Diversity Festival - Role Models: Pathways and Perspectives

In celebration of Black History Month, the University of Chester's Diversity Festival will be hosting a panel event - Role Models: Pathways and Perspectives!

Join us online for a panel discussion; spotlighting the career journeys of staff of colour within the University. The aim of the event is to share experiences, celebrate successes, and discuss the challenges and opportunities that have shaped personal and professional experiences.

Hear from the following panellists:

Rashmi Patel

As Director of Human Resources, Rashmi is a member of the Strategic Executive Team and strategic lead for equality, diversity and inclusion at Chester with responsibility for the delivery of all aspects of its people strategy across multiple campuses, encompassing all aspects of staff support and wellbeing.

Rashmi has worked in further and higher education for over 30 years and has wide ranging knowledge and experience of working in the education sector through the various roles and responsibilities that she has held over the years. She is passionate about promoting cultural change, equality and inclusion and wellbeing through collaborative working and employee engagement across the University.

Dr. Toyosi Oyinloye

Toyosi is Deputy Head of the School of Computer and Engineering Sciences. She is leader of the MSc Cybersecurity programme. With over 20 years of experience in Computer programming, Software development and Software security, her areas of expertise include Ethical Hacking, Software Exploitation and Security, Data Visualisation, Application Development and Database Management. Toyosi undertook the Advance HE Diversifying Leadership programme prior to her promotion to Deputy Head

Dr. Namrata Bhattacharya-mis

Namrata is Associate Professor of Geography and Environment. Her collaborations span both nationally and internationally across academic institutions, NGOs, disaster management organisations and local governments. She regularly engages with students and practitioners across geography, civil engineering, and environmental sciences, fostering cross-sector dialogue and capacity building. Namrata is the Co-Chair of the University Race Equality And Cultural Heritage (REACH) Group and is passionate about enhancing equality and diversity in Higher Education.

Hussa Waka

Hussna is an International Relations student at the University of Chester and entering her second year working as a Student Race Advocate alongside her studies. She is passionate about assisting international students in adapting to UK culture and aims to empower them to utilise university services confidently, overcome language barriers, and effectively plan their studies and careers. One of her focusses within her role for 25/26 is encouraging students to engage more with wellbeing and mental health support.