By Dr Gift Sotonye-Frank-Lecturer/EDI champion QUB School of Law.

As I sit down to pen these thoughts, I find myself reflecting on a journey that has been both unexpected and immensely rewarding. Being shortlisted for the Staff Excellence Award in the Delivering Excellence category has brought forth a wave of emotions – gratitude, humility, and a deep sense of fulfilment.

My journey to this point has been marked by transitions, challenges, and moments of clarity. It began with a leap of faith as I embarked on a new role as a lecturer at the School of Law, Queen's University Belfast (QUB), leaving behind a cherished position at the University of Derby. The decision was rooted in my desire to be closer to home and to provide stability for my children, but little did I know that it would lead me to such incredible opportunities for growth and impact.

One of the defining moments of this journey came through establishing the QUB African Scholars Research Network, a space dedicated to fostering support and empowerment for researchers of African descent. Serving as one of its founding members, I witnessed first-hand the transformative power of community and collaboration. Initiatives such as the writing retreat for African Scholars provided a platform for academic growth and nurtured a sense of belonging among students and researchers alike.

Within this vibrant community, I had the privilege of crossing paths with Ms. Ogaku Agabi, who nominated me for the Staff Excellence Award. This nomination indeed came as a delightful surprise. Her words echoed the sentiments of many, underscoring the importance of inclusivity and belonging in shaping our academic environment. To be recognised by a student whose experience has been positively impacted by my efforts is a testament to the profound connections we forge within the QUB community.

Stepping into roles such as the Race Equality Champion and later the Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Champion at the QUB School of Law allowed me to channel my passion for creating an inclusive environment into tangible action. Through focus groups, engagement sessions, and collaborative initiatives, I endeavoured to amplify the voices of underrepresented groups and champion meaningful change.

I am filled with gratitude for the support of my colleagues, the unwavering commitment of the awarding team, and, above all, the trust and recognition bestowed upon me by the students and staff of QUB. Regardless of the outcome, this journey has reaffirmed my belief in the power of collective action and the profound impact that each of us can have within our academic community.

To be shortlisted for this prestigious award is not just a personal achievement but a celebration of the collective efforts and shared vision that define our school. It serves as a reminder of the boundless potential that lies within each of us to shape a more inclusive, equitable, and enriching academic landscape.