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Issue 09| May 2014
! contribute.soas.spirit@gmail.com R ! A ! ! E E Y U Editor change SS N E X T I 4 over letters ’1 R / E 3 1 0 AP 7 2 P L FINA E T T E R PA G E B Y L A P S P U A E A summer plan AK
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News
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for London and Europe
Women in the spotlight!
Opinion
Social
Marking boycott postponed
Staff accept 2% pay offer
Tom King, BA Politics
Academics‟ union UCU has announced a planned marking boycott has been called off after staff overwhelmingly voted to accept an improved offer from employers. UCEA, which represents university managements nationally, had previously offered a pay rise of 1% but has now increased this to 2% along with action to bring all workers‟ pay to at least the living wage. In a consultative ballot of UCU members, 83.7% voted in favour of accepting the new deal and ending the current dispute. Negotiations on the pay deal were reopened after UCU and other staff unions took several days‟ strike action over this academic year and threatened to boycott marking exam scripts and essays which was originally intended to begin on 28th April. UCU leader Sally Hunt said
“UCU members have made it overwhelmingly clear that they wish to accept the 2% pay offer and call off the proposed marking boycott.” UCEA had said this is employ-
The unionshave pointed out that staff have seen their wages cut by 13% in real terms since 2008.
ers‟ “full and final” offer and claim it is in excess of current cost-of-living rises. The unions, however, have pointed out that staff have seen their wages cut by 13% in real terms since 2008. Academics were due to cease marking essays and
exams from 28th April if a deal could not be done in the on-going pay dispute. A spokesperson for UNISON, which represents university support staff, said “"This offer represents a significant shift from recent offers by the higher education employers.” Trade unions claim university staff have a seen their pay cut by 13% in real terms since 2008 and that the employers‟ offer of 1% did not meet the current cost of living increases. They have also pointed out that, while staff have been offered a below inflation rise, university vice-chancellors have had an average pay increase of 5.5%. SOAS Students‟ Union had ensured that a graduation ceremony for final year students would go ahead as planned even if results were delayed due to a marking boycott. ♦
SOAS Spirit Journalist Award Mohammad Tahboub, BA Politics
This inaugural award is to be awarded to a member of the SOAS Spirit team that has dedicated and sacrificed time and effort in order to produce the published edition of our paper. This year, the award for the academic year 2013/14 will be given to Jess, the SOAS Spirit Chief Subeditor and Designer. A student of
Arabic and is due to study abroad next year, Jess been part of the SOAS Spirit team since January 2013 and has shown immense commitment and teamwork leading a team of 4 designers this year. The prestigious award which is the first Journalism award in SOAS's history will be presented to Jess by Professor
Paul Webley on the 22nd of May.♦
Could you be next year's journalist of the year? Apply to join our 2014-15 team by sending us an email to apply.soas.spirit@gmail.com
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Feigned Freedom in South Africa?
Exam stress busters!
