Class of 2011
Theatre Performance
Country: United Kingdom
Job:
Founder, CEO/Artistic Director – Utopia Theatre
IF YOU STUDIED YOUR UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMME AT YORK ST JOHN UNIVERSITY OR FOUNDER COLLEGES, DID YOU GO ON TO POSTGRADAUTE STUDY?
Yes, somewhere else.
WHY HAVE YOU CHOSEN THIS PHOTO AS YOUR YSJ SNAPSHOT?
The image I’ve chosen reflects the heart of my work with Utopia – creating space for stories that challenge, provoke and imagine new possibilities. As an artist and creative producer, I’m committed to using theatre and storytelling as a way to explore identity, justice and collective futures. Returning to share this with students from my old university feels especially meaningful, as it was here that the foundations of my creative journey began.
WHY WOULD YOU RECOMMEND YSJ TO SOMEONE?
I would recommend the university because it provided a supportive environment in which I could develop my voice as an artist and thinker. The encouragement to question, experiment and collaborate gave me a strong foundation that continues to inform my creative work.
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE YORK ST JOHN UNIVERSITY OR FOUNDER COLLEGES?
I chose York St John because it offered a supportive and creative environment where I could explore my ideas and develop my voice as an artist. The course encouraged curiosity, collaboration and critical thinking, which helped shape the foundation of my creative practice.
WHAT HAVE YOU BEEN DOING SINCE COMPLETING YOUR STUDIES?
Since graduating, I’ve been creating and producing work that explores storytelling, culture, and social impact. I founded and have been running Utopia, an arts organisation that develops theatre and podcast projects amplifying diverse voices and imaginative narratives. Through Utopia, I collaborate with artists, communities, and organisations to bring bold and meaningful stories to life, supporting emerging talent while challenging audiences to think differently.
Looking ahead, I hope to expand Utopia’s reach and continue producing projects that inspire conversation, celebrate culture, and explore new ways of telling stories. My time at York St John was instrumental in getting me here. The course gave me the opportunity to develop both my creative practice and critical thinking, while the supportive and collaborative environment nurtured confidence, curiosity, and leadership. The skills, insights, and encouragement I received at university have been foundational in enabling me to take creative risks, establish Utopia, and pursue a career that combines artistry with purpose. I’m grateful for the experience and excited to continue creating work that makes a difference.
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE YOUR SPECIFIC COURSE?
I chose the course because it combined creative practice with strong critical and cultural perspectives. That balance helped me think more deeply about the stories we tell and why they matter.
WHAT WERE THE BEST FEATURES OF YOUR COURSE?
The best feature of the course was the combination of creative freedom and critical thinking. It encouraged us to explore ideas deeply while developing our own artistic voices.
HOW DID STUDYING AT YSJ HELP IN YOUR CAREER SEARCH/SUCCESS/CURRENT ROLE?
Studying at York St John gave me the confidence and practical tools to navigate the creative industries. Beyond developing my artistic skills, the course encouraged critical thinking, collaboration, and resilience—qualities that have been essential in founding and running Utopia. The supportive environment allowed me to take risks, explore my ideas, and gain the foundation I needed to pursue a career in theatre and creative production.
WHAT ONE PIECE OF ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO A CURRENT STUDENT, OR ONE ABOUT TO GRADUATE?
Dream big, stay curious, and don’t let anyone tell you that something is impossible. Believe in your vision, take risks, and be willing to work hard to bring your ideas to life. Your creativity and determination can open doors you might never have imagined.