Red Triangle 2025

A l u m n i & Fr i e n d s M a g a z i n e

2025

The difference maker advocating for inclusivity in sport More on pages 6-9.

RED 2025

Alumni & Friends Magazine

TRIANGLE

03

Welcome from Barbara Kidd, Head of Development & Alumni Relations

04 - 05

Introducing Sue Rigby, Edinburgh Napier’s Principal & Vice Chancellor

12 - 15

Nurses shaping the future

16 - 17

Spotlight on: alumnus Marli Siu, actor

18 - 21

Our Alumni Awards winners

06 - 09

On the cover: difference maker Zander Murray

26 - 27

Dynamic learning experiences

28 - 29

The HUB for SUCCESS: supporting care-experienced students

30

Five minutes with...

Dr Suha Jaradat

22 - 25

Powering the cyber security workforce

31

Our Alumni Network

10 - 11

World-leading innovation in urban governance

Produced by Edinburgh Napier University Alumni and Development Team.

Executive Editors: Miia MacDougall / Barbara Kidd. Editor/Writer: Melanie Sims. Designers: Harriet Short / Alazne Amadoz / Emma Goodman. Creative Coordinator: Gillian Whisker. Photography: Euan Myles / Allan Shedlock / Olga Tyukova / Greg Macvean/ Gordon Marino / Johan Persson-ArenaPAL / Johnson Zhang / Getty Images / Yellowbelly Photo / ITV-Shutterstock / Adobe Stock / Craig Foy - SNS Group / Mark Scates - SNS Group.

With grateful thanks to all our contributors.

This magazine is printed on FSC certified paper and is 100% recyclable.

Edinburgh Napier University is a registered Scottish charity: SC018373. Edinburgh Napier University Development Trust is a registered Scottish charity: SC030225.

Welcome Dear Alumni and Friends, Welcome to the 2025 edition of Red Triangle!

I’m delighted to introduce this edition, and to introduce our new Principal and Vice Chancellor, Professor Sue Rigby, who you can learn more about on pages 3-5 in our Q&A. You will also find features on our recent Alumni Award winners and stories about our impact across smart cities research, teaching in cyber security and nursing, and support for care-experienced students.

Our Difference Maker cover star is Zander Murray, who has an inspiring story to tell about working to change attitudes and build acceptance within the sporting world.

Around the globe, our alumni community is an incredible force: over 186,000 individuals across 187 countries working in diverse industries to deliver impact for society and the environment. As Edinburgh Napier continues to receive prestigious awards, including Higher Educational Institution of the Year, we recognise the hugely important role our alumni play in the University’s reputation.

We also welcome and delight in the continuing engagement of our alumni with all that we do: from enhancing the educational experience we provide to current students – through inspiring placements and real-world projects to mentoring and guest lectures – to the difference you make by supporting our community with scholarships and access initiatives which make higher education aspirations a reality for students who might struggle to realise them otherwise. Alumni input and impact is a key part of our success.

Equally, we are committed to being part of your on-going success. The Alumni Team is here to support you by providing a range of services that can help to foster connections, build your networks of influence, nurture your professional development, or open doors to opportunities. And remember that our entrepreneur and business incubator, Bright Red Triangle, is always available to you.

It is impossible to squeeze in and do justice to the breadth of teaching, research and innovation going on at Edinburgh Napier in the pages of this magazine: we have had another exciting year that has seen us garner awards, progress leading research, develop our facilities, and delight in award-winning lecturers being recognised and nominated by students and external organisations, for their commitment to developing a pipeline of work-ready talent.

You can stay informed about our community through the latest updates on our social media channels, news pages, and through our alumni communications. There are so many reasons to keep connected with one another and across the University community, so I hope you will continue to do so, while your engagement in our onward journey is how we will build a brighter future for all.

With best wishes

Barbara Kidd Head of Development & Alumni Relations

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A new chapter

Introducing Sue Rigby, Edinburgh Napier’s Principal & Vice Chancellor

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Professor Sue Rigby is a passionate and experienced educational innovator. She joined Edinburgh Napier in January from Bath Spa University where she served as Vice Chancellor for six years. Under her leadership the University grew its student numbers, significantly increased its turnover, and saw its best ever Research Evaluation Framework return.

A palaeontologist with a love of the arts, Professor Rigby is a powerhouse of enthusiasm for every aspect of higher education and the impact it can have. Across multiple diverse roles on boards and in organisations, she has worked to champion inclusion, student mental health, teaching excellence, quality assurance, and modern universities in the UK.

What does it mean to you to become Edinburgh Napier’s new Principal?

“Without doubt, this is the right destination for me. I am hugely inspired by the distinctiveness of Edinburgh Napier and am honoured to be taking on this leading role. Of course, it is a great pleasure to join an Edinburgh-based institution – this city is where I have worked, raised my family, and where my husband is based: it is the best of homecomings.”

I have been watching Edinburgh Napier develop and am very impressed with how it has amplified research without comprising teaching. Remaining true to its ethos of developing graduates who are equipped to add value in mainstream professions, with a clear focus on delivering high quality practical teaching and learning, the University has also pushed forward applied research to address significant challenges our modern world faces.

I really believe Edinburgh Napier is in a strong position; it has a clear identity and knows what it wants to be, and that is how it will continue to make an impact. Recent ranking achievements are testament to this: the top modern university in Scotland by the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2024, and a top 10 UK university in the THE Young University Rankings 2024.

It has also been placed in the THE Impact Rankings for the first time; these rankings measure progress towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, so this is a fantastic achievement.

For the fifth year running, Edinburgh Napier is number one in the capital for student satisfaction in the National Student Survey (NSS); so maybe it’s no surprise that it also won Higher Educational Institution of the Year 2024 in The Herald Higher Education Awards, as well as the Widening Access Award and the Outstanding Contribution from a University Student, plus a commendation in the Research Project of the Year.

These rankings and awards are significant. I see this as an exceptionally stimulating time to be stepping into this role and am delighted to have the opportunity to work to ensure Edinburgh Napier continues to thrive and grow in all aspects of university life.”

How would you define your leadership style?

“Nobody can run a university by telling people what to do.

An aspect of my leadership approach that I feel has made a difference over the years is that I really listen to people. Then it’s about finding a way to see through all the complexity that’s around you and determine what matters most.

What’s always thrilling is seeing the opportunities to link things up, some of which might appear unrelated, and put people in a position to capitalise on opportunities they wouldn’t necessarily know about or capture.

Leadership sets the tone for the whole institution; building a sense of belonging, ownership and solidarity within the university is a critical part of this role. I want to harness all the potential we have to act on the priorities for our success; to enable progress and to create an environment where everyone can perform to the best of their abilities.”

What is it about higher education management that excites you?

“I find universities completely fascinating. The more I know about them, the more respect I have for them and the more interesting they become. Higher education is so multi-faceted that it is endlessly interesting.

Over the years I’ve spearheaded and engaged with various initiatives, from acting as Chair of Student Minds and a Board Member for the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) to leading the Inclusive Development strand of the BIS Disabled Students Sector Leadership Group, as well as supporting the Higher Education Funding Council for England to define information needs for taught postgraduate students.