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Beyond SOAS
Sports
VICTORY: Cleaners make step closer to equality Tom King, BA Politics
Cleaners employed at SOAS have won a victory in their campaign for improved conditions after taking strike action last term. A meeting of cleaners agreed to accept the offer which will give them access to a more generous pension scheme, up to seven days extra paid holiday and sick pay from the beginning of their employment. The new deal brings cleaners closer to their demand of equal conditions to staff directly employed by the School. The Justice for Cleaners campaign and campus staff union UNISON have been fighting for SOAS to end its practice of outsourcing cleaners to the private company ISS, which employs workers with less favourable sick pay, holiday pay and pension entitlements. Last term, cleaners took a total of four days' strike action after SOAS and ISS had refused to engage with their demands for several years. The strike action caused significant disruption to the School's operations with management padlocking the JCR and being forced to close the library early. UNISON branch secretary Sandy Nicol said “We moved ISS from claiming there would be no offer to an offer that goes some way to meeting the demands of our cleaners.” “It was only as a consequence of their fantastic fighting spirit
and organisation. But it still leaves them far short of the equality that my branch believes that they are entitled to.” He added that the campaign would continue until cleaners were treated like every other SOAS worker. The Justice for Cleaners campaign had previously won the living wage for all cleaners but has since struggled to have its demands to be employed directly by SOAS to be considered seriously. Last year, the School's governing body reviewed the outsourcing arrangements for cleaning staff, and it is believed they favour establishing a 'shared services co-operative' with other Bloomsbury colleges as a cheaper alternative to the current outsourcing. However, the campaign has insisted such a 'co-operative' would not guarantee the equal conditions which it was pursuing. A UNISON spokesperson Donna Rowe-Merriman said "I believe that this sends a message to the higher education sector looking to privatise areas such as cleaning services. "UNISON will campaign for the rights of its members who have been outsourced to private companies by universities. "We do not believe that workers who are privatised should have any worse terms and conditions than those working at the same university."♦
The SOAS Spirit | May 2014
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SOAS
News The SOAS Spirit
Editorial Team Editor in chief: Mohammad Tahboub soas.spirit.editor@gmail.com Deputy and News editor: Tom King soas.spirit.newsdesk@gmail.com Sports editor: James Appleby soasspiritsport@gmail.com General secretary: Imogen Edwards soas.spirit.secretary@gmail.com Features editors: Cristiana Moisescu (298583@soas.ac.uk) Dorina Heller (dorina.heller@gmx.at) Opinions editor: Mohammad Tahboub soas.spirit.opinions@gmail.com Contributions editor: Sofia Couceiro contribute.soas.spirit@gmail.com Global Spirit editor: Andrew Thomson global.spirit.editor@gmail.com Chief copy-editor: Evelyn Richardson soas.spirit.copy@gmail.com Chief sub-editor and Designer: Jess Williamson design.soas.spirit@gmail.com Chief Photography editor: Iselin Shaw (iselinshaw@gmail.com) Chief website editors: Kush Depala (kushdepala@hotmail.com) Head Fact Checker: Ali Al-Jamri (593494@soas.ac.uk) Copy-editors: Evelyn Richardson, Ali al-Jamri, Laura Maclean, Kiana Arnott-Job, Ecre Karadag, Noorzadeh Salman Raja Sub-editors: Jess Williamson, Kate Auchterlonie, Marta Strzyga, Jingzhi Zhang Photographers: Iselin Shaw of Tordarroch, Duygu Pir
Letters from the Editors Dear readers, It's my pleasure to present to you the SOAS Spirit Summer issue, Issue 9. This is the last issue that I've had the privilege of editing and I wish Tom King, the new editor-in-chief, the best of luck as he takes over this immense responsibility. I have played my part and done what I could in building up this paper and it is time for future editors such as Tom to build on the foundations we‟ve established. I will be moving into my third year upon our return in September and I hope to still contribute within SOAS as much as I can. It has been two very long years within which, as a paper, we faced many challenges as we endeavoured to become a staple within SOAS society. I‟m sure the challenges will continue but I‟m confident that as the SOAS student body become more involved, the paper will also evolve into a true reflection of the diversity of SOAS. The SOAS Spirit would have never re-launched if it hadn‟t been for last year's co-president Harrison Lanigan-Coyte and his fellow SU colleagues that envisaged creating a union newspaper which would continue for many years. It was last year's SU which voted and handed me this job and I will be eternally grateful. SOAS and its SU have been extremely open and nowhere else could I have imagined that as an Arab Muslim and first year international