Events, activities and initiatives
The University has hosted a number of events during 2024-25 to raise awareness of a wide range of equality and diversity perspectives.
The majority of events hosted by the University were open to students and staff, many also encouraged participation from the public. Some events were initiated by the focus groups or by individual Schools and departments, and others were joint initiatives mutually benefitting the University and local support organisations. These events developed greater awareness and understanding of difference and provided opportunities for staff, students and the public to learn about different cultures, religions and backgrounds.
Disability
Autism Awareness Week: 2 - 8 April 2025
We held variety of activities for students and staff to raise awareness of our autism support and services. Events included a wellbeing walk, sensory stops and disability drop ins.
Neurodiversity Celebration Week: 17 - 23 March 2025
A wide range of activities were held to mark Neurodiversity Celebration Week. Alongside the wider programme of events, the University hosted a dyslexia awareness workshop to transform perceptions of dyslexia and recognise the skills and talents of neurodiverse individuals; a support group for autistic and neurodivergent adults; and a disability training session providing an overview of support available for students.
Chief Operating Officer and Executive Champion for Disability Malcolm Page said, ‘I am delighted to see the University participating in Neurodiversity Celebration Week, as it highlights our commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all members of our community.’
MIMA - Towards New Worlds: July 2024 – February 2025
Towards New Worlds was a large-scale exhibition sharing 15 artists’ experiences of seeing, hearing, feeling and sensing the contemporary world at MIMA for a six month period.
Each of the artists involved were disabled, deaf and/or neurodiverse. They interpreted their own perspectives, offering new insights for those encountering their work while recognising that we can never fully inhabit someone else’s experience.
Highly commended residential programme
The Student & Library Services team were highly commended for best practice in widening participation, outreach, and access in the 2025 HELOA Awards. The award recognised the annual residential programme hosted by Disability Services, which supports applicants with a range of needs as they transition to higher education.
About the HELOA award
International Day of Persons with Disabilities - 3 December 2024
To mark International Day of Persons with Disabilities, Middlesbrough Tower was illuminated in purple, symbolising appreciation for the invaluable contributions of disabled employees worldwide.
Learn more about Disability Matters
We also held workshops on disability support at Teesside, including dyslexia awareness and the Ally accessibility assistant tool
More about Ally
Ethnic and cultural diversity
International yoga day: 24 June 2025
This 90-minute yoga movement session was delivered for all abilities and focussed on connecting with nature through gestures and asanas, incorporating rhythmic breathing and moving techniques based on traditional Indian Dance.
Fundraiser for Sudan: 20 June 2025
In partnership with Waad Ebrahim and One Community Link, the University coordinated a fundraising talk on the ongoing crisis in Sudan.
Through generous support, £248 from ticket sales was raised which will be directed to a doctors’ programme in Sudan, supporting medical practitioners who are operating emergency clinics in displacement zones.
The presentation by Waad Ebrahim was powerful, insightful, and deeply poignant, shedding much-needed light on a war that continues to be underrepresented in mainstream media.
What is the deal with Rroma, gypsies and travellers?
Dr Andy Divers (Phuro Roditori, Teesside University) delivered an informal session on a much-misunderstood group of communities that fall under the umbrella term of what many people think of as ‘GRT’. This session gave a small glimpse into the vast and diverse histories that make up these communities, discussing the differences between gypsy, Rroma and traveller communities and why the term gypsy is for many itself problematic. The session also looked at the history of Rroma persecution and the modern-day challenges that still face many Rroma, and their relations with the ‘gadjes’, and included an opportunity to ask questions in a safe and supportive environment.
Access and Participation Plan
The Equality Opportunity Team in Student & Library Services is keen to find colleagues passionate about improving access and participation at the University for minority ethnic students, care experienced students or students from areas of the country with low rates of participation in higher education.
Students and staff participate in one of five project groups focused on implementing the University’s access and participation plan.
Equity in black adult health research
EQUITA (equity in black adult health) received £618,000 from the National Institute for Health and Care Research to focus on a co-produced, faith-placed intervention designed to increase the uptake of breast, cervical, bowel, and abdominal aortic aneurysm screening in the north-east of England, Leeds and Scotland.
Dr Judith Eberhardt, Associate Professor of Psychology at Teesside University, is co-leading the project with Dr Floor Christie-de Jong, Associate Professor of Public Health at the School of Medicine, University of Sunderland.