I’m a scientist who is passionate about the arts; I’m genuinely excited about all aspects of modern universities and I’m a total believer in the life-changing impact of higher education. Quite simply, it never gets boring! And higher education leadership is always challenging me in new ways, particularly in the tough political, policy, and public environment we operate in.”

How will you drive the University to continue to make a difference?

“Modern universities are a key driver of growth in Scotland and beyond. Through our work, and with our partners, we can change lives and upskill the next generation of talent to deliver impact.

I believe it’s about creating the conditions for people to thrive.

Then staff, students, researchers, alumni and partners are empowered to do amazing things. It’s about nurturing people to change the world in their own way.

We need to look at where we can add value; strengthen links with and within our communities; celebrate diversity and tackle inequalities; and work together to continue to make a difference.”

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DIFFERENCE MAKER Zander Murray The Edinburgh Napier graduate working to shift attitudes and build greater acceptance within the sporting world.

Zander Murray was the first openly gay player in the Scottish Professional Football League. His journey led him to become a passionate role model to empower young people in sport to be their true authentic selves.

“I want to support all young LGBT+ sports people to feel that sport is a place where they can thrive,” Zander comments. “Unfortunately, I struggled for years feeling that my life in football and my sexuality could not coexist. Keeping it hidden, and the personal struggle that brought, resulted in many missed opportunities for me.”

Photo. Photo credit: XXXXXXXX

After signing with Bonnyrigg Rose in 2023 .

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Photography credit: Cover photo and portrait by Euan Myles

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Zander during Edinburgh’s 2023 Pride march

Now, Zander’s courage and authenticity serve as an inspiration for LGBTQ+ athletes who might be struggling with their identity or experiencing discrimination. “I use my own experience in the game to bring a player’s perspective to my outreach, and that’s still fairly unique,” he explains.

Homophobia and negative language, on and off the football field, had a massive impact on Zander and he shares his story with young players to empower them: “I want to enable them to stand up to homophobia. But I also want everyone to learn how to recognise language and behaviour that is likely to make their teammates uncomfortable if they are struggling with their sexuality.”

When Zander announced he was gay, he was one of only seven players out of 130,000 in the UK to do so. “It took me nearly a year and a half from when I came out to my family to actually tell the football community,” he comments. That was in September 2022 while playing for Scottish club Gala Fairydean Rovers where he had proved himself a talented player, scoring 100+ goals and holding the club record for the number of goals scored in one season. “I had no idea the impact my story would have. I’ve since received thousands of messages from people who connected with my struggle, which has led me to what I’m doing now.”

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I’ve since received thousands of messages from people who connected with my struggle, which has led me to what I’m doing now.”

Working with football clubs, schools and colleges, Zander gives talks and runs workshops, engaging a wide range of young people from primary school pupils to aspiring teenage footballers. He has been heavily involved with integrating Football vs Homophobia Scotland’s work with the Scottish Football Association’s (SFA) activities and working with the LGBT charity Time for Inclusive Education (TIE).

“I spin a number of plates,” Zander explains, “including corporate work where I give keynote speeches and host events for example, all sorts of media work, and collaboration with organisations like Police Scotland and the Scottish Government on their campaigns. I’ve also been delighted to speak at and lead out at PRIDE events.” He’s also been involved in a number of important documentaries, as well as producing one of his own, Disclosure: Out on the Pitch, for the BBC. Most recently, he featured in Amazon

Prime’s docu-series ‘Dare to Defy’, led by Paralympian Richard Whitehead and broadcaster Adele Roberts, which explores the stereotypes and barriers that under-represented communities face in sport. “It was a pinch me moment to be part of this!” Zander comments.

Being an ambassador for the Gay Games, held in Hong Kong in 2023, was also a seminal moment: “To be part of this was history making,” he comments.

The world’s largest LGBTQ+ sports and culture event, it was the first time the Games were held in Asia. “I was asked to give a keynote speech to corporate and organisational leaders in Hong Kong at a diversity conference in June. Then in November I spoke at the annual Out Leadership Asia Summit. While at the Games I had so many amazing interactions. Among the athletes was an LGBTQ-inclusive football team from Central Cambodia who were in tears meeting me – they have experienced so much abuse, so that was particularly special.”

It’s incredible to be a voice and give power to this community. I want to keep building on what I’ve achieved.”

What really matters to Zander, whether he’s on an international or local platform, is to make a difference: “It’s always going to be difficult work; I still get my fair share of abuse online, and I’m hyper aware that challenging attitudes comes with a potential backlash. But the feedback I get from young people telling me that I’ve helped them to cope, face their fears, and to be themselves, drives me on.”

Reflecting on his time at Edinburgh Napier, Zander sees it as a formative time: “While studying I took up sport again, joining the men’s football team – I’d had to give it up after suffering an injury at age 19 which was very hard as football was my life and soul.

“Being at Edinburgh Napier gave me the courage to do that, but I think what was more important about my time at the University was that I came to the realisation that being part of a community and helping people really mattered to me.”

Looking to the future, he is working towards creating his own organisation: “It’s incredible to be a voice and give power to this community. I want to keep building on what I’ve achieved and keep challenging homophobia, particularly in the men’s game: there’s still a huge gap in aspirations for acceptance and the reality. My hope is that we can get to a place where an individual’s sexuality is completely beside the point in relation to their sport, and where future generations of LGBTQ+ athletes are out and visible without fear of any negative reactions.”

Zander speaking at the Football v Homophobia Awards 2024 after receiving an Outstanding Contribution Award. Photography credit: Gordon Marino

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WORLD-LEADING INNOVATION IN URBAN GOVERNANCE How Edinburgh Napier University is leading the smart city revolution Professor Luca Mora, Director of the Urban Innovation Policy Lab, is a leading expert in smart city development and digital innovation. He discusses why governance is so crucial to the smart city revolution and explains the University’s leading role in shaping the way forward.

Realising the promise of smart city innovation

How urban governance makes the difference

Half of the world’s population lives in cities. They are essential urban systems and drivers of economic growth, but they are also increasingly facing unprecedented sustainability challenges that directly affect the quality of life of their residents. And city growth isn’t slowing; projections estimate that 70% of the global population will be living in cities by 2050.

Governance is more than just an administrative function; it provides the foundation for aligning smart city initiatives with broader societal goals, ensuring that innovation drives equity, sustainability, and resilience. Without effective governance, the rapid integration of technology risks deepening inequalities, exacerbating privacy concerns, and undermining public trust.

Smart cities hold immense promise for creating more efficient, inclusive, and sustainable urban environments.

However, creating them is not simply about deploying cutting-edge technologies but about governing these technologies wisely to ensure they benefit everyone equitably.

Cities that prioritise governance proactively address issues such as data privacy, digital inclusion, and transparent decision-making, ensuring innovation serves the entire population. Smart city governance underpins adaptable systems capable of responding to evolving challenges like climate change, economic disruption, and demographic shifts, while safeguarding the needs and rights of all residents.

Two recent landmark United Nations reports, Managing Smart City Governance: A Playbook for Local and Regional Governments, and the Global Review of Smart City Governance Practices, authored by our Urban Innovation Policy Lab, shed light on how municipalities across the globe are managing the challenges of smart city governance.

Drawing on data from over 300 municipalities worldwide, they represent the most comprehensive analysis of smart city governance practices ever conducted.

