York St John London showcases women’s stories of transition and resilience in migrant communities

York St John University London marked International Women’s Day with a collaborative community event, combining celebration with research. Held in the University’s Export Building, part of Republic’s shared education campus in Docklands, the one-day photography exhibition showcased the stories of second-generation and immigrant women who work within or engage with the Republic community. The event highlighted their achievements and experiences through panel discussion and shared reflections, and marked the launch of a new research initiative exploring the lived experiences of women connected to the London campus, with focus on transition, growth, and mentorship. 

The event was shaped by Louise Donaghy, Dean of London Campus, whose commitment to social impact, inclusion, and creating space for underrepresented voices inspired the concept. Drawing on her own journey and focus on widening participation, the initiative reflects her passion for building communities where diverse experiences are recognised and valued. 

Titled Her Story, Her Success: Stories of Transition, Growth and Giving Back, the event brought together students, staff, external partners and members of the local community. Through portraits and written accounts from women in the area, including immigrant women, second-generation women, and professionals from diverse cultural and socio-economic backgrounds, the exhibition shared stories of resilience, career progression, migration and personal transformation. 

Participants at the event included academic and professional services staff from York St John University London; colleagues from Anglia Ruskin University London, who also occupy space at Republic; representatives from The People Speak, an arts charity and creative collective that designs interactive experiences to improve community engagement; students and other contributors from the wider Republic community.  

The research is being led by York St John London Academic Student Education Tutors, Joy Itegboje and Guneet Chhabra, who highlighted the significance of the event and ongoing project, saying:  

“This research brings women’s stories together to show how they navigate change and go on to support others in their communities. Launched on International Women’s Day, the project reflects York St John University London’s commitment to inclusion, representation and civic engagement, while strengthening partnerships with organisations and communities across Canary Wharf and Tower Hamlets.  

“With our London campus home to a diverse international student community, the exhibition aimed to inspire those navigating change or adjusting to life in the UK. By sharing these journeys, we wanted students to see what is possible and to feel confident pursuing their own goals.” 

Antonia Rubira Saldarriaga, originally from Ecuador, is a Caretaker at York St John London. Describing the challenges she has faced, she said: 

“Moving to a new country felt like starting from zero. The language barrier and unfamiliar customs were my biggest challenges, and at times it was overwhelming. My focus has been on working hard and doing my job well, making sure I meet expectations and provide stability. Through this process I have become more self-sufficient and independent, strengthening my values and sense of responsibility, especially for my children and family back home in Ecuador, whom I continue to support. 

“For me, success in the UK means turning my dreams into reality; building a community football school in Ecuador for children from low-income families. This journey has taught me that sacrifice, honesty and humility are necessary to achieve what you truly long for.” 

Another panel participant was Larisa Sfichi, Wellbeing and Inclusion Manager at Anglia Ruskin University London. She added: 

“My career is defined by a commitment to supporting others. Originally a primary school teacher in Romania, I moved to the UK to pursue a new direction in Law and Accounting. I began my time at the University as a student and moved to staff in an administrative role, then to wellbeing and inclusion. Drawing on my experience balancing family, work and study, I champion resilience, patience and the belief that success is achievable, guided by my philosophy that kindness costs nothing.” 

The next steps of the research focus on building on the insights gathered during International Women’s Day. This includes analysing key themes from the stories, expanding participation to include more voices, and developing the work into formal research outputs, such as reports, case studies, and conference presentations. The project will also continue to strengthen partnerships with local organisations and explore opportunities for wider impact across the community. 

Event participants included: 

York St John University London:  
Dr Margaret Adisa, Lecturer in Business & Management  
Swathi Ganesan, Programme Director and Deputy Associate Dean, Computer Science & Data Science 
Zoe Garshong, Academic Associate, Enterprise Academy 
Sachi Nanayakkara, London Campus Manager 
Sangita Pokhrel, Lecturer  Computer Science & Data Science 
Antonia Rubira Saldarriaga, London Campus Caretaker  

External contributors:  
Margot Przymierska, Director and Producer at The People Speak 
Anita Virik, Director of Employer Engagement at Anglia Ruskin University London 
Dr Pauline Aweto, Deputy Head of School: Health at Anglia Ruskin University London 
Larisa Sfichi, Wellbeing and Inclusion Manager at Anglia Ruskin University London 
Monzo Ara Khaton, Community Activist 

Image shows (l-r): Joy Itegboje, Academic Student Education Tutor, Emily Caroline Rojas Rubira, Antonia's granddaughter and interpreter, Anotonia Rubira Saldarriaga, London Campus Caretaker, Dr Pauline Aweto, Deputy Head of School: Health at Anglia Ruskin University London, Sachi Nanayakkara, London Campus Manager, Zoe Garshong, Academic Associate Enterprise Academy, Dr Margaret Adisa, Lecturer in Business Management