Marshall Institute’s Post

What do you see in this photo? There are countless stories I could tell… Starting with my parents, who grew up in circumstances many today would describe as "below the poverty line". My Mum left home at 16 due to family challenges, and my Dad left school with no qualifications. But they turned adversity into strength, building resilience, working tirelessly, and always helping others. My Dad’s parents emigrated from Ireland in the 1950s, with my grandfather constructing roads and even building one of the few remaining Working Men’s Clubs in Bristol. My Grandad recalled signs on pubs and B&Bs that read: “No Irish, No Dogs, No Blcks.”. Meanwhile, my Nan raised eight children in a tiny post-war council house and still found room to care for children less fortunate. Their grit, love and drive has shaped my story, but it wasn’t without challenges of my own. At 18, I was too fearful to start university, feeling like I didn’t belong. I found my way into Higher Education through a Degree Apprenticeship in Engineering, where I developed technical, personal and professional skills but struggled to reconcile my inner identity with the professional face I wore and the sector I worked in. After a decade in Aerospace, I took the life-altering leap to quit it all. Leaving behind my career, relationships, mortgage, and comfort zone; to travel the world for two years. It was during this journey that I discovered alternative ways to live and work, with Social Enterprise and Social Ventures capturing my heart and mind. Fast forward to today: this photo symbolises that journey. A moment of immense pride as I graduate from the The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) Executive MSc Social Business and Entrepreneurship at the Marshall Institute. 🎉 I am deeply grateful for everyone who supported me along the way. To my parents; your unwavering belief in me has been my foundation. To my primary and secondary school teachers, managers and mentor, the School for Social Entrepreneurs, and those who advocated for my scholarship to LSE; thank you for the opportunities and encouragement to thrive. This Master’s program is truly unique, combining world-class academic insights with practical tools to empower change-makers. And the most rewarding part? The people. Learning alongside brilliant, diverse minds from across the globe has been transformative. Together, we’ve built lifelong connections and inspired each other to dream bigger. If you’re considering a career shift or want to deepen your understanding of creating impact, I cannot recommend this program enough. It will change your perspective—and your life. #LSE #SocialBusiness #Entrepreneurship #Graduation #SocialImpact #Gratitude