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Putting people at the core of transformation In our Urban Policy Innovation Lab, we strongly emphasise the critical importance of adopting a people-centred approach to smart city governance. Unlike traditional technology-driven models, which often prioritise the deployment of advanced systems over their societal

implications, our approach places human wellbeing at the forefront. This ensures that technological advancements address pressing social and environmental challenges rather than creating or exacerbating existing divides.

A people-centred approach shifts the focus from technology for technology’s sake to technology as a means to achieve inclusive and sustainable development. It involves recognising the diversity of urban populations and tailoring smart city initiatives to address the unique needs of all residents, including marginalised groups who are often overlooked in digital transformation efforts. Whether it’s through equitable access to digital infrastructure, affordable services, or culturally relevant solutions, our aim is to support urban environments where no one is left behind.

Underpinning this approach is meaningful collaboration across sectors. For example, engaging local communities in decision-making processes is indispensable; it ensures that smart city initiatives are grounded in their lived experiences.

By actively involving citizens, cities can build trust, enhance transparency, and create solutions that resonate with the people they serve.

Bridging the digital divide is another critical component; cities must ensure that access to smart technologies is not limited to privileged groups. Addressing barriers such as affordability, digital literacy, and connectivity is essential to achieving equitable outcomes. For example, initiatives that provide free public Wi-Fi in underserved areas or programmes that offer digital skills training, can empower communities to participate fully in the opportunities presented by smart city innovations.

Pioneering smart city governance Smart city governance is at the core of realising the potential of urban digital transformation. Incorporating peoplecentred practices into governance frameworks is not just a moral imperative, it is a practical necessity for ensuring that smart cities deliver on their promise of creating better urban futures. As cities continue to innovate and grow, the principles of inclusivity, equity, and adaptability will be the cornerstone of their success. By putting people first, smart cities can truly become engines of sustainable development and shared prosperity.

Our groundbreaking research in this field has provided an invaluable roadmap for municipalities seeking to manage the challenges and opportunities of smart city development.

We have set a new standard for understanding how governance can transform urban systems and provided actionable strategies that equip policymakers, urban planners, and other public and private stakeholders with ways to address challenges, enhance citizen participation, foster collaboration, and unlock the potential of data-driven innovation.

Through this pioneering work, Edinburgh Napier University is not only helping to shape the cities of tomorrow but also empowering communities to build brighter, more inclusive futures today.

NURSES SHAPING THE FUTURE The healthcare landscape is in rapid evolution and Edinburgh Napier nursing staff and alumni are making critical contributions.

The role of nurse educators Nurse academic, Professor Susan Dawkes, is Edinburgh Napier’s new Dean of health and social care education. “I am delighted to rejoin the University community to provide leadership for the delivery of highquality, contemporary programmes of education for health and social care professionals, not just in Scotland but across the world,” Professor Dawkes comments.

A cardiology nursing expert, Professor Dawkes, previously spent 16 years of her career at Edinburgh Napier, beginning as a lecturer in nursing and going on to hold senior leadership roles including Head of Nursing

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and Head of Learning & Teaching. “I’m passionate about all the healthcare professions,” she explains, “but as a nurse myself, I feel strongly about nursing and its impact and importance to the health of society.” She is particularly keen to celebrate careers in nursing and highlight the ways to progress within in it: “I think as nurse educators we need to do better at inspiring people about nursing as a career and the huge variety of roles it opens up. There are many possible pathways to follow, and my own experience illustrates this.”

Professor Dawkes started her nursing career at 17: “When I began in 1989, I didn’t think I would be anything other than a nurse. I still am a nurse, but I’ve had various careers within this profession. Cardiology really piqued my interest and that led me to study for further qualifications. I also spent time overseas working in Singapore, Canada and Hong Kong. I want our nursing students to understand that the opportunities to expand their horizons are enormous.”

Nurse-led research is vital to generating high-quality evidence Working closely with patients and families provides nurses with rich insights and essential knowledge, which when channelled into research can have a profound impact on health outcomes.

Improving care for people living with HIV/AIDS Lecturer in Public Health, Dr Mary Abboah-Offei, is a leading researcher who previously worked as an emergency nurse in Ghana’s Korle-bu Teaching Hospital where she cared for patients with various diagnosis including HIV/AIDS. She has since completed a master’s and a PhD focused on investigating how best to care and support people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) in order to improve their wellbeing, health outcomes, and quality of life. “I am thrilled to have received a research grant of around £1.5million from the Medical Research Council to continue my work testing the effectiveness of community-based enhanced care intervention (CECI) for people with HIV/AIDS,” Dr Abboah-Offei explains.

This research will refine CECI by including ‘Extra’ components of empowering PLWHA to engage, participate and contribute to their care decisions; and the use of mobile phones to deliver care (telehealth) – hence the project’s title ‘ExtraCECI’: “My goal is to see ExtraCECI and its person-centred principles adapted as part of routine care for people with HIV/AIDS and replicated across the whole health system in Ghana,” she adds.

Edinburgh Napier is Scotland’s only university to offer pre-registration training in all four nursing specialties and is one of the largest providers of nursing and midwifery education in the country. “It doesn’t matter how people come into nursing or how they want to make a difference – whether as a ward nurse or the next Chief Nursing Officer for Scotland – we can support them to succeed. Our programmes allow them to make choices around what interests and excites them,” Professor Dawkes explains.

The University also has a reputation for pioneering healthcare research: “I see real potential to increase our impact across the healthcare landscape,” Professor Dawkes comments, “and my ambition is to boost our support of people who are keen to come into the professions while continuing to make a valuable and distinctive contribution to critical health concerns through our research.”

Pioneering research into spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) Research into spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD), a rare heart condition, is being led by Professor Lis Neubeck, Head of the Centre for Cardiovascular Health, who received the outstanding achievement award at the RCN Scotland Nurse of the Year Awards in 2024.

Every year in Scotland, between 350 and 600 people are thought to be affected by SCAD, and around 95% of them are women under the age of 60. “These women are not being well served by cardiac services,” explains Professor Neubeck, “because SCAD patients have few or none of the normal risk factors for heart disease and their needs are different to patients (mainly men who have suffered a heart attack) that traditional cardiac rehabilitation has been designed and tested for.”

Her research team is improving understanding of the condition, developing effective treatments, and designing a safe and effective recovery programme for SCAD survivors. “We hope to transform rehabilitation and screening for SCAD and scale the recovery programme to improve health outcomes for SCAD patients worldwide,” adds Professor Neubeck.

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CAREER PATHS IN HEALTHCARE: NURSING ALUMNI TELL THEIR STORIES Across the UK and around the globe, our nursing alumni are making a difference to patient care every day. Here we share the stories of three individuals: Nikki Stephen, Rebecca Moralee, and Sean King.

Nikki Stephen graduated with a BN Nursing in 2021 and is currently a Community Nurse Practitioner with Craiglockhart Medical Group.

Rebecca Moralee is a Clinical Application Specialist for medical devices company Mindray. She graduated in 2010 with a BN Nursing (Adult).

“Moving from the acute sector to community nursing has allowed me to face many different situations and challenges I hadn’t experienced before. One of the areas that has had a big impact on me is caring for end-of-life patients. I feel extremely proud to offer care and support to patients and relatives at such an emotional and significant moment in their lives. And having learnt how to cope in these situations, I enjoy sharing my knowledge and experience with other members of staff and nursing students.