student I would be given this splendid opportunity. Thank you for putting your faith in me and I hope that I achieved what was expected of me by the SOAS student body. I ask that you treat Tom with the same kindness. We achieved a landmark success with Tom's election and we hope that paper media at SOAS will run democratically. The transition between one editor to another, we hope, will run smoothly and to written rules. Though our SOAS Spirit constitution still has minor flaws, we have ensured that the paper does not entirely depend on the editor. All of this newspaper's achievements over the past two years came due to immense teamwork. Behind every issue printed there were over 40 students involved in the process. Without the great SOAS Spirit family, none of this would have been achieved. I am sorry that many of you had to bear witness to our conflict with the SU this year; it resulted because we believed in being an SU newspaper and not an exclusive society and I hope you will continue supporting our aims. I still remember the day we published our first issue, Issue 0. It was SOAS students that were most excited and with their encouragement, they motivated our team to continue the rough road to a stable newspaper. I urge all future editors to continue working on the principle of inclusiveness and accountability. I still believe in what I said in the first issue. 'We are all 'The SOAS Spirit' family, we all embody the SOAS spirit, the ideal that no matter who you are, no matter what your beliefs and opinions are, you are accepted in this loving friendly society; no one is neglected. We want our newspaper to be exactly like this, everyone is free to write, to dream to hope through us; no one is left out.‟ Yours sincerely, Mohammad G. Tahboub Editor-in-Chief
Dear readers, Over the next year, I'm committed to building a paper which reflects the active, critical and diverse spirit of our unique community. To do so we rely on an amazing team of writers, editors, photographers, copy editors and sub editors. I invite all students to apply to become part of our team. The roles available are as diverse as with any paper; from writing our front-page story to helping design the paper's layout. Most roles require no previous experience; just a flair for journalism and a willingness to get involved. We're looking for budding student journalists, photographers, copy- and sub-editors that are as passionate as we are about putting together an outstanding newspaper which keeps our community informed about the most pressing issues. I look forward to receiving your applications and working with you next year. Thank you, Tom King
SOAS Spirit Editor, 2014-15
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The SOAS Spirit | May 2014
SOAS
News Fractionals for Fair Play Rift between UNISON and University of London workers widens Marta Pacini, BA Development Studies and Politics
What it‟s all about
The „Fractionals For Fair Play‟ campaign groups Graduate Teaching Assistants, Teaching Fellows and Senior Teaching Fellows at SOAS. It was officially launched on 6 March with a meeting in the Staff Common Room in which the results of a school-wide fractionals‟ survey were announced. According to this survey, fractional teaching contracts only account for half the hours needed for the job, meaning that at least 50% of the work performed
for all. The fractionals have recently embarked upon an assessment boycott, which means that they will refrain from marking students‟ essays until their dispute has been settled. At least one department head has already caused some controversy among the students by asking core staff to complete the marking in the place of the fractional staff.♦
by fractionals – such as marking assignments and attending lectures – is unpaid. One of the key claims of the campaign is that fractionals‟ pay in real terms is well below the London living wage. The campaign therefore demands for fractionals to be paid for all the hours they work, to be paid a salary that reflects their qualification, experience and education, to have secure, fair and transparent contracts and to have equal working conditions
Language Landscape Postgraduates‟ Promotion of Language Diversity Harriet Freeman, BSc Development Economic Late last month a group of SOAS post- guages through online voice recordings, graduates from the not-for-profit London- Language Landscape hopes to „raise the based organisation Language Landscapes profile of minority and endangered lanlaunched their interactive website cele- guages‟ whilst creating a platform to brating language diverconnect rare language speakers. Language Landscape Language Landscape conducted sity. Language Landscape, has been created and video interviews with young evolving from a 2011 students who participated in SOAS project „London‟s nurtured by a their programmes, demonstratLanguage Landscape‟, collection of SOAS MA ing that the focus of their enhas been created and deavours was to also allow nonand PhD Linguistic nurtured by a collection UK students see the value of of SOAS MA and PhD students. their mother-tongue in the Linguistic students. For workplace. One primary Bow instance, Charlotte Hemmings is one of School student tells us, „what I learned the co-directors with an MA in Language was that you should be proud about your Documentation and Description- a qualifi- language. When you pick up a language, cation fellow make sure you remember it, teach it to Language Landscape c o - d i r e c t o r your kids and keep it safe.