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Igniting Brighter Futures
Southampton’s Ignite Programme enables students from underrepresented backgrounds to find their full potential through a holistic blend of financial, academic, career and personal opportunities.
Since its launch in 2017, hundreds of our students have received life-changing support from the programme, and many former recipients are now active contributors and advocates within our alumni community.
Allissa’s story
Allissa is one of the many Southampton students to benefit from the opportunities afforded by the Ignite Programme.
Now a third-year BSc Education with Sustainability student, before applying to Southampton Allissa believed university was out of reach for someone like her. “I’m a mature student from a low participation area, the first in my family to go to university, disabled and a carer!”
Allissa didn’t think she’d be able to make such a big change in her life, but thanks to Ignite’s comprehensive programme of workshops, mentoring, guaranteed work experience and pastoral care, she’s been able to imagine a different future for herself. “The key thing I’ve been able to achieve is confidence. With financial pressures eased and a support system in place, I can enjoy the university experience as a whole.”
The financial assistance offered by Ignite means that Allissa doesn’t need to worry about finding paid work while studying, giving her all-important time and head space to focus on her degree. She says this is extremely helpful with her disabilities. “It typically takes me much longer to achieve the same academic standard as my peers. [The financial assistance] has been a massive relief for me, as I’ve been able to really focus on my academic work. It’s also meant I can travel back to my mum whenever she needs me without worrying about being able to afford train tickets or fuel.”
Now planning her next steps toward a career in teaching, Allissa is already considering how she can pay forward the generosity of our donors. “Ignite has allowed me to see the difference that can be made by giving back. I want to support disadvantaged students like me and make a positive difference to their lives.
I’m really grateful for the kindness of the people who have supported me to achieve a life-changing step in my journey. Thank you!”
Help more students realise their potential
The Ignite Programme is funded entirely by donations. Thanks to generous donations from alumni and supporters like you, we’ve been able to give lifelines to hundreds of students just like Allissa. But we know there are many more success stories waiting to be told.
Ignite supporter Justine Greening marks International Women’s Day with Southampton
Rt Hon Justine Greening, former Secretary of State for Education and Southampton alumna, is a long-time supporter of the Ignite Programme.
Justine recently joined us for our annual International Women’s Day event. The focus of the online event, hosted by Vice President Professor Jane Falkingham, was ‘Inspiring Inclusion’ and the conversation shed light on why programmes like Ignite are so important. As Justine explains, “Whatever your gender, background, sexuality, ethnicity or disability – whatever those barriers are – none of them should stop you from fulfilling your potential.”