“I am passionate about improving patient outcomes, enhancing user experience, and advancing healthcare innovation. Initially, I found the transition from clinical nursing to industry quite a steep learning curve, but a big benefit of working for global companies is the exposure to different healthcare systems and products, and there are lots of new opportunities. Making the leap into industry has exposed me to new ways of thinking.

Community nursing requires a high level of decision making and clinical judgement to ensure that patient health needs are met effectively. It involves me in providing specialist advice to other healthcare professionals, as well as patients and their relatives.

What I enjoy so much is the opportunity to make a difference to people’s lives. It is an extremely rewarding job, though it can be very difficult at times, but to go home at the end of a busy shift, knowing you’ve done your very best for your patients and their relatives, makes all the hard work worth it.

I love my role within nursing and feel extremely privileged to be part of my caring team.”

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I’ve worked with diverse and multidisciplinary teams and have travelled across Europe supporting surgeons; I even worked in Qatar for a year, which was a really interesting experience. I feel it’s such a privilege to support healthcare staff to utilise technology that can make a difference to them and helps patient safety. I love contributing to the delivery of high-quality care, education, and consultancy.

When I first qualified, I was doubtful of my abilities, and I used to hold myself back. Slowly, I gained confidence and the awareness that we are more capable than we realise.

For me, studying nursing at Edinburgh Napier completely changed the course of my life – I’d previously been working in finance. More recently, I completed a Master of Business Administration in Healthcare at the University, and I’ve undertaken various other professional qualifications throughout my career. The challenges of my work make it always feel new. If you’re willing to learn and try things, there are so many opportunities out there.”

Nursing students in Edinburgh Napier’s state-of-the-art Simulation and Clinical Skills Centre

Sean King is a PCI Clinical Nurse Specialist in the worldrenowned Essex Cardiothoracic Centre (CTC) within Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust. He graduated in 2014.

“The scope of nursing is vast and so varied that there’s a role for everyone within it, and I think it’s about finding what you feel passionate about. As a percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) nurse specialist, working within the world-renowned Essex Cardiothoracic Centre (CTC), I’m part of a three-nurse team which delivers a wide array of care to patients who have undergone complex percutaneous coronary procedures, taking responsibility for their on-going clinical management.

Back as a Band 5 ward nurse, I thought that would be my career, but then you discover there are all these possibilities and pathways. When I worked within an acute receiving unit at Western General, Edinburgh, I was seeing patients with various heart conditions, looking at ECGs, and finding it all fascinating, and that started my interest in cardiology. Now, I sometimes I step back for a moment and think ‘Wow, I’ve come so far!’.

What’s so great about nursing is the range of people who enter it; it’s a multicultural, diverse, and inclusive workforce and I still find that so rewarding to be part of. Plus, you grow every day; you are continually building your knowledge and understanding. In 2020 I was redeployed to A&E due to the COVID-19 pandemic and what a learning curve that was. It was the most significant experience of my career, and I rejoined cardiology two or so years later with many new skills.

I’ve continued to undertake further qualifications, for example a Master’s in Advanced Clinical Practice and the RCUK Advanced Life Support course, and I also teach at the local university – I so enjoy interacting with the next generation of nurses coming through.”

Rebecca Moralee Clinical Application Specialist

Nikki Stephen Community Nurse Practitioner

Sean King PCI Clinical Nurse Specialist

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Spotlight on…

MARLI SIU Edinburgh Napier alumnus and award-winning actor

Marli Siu has garnered interest and acclaim across film, television and theatre since she graduated with a First Class BA (Hons) in Acting and English in 2015. In less than a decade she has blazed a trail that has seen her named a Screen International Star of Tomorrow (2018) and win Best Actress in Film at the 2021 BAFTA Scotland Awards.

A best actress award at age 28 is a significant achievement and makes it even more surprising to learn that Marli struggled to get a place at drama school.

“I could only afford to go to London once, with the cost of travel from Scotland on top of the application fees, so I picked RADA because it was a school I’d heard of!” she explains. “I also applied to the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama, but in retrospect I’m thankful for having to consider a different route.”

That route led her to Edinburgh Napier’s Acting and English course. “It was the first year this course was offered. It really excited me as I had considered journalism at one point, so it was a door to my acting aspirations with the potential for other paths. And my father, who was anxious about acting as a career and the challenges I might face as a mixed-race Chinese actress, was greatly comforted by it,” she says.

Marli Siu. Photography credit: Yellowbelly Photography

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Born in Hong Kong, where she lived until age four, Marli’s Scottish-Chinese background was unusual in North-East Scotland where she grew up. “It would cross my mind that I was different – although I think every teenager feels different within themselves in some way,” she comments. “But I didn’t really think about being half Chinese until I started to go for acting roles. Initially, it was tricky in relation to screen work particularly, with casting agents trying to work out where to put me; it was a struggle to feel Scottish enough for some roles, or East Asian enough for others. But this changed, because the

Marli in action Theatre includes: The Cherry Orchard (Donmar Warehouse); The Ocean at the End of the Lane (National Theatre); Misalliance (Orange Tree); Little Red and the Wolf (Dundee Rep and Noisemaker); Much Ado About Nothing; The Witness for the Prosecution (Dundee Rep).

Anna Meredith MBE

Television includes: Alex Rider; Everything I Know About Love; The Irregulars; Dixi; Grantchester.

Film includes: Apartment 7A; Our Ladies; Run; Anna and the Apocalypse.

Marli performing with Adeel Akhtar in The Cherry Orchard at Donmar Warehouse, London, in 2024.

Photography credit: Johan Persson / ArenaPAL

more work you do, the more you get known for the qualities you can bring.” She feels strongly that her mixed-race identity informs her work in important ways: “It adds to the characters I play and makes me always consider the impact of different cultures and experiences for others. In theatre and film we’re trying to give an insight into other people’s lives; standing on the outskirts of different communities looking in, helps you to do that.”

Just before lockdown Marli performed in ‘The Ocean at the End of the Lane’ at the National Theatre. Nominated for an Olivier Award for Best New Play, Marli describes it as “a bucket list job”. Now she’s about to tick off another acting dream when the Donmar’s recent production of ‘The Cherry Orchard’, in which she played Varya, goes to New York. “I am so excited about this!” she enthuses. “It’s been one of my favourite experiences to date. I feel so fortunate to have worked with this director and cast, and to now have the opportunity to perform in New York.”

While theatre has been Marli’s foundation – from early days in a local drama group to landing a job with a Rep theatre immediately on graduating – she has worked across TV, film and theatre, with roles in long-running TV series such as Alex Rider and Everything I Know About Love, and many standout performances in a range of films including her role in Run – a searing observational indie drama – for which she won the BAFTA. “Theatre is terrifying and a real workout!” she explains, “TV can tie-you up for long periods, while film has all these moving parts and it gets quite technical. They each demand different skills and approaches but I love changing between them because it means I’m learning all the time.”

