Making an Impact 2022 Special #1: The joy of networking
In this podcast, hosted by Karishma Asher, listeners will follow the journey of Ayo Barley, as she set up and developed a network for Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic researchers, professional services and academic teaching staff during the Covid-19 pandemic, done against the backdrop of the Black Lives Matter movement.
Host: Karishma Asher
Karishma is the Race Equality Officer for the University of Liverpool, and joined the organisation in July 2021. Her role seeks to embed race equality in the University’s policies, practices and communications; building a community in which all staff and students feel able to contribute and develop their knowledge and skills to the full. Karishma’s ongoing work includes the development of the University’s Race Equality Charter (REC) application and Action Plan, and supporting its implementation at an institutional and local level. In addition, she identifies and promotes best practice in race equality through knowledge sharing, developing and delivering training and online resources, and supporting staff development activity.
Prior to joining the University, Karishma’s professional background is rooted in the student movement; covering student democracy and campaigning, training and development, and liberation. She is a member of the Diversity Drivers at the North West Business Leadership Team (NWBLT), and External Trustee at the University of York Students’ Union (YUSU).
Based in Liverpool, Karishma spends her spare time as an embroidery artist and speciality coffee enthusiast.
Guest: Ayo Barley
Ayo is an EDI subject matter expert with 18 years of experience and has an academic background in Social Policy. She has worked with people who are underrepresented in community and corporate settings including in science and engineering, health, the voluntary sector, higher education, and social care services. Ayo is an Independent Advisor to Citizens Advice on equalities issues. Ayo is also Managing Director of Bakare Barley Ltd working with organisations to develop robust business strategies for equality, diversity and inclusion.