Our students

Amari

English Language and Linguistics

"My favourite part of Black Access is just being authentically Black. Unlike other programs I've seen, this genuinely cares about creating a space for us that is not just for a diversity quota, but truly caring about establishing an environment for Black students to just be themselves."

Pronouns: they/them

Kieayna

Global Marketing

"The Black Access Programme has been such a pleasure to work on! I've really enjoyed helping Black students to enter higher education and become more represented in the educational sphere. Also, the community and friendships I have gained from others in the Black Access student team have been an added benefit. This programme really has helped solidify the Black community at York."

Pronouns: she/her

Thomas

Computer Science and Mathematics (with a year in industry)

"My favourite part of Black Access is all of it!  Black Access is such a unique programme where the work genuinely doesn't feel like work. Being part of an innovative group that is re-defining the culture at York gives such a rewarding feeling you'd struggle to get anywhere else."

Pronouns: he/him

Alex 

Chemistry

"My favourite part of Black Access is seeing all the people involved be so passionate about helping Black people in York and nation-wide. It is inspiring to see how devoted we all can be towards the cause of helping Black students thrive."

Pronouns: he/they

Kimi

English and Related Studies

"My favourite part of Black Access is feeling like I’m able to make a difference for people in my community, and helping them to access opportunities that they might not have had otherwise."

Pronouns: she/they

Kyian 

Politics and International Relations

"My favourite aspect of Black Access is having the opportunity to demonstrate to Black students the benefits of attending university, including the various self-development and social opportunities it presents."

Pronouns: he/him

Alexis

Politics, Philosophy and Economics

"My favourite part of the Black Access programme is being able to support bright young people in accessing and making the most of university. It is so important to have a community at university, especially as Black students are underrepresented."

Pronouns: she/her

Ayo 

Law

"My favourite part of Black Access is being able to connect with Black students across the country as well as helping them to reach positions they may not have thought possible."

Pronouns: he/him

Hope

Psychology

"My favourite part of Black Access is meeting and getting to know new people. Having exciting opportunities and events to create new bonds has been truly amazing."

Pronouns: she/her

Sharon

Law

"My favourite aspect of Black Access is being able to be part of a group who work together to create opportunities and support prospective and fellow Black students."

Pronouns: she/her

Timi

Politics, Philosophy and Economics (with a year abroad)

"My Favourite part of Black Access is working with other black students to make a real difference in the lives of Black students. Being able to provide a safe space and "fill the gap" is truly rewarding!"

Pronouns: she/her

Yordanos

Physics with Astrophysics (with year in industry)

"My favourite part of Black Access is being able to share my experiences and knowledge with Black students in order to help them flourish. Being part of a community with other members of the Black Access Team and having a safe space for Black students is amazing."

Pronouns: she/her

Belema

Politics, Philosophy and Economics

"My favourite part of Black Access is Homecoming for sure! Being able to see all of our hard work culminate into one event and meet all of you in the program is inspiring."

Pronouns: he/him

DJ

Global Development

"My favourite part of the Black Access programme is definitely Homecoming at the end of the year because it is a chance to meet those who you have been working with for the first time in person and it is always fun and competitive."

Pronouns: he/him

Rachel

Psychology

"My favourite part of Black Access is being able to see the impact we’re having on the educational experiences of many Black students, ensuring that they are represented and supported."

Pronouns: she/her

Aderonke

Criminology and Social Research

"My favourite part of Black Access is its ethos. Being part of an ever growing community, that is 'for Black students by Black students', is so incredibly important and can't be emphasised enough!"

Pronouns: she/her

Emma

Accounting, Business Finance and Management 

"My favourite part of Black Access is being a part of a supportive and engaging community of Black students and faculty. I am excited to contribute to the creation of a safe and welcoming space for Black students to thrive in their academic pursuits."

Pronouns: she/her

Kim

Biomedical Sciences

"My favourite part of Black Access is being able to connect and create an environment with people like me, so the next generation can benefit from opportunities that will help them succeed more than we have."

Pronouns: she/her

Kuukua 

Law

"My favourite part of Black Access is being able to support Black students like myself. I believe it is important to be able to create a supportive environment that promotes their personal and academic success."

Pronouns: she/her

Vanessa

Computer Science

"My favourite part of being in Black Access is the chance to grow and develop myself in a supportive environment."

Pronouns: she/her

Raina

Law

"My favourite aspect of the Black Access programme is that students are at the centre - always. It's not driven by creating a false image or narrative of being at a PWI, but instead equips students with the support needed to bridge the gap."

Pronouns: she/her