Igniting futures

We were immensely proud to see another cohort of students from our Ignite Programme make their way across the graduation platform in July. These individuals now move confidently forward into the world of work, or to continue to further their education.

Among them was Rubel who, with the help of Ignite, graduated with first-class honours from his master’s in engineering.

Rubel’s story

“I’m a British born Bengali Muslim from Swindon. I come from a low socio-economic background. My aspiration has always been to work in the cyber security sector. It appeals because of the ever-evolving challenges and the critical importance of protecting information and systems.”

Rubel’s career goals may have always been clear, but his route to realise them significantly less so. He explains, “My journey to Southampton was a mix of excitement and apprehension. One of my primary concerns was the financial aspect of living on my own.”

For Rubel, being supported by Ignite wasn’t just about securing a basic standard of living. Access to opportunity was key, and he says the programme has been instrumental in his achievements at Southampton. “One of my biggest accomplishments was securing an internship at my dream company in my third year. I had applied for this internship in my first and second years, but was declined both times. The experience I gained from the Ignite internships played a crucial role in my eventual acceptance. I was able to leverage the skills and experiences from those opportunities, which significantly strengthened my application.”

He also took up opportunities to build up his life skills, “Things like managing my finances, navigating the job market, and maintaining my mental health.” Rubel also credits his experience visiting Amsterdam, a trip made possible by Ignite, in changing his mind set around sustainability. He says, “I learned about sustainable practices and the importance of reducing our carbon footprint, which was incredibly enlightening.”

Rubel has now secured a graduate role in cyber security. He’d like to share a message to each and every member of the alumni and supporter community: “Thank you so much. From the bottom of my heart, I am incredibly grateful. Access to these opportunities would not have been possible without your generosity. Words can’t fully express how much your contributions have made a difference in my life. Your support has truly been transformative.”

A lasting impact

The impact of Ignite on students like Rubel is clear. But by giving a regular gift, like those who make our Ignite Programme possible, there are many benefits for you, too.  You could single-handedly be the difference between someone completing, or not completing, their degree. What’s more, you’ll see exactly where your investment is going. It’s also about the joy in sharing your Southampton experience, and of knowing what’s to come for these students and their ever-brightening futures.

Adrian Fuller, BSc Mathematics, 1987, is a regular supporter of students on the Ignite Programme. He explains, “I’ve had a good career; I’ve earned a good wage. As I had no family, I felt like I could provide for others in need. I’ve always given a proportion of my income to charities. I’ve done that since I began earning, giving to the church and to developing countries. I find regular giving much easier. It just comes out of the account, and I know every month that I have given so much to Southampton and to my other causes.

“I read about Ignite through Hartley News. It’s so important that people can take time to experience university life. It isn’t just about doing the degree, but getting to do all the other things we got to do.”

Adrian offers our recently graduated cohort of Ignite students some final words of encouragement as they embark on the next stage of their lives, “I would like to congratulate you on your progress. It’s great to see my support having an impact.”

Giving made easy

Stories like Rubel’s, and all our Ignite graduates, are the real and tangible impact our community creates. Your support and – crucially – belief in these young people means that many more talented students can harness the full power of their university education, and go on to build successful futures.

To make a monthly gift to Ignite and support students for the duration of their degree, please donate here.