. The resources and academics, financial and pastoral support available to our diverse student body is what makes UEL the University of the People!"
Marina Thomas
Senior Communications Officer"What makes UEL special is the incredible breadth of topics that is covered through research and academia."
Jo Kareer
Internal Communications Manager"The most special thing about UEL is that we make higher education accessible and inclusive for everyone, empowering people to transform their lives for the better."
Kristina Georgieva
School Marketing Executive“I have built lifelong friendships and gained valuable skills and knowledge. Being part of an award-winning team is a testament to the quality of education provided by UEL and its reputation for producing successful graduates.”
Will Lickley
Events Assistant"I love working for an institution that has social progression at the heart of its ethos. I love to contribute toward raising the profile of a university which reaches communities who may have never considered Higher Education."
Kelly Atkins
Associate Director of Engagement and Advancement"In short, I love UEL for the people! Also, the fact that it is the first place I have worked that has allowed me to have the freedom to be creative and push boundaries."
Monique Wong
Internal Communications Assistant"The people are so helpful and welcoming, I don’t feel intimidated to have this as my first job."
Hannah Clarke
Departmental Officer (Institute of Hospitality and Tourism & Marketing)"UEL is special because no day is the same! We have such an amazing and connected community full of culture, creativity and support. I love being part of a community that truly makes an impact. "
Dr Stuart Connop
Associate Professor in Sustainability"I have freedom to develop my own impactful research to directly address societal challenges at the heart of East London's regeneration. I love my wonderfully diverse team co-creating innovative and ground-breaking research ideas."
Keith Winter
Cluster Leader of Visual Arts and Course Leader for BA Interior Design"UEL is a special kind of student and staff community where we have a vision for young people from all walks of life, to be all that they can be, confident in their discipline and ready to tackle the professional world."
John Strawson
Honorary Professor of Law"UEL has been the base from which to promote human rights education and research, empowering students to meet the challenges of our global community so they can contribute to finding solutions to injustice, inequalities and conflict."
Dr Michael Palkowski
Lecturer in Sustainable Tourism and Development"UEL as a widening access university is special as it opens doors to people from all backgrounds. Campus facilities are some of the best I have experienced for students to develop their skills and knowledge of our subject areas."
Estefany Solorzano
Social Media Officer"UEL offers a large and diverse network of professionals, including lecturers, partners, and students. I hope the connections I've made will last a lifetime and lead to many more opportunities in my career."
Nagapradeep Nagarajan
MBA Student and MBA Mentor, Research Assistant"UEL offers a diverse range of life, career, industry and hands-on experiences, along with its 'Be the Change' vision, that helps to enrich the lives of its students and prepare them to become future leaders.”
Matt Little
Senior Communications Officer"What I love most is the people who work tirelessly to help our students and strengthen this university. Our staff go above and beyond in supporting each other and making sure our students receive the best possible education. "
Sharon N Hughes
Senior Lecturer - Fashion Marketing and Fashion Culture and Business"I have worked in universities in several countries and I truly can’t say enough positive things about the diversity of the students, academics and staff I encounter daily at UEL."
Shreem Khare
Social Media Assistant"It has been an amazing journey as the social media assistant at UEL for the past seven months. My colleagues are some of the best, most hardworking and talented people I’ve met."
Chelsea Battle
Social Media Content Manager"The people at UEL make it a great place to work. I've made real friends and I love being on campus. The view isn't too bad in the summer either."
Ajit Saha
HP Lecturer"UEL offers a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, full of academic resources, a vibrant campus with beautiful views. We also have highly experienced and qualified teachers."
Freyja Hudson
Senior Internal Communications Officer"UEL is constantly adapting and evolving with the times – it’s come a long way in 125 years."
Phil Davey
Market Business Intelligence Manager"Whenever anyone asks me outside of UEL as to why I’ve stayed so long, the people is always my answer. I’ve met some of my best mates at UEL and worked with some genuinely inspiring people. "
Tom Shorey
School Marketing Manager"I've been here since 2011 when I started studying Graphic Design, and I'm struggling to escape... The people I work with are a joy to be around!"
Donald McLeod
Director of Change and Transformation (Digital)"UEL is an organisation that has embraced its original mission for 125 years of being the people’s university and it is a fantastic and supportive place to work."
