Tash Murphy
International Relations BA (Hons)*
- Year of graduation: 2021
- Current job title: Complex Needs Worker – Afghan Resettlement Scheme
- Current employer: One YMCA
- Industry sector: Voluntary
What inspired you to study at UON?
I’ve always wanted to work in the humanitarian field, but I’d finished sixth form and applied to study English Literature. I remember my friend had already gone to university and one of her flatmates was studying International Development – I knew I wanted to do it when I read what the course involved.
How did you embrace the Changemaker mindset?
There was a student society group at the Freshers’ Fair called Student Action for Refugees (STAR) – through my studies, I’d learned about migration and specifically people who are forced to migrate. Once I’d joined the society, my involvement grew and I naturally took on more responsibility and learnt more about the challenges faced by people seeking asylum.
STAR didn’t have a President at that time, so I knew that if I didn’t take on the role, it was at risk of folding – this was one problem. STAR campaigns for equal access to university for refugees, but I also volunteer with a local charity called Northampton Town of Sanctuary (NToS). We helped find people to volunteer each week and organised weekly football sessions for young people seeking asylum, as well as English classes. I helped NToS with fundraising to increase the capacity of the group to respond to the needs of the community.
What kind of social change are you trying to bring to the world through your business?
Kindness, compassion, humanity.
How did the Changemaker Team support you during your university journey?
The team helped STAR to come up with new ideas and fundraisers. They also provided administrative support to our group and helped us with space bookings when we wanted to use UON’s on-campus facilities, which we were able to do free of charge.
Additionally, Nick Allen, who works for the Office of the University’s Vice Chancellor, is a member of NToS – he’s been an incredible support. NToS has also linked in with the Changemaker Incubator, which is a dedicated support environment providing expertise, resources, and funding into high value social impact collaboration. All Incubator activity is underpinned by the University of Northampton Changemaker Commitment framework.
How have you personally grown and developed since engaging with the Changemaker Team?
I learnt so much about project management, applying for funding, evaluating and monitoring projects, managing and recruiting volunteers, and working with people who are seeking asylum/refugees. Because of what I’ve achieved, I’ve learnt that I’m capable.
What kind of opportunities did the Changemaker Team given you?
I was able to become a student trustee for STAR.
What is your current role?
I’m currently working with One YMCA as a Complex Needs Worker for the Afghan Resettlement Scheme.
What are your future plans?
I’m learning Arabic and am considering an OISC (Office of the Immigration Service Commissioner) course. I want to continue to work with people seeking asylum, hopefully on an international basis. I also want to continue learning more, having more impact, and having more adventure in my life.