My Journey:
My journey into higher education and eventually to AHEP didn’t begin in a conference room or a training session. It began with a moment of tough love. When I was a student, I often found myself frustrated by the lack of support services and systems in place. I’d complain, vent, and wish things were different. One day, a mentor simply said to me: “Stop complaining. Be the change you want to see.”
That moment shifted everything.
I made a life-changing decision to uproot myself from India and re-root in a completely different context here in the UK. Although I had supported students at Ahmedabad University, I felt I lacked the global experience necessary to fully understand and support diverse student needs. This inspired me to pursue a double master’s degree at the London School of Economics and Political Science, where I expanded both my perspective and skillset.
I was driven by a desire to be in an environment where I could learn, engage, and help build the kinds of support systems I once lacked. During my time at LSE, I came across the opportunity to run for the position of Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) Officer. I decided to apply, and to my surprise, my manifesto resonated with others — I was elected. That moment marked the beginning of my journey in this space.
Today, I proudly work at Walbrook Institute London with a fantastic team supporting amazingly passionate students from various backgrounds. My role focuses on inclusion, wellbeing, safeguarding, and creating safe, empowering spaces where students can truly thrive and build their futures.
Why I Joined AHEP?
Becoming a part of AHEP felt like a natural alignment with my values and goals. I wasn’t just looking to go through the motions of my role—I wanted to evolve within it, engage with peers who would challenge and inspire me, and stay connected to a wider vision of what higher education in the UK can and should be. I also wanted to deepen my understanding of sector standards and best practices. AHEP provided that environment—a community of dedicated professionals who care deeply, ask meaningful questions, and are committed to driving lasting, positive change.
What I’ve Learned
The most valuable thing I’ve taken from AHEP is this: you’re never alone in this work. Working in safeguarding and inclusion can feel heavy at times. But through AHEP, I’ve found people who get it. People who have been where I’ve been, who offer support, ideas, and solidarity. It’s helped me build confidence in my voice and my impact.
I’ve also learned the importance of staying grounded in self-awareness. I regularly take supervision sessions and therapy to stay aware of my own biases not just for personal development, but so I can be of real use to my students. This isn’t just a job; it’s a responsibility. We’re helping shape the realities of young people stepping into the world. Their enthusiasm fuels my motivation, and their trust reminds me how vital our work truly is.
Why It Matters
Associations like AHEP are not just optional, they’re essential. In a sector as complex and diverse as higher education, we need spaces that nurture professional identity, foster collaboration, and equip us with the tools to do our jobs with care and integrity. AHEP helps turn good intentions into practical action, and isolated efforts into collective progress.
My Advice to Other Members
If you’re a member of AHEP, or thinking about becoming one, here’s my advice: show up. Don’t sit on the sidelines. Engage in the conversations, attend the events, and don’t be afraid to share your story because it matters. The more we share, the more we grow. And ultimately, we’re all here for the same reason: to make higher education a place where every student, regardless of background, can feel seen, supported, and safe.
Full Circle
Amid all of that change, I found purpose. Being elected as the BME Officer at LSE gave me a platform to advocate for others, represent underrepresented voices, and take meaningful action—an experience that fundamentally shaped my journey. Now, working at Walbrook has given me wings—it’s allowed me to build on that foundation, continue my commitment to inclusive education, and make a tangible difference in the lives of students, especially those navigating the complexities of being far from home.
Now, as I complete one year in my current role at Walbrook Institute London, I find myself looking back with gratitude and pride. This past year has been one of growth, reflection, and stepping up—for myself, my students, my colleagues, and the organisation I’m proud to be part of. I thrive in the same setting that once felt unfamiliar, and I work every day to ensure that no student feels unseen or unsupported.
Even in my free time, I continue voluntary work to mentor students, because I know what it’s like to be in their shoes to be far from home, full of ambition, and unsure of where to begin. And I also know how powerful it is to have someone believe in you.
This journey hasn’t been easy, but it’s been worth it. And as I reflect on this past year, I’m reminded why I chose this path: because every student deserves to feel safe, included, and empowered to shape their future. Having walked that journey myself, I now have the privilege of walking alongside them. What makes me feel particularly proud is that later this year, I’ll be celebrating and supporting them at their graduation as they take their next steps into work or further study.
📩 Inspired by Yashaswini’s story?
At AHEP, we’re proud to share the journeys of our members and the impact they’re making across the sector. If you’d like to tell your own story, or if you’re curious about how membership can support your professional growth, we’d love to hear from you. Get in touch with the team at hello@ahep.ac.uk.
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