Despite a burgeoning career, there is still the freelancer’s anxiety around how long it may continue: “I’m not sure that ever stops,” she comments. “Having just worked on a film with some very established and successful actors, I found they still think about it too.” Marli’s grateful that her lecturers at Edinburgh Napier were clear about the reality of the working world for creatives: “They encouraged us to prepare for the gaps and to have a plan B, and not to regard this as any sort of failing,” she comments. “While I’ve been very fortunate with my roles and how they’ve allowed me to manage the in-between times, I don’t take any of it for granted. I still think it’s incredibly strange that the BAFTA happened! It was fantastic, but finding ways to manage an acting life – working hard, giving it everything and then dropping into quiet periods, trying to stay balanced in what can seem an insane industry – feels more significant to me.”

As interesting and influential roles continue to come her way, Marli would seem to be a young woman on the verge of stardom. There’s no doubt she will be appearing on screen and stage in the coming year, showing us exactly why she’s one to watch.

“Theatre, TV, and film demand different approaches, but I love changing between them because it means I’m learning all the time.”

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ALUMNI ALUMNI AWARDS OUR

AWARDS

2023

WINNERS

2023

Alumni Award winners (L to R): Zander Murray, Harry McLaren and Graeme Jones

“The purpose of the Alumni Awards is to showcase the diverse and remarkable ways in which Edinburgh Napier alumni are making a difference in their professions and communities,” explains Miia MacDougall, Senior Alumni Relations Manager.

“The awards provide an opportunity to shine a light on role models for our current students and individuals who are an inspiration to the entire University community.”

Award winners are identified through peer, student and staff nominations. “I’d like to thank everyone who took the time to nominate an alumnus for an Alumni Award,” comments Miia. “This is very much a community-driven process, and we are delighted so many nominees were put forward this year.”

There are three categories of award: the Impact Award recognises a former student who is dedicated to making a difference and whose ethos

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and approach supports the University’s work, while the Rising Star Award recognises the achievements of an early career graduate. “This year we also introduced our Excellence Awards which honour outstanding alumni who have achieved significant success and are making an exceptional contribution to their chosen professional fields,” Miia explains.

“Through them we can highlight graduates across diverse fields and inspire our current learners regarding career opportunities and possible pathways.”

Read more about these inspirational Alumni Award winners at: Napier.ac.uk/AlumniAwards24

CELEBRATING THE AWARD WINNERS LARISSA ENGELMANN Rising Star Award

Dr Larissa Engelmann is pioneering research to support better police interactions with vulnerable groups. As a rising star, Larissa’s dedication to making a difference is an inspiration to others at the beginning of their careers.

ZANDER MURRAY Impact Award winner

Zander Murray is a courageous individual who is working to build greater acceptance and understanding within the sporting world. In 2022, he made headlines as the first Scottish professional football player to come out as gay. “I felt my life in football and my sexuality could not coexist, that I needed to keep it hidden,” Zander explains. “I struggled for years, knowing that coming out would be difficult in the world of football.”

He has since become a passionate role model, empowering young sports people, and particularly young footballers, to be their true authentic selves.

This work has seen him receive numerous accolades and awards. “Although my experience was difficult, I am now at peace with myself and proud to be visible. More importantly, I have become part of an amazing community and am committed to making sport a place for all.” As an inspirational speaker and workshop leader he uses his story to encourage others and to help shift attitudes across Scottish football and beyond.

Read more about Zander in the Difference Maker article on pages 6-9.

Currently a Postdoctoral Researcher at the Vulnerability & Policing Futures Research Centre, based at the University of Leeds, Larissa’s work is helping to drive forward approaches to improve the police’s response to issues including violence against women and girls, domestic abuse, and child sexual abuse.

“I moved to Scotland from Germany and completed my undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD degrees at Edinburgh Napier,” she explains. “Studying criminology here brought all my interests together; it was a perfect fit! Undertaking the PhD really cemented things for me; when I was younger my dream was to become a police officer, but it was at this moment I realised I didn’t want to join the police, I wanted to improve policing, and doing this PhD could be the way to do it.” Her research looked at learning and development within Police Scotland and the findings were implemented into their Strategic Review of Training and Development. Larissa continues to work with colleagues at the University and the Scottish Institute for Policing Research, and supports Police Scotland with their learning.

Currently, one of the critical projects Larissa is working on is focused on online child sexual victimisation (OCSV). “This issue presents a clear and present danger to thousands of children across the country, and traditional law enforcement approaches are struggling to keep up,” Larissa explains. “Our work is seeking to establish approaches with local communities to improve resilience to OCSV, develop local best practice, and build tools to enhance early intervention, in order to better protect and support young people and parents.”

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Our new Excellence Awards honour outstanding contributions former students are making in their chosen fields. Four inspiring individuals received a 2024 Excellence Award: Graeme Jones, Gill Duncan, Harry McLaren, and Jill Douglas.

GRAEME JONES

GILL DUNCAN

Highly regarded in the world of professional football, Graeme Jones was recently appointed Sporting Director at Heart of Midlothian Football Club and continues to drive standards to be as high as they possibly can be.

Gill Duncan has spent the last 14 years working for Edinburgh Science, an educational charity best known for organising one of the world’s largest science festivals, first joining as an intern before advancing through the organisation to become the Director of Edinburgh Science Worldwide managing their events and festivals overseas.

Excellence Award winner

When appointed as the Scottish Football Association’s (SFA) Head of Football Science and Medicine in 2015, the first role of its kind, Graeme worked to establish best practice across the whole association. Two years later, he became the SFA’s Head of High Performance, focused on developing and managing a high-performance culture across the national and youth teams. Graeme helped the Women’s team qualify for the 2019 World Cup, and the Men’s A team qualify for the EURO 2020 and 2024 finals. He then become the SFA’s Performance Director.

A top operator in his field, Graeme has demonstrated outstanding ability across strategic leadership and performance strategy. “My role at Hearts is a new step and proud moment for me. As Sporting Director I will oversee the football department, from the Men’s and Women’s First Teams down to the Academy. I feel very fortunate to have this career and I’m still relishing every moment.”

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Excellence Award winner

She has driven new collaborations and partnerships, and developed projects for various partners around the world, working to produce high quality science engagement opportunities that inspires the public and builds understanding.

“One of my proudest achievements was working with Abu Dhabi Science Festival. I helped to curate, produce and deliver the event for ten years, and over that time we welcomed half a million visitors to the festival and engaged many young people in the UAE.” Having recently completed an MBA, Gill is now embarking on a new venture with her family business Kailzie Gardens in the Scottish Borders.

An historic walled garden with a café, self-catering accommodation and a fishery, Gill plans to develop the offer for visitors, developing a unique events programme as well as working to preserve and enhance the natural environment.

HARRY MCLAREN

JILL DOUGLAS

Harry McLaren is an award-winning computer security and forensics industry leader. Currently working for Tesco as their Head of Cybersecurity Engineering, where he manages three engineering teams, Harry previously worked for Adarma, helping different enterprises with their security operations.

Jill Douglas is a renowned sports broadcaster and a champion for Motor Neurone Disease (MND), who was awarded an MBE for services to sport and charity in 2022.

Excellence Award winner

“My consultancy role at Adarma was really successful,” he explains, “and I was tasked with building an enablement programme to scale supply and meet customer demand. I trained up talented new graduates, growing four consultants to 47, and about half of them were from Edinburgh Napier!” In 2022 Harry joined SenseOn as Director of Product before moving to Tesco in 2024.