Research shows that uptake for these life-saving screening tests among ethnic minority groups, particularly Black African and Caribbean communities, remains lower than average. This can lead to later diagnoses, reducing the effectiveness of treatment.
To address this, the EQUITA study trialled a workshop aimed at informing and encouraging Black men and women to attend these screenings while addressing barriers such as lack of awareness, embarrassment, or previous negative healthcare experiences which can often deter people from taking part in screenings.
International mobility information session: 4 February 2025
During Teesside University Global Opportunities week we held international mobility information session to provide information on the global study, placement, internship and volunteering opportunities available to students.
Culture Awards - Black Creatives and Arts Network
At The Journal's North East Culture Awards the Black Creatives and Arts Network (BCAN) were declared winners of the Heritage Award. MIMA supported their nomination.
The Culture Awards is the region’s annual showcase for the creative and cultural sectors.
BCAN was set up two years ago by the upcoming generation in the Taste of Africa North East network, which was founded 21 years ago. The University has worked with Taste of Africa for many years, including by supporting the annual Black History Youth Awards, which was set up 11 years ago, and has been influential for some of the young people who set up BCAN.
We also have a number of students and alumni who are part of BCAN.
Asian Business Connexions success for Sreejith
Dr Sreejith Raveendran, a Senior Lecturer in Biotechnology, was awarded an Inclusion by Default Award at the 2024 Asian Business Connexions Awards for his work in the health and life sciences sector.
Dr Raveendran is renowned for his pioneering work in novel therapeutics and advanced targeted nanomedicine against cancers.
Improving the international student experience
The International Student Barometer (ISB) survey, an important opportunity for international students to share their experiences. It helps the University to understand how well we are supporting our international students, from academic guidance to social inclusion.
It also is an opportunity for students to voice their opinions on key aspects of university life. Their feedback helps shape the future of the University and enhance the student experience for all.
We encourage all staff to promote the ISB and encourage participation to make sure every international student has the chance to be heard.
More about the ISB
Black History Month: September 2024
Black History Month provided an opportunity for everyone to share and understand the impact of black heritage and culture in our region and beyond. Staff across MIMA and the University’s School of Arts & Creative Industries received a weekly reading or listening recommendation relating to Black lives and histories, complied within MIMA and the Research Centre for Culture and Creativity.
MIMA Art Fund student Nana Kofi Asamoah-Adu, who is studying for an MSc Psychology, received an Award for Excellence in the Arts at the 11th Black History Youth Awards, organised by Taste of Africa.
North East Anti Racism Coalition
The North East Anti-Racism Coalition was established in response to the race riots that occurred in the region. Its primary aim is to promote a North East that actively challenges racism and all forms of hatred based on religious identity. Teesside University is a member of the coalition and is represented on the planning group.
Supporting Middlesbrough Mela
As part of our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion, Teesside University sponsored the Middlesbrough Mela. The North East's biggest festival is a family-friendly event that included a wide range of fantastic food products, a market bazaar, arts and crafts, street performers, sports, games, musicians, and more.
The Mela brings people and communities together to celebrate the rich diversity of cultures within our region. Colleagues from our Human Resources and Student Recruitment, Marketing & Communications teams hosted a University stand.
Pro:NE Conference
Staff attended the Pro:NE Conference, Unleashing potential: Breaking down barriers and bias for racially minoritised postgraduate researchers.
The conference featured keynote speeches and workshops for racially minoritised postgraduate researchers, focusing on wellbeing and mental health, career planning and access to networking and support.
Pro:NE is a network created by the five North-East universities to widen access and participation for racially minoritised ethnic students and staff in postgraduate.
Faith and belief
Diwali: October
During Diwali Middlesbrough Tower was lit up in vibrant hues in honour of the festival of lights. A family-friendly Diwali event, sponsored by the University, was held in the town’s Centre Square featuring live music, street food, fun fair and a Bollywood themed firework finale.
Holocaust Memorial: 27 January 2025
Holocaust Memorial Day was commemorated by Middlesbrough Tower being lit in purple. Staff and students were encouraged to light a candle in recognition of the day and reflect on this year’s theme of building a better future.
Ramadan Football Sessions
Teesside University worked in partnership with MFC Foundation to host a Ramadan football programme.
The friendly, casual football sessions were held on Thursday evenings during Ramadan, following sundown and the breaking of fast. The sessions were open to students, staff and members of the local community aged over 18.
Shared Iftar: March 2025
The University hosted a shared Iftar during Ramadan, open to staff and students in Student Life, which included a talk from faith leader Imam Waleid, followed by the opening of the fast.
