Westminster students to boost funding support with annual Telephone Campaign

From 26 October to 17 November, a dedicated team of 45 student callers will reach out to more than 1,000 alumni. These calls are an opportunity to reconnect, share updates from the University and offer alumni the chance to support The Ignite Fund, a vital resource for student development and career preparation. They will also highlight the list of benefits and opportunities available to the alumni network.

Since its establishment, The Ignite Fund has provided financial support to 783 students, helping them develop new skills, conduct research, gain additional qualifications, test entrepreneurial ideas and prepare for their future careers. For students from low-income backgrounds or those who are the first in their families to attend university, the funding offers a vital opportunity to move closer to their dream careers. In 2023, the campaign raised £124,000 for The Ignite Fund, and this year alone, it has provided funding to 75 students who are the first in their families to attend university.

The Ignite Fund relieves financial pressures, enabling students to focus on their growth and development. With the increasing cost of living, this support is more important than ever, ensuring that students’ aspirations are not hindered by financial challenges. Through the fund, students can apply for up to £1,500 in grants, empowering them to upskill, launch businesses and thrive as future graduates. 

James Backshall, a Menswear MA student who received support from The Ignite Fund, said: “I cannot express how grateful I am for the support from The Ignite Fund. It helped me massively during the most important project of my career to date. It helped me push my creativity and not be worried if I could produce the menswear collection, I knew I could. It means so much that supporters of The Ignite Fund believed in me and my vision and for that I am truly thankful.”

Speaking about the campaign, Amar Kataora, Regular Giving and Legacy Officer at the University of Westminster, said: “This year’s Telephone Campaign is an exciting opportunity to build on the incredible success of last year. Through The Ignite Fund, we’re not just supporting students, like James, we’re fueling their potential, equipping them with the skills and experiences that will shape their future success. The unwavering generosity of our alumni transforms lives, empowering students to pursue their dreams without the weight of financial worry. At Westminster, our community thrives on collaboration, and together with the inspiring support of our alumni, there’s no limit to what we can achieve. The future is bright, and we’re building it together.”

This initiative directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth and 10: Reduced Inequalities. 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. 

Support students like James as part of the campaign.

Watch a video of Westminster’s Ignite Fund Celebration Event 2023 to see how donations to The Ignite Fund are transforming lives and empowering students to achieve their dreams.