Daniel South
Public Affairs and Policy Officer"UEL has been a great place to develop as a policy professional, in part because of its relentless ambition and drive to improve in challenging circumstances. Being part of such a special team in External Relations helps too!"
Nazrul Islam
Lecturer of Tourism, Hospitality and Events Management"UEL's students and staff are one big family full of diversity."
Beth Craigie
Policy and Public Affairs Manager"UEL is a unique place to work, it’s fantastically diverse and has a vibrant community and it stands out within the sector for its diversity being truly representative – including within its senior management structure."
Vanshika Nakul
Administrator at Tax and Accountancy Clinic"The University takes steps to make staff comfortable and enjoy their time here by organising events and workshops. It binds all the staff and everyone is so inclusive and everyone chills together and enjoys each other."
Jade Carney
Sustainability Officer - Resource Management & Net Zero Delivery"I enjoy working with lots of different teams to implement sustainability across our University!"
Melania Adinolfi
Student Records Officer"PEOPLE! As corny as it might sound, I do not think any other workplace has as much talent as we do and so many wonderful people to work with. I genuinely love coming to work and spending time with people I work with."
Tara Montgomery
Senior Digital Recruitment Project Manager"UEL is an innovative institution that gives you the opportunity to bring new forward-thinking ideas to life. At UEL, you work on exciting projects with transformative technology alongside diverse and supportive colleagues."
Saiful Islam
Applicant Engagement Manager"UEL is a vibrant university with culture and diversity, bringing staff and students as one with changes for a positive outcome. It is a great institution to develop and network."
Naomi James
Communications Manager – Projects and Estates Development (PED) Team"Having gained my degree at UEL, it’s a huge honour to be working on the Connected Campus programme. Being part of an amazing team creating pioneering, vibrant, and welcoming spaces for people to study, work and live is brilliant! "
Carol Berry
Partnership Manager – Schools and Colleges team“As someone who was born in Newham and grew up in Walthamstow, it feels really special to be part of UEL. The community spirit, diverse people and culture resonate throughout our campuses so it feels like a home from home.”
Amanda Niblett
Director of IT“We have no gender pay gap. It's brilliant. We're all treated as equals. It's such a diverse community. Female IT Director, female Vice-Chancellor & President. We have a genuine opportunity to make a difference.”
Sian Trimble-Davey
Campaigns Manager"The University is helping to create a more equitable and inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to fulfil their potential and contribute to their communities."
Ana Sheppard
Content Marketing Manager“I love the people here, they make the institution what it is. Our team in particular is supportive, inspiring and highly creative."
Katie Finnigan-Long
Schools Marketing Executive"The culture here is amazing, everyone is really friendly and inclusive - coming straight from Australia I have felt right at home."
Eloise Hall
Events Manager"The people make the University of East London - as well as the events and diversity of opportunities."
Conal Urquhart
Writer/Editor"I've enjoyed working on award submissions and research projects because I've discovered really interesting work which could have a major effect on sustainability, health and the local community."
James Hassall
Deputy Head of Marketing"UEL has a real identity and believes in people. I first started working here because I admired the inclusive approach to education – seven years later it feels like so much progress has been made and we’ve all been a big part of it."
Adedoyin Ogunekun
Postgraduate and International Admissions Manager"When people say that people make the workplace they are not lying when it comes to UEL. From studying here back in the early 2000s, I can see how UEL has evolved for the better and long may this continue."
Apostolos Ntertsas
Events Officer"What I love about the University of east London is the location – It’s located right at the heart of East London, within a crossroad of cultures that’s so vibrant and diverse."
Kieran Young
Connected Campus Manager"I love the diversity and culture of inclusively at UEL. Whoever you are, wherever you're from, and wherever you want to go, you're welcome at our university."
Mike Medas
Senior Research Project Manager (ARENA)"I enjoy my role at UEL, as it makes cutting-edge environmental science accessible to an increasingly diverse audience, which will benefit the planet."
Olubunmi Onafuwa
Senior Lecturer and Researcher in Law"UEL is home. It is also a global community and immensely diverse. UEL is unique. It is our village; where we uplift one another regardless of our backgrounds."
Lape Olarinoye
Lecturer - Media Production"What is special about UEL for me, is that it's a hub of creativity."