It is the second year that this popular event has been held, providing an opportunity to break fast with colleagues and friends and celebrate the spirit of Ramadan.
Middlesbrough Tower was lit green, white, purple and turquoise to celebrate Ramadan.
Gender
International Women's Day: 8 March 2025
A spotlight on PhD research and innovation event celebrated International Women's Day at Teesside University. PhD students shared research, exchange ideas and offer insights into their journeys, challenges, and successes during the event.
Middlesbrough Tower was illuminated in purple to mark International Women's Day.
Memorialising Middlesbrough’s Woman
A special exhibit created in collaboration with the Being Human Festival, celebrating the significant contributions of women who shaped Middlesbrough's history.
This event offered opportunities to learn, connect, and contribute to a more inclusive environment.
Lunch & Learn: Exploring support and inclusivity at Teesside
Stalls featuring various resources, including hormone health, family policies, staff networks including the Gender Focus Group and LGBTQ+ initiatives were well attended by students and staff.
Myth Busting for Progress: Gender equality at Teesside and beyond
An interactive session was held on campus and to focussed on how to break down myths around gender equality, the Athena Swan framework, and heard from experts on how we can continue to drive change at Teesside University and beyond.
BioNow Social Impact Award
A ground-breaking report, supported by a Teesside University academic, into the unequal challenges faced by women living in the North of England has picked up a prestigious award.
Dr Nasima Akhter (School of Health & Life Sciences) co-authored The Woman of the North report, produced by Health Equity North, which has received a BioNow Social Impact Award.
Supporting women’s literacy in South Asia
Dr Madeline Clements, Senior Lecturer in English Studies, has also recently returned from India and Pakistan, where she co-ordinated workshops exploring the power of women’s writing.
The knowledge exchange event she organised at Karachi Biennale enabled her IAA-funded ‘Editing Women in the Archives’ project team to share their work identifying, documenting, and preserving women-edited literary and art magazines and other publications at risk of loss.
In partnership with Kerala University, she also convened an international workshop for the AHRC-funded ‘World Making Words’ research network she co-leads with Dr Rachel Carroll investigating women’s literary agency, activism and enterprise in South Asia.
Women in Business
During Global Entrepreneurship Week, Teesside University Launchpad hosted a variety of enterprise-focused events for staff, students and the local business community.
Speakers included a leading TikTok creative agency and a fin-tech pioneer. A panel discussion of empowering female business founders shared insight into how they are successfully navigating the entrepreneurial landscape.
International Men's Day: 19 November 2024
Activities included:
- Quote Jar: Share a positive message or quote dedicated to men.
- Thumbprint Heart Activity.
- DIY Badge Station
Addressing period poverty
Our work with sustainable period care brand TOTM to promote awareness of period poverty has been recognised with the Social Value award at the Institute of Workplace and Facilities Management Impact Awards 2024.
Inspirational leader plaudit
Professor Vikki Rand, Director of the National Horizons Centre, has been presented with the Inspirational Female Leader award at this year’s Darlington Business Club Celebrating Women in Business Awards.
The exclusive event brings together incredible women from diverse industries to share their stories and celebrate their successes. The award is given to an individual who demonstrates outstanding leadership qualities, supporting others and inspiring the current and future workforce.
Gender equality award
The School of Computing, Engineering & Digital Technologies has become the first School in the University to receive the Athena Swan Bronze Award, recognising its efforts to facilitate gender equality.
The Athena Swan Charter is designed to recognise and encourage a commitment to advancing the careers of people of all gender identities in all academic disciplines, as well as those in professional, managerial and support roles in higher education and research.
Teesside University received the bronze award as an institution in February with the ambition for all five of the individual schools to achieve the bronze accreditation.
Herschel Programme for Women in Technical Leadership
The 2025 Herschel Programme for Women in Technical Leadership is a national initiative aimed at enhancing and expanding opportunities for women in technical roles. Several University staff have successfully completed the six-month programme, which covered modules on leadership, context and culture, influencing and negotiating, as well as confidence and empowerment.
Sexual harassment
Eliminating harassment is a proactive duty on employers, but we all have a duty and a personal responsibility to support a workplace free from sexual harassment. This means acting decisively to address any issues which may act as enablers to harassment.
A new mandatory sexual harassment e-learning course has bene developed and is available via Blackboard Ultra.
