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There are moments in professional life when certain experiences feel more meaningful and memorable than the usual routine of conferences and networking events. The launch event of the South Asian Women in Higher Education (SAWHE) Network at Manchester Museum on 5th June 2026 was one of those moments. Funded by five teams at UK Universities, including the University of Manchester Social responsibility teams, Manchester metropolitan University, University of Kent, Liverpool John Moores University EDI teams and Global Mental Health and Psychiatry centre, it marked the public launch of an idea that had developed over many months through shared lived experiences, collective effort, determination, and conversations over a cup of chai (tea). It was a privilege to co-host the day, and we write this reflection to capture something we do not want to lose: the feeling of being in that room.

As a working-class woman from Manchester – supporting my football team whilst facing misogyny from male football fans is a troubling and paradoxical concept. Football is integral to my culture, class and history. And yet, how should I navigate the troubling research that shows 68% of male football fans hold openly misogynistic views?

Mary, Queen of Scots, wrote about football in her diary. In fact, the world’s oldest football was found in her belongings. Did she play? Most likely not. But she most certainly watched. So, when did women first pick up the ball and start playing?

It is now over one year since we launched our Equality Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) strategy. We have achieved a lot since this time including but not limited to receiving Race Equality Charter Silver award, starting and implementing the Inclusive Recruitment Review and hosting well engaged and interactive awareness events and the celebration of diversity. One of the ways by which you can get involved in the EDI strategy implementation is by engaging with the EDI Blog.