Lee Brown
Lecturer - high performance sports"UEL celebrates its diverse cultural community and encourages creativity. "
Emma Bain
Internal Communications Officer"The people make UEL. I've felt so welcomed by everyone I've met since joining the university community a month ago."
Kate Summers
UX Design Manager"The staff at UEL are friendly, kind and inclusive, there is a great feeling here that diversity and expertise is valued."
Alan Chandler
Co-Director, Sustainability Research Institute"UEL believes in impact, enabling my students to work with our alumni architecture practice ‘Studio Bark’ to create deployable XR-protest-architecture in Trafalgar Square and now being archived in the V&A Museum collection."
Fadi Safieddine
Senior Lecturer"UEL is a healthy, people-centred environment where individuals from diverse backgrounds, cultures, orientations, creeds get together to promote a respectful knowledge exchange that is uniquely inclusive."
Mary Spiller
Senior Lecturer"I have been at UEL since 2004, and the aspect that has always remained special to me is the people. I have met so many inspirational people, and the sense of community and support created by them has made it a great place to work."
Dr Rosemary Stott
Dean of School of Arts and Creative Industries"I am inspired by the Great Hall with its original features still intact and the beautifully renovated Dome, because they capture the spirit of the many generations whose lives have been enriched through studying here."
Bethalina August
Food Service Assistant"I love working at UEL. The students and staff are so lovely. I really enjoy doing Summer School because I meet so many different people."
Hillary Kan
International Compliance Officer"UEL is very diverse and such a vibrant environment to work in. The campus is in such a great location, that's why I love working here."
Caroline Watkinson
Postgraduate Research Advisor"I love it at UEL for the engaging research and vibrant knowledge exchange."
Afsana Yasmin
Operations Officer"The atmosphere at UEL is so positive and it is such a happy place to work."
Nour Amin
Career Zone Advisor"I love how much is going on for everyone at UEL. It's such a vibrant community."
Ilyas Akhoonjee
Customer Services Advisor"We meet so many kinds of people here. There are so many cultures. It's like one big community."
Tehmour Akhtar
Security Officer"UEL is a such a nice place to work. I especially like the views here - and the staff and students are so welcoming."
Mark Sowden
Technical Associate"I've worked at UEL for 33 years and before that, I was a student here. There is a down-to-earthness about UEL. It attracts students from all different backgrounds which makes it a vibrant place to work."
Keita Tajima
Senior Lecturer - Architecture"UEL is a great environment to work in. I like the team atmosphere of the staff and students."
Paul Dudman
Archivist"I've been working at UEL for 20 years. It's wonderful to have the opportunity to be in our archives, among this amazing collection which represents both the University and our contribution to the wider community. "
Aneeka Tariq
Student Engagement Project Officer"I'm proud to work at UEL because it has such an impact on the community."
Emmanuel Epelle
Event Steward"I love the location; and it has such great facilities for the students. It's a nice diverse mix of people with the river providing a wonderful backdrop."
Azriel Buckley
Docklands Campus Costa Barista"I love working at UEL because I get to interact with so many different people. It makes the day so interesting."
Sophia Daniel
Director of Catering"UEL has so much diversity. I'm always keeping busy, kept on my toes. You never know what's going to happen next."
Alieu Ceesay
Security Officer"UEL is such a nice place, full of beautiful people. Everyone is always smiling."
Sivakumar Jayaraman
Head of Security"I have been at UEL for 25 years. It treats its staff so well which is why there is great staff retention. I feel like we are one big family."
Olajumoke Okoya
Academic Director for Inclusive Practices"What I love about UEL is our relentless commitment to breaking barriers and ensuring equitable outcomes for students and staff."
Fitzroy Andrew
Leadership & Organisational Development Adviser"As a born-and-raised east Londoner, nothing reflects the best of this part of town quite like UEL, and I have friends and family who have passed through here who represent that every day."
Julian Alexander
Lecturer - Film Production"UEL has a supportive and inclusive environment that thrives off collaboration and interdisciplinary teaching methods. My colleagues make the job enjoyable and being part of an important period in a student's life is a great reward. "
Dr Andrea Giraldez-Hayes
Programme Director (MAPPCP)"UEL allows us to engage with a variety of ideas, customs, and languages, leading to a broader understanding of the world. It offers a vibrant campus life and a dynamic, stimulating work environment where everyone can learn and grow."