His commitment and dedication has been recognised through various awards including, ‘Best New Cyber Talent’ (Scottish Cyber Awards 2016), and ‘2018 Security Professional Under 30’ (Security Excellence Awards). Harry co-founded Cyber Scotland Connect, designed to bring information security professionals, enthusiasts and students together across Scotland.

He was awarded ‘Cyber Evangelist of the Year’ (Scottish Cyber Awards 2018) for this work to help diversify, unify and encourage a thriving Scottish security community.

Excellence Award winner

“I started in news journalism before I worked in TV, and I was a sub-editor before becoming a reporter and presenter,” she explains. When Jill was approached by BBC Scotland to screentest as their rugby presenter, she didn’t expect to get the role. “It was a big decision to move away from news and become a dedicated sports journalist and broadcaster.” It also made her the first female presenter of the BBC’s Rugby Special. Since then, she has consistently covered major sporting events including rugby, cycling, and the Olympics.

Until recently, Jill was CEO of MND charity, My Name’5 Doddie Foundation. “Doddie Weir was one of rugby’s most recognisable personalities, and a great friend; his MND diagnosis was a terrible shock. Through the Foundation we wanted to raise funds to improve the lives of those affected by the disease and support research to better understand it. We’ve since raised millions, providing grants to individuals with MND and investing more than £18 million in research.” Jill is still actively involved as a patron of the charity.

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POWERING THE CYBER SECURITY WORKFORCE: HOW EDINBURGH NAPIER FOSTERS TOP TALENT In our digitalised world, cyber security is of paramount importance. As cyber attacks become increasingly complex and unpredictable, threatening the devices and services we all use, talent is the industry’s main defence, but currently there is a worldwide shortage of qualified professionals.

Associate Professor Rich Macfarlane has played a significant role in the development of the University’s cyber security offer over the past 15 years: “Attracting, training and retraining cyber security professionals is key to helping organisations and society stay safe online and essential to plugging the huge global skills gap. Here at Edinburgh Napier, we have been developing an impactful infrastructure to help develop the talent needed to tackle the growing threat environment.”

Associate Professor Rich Macfarlane

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A recognised Academic Centre of Excellence in Cyber Security Education (ACE-CSE), Edinburgh Napier was the first university in the UK to have full National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) certification for its undergraduate and postgraduate courses. “Our graduates are some of the best around and make a major contribution to the cyber security workforce,” explains Rich, who is codirector of the ACE-CSE. “In addition, spin-outs from our world-leading research make a significant contribution to real world challenges.”

Edinburgh Napier cyber security students in one of our specialist cyber labs

Pioneering industry-relevant cyber education Students join Edinburgh Napier’s cyber security courses from diverse backgrounds; some come straight from school or college onto the undergraduate degree, while those in industry use the Masters programme to upskill and crosstrain. “Our education offer is completely relevant to the evolving environment,” Rich explains. “Since establishing our pioneering cyber security master’s in 2010, we’ve continually developed it through input from government, industry and research.”

“Studying the masters was a really important foundation for my career in threat intelligence and instrumental to my first role in cybersecurity,” Rafe comments. “My work has encompassed a range of roles from security operations to securing financial services, to cyber threat group modelling.

Now I manage a specialised global team producing intelligence on cybercrime and state-sponsored hackers.”

As an industry expert and specialist in offensive cyber operations, Rafe is regularly asked to advise businesses and provide insights for news stories, as well as speak at industry and academic events.

For example, alumnus Rafe Pilling, who graduated from the masters programme in 2006, has fed real-world experience into the creation of the cyber modules for both the undergraduate and postgraduate programmes via his roles as an analyst and researcher – firstly at dns Ltd, a security services and consulting business serving clients across the UK, and then at Secureworks, a leading global information security company, which acquired dns. Currently, Rafe is Director of Threat Intelligence within the Counter Threat Unit at Secureworks.

“Rafe continues to input into course content, as well as mentoring and giving talks to our students,” comments Rich. “Secureworks also sponsored and contributed to many events, including our student security society (ENUSEC) Le Tour de Hack annual conference. It’s so important to have this kind of engagement from alumni who are working at the highest levels. It is super inspiring for our students to learn from people like Rafe, whose work is sometimes so confidential and top secret he can’t tell us the details!”

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Supporting law enforcement

Developing top talent

As Head of Cybercrime and Investigations, former Police Scotland DI, alumnus Eamonn Keane, served on the frontline of forensic investigation into many national and international digital crimes. He graduated from the Masters programme in 2021. “Police Scotland supported staff to study the programme through places funded by the government and NCSC,” Eamonn explains. “Focused on key skills and real-world tools and techniques, this was exactly what we needed. I was delighted that the cohort from Police Scotland I was part of all went on to important roles in cyber security using their skills in the fight against child sexual abuse, human trafficking, organised cybercrime and so much more.

And Police Scotland continues to recruit graduates from the programme.”

Alumnus Charley Célice, a double degree holder from Edinburgh Napier, is currently a Senior Solutions Architect for Pentera, a company pioneering automated security validation. Charley won Edinburgh Napier’s Student of the Year in 2015 and was a Silver Medalist in the Best New Cyber Talent at the 2016 Scottish Enterprise and Scottish Business Resilience Centre awards. Most recently, he’s received the XL Excellence Award at Pentera.

Eamonn left the police force to join the Scottish Business Resilience Centre, leading its cyber security workstream.

Now at Systal Technology Solutions, he is currently VP of Security Services. A tireless champion of the Scottish cyber community, acknowledged through a lifetime achievement award at the 2022 Scottish Cyber Awards, he continues to inspire the next generation of talent at Edinburgh Napier through his guest lectures, schools outreach support, and other engagement activities.

“Work with Police Scotland, and industry partners, led to the development of pioneering virtual teaching and training environments, which provide practical activities for students using real-world devices, tools and techniques,” adds Rich.

“And collaboration with Police Scotland on forensic triage led to several applied research projects and PhD’s, including our Cyacomb spin-out.”

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“During my Honours studies I had the opportunity to collaborate with Police Scotland around digital forensics triage methods, which was so interesting. Then through my Masters I was inspired by penetration testing (simulating a real cyberattack to exploit a system’s undetected vulnerabilities). I went on to roles in industry focused on pentesting and red teaming, and now work for a leading company sharing an attacker mindset and knowledge, and advising customers,” Charley explains.

Charley was instrumental in setting up ENUSEC, the University’s student security society: “The aim was to build a vibrant internal society genuinely connected to the realworld cyber community. I’m delighted that it continues to foster project collaborations that really enhance the student learning experience.” Charley has continued to support the degree programmes, inputting ideas for the curriculum aligned to real-world methods, and by delivering industryinformed workshops and sessions for students. “Charley is a great example of how we develop top talent and how maintaining relationships with our alumni informs what we do,” comments Rich.

Building global careers “Our world-class cyber security courses cover a wide range of industry-informed security and forensic topics, alongside the latest research work, which equips our graduates with the skills to enter a diversity of cyber roles and to seek global positions,” explains Rich.

Alumnus, Aisling Freeman is a Manager at S-RM, a global intelligence and cyber security consultancy, and is based in their New York office. “Without doubt this programme opened doors to opportunities I wouldn’t have had otherwise,” she comments. “It shaped my understanding, particularly from a technical perspective, and gave me the knowledge to navigate complex technical challenges.

