School of Social and Political Science

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Why did you choose to study your programme? And why Edinburgh?

My journey starts with the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Programme, which funded my studies at the University of Edinburgh. I knew I was interested in studying a masters, and I started to think what are my areas of interest. I am passionate about gender equality and advocating for women in under-represented and marginalised groups. I am also interested in communications and influencing via communications. 

At this time, I was working with several charities and NGOs, whilst working on my own charity, supporting young people who are passionate about gender equality and raising awareness of teenage pregnancy and girls' education. But to do this successfully, I needed effective communications that can have real influence. I was looking to merge these two areas together and the Africa and International Development programme made sense. I could customise the course to meet my own goals and interest, particularly around gender and development and media. I was excited to understand better how we can maximise the potential of women on the African continent, to bring discourse to these topics, and demonstrate how women can contribute to development. 

And why Edinburgh? The University of Edinburgh has a high-ranking global reputation, so it immediately stood out. The city itself is beautiful and welcoming, the architecture is amazing and the people are lovely. It did not fall short of my expectations. 

How did you get to where you are?

My background is originally in theatre and the arts, focussing more on the media side of things. But I had this strong passion for development work and representing marginalised voices, and I wanted to fuse these passions. 

I started off working on social media after I graduated in Nigeria. Coming to Edinburgh I had a few years' experience in social media communications, and so after my masters I wanted to make this switch to the development sector. I volunteered with the MasterCard Foundation Scholars Programme, as their communications officer, and following this worked for the Edinburgh Earth Fellows programme, in a similar role. Both experiences really helped me to kick start my career in the UK. Working with Edinburgh Earth Fellows, my focus was on the COP27 climate summit in Egypt. After this I joined an NGO, supporting communications work in the extractive industry in Nigeria and the impact this has on women and children. Unfortunately, my contract ended due to funding cuts. 

I’ve now moved from the development sector to the public sector where I work for Liverpool City Council as their communications officer. It’s been quite a journey, but my passion has been my influence. I learned how to fuse two things together that I loved – and I continue to represent voices of people who are often not heard. My career has been influenced by my passion for communications, to be the one to tell the stories that are not often told. In my current role I work with migrants, refugees and asylum seekers, supporting people who have fled violence and are seeking sanctuary. I tell the stories of marginalised groups. 

A highlight for me was getting a job in the UK by myself and getting a sponsored skilled worker visa. I was nervous after graduating, I didn’t know what to expect with the job market. I had to do a lot of information gathering, participating in workshops and training courses. Imposter syndrome had really set in, and I was second guessing myself. Being offer a sponsored skilled worker visa is recognition from an organisation of your value, of your skills and showing that what you bring to the table is important. It was a very emotional moment for me. 

I came from a background where I was often discriminated. My mum had 5 girls, in a male-dominated world. This shaped the way in which I view the world, and really made me who I am. People will often box you in, but you can work your way out and be what you want to be. I started my charity, EMTAG Foundation (Empowering the African Girl Child Foundation), and we are committed to getting more girls into school and pay their school fees.  Even if it’s one person we can help, we are helping to shape the world. Last year we were able to pay the school fees for 30 girls, helping them to go onto the next class. The next step is to support them into higher education. 

How have you used the knowledge and skills gained from your time at Edinburgh in your career journey? What did you gain from your time at the University?

University was a multi-faceted learning experience.

Edinburgh really helped me in my career journey, not just academically, but also through the volunteering opportunities. These opportunities shifted my journey as an international student and provided me with important skills and experiences for working in the UK.  The Earth Fellows Programme and the MasterCard scholarship really helped me to understand and gain insight into what the working environment would be like, engaging with academics, researchers, fellows and staff.

Edinburgh is the place for you to think critically. Sometimes I’d find myself dreaming about my dissertation arguments! The MSc programme expanded my horizons and helped me to consider how I would address different issues, and I still use this in my current role and day-to-day. I also think the University helped me, and others, to realise that their voice and their insight matters. We were all encouraged to contribute, to consider other views and have a platform. 

Outside of academia, I had a rich cultural experience, meeting many people from different countries. This was important for preparing me for the work environment – where I regularly meet people from different cultures, religions, sexualities. University gave me this rich experience, and I left Edinburgh feeling prepared to work with people from different backgrounds. 

I'm grateful to the MasterCard Foundation Scholars programme. They helped a little girl make her dreams come true and help other people. I am thankful for the rich experience they gave me.

What 3 words describe your time studying at the School of Social and Political Science?

Exceptional, dynamic, fulfilling.

What is your favourite memory from your time studying at the University of Edinburgh (or SPS)?

My favourite memory would be my time at The Burn, where we organised an Africa and International Development weekend with students and lecturers. I really had the chance to chat and get to know my lecturers and fellow students. 

What advice would you give yourself if you were just starting your academic journey?

I don’t have any regrets! Experience everything. I was ready to try everything – try that new food, talk to that new person, try that new course. The MSc year goes very quick. Be open-minded. 

 Written 2025