Helen Cutting, Executive Champion for Gender, said, 'Sexual harassment training is not just about compliance; it is an essential part of building a safe and inclusive workplace.'
LGBTQ+
LGBTQ+ History Month: February 2025
To celebrate our commitment to reflecting on the past and embracing a bright and inclusive future, Middlesbrough Tower was illuminated in the vibrant colours of the rainbow flag.
The LGBTQ+ Focus group organised a supportive free writing workshop and writing competition that considers fierce or fierceness in the LGBTQ+ community. Entries included prose, a poem and non-fiction that focussed on drag slang and its origins, fierce self-compassions, fierce activism andfierce allyship.
Hart Gables Awards
Teesside University were presented with a finalist award for creating LGBTQ+ inclusion and accessibility in the workplace at their LGBT Alliance Awards.
Vik Brown, Lifestyle Student Advisor and LGBTQ+ Focus Group Chair was also presented with the 2025 Tara Davison Kindness Award.
Middlesbrough Pride: September 2024
Teesside University had a strong presence at 2024 pride which included a range of talks, activities, performances and a parade celebrating Teesside’s LGBTQ+ community.
From a family art zone to a quiet Pride activity, Pride brunch and interactive performances, the University, Middlesbrough Council and other stakeholders organised an engaging, well attended, safe space Pride
Rainbow Reads: October
A quiet reading group for queers and allies on campus encouraged everyone to bring whatever they wanted to read for an hour of bliss, community and an opportunity to chat about all things books.
Trans Awareness Week: November 2024
Events during Trans Awareness Week included well attended talks about gender positivity and an invitation to submit a trans hero which was showcased on the Trans Day of Remember (TDOR).
On 20 November, the Trans Day of Remembrance, we honoured the memory of trans people who have lost their lives to hate crime. A video commemorating trans people who have been affected was shared on the Campus Heart big screen followed by a showcase of our trans heroes, and the laying of a new plaque in the Memorial Garden. The University support the TDOR event at ARC, Stockton Arts Centre.
We also hosted a talk from Hart Gables which included practical guidance for gender expression and safe ways to affirm personal gender identity during social transition.; a book club hosted by Queer Base, with a reading by author and alumnus Miles Nelson.
'That Clare' gave a talk and musical performance sharing an insight into her life as a trans woman; and the week concluded with Edward Whelan, author of Gender Confirmation Surgery: a guide for trans and non-binary.
World AIDS Day: 2 December 2024
A range of events and activities commemorated World AIDS Day including a bake sale, an 80/90s style sponsored aerobics session and quiz. The events raised over £1,000 for The Terrence Higgins Trust charity helping to support the incredible work they do within our communities and across the UK supporting those living with AIDS.
Intersectionality
Speed Edu-Dating – Discover Human Experiences
The first Teesside University Speed EduDating event for staff and students was hosted in the Library Exhibition space. The goal of this initiative is to combat prejudice by promoting understanding, empathy, and solidarity.
The concept is simple, facilitators were seated at tables and participants rotated every seven minutes to develop their understanding of societal topics. A selection of prepared questions to choose from was available to ease engagement.
Intersectional Pride 2025
This is an annual Teesside University event organised by staff in support of our University and local community. The event continues to grow in popularity. This footage, produced by our students, is their take and experiences of the event
Equality, diversity and inclusion recognition
Teesside University was named Social Impact Business of the Year at the Tees Valley Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Awards 2024.
The annual awards celebrate the achievements of champions of diversity, equality and inclusion across the region, recognising those who have helped to advance opportunities for diverse communities and drive positive change.
Colleagues, student ambassadors and members of the Ethnic and Cultural Diversity Focus Group attended the ceremony alongside Juliet Amos, Executive Director (Human Resources), and Saliah Hameed, Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Manager.
More about the award
Double rainbow event – rest and refresh
Both LGBTQ+ and neurodiverse communities use rainbow symbols. Our Double Rainbow Rest & Refresh was delivered for these communities, and anyone looking for a lower-key freshers experience.
More about Double Rainbow Rest & Refresh
Teesside University London inspires East London’s younger generation
Teesside University has supported a series of events in and around its London campus to inspire young people into considering their future and their career paths.
As part of this mission, it recently hosted the East London Careers Hub Annual conference, a workshop with Olympian volleyball player, Peter Bakare, as well as sponsorship of the 32 Borough Cup.
More about the event
Ahead of the tournament, the London campus hosted a careers day aimed at encouraging the young people to consider their career options if they are not successful in professional football.