Muhammad Akhtar
Acting Lead RDSBL"What I like most about UEL is the strong commitment to inclusivity and diversity, offering multicultural and supportive workplace environments."
Deborah Lee
Programme Director for Counselling"UEL is special because it’s so forward-looking and dynamic!"
Dr 'Tunji Gbadamosi
Associate Professor in Marketing"Students' robust discussions in the classrooms and keen interest in discussing business-related issues with us contribute significantly to ensuring that teaching the subjects remains interesting and rewarding."
Max Corrigan
Strategic Academic Partnerships Manager"UEL is special to me because it offers rewarding opportunities to collaborate with external organisations, build meaningful relationships, and make a positive impact on local and global communities."
Gaurav Malik
Director of Education and Experience, School of Architecture, Computing & Engineering"UEL makes you feel that you are part of something bigger and contributing to a bigger cause. It is lovely to see students joining and then see them achieve great heights. It makes you proud to have been part of their journey."
Pol Gallagher
Senior Lecturer - Interior Architecture"The energy of the diverse student cohort within this unique London campus makes it an inspiring place to teach design."
Lesley Robertson
Course Leader BA (Hons) Textile Design"The authenticity, diversity and innovation shown by our students and staff makes me so proud to be part of UEL."
John Agada
Security Officer"UEL is a great place, with a great atmosphere. I love that it encourages diversity."
Nowshin Shama
Security Officer"There are so many things about UEL that I like. I feel like I am part of a family. There is so much representation and respect for one another."
Carmen Visan
USS Campus Starbucks Barista"I love working at UEL because I get to speak to so many different people. It's such a lovely campus."
Julie Walker
New Beginnings Information, Advice & Guidance officer"UEL is full of so many lovely people. It's a pleasure to work here."
John Coleman
Administrator, School of Education and Communities"I have worked at other universities and UEL is so different, everyone is so passionate about what they do and are driven for a common purpose."
Oluwayemisi Olamigoke
Customer Services"I love everything about UEL. Working in The Green restaurant at our Stratford campus I get to meet so many of the students. Their love of the university has inspired me to start a nursing degree here. Everyone is so supportive."
Oana Dobrea
Barista"UEL is such a happy and friendly place to work. Everyone is always happy to help."
Ana Maria Apopei
Deputy Manager The Green, Stratford Campus"I like it here at the Stratford campus. The people are so friendly."
Moinica Bobocea
Stratford Campus Barista"This is a lovely place to work. The campus is lovely and the students and staff are nice.”
Slawek Czerpark
Stratford Campus Sandwich Artist"It's a great campus to work on. We always have so much fun."
Nicholas Corcoran-Jones
Career Zone Coach"I love working with the students and with the wider community. UEL works with so many other organisations that it makes every day both challenging and rewarding."
Rebecca Moodie
Head of Careers Mentoring & Enterprise"I'm really proud to lead our entrepreneurship work and student facing careers support. Innovation is at the heart of the institution, and every idea is valid; whether that be student, staff or industry partner."
Alison Lowe
Course leader - MBA Fashion Entrepreneurship"It's the people that make UEL special, and the focus on supporting next generation talent, especially around entrepreneurship. UEL is fantastic for giving opportunities to people who don't come into study from traditional routes."
Mugdad Alkhateeb
Lecturer - Construction Engineering Management"UEL is an excellent choice for those looking for a diverse and inclusive educational experience. Its focus on practical skills, and a supportive community prepares graduates to succeed in their careers and make a positive impact!"
Tanya Cotier
Senior Lecturer SEND, Course leader - MA Special Educational Needs"One thing I love about UEL is my colleagues. They make me laugh, smile, feel safe, warm and part of a team who want to ensure our students learn whilst laughing, smiling, feeling safe and valued."
Obaid Urrahman
Security Officer - Facilities"UEL has a lovely atmosphere. I've been here for five years and I love it."
Kirk Chang
Professor and Director for the Centre of Innovation, Management and Enterprise"UEL values equality, diversity and inclusion, creating an enjoyable workplace with resonant leadership."