Centre for Social Justice Research host Working in Social Justice event as part of work-based-learning projects

The event took place at The Pavillion on Cavendish Campus on 22 January and aimed to provide students and colleagues with insights into working in the social justice sector by learning from experts about their respective career journeys, their experiences of working in charities and campaigning organisations, and their reflections on the challenges faced and successes achieved.

The session was part of the CSJR work-based learning projects, which are funded by the Quintin Hogg Trust. It marked the first week for 20 students who are embarking on a 12-week project to support the work of INQUEST and Campaign Against Arms Trade (CAAT), during which time they will develop new research and employability skills. The event was welcomed by Dr Naomi Oppenheim, Team Lead for the CSJR and INQUEST Heritage Manager.

Students were immersed in the world of campaigning, casework and communications through two panel discussions featuring social justice experts and social justice internship alumni. The first panel discussion was joined by experts Ibtehal Hussain, Project Coordinator at Unredacted, Jordan Ferdinand-Sargeant, Caseworker at INQUEST and Westminster alumnus, Katie Fallon, Advocacy Manager at CAAT and Miranda Dobson, Head of Communications at Women in Prison. Dr Naomi Oppenheim chaired the panel and the conversation focused on career pathways into the social justice sector, such as the charities and organisations that exist to reduce social inequalities often by challenging the structures and institutions that create them.

The panel spoke about the challenges and joys of working in organisations that do such vital work and often under difficult circumstances, from the traumatic content of the work to significant resourcing and funding issues.

Panellists concluded the discussion by giving students advice about entering this sector. Katie Fallon emphasised the importance of developing one's own voice, particularly in how to communicate about social justice issues. Miranda Dobson suggested finding a mentor to help upskill and enter new areas of work, emphasising the value of objective and professional guidance. Ibtehal Hussain reminded the audience to celebrate small victories, especially in a field where challenges often feel overwhelming and can lead to existential doubts. Jordan Ferdinand-Sargeant advised students not to worry about having a clear path yet, encouraging them to take the time to explore and trust they will find their way.

The second panel featured Westminster alumni from the 2023 and 2024 internships, who reflected on how important the programme had been in their university experience. This included Alen Melero Yerinkova, an intern with INQUEST in 2023, Imane Benatallah, a Project Coordinator at INQUEST in 2023-24, and Shameen Dar and Erika Hatsuda, who were part of the CAAT project in 2023-24 and are currently interns with Unredacted. INQUEST alumni spoke about the internship’s camaraderie, commenting on how the interns began as individuals and ended as a team by sharing skills and learning from each other. Shameen and Erika, who both went on to undertake a paid internship with Unredacted, spoke about the unique value of working with a small organisation that they would not have otherwise had contact with. Shameen addressed the importance of doing an internship that allowed her to put her university learning from certain modules into practice through engaging with CAAT. Imane shared how her involvement with INQUEST over two years had opened doors for her and has taught her that there is more to social justice than posting online.

Panel discussion with the internship alumni

The work-based learning projects, which are being developed as part of a CSJR Employability Network, seek to introduce students to the social justice sector and enable them to explore the possibility of a meaningful career that works to change the world that they have been studying through their degrees.

Speaking about the event, Dr Naomi Oppenheim said: “It was a privilege to chair such an open and engaging conversation, where all the panellists spoke honestly about the struggles and joys of working for social justice organisations.”

This event directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 4: Quality Education and 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.

The CSJR has also launched a new placement opportunity for Westminster students with Women in Prison, who are looking to recruit two Heritage Project Assistants. To apply, please visit the Westminster Careers and Employability Service, Engage.

Learn more about CSJR internships at the University of Westminster.