Now, I apply that understanding to help my clients and really enjoy the problem-solving aspect of cyber security – every challenge is unique and finding solutions that help organisations is incredibly rewarding.”

Innovating solutions through world-leading applied research Edinburgh Napier has been a leading hub for applied research in cyber security for well over a decade. “We’ve spun out a number of high-profile companies from our research, including ZoneFox, Cyacomb, and TrueDeploy, with several being led by alumni,” explains Rich.

Transformative student experiences Alumnus Shalu Madan is a Cybersecurity Engineer at banking giant Lloyds. “Studying the undergraduate programme was transformative. It’s one of Scotland’s best and has well prepared me for a thriving career in cyber security,” she comments. “It’s so good to put all the knowledge I gained to use in my current role. I contribute to the bank’s security strategy and work to improve controls to address emerging threats as we embed security into digital transformation.”

While studying at Edinburgh Napier, Shalu also took on roles as a student ambassador and lab demonstrator to broaden her learning experience: “I felt the supportive faculty was integral to my growth and I enjoyed helping other students to succeed,” she comments. Shalu won ‘Outstanding Contribution from a University Student’ at the 2024 Herald Higher Education Awards and ‘Career Changer of the Year’ at the Scottish Women in Technology awards, in recognition of her transformative journey.

Cyacomb was spun out from a PhD research project led by alumnus Phil Penrose, who was in the first cohort of the Masters programme. Alumnus Bruce Ramsay, a former police forensic analyst and key contributor to the research project, along with Ian Stevenson, spearheaded the company.

“Underpinning Cyacomb is our cutting-edge block level hashing technology which quickly finds, blocks and removes illegal images and video. It can scan devices up to 100 times faster than traditional methods and is used across the world to find evidence of child abuse or terrorist activity on suspect’s devices,” Bruce explains.

“In the UK, it has made considerable impact in law enforcement by supporting officers to identify material efficiently and rapidly progress investigations,” Bruce adds.

The Government’s Child Abuse Image Database (CAID) was upgraded with Cyacomb’s fast forensic triage technology in 2019. “We’ve recently received a further contract to continue our support of CAID,” Bruce explains, “which will ensure that UK policing remains at the forefront of the fight against child sexual abuse material and sees Cyacomb playing a major role in online safety.”

ALUMNI MAKING A DIFFERENCE “It’s fantastic receiving positive comments on how studying with us helped our alumni to progress in the cyber security field,” comments Rich. “It’s also brilliant how many keep in touch via our diverse and dynamic cyber security community and actively feedback to help us develop our teaching, research and outreach. I believe this is a critical aspect of the success of cyber security education and research at the University.”

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DYNAMIC LEARNING EXPERIENCES: IGNITING CURIOSITY AND FOSTERING EXCELLENCE At Edinburgh Napier we prepare students for future success through opportunities to examine and engage with real-world problems.

Dynamic learning experiences provide our students with a more profound understanding of the practical applications of the concepts they are studying, helping them to become better prepared for the challenges of the professions they will enter.

Contributing to a world-first green construction project A unique collaborative learning experience saw thirteen students from Edinburgh Napier’s Department of Built Environment embark on a world-first bio-based construction project. “This project was a real eye-opener for me; not just in terms of the construction techniques but also the experience of the rich cultural tapestry that influences the built environment. It expanded my view of the world,” comments Moses Okon Nseabasi, who acted as the construction project manager during the build of the innovative bamboo-timber composite grid-shell structure.

Supported by the Turing Scheme UK, the project involved the students in a month-long placement in China, working alongside their peers from Guangxi University of Science and Technology and Inner Mongolia University of Science and Technology. Professor of Structural Engineering, Johnson Zhang, who led the project, is a leading researcher pioneering innovative bamboo-timber composite structures for buildings. “Actively involving students in new construction technologies like this is inspirational, sparking curiosity and motivation about greener built environments,” he explains.

For Moses the experience had a direct impact on his employability in a competitive job market: 26 /

Engaging in real world challenges set by our alumni The ENList programme in our Business School is an exciting way that the University’s alumni can provide stimulating ‘live project’ learning opportunities for current students. Alumnus, Diana Cichy, Managing Director of CICHE International Trade & Investment, took up the opportunity to progress a crucial market research project. “My company is an international consultative organisation based in Hong Kong that assists SMEs achieve global expansion. We were looking to expand into Germany and needed to evaluate the potential of this new market,” she explains.

This real-world challenge was taken on by a group of third year Business School students who worked to produce a detailed market research report analysing the potential for expansion. “I really enjoyed working with the students,” Diana commented. “The research they undertook was detailed, focused on the cement

“The skills I honed helped me secure a full-time job in Scotland shortly afterwards.” Project participant, Zara Rafiq, a Masters student at the time, commented: “It ignited a passion for international collaboration, cross-cultural exchange, and innovative research that has undoubtedly shaped my professional pursuits.

My horizons were broadened in ways I could never have imagined!”

Professor Zhang subsequently brought a team of 31 students from Hong Kong’s Technological and Higher Education Institute to the Merchiston campus to build another grid shell. “This constituted a European first,” he explains, “and possibly a record-breaking time for a complex build; we completed it in just four days.”

market, and looked at the competitive landscape, legal requirements, opportunities for growth, and cultural context for our proposed expansion. The resultant report was highly professional.” Having greatly enjoyed the experience, Diana has since become an alumni champion for Edinburgh Napier in Dubai and continues to engage with the Business School.

Diana Cichy, Managing Director of CICHE International Trade & Investment

Publishing a prestigious book to celebrate a global first A dynamic project involving students on Edinburgh Napier’s Publishing Masters, saw them publish a commemorative publication to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Edinburgh’s designation as the world’s first UNESCO City of Literature.

“This project was a unique and highly stimulating challenge, which opened up a range of real-world experiences and networks for our students,” explains Avril Gray, Associate Professor in Publishing and publisher at the university’s imprint, Merchiston Publishing. “Working with the words of founders, Trustees and managers of Edinburgh City of Literature, as well as liaising with authors, literary organisations, and the Super Power Agency (a Scottish literacy charity focused on young people), the students operated as a professional editorial, production and marketing team, driving all aspects of delivery of this significant publication.”

“Working on this project has been such a rewarding experience from start to finish. What has truly stood out is the collaboration involved: it has been incredible to see how each team has collated their efforts to produce this historic book. It has been an incredible project to be part of,” comments MSc Publishing student Lucy McNaughton.

Edinburgh Napier’s postgraduate Publishing programme is highly regarded for its learning experiences, which are considered examples of best practice in education. This project created a limited-edition publication that will be presented to Cities of Literature across the world.

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THE HUB FOR SUCCESS The award-winning collaborative partnership helping care-experienced people into further and higher education The HUB for SUCCESS was developed in recognition that students who are care-experienced often deal with complex life challenges that can make it much harder for them to get in, stay in, or return to college or university.

“Care-experienced people tell us that accessing higher education isn’t a simple process for them, and that when they have entered university, they can find it difficult to stay and achieve their goals,” explains Lorraine Moore, Manager of the HUB, who is care-experienced herself. “Traditional widening participation programmes have not been reaching them effectively, but the HUB is proving to be a game changer.”

Lorraine Moore, Manager, at The Hub for Scuccess.

