Coming from a working class background in inner-city East London, I had always had curiosity about the world beyond my surroundings. Geography had always been my favourite subject in school as it taught me to understand the development of places at my doorstep via gentrification as well as beyond globally. It also taught me the importance of sustainability and the responsibility of being stewards of the planet especially due to the rising threats of climate change which severely impacts animals and humans.
This passion led to me to achieve an A* at A levels and Grade 8 at GCSE which led me to pursue a law degree as the law is a concrete way in which sustainable living can be implemented in our societies. I have been fortunate enough to be selected to participate in the QMUL Go Summer Programme abroad at Singapore Management University, where I am studying Entrepreneurship and Business Creation. However, I originally wanted to study sustainable entrepreneurship but could not due to logistical constraints. I strongly believe that entrepreneurship and sustainability are closely tied as innovative approaches to business has the potential to create solutions to environmental challenges, improve the environmental conditions and support sustainable economic growth.
Singapore is an exciting destination due to its reputation as a green and environmentally friendly city. I am eager to discover how urban cities can incorporate green space and sustainable infrastructure as well as environmental initiatives in day to day life. By observing this first hand, I would be able to broaden my understanding on how countries can assist economic development whilst simultaneously maintaining environmental protection.
Throughout my travel, I intend to reduce my carbon footprint as much as possible minus the flight journey. I intend to use public transportation where available as Singapore has very efficient transportation. I will also reduce relying on single-use plastic , save energy and water as much as I can and support local communities and businesses, which align neatly with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. I will also encourage sustainable practices to those around me where needed.
Coming from a black, single parent household in Tower Hamlets, travel is a luxury as these opportunities are not easily accessible. Therefore, this experience is more than academic study, rather it is an opportunity to learn from new experiences and develop ideas that I can bring back to my community.I hope to use what I learn to contribute positively and effectively to conversations surrounding sustainability and social responsibility in the future.
Furthermore, I believe that travel is not about ticking off a new place on the map. It’s about developing a deep appreciation and awareness of the world around us and the responsibility to protect it. By combining my interests in geography, law, entrepreneurship and sustainability, I hope to make the most of this opportunity and contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable world for future generations to come.
