DPOCA Digest Epiphany Issue

DPOCA DIGEST MARCH 2025 | EPIPHANY ISSUE

Termly Round-up Paint and sips, family feuds, quiz nights and more...

Who we are and what we do What to expect next term

Who are we?

Co-Presidents Alexis Amoakohehe Lydia Chandy Secretary Nandini Bhatia Media and Communications Suzanne Jacob Campaigns and Outreach Nandhinii Balajikannan Chloe Uzoukwu

Treasurer Azza Abdelmagid Events Subomi Otunola Alex Golshan Welfare Zaara Maqsood College Rep Chair Aliza Hussain Co-Ball Chairs Vibha Venkatesh Nathania Anu

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Letter from the Editor Spring has begun to descend upon us, but so have our summatives and dissertation deadlines, like a ravenous vulture swooping down on prey- us poor students. Yet I find myself tasked, despite the end of term, with writing another issue of the Digest. The second one, mind you. Student or Alumni, I’m sure we all need a break and a good read this Easter break.

Cough cough...the good read being our very own DPOCA Digest.

Being the second issue officially of this little ‘zine of sorts, I’m very excited to share all we have in store for you. What started as a hefty long email about the term’s events is now a fun (I hope) and dynamic issue of DPOCA’s amazing events, impactful campaigns on current issues and affairs as well as a little sneak peek of what we have planned next term!

I’d also like to give out a huge shoutout to the DPOCA Exec on this one.

Also, Lydia and Lexi. My fabulous presidents, I don’t know how you do it but you’re doing amazing. Everyone else, you’re not forgotten. Especially our fabulous readers of this Epiphany issue. I hope you enjoy reading this as much as I enjoyed making it!

Happy Easter,

Editor-in-Chief and Secretary of DPOCA Nandini Bhatia 3

Highlights of the term Roots and Reflections Competition

Socratic Seminar

WSP Career Workshop

Squid Game Night

Worldfest 2025 4

EPIPHANY TERM:

No crash-outs.

As Epiphany Term draws to a close, we at the Durham People of Colour Association (DPOCA) would like to reflect on the incredible community we’ve fostered together. This term, we hosted a variety of events and campaigns, including the Roots and Reflections art competition, celebrating culture through game nights and seminars, and an unforgettable Worldfest.

Throughout the term, we also advanced preparations for our annual DPOCA Ball, taking place on the 10th of June at Ramside Hall so be sure to save the date!

We’re deeply grateful for everyone who participated, engaged, and supported our initiatives this term. Remember, DPOCA is here for you—offering welfare services, advocacy, and a safe space at university to connect and feel supported.

As we head into the new season, we wish you rest, relaxation, and joy. Stay tuned for more exciting events and campaigns next term—we can’t wait to continue growing with you in Easter Term!

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What to expect next term: As we approach the start of the Easter term, the DPOCA executive team is thrilled to announce a lineup of exciting and enriching events designed to bring our community closer together while fostering intellectual growth, creativity, and professional development. This term, our agenda is packed with activities that cater to a variety of interests and provide meaningful opportunities for engagement, including the annual DPOCA Ball on the 10th of June. Tickets aim to be released 28th April, so keep an eye out @dpoca_ball on Instagram!

One of the highlights of our calendar is a series of Tea and Talk sessions. As the weather gets warmer, we also hope to have more outdoor events! Think potlucks, picnics and more summer fun.

Thinking about joining DPOCA Exec next year? Good news, our self-nominations open on 30th April till 11th June, so stay tuned for more information @durhampoca on Instagram.

Our Welfare team also offers welfare drop-in sessions, offering a warm and friendly space to have a chat with one of our exec members, study together or even watching a movie, along with outdoor wellness walks as the weather gets warmer.

These events are not just activities; they are platforms for building relationships, celebrating diversity, and fostering a strong sense of belonging within our community. We encourage everyone to join us for one—or all—of these events and to take full advantage of the resources and opportunities that DPOCA has to offer.

LET’S MAKE EASTER TERM UNFORGETTABLE!

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A big thank you to everyone for sticking with us through Epiphany. We hope to see you in Easter and beyond! Until then, stay safe, get rest and have a lovely holiday.