A powerful partnership

A model that works

The HUB is a multi-partnership between the City of Edinburgh Council and eight universities and colleges in the city and surrounding areas. Edinburgh Napier hosts the HUB and was a key driver in its creation, with research conducted by the University underpinning the concept. “It was clear that a one-stop-shop was needed, unrelated to any particular institution or organisation, to make it truly impartial and gain learners’ trust,” Lorraine explains.

Without family support, care-experienced students can experience greater isolation and loneliness and struggle more financially. “The HUB ethos is: ‘We believe in you, we’ll do all we can to support you, and if things don’t go to plan, we’ll help you to get back on track’ through tailored, bespoke support that makes a real difference,” explains Lorraine.

A recent evaluation of the HUB concluded it is achieving wide-ranging impacts for care experienced learners, partner stakeholders, and broader policy and practice. Of the students it has supported in its first five years, 43% got into further or higher education – a significantly higher percentage than the national average for care experienced learners.

“The HUB helped me with a range of practical, emotional, and relationship-based support, and gave me the courage to believe that I could study for a degree,” comments Alistair Stewart, a care-experienced Student Ambassador for the HUB, who recently graduated from Edinburgh Napier with a first in International Festival and Events Management.

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The partnership model of the HUB sees all partners being supported to work collaboratively and holistically with their care-experienced students. Acting together, as a co-ordinated voice, they also champion continuous improvement of local practice and policy development: “We work to ensure that the educational rights and challenges of those who are care-experienced are heard effectively,” Lorraine comments.

Recognition that this innovative model is transforming lives came via the Group Widening Access Award at The Herald Higher Education Awards as the HUB marked its fifth anniversary in 2024.

GIVING BACK

A growing need for support While the HUB partners help to fund its work, it is reliant on philanthropic support for aspects of its impactful work, such as the school intervention and Student Ambassador programmes.

It also needs donations to fund its expansion and boost the numbers of care-leavers moving on to college and university.

“I supported the HUB because I am inspired by its mission to support those from care-experienced backgrounds to pursue education as a pathway to building an independent future,” comments donor June Boyle, who was Edinburgh Napier’s former Chair of Court. “The impact of the HUB is significant; I want to see it scale across Scotland so more care-experienced young people can realise their academic aspirations and truly flourish. I couldn’t imagine supporting a better cause.”

The Student Ambassador programme At any one time there are between 18-24 active Student Ambassadors, all of whom are care experienced themselves and who have used the HUB to support their own educational journey.

“The Student Ambassador programme has been fundamental to scaling the reach of HUB support across the Edinburgh region,” explains Lorraine.

Trained and supported to fulfil their roles, Student Ambassadors are paid the Living Wage for the hours that they work. “This means they can reduce any part-time work they may have undertaken to financially make ends meet. It also recognises the crucial work they do, which as advocates for change, sees them engage with senior-level decision makers, speak at meetings and events, and get involved as members of working groups, all of which helps important projects to progress.”

Donors also provide crucial support by funding bursaries, scholarships, or grants targeted at specific cost of living challenges, which the HUB directs to care-experienced students. “Many of us have benefited over the years from the support of family and friends. We supported the HUB because we wanted to help young people who have not had the same advantages,” commented a recent donor.

The right support, in the right way, at the right time: can you help the HUB to do more?

Supporters of all sizes can make a difference, whether by supporting care-experienced students directly, or by helping the programme to grow over the next five years.

Contact development@napier.ac.uk to find out more.

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Five minutes with...

Dr Suha Jaradat, Associate Professor of Architectural Technology Dr Suha Jaradat leads the development of postgraduate, undergraduate and graduate apprenticeship programmes across a range of design and built environment disciplines. In 2024 she was shortlisted for the Times Higher Education (THE) ‘Most Innovative Teacher of the Year’ award. Strategic positions have included Head of Construction and co-Lead of the Centre for Mind, Creativity and Environment research.

When did you join Edinburgh Napier and what were your aspirations?

I joined in 2018 and aspired to lead the architectural technology programmes, enhance student experience and develop my career as a researcher, educator and leader.

What’s the best part of your job?

All of it! Engaging with research related to architecture and design; leadership and management; creating exceptional learning activities; interactions with external partners; and supporting and empowering students and colleagues.

Tell us a little about revolutionising academic practices through your innovative teaching and leadership in curriculum development.

Why does promoting diversity in construction matter to you?

I have first-hand experience of how challenging the construction industry can be. Also when I moved to Edinburgh I became a minority in more ways than one, unable to practice as an ‘architect’ in the UK with my Jordanian qualification. Starting at the University I found the Construction group was not diverse; I’ve worked to successfully recruit more staff from black and ethnic minorities and improve gender equality.

What are you watching?

‘Race across the World’ is a favourite TV show as I like competitions, travelling, exploring new places, architecture, and culture.

What are you listening to?

I really enjoy Fairuz, who is an iconic Lebanese singer and one of the most celebrated in the Arab world; also ‘Wake up and Win’ on the radio while I’m driving to work.

What would you like to learn?

New languages, including sign language which I find fascinating.

What do you wish you were better at?

Playing musical instruments such as the piano.

I am passionate about developing work-based, experiential learning and creating strong links with industry to prepare students for the workplace. I drove the internationalising of the curricula and have promoted interdisciplinary practices in teaching and research to support the student experience.

In space. ‘Suha’ is the name of a star in Arabic, so that’s where I belong!

Could you explain a little about pioneering the UK’s first work-based learning Graduate Apprenticeship programme in Architectural Technology.

When I first applied to university in Jordan, I didn’t even consider engineering, until my uncle, an engineer, convinced me to do so. I chose architectural engineering without knowing what it involved!

This has been a particular highlight of my career. It was the first of its kind to be accredited by the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT). The programme has enhanced employability and attracted a diverse student body, with over 30% being female students and 60% mature students. For me, it’s about creating more diverse and inclusive educational opportunities and facilitating access to higher education.

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If you could be anywhere, where would you like to be?

Tell us a surprising fact about yourself.

ENU Alumni Network

180+ Countries

Our network is you!

186,000

Thank you...

For keeping connected More than 700 of you attended alumni events or programme celebrations, class reunions, business networking events, and alumni receptions across the globe to keep connected with classmates, the University and to build your networks.

For volunteering Over 300 of you have volunteered to support the University through activities, events, and shared opportunities.

• By inspiring our students and fellow alumni So many of you have provided inspiration by sharing your experiences, career journeys, and the impact Edinburgh Napier has had on your life. Lots of you have spoken to students to share industry expertise or career advice.

• By offering opportunities

You have offered placement opportunities and internships to our students and hired Edinburgh Napier talent to fill a job opportunity.

• By being our champions

Over 30 alumni champions in 20 countries extend our Edinburgh Napier Alumni Network around the globe.

For being part of our entrepreneurial community Over 600 alumni and friends have registered with Bright Red Triangle (BRT) the University’s hub for enterprise to access free lifelong enterprise support such as business advice, mentoring, resources and more.

Find out more about getting involved napier.ac.uk/alumni The Alumni Team is here for you

Here to help and support you on your journey.

Get in touch!

Home of difference makers

Connect with us napier.ac.uk/alumni alumni@napier.ac.uk

@EdNapierAlumni 32 / Red Triangle 2023