University of Wolverhampton Hosts Sixth Annual Inclusivity Conference: “Authentic Allyship”

The University of Wolverhampton is proud to present its sixth Annual Inclusivity Conference on Thursday 12 June 2025. This hybrid event will be held at City Campus and will also be accessible online to ensure wide participation.

This year’s theme, “Authentic Allyship,” explores intersectional approaches to inclusivity and how genuine allyship can drive meaningful change across communities and institutions.

Adam Vasco, Director of Diversity & Inclusion in Professional Practice at the University of Wolverhampton, said: “This conference is about moving beyond performative gestures and embracing allyship that is active, informed, and inclusive.” 

“We’re excited to welcome such a diverse and inspiring group of speakers who will challenge, motivate, and empower us to lead with authenticity.”

The conference will feature a powerful lineup of keynote speakers:

Pliny Soocoormanee, Executive Officer at the Peter Tatchell Foundation and University of Wolverhampton alumnus, is a National Diversity Award winner known for his advocacy for LGBT+ rights and refugee support.

“We are a human rights organisation with a strong LGBT+ focus, and for the past 15 years we have been at the forefront of campaigning and supporting refugees,” said Pliny.
“Whether you are embarking on your journey at University, just starting your career, or holding a managerial position, I hope my talk—Radiators, Resilience, and Rising: Leading Your Own Story—offers something valuable.”

Professor Jason Arday, Professor of Sociology of Education at the University of Cambridge, Faculty of Education. He was formerly a Guest Editor on BBC Radio 4’s Today Programme and listed fourth on the prestigious Shaw Trust Disability Power 100 in 2023.

He brings deep academic and cultural insight from his work at institutions including Durham, Glasgow, and The Ohio State University.

Abi Daré, New York Times bestselling author and School of Law alumna, recently won the inaugural Climate Fiction Prize for her novel And So I Roar, the follow-up to The Girl with the Louding Voice. Both novels, which have been translated into over 22 languages, are taught globally, sparking vital conversations on education, empowerment, and resilience.

 “It’s such an honour to be back,” said Abi, who is a graduate from the University of Wolverhampton, School of Law alumna. “I’m really looking forward to talking about the power of empathy and storytelling—and what it means to stand up when it matters most.”

In addition to keynote sessions, the conference will showcase outstanding examples of inclusive practice by University staff and students.

Event details

• Date: Thursday 12 June 2025
• Time: 9.45am – 4.30pm
• Location: University of Wolverhampton, City Campus and online

Reserve your ticket now via Eventbrite and join us for a day of learning, reflection, and inspiration as we explore what it means to be an authentic ally in today’s world.