‟ Samantha Praised by Professor Paul Webly, Dihopes to „raise the Goodchild is rector of SOAS, Language Landscape has profile of minority and w o r k i n g been supported by the Alumni Fund as - well as the UnLtd and HEFCE HEI Initiendangered languages‟ towards and is cur- ative/SOAS Student Enterprise Fund. rently studying the Kelabit language for The organisation is currently formulating her PhD research. Ebany Dohle is also on innovative ideas to shape the design of the board, finishing a PhD in Linguistics. future plans (e.g. uploading explanatory Their team runs outreach programmes in „how to‟ videos for web-users).♦ schools and community centres (most recently in Bow School, East London) as Get involved: Language Landscape‟s team well as the web-based map. These activi- are currently offering volunteering placeties have been driven by common goals, ments in their outreach programme, based upon increasing societies‟ welcoming any keen SOAS students. knowledge of the language-range within Alternatively, visit the website and make national boarders. By visually demon- a language recording: languagelandstrating the profusion of spoken lan- scape.org
Accusations of undemocratic actions, collusion with university management and racism
Philippa Wilkinson, MA Near and Middle Eastern Studies A Guardian article published last campaign and undertaking secret month has highlighted the bitter rela- negotiations to the disadvantage of tionship between the powerful union outsourced workers. This prompted a UNISON and organisers of the 3cosas group of union members to break campaign demanding sick pay, holi- away and form the IWGB a year ago, days and pensions for who fully supported the outsourced workers at UNISON officials actively 3cosas campaign. the University of LonHowever, the SOAS don. The article, based undermined 3cosas branch of UNISON is on documents stolen campaign separate from the from Senate House by Senate House branch, student protestors, reveals the actions and their relations with outsourced UNISON officials took in collusion workers involved in the Justice for with university management attempt- SOAS Cleaners campaign have been ing to thwart 3cosas demands for “extremely supbetter conditions. It also accuses portive” during UNISON of institutional racism over the frequent in- UNISON‟s its handling of the issue, as the major- dustrial action, actions “would ity of outsourced workers are Hispan- according to the make Stalin ic. IWGB. In response to the article, a repreMeanwhile the proud” sentative of the IWGB (Independent college claims that Workers of Great Britain), an unrecog- outsourcing has always provided good nised union that represents a large quality, stating that “the [Outsourced proportion of the lowest paid out- Working] Group recommended that sourced workers, attacked UNISON as SOAS explore a shared services model “disdainfully hypocritical” and “would which would improve terms and condimake Stalin proud” for taking credit tions for staff on outsourced contracts for gains made by the 3cosas cam- and the School is actively currently paign. In fact, they claim, the Guardi- exploring this with partner colleges.” an article underplays UNISON offi- The change in the structure of outcials‟ active attempts to undermine sourcing could put SOAS cleaners at these efforts, including using undemo- the mercy of cutthroat union politics cratic measures to block votes that at the University of London.♦ would have allocated funding to the
APPLY TO JOIN THE SOAS SPIRIT TEAM TODAY!!! Work as a Designer, Editor or Writer EMAIL: soas.spirit.editor@gmail.com
The SOAS Spirit | May 2014
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London
News
North Korean officials quiz hairdresser over Kim poster Tom King, BA Politics A west London hairdressers has become the unlikely source of rancour for North Korean officials. M&M Hair Academy in South Ealing has used a 1 metre by 1.2 metre image of supreme leader Kim Jong Un to advertise a special offer on men‟s hair cuts. Following the appearance of the window sign, two men, believed to be North Korean officials, visited the salon and quizzed its owner. The North Korean embassy is just a 10minute walk away in a semi-
detached house in Gunnersbury. The Metropolitan Police confirmed that the North Korean embassy had contacted them and said “we are in liaison with them. Officers spoke to all parties. No offences have been disclosed.” Karim Nabbach, the owner‟s son who designed the poster promoting the 15% discount, said "It was a very large, in-your-face poster, an ad campaign to bring clients in." He said he was prompted to use a photo of the supreme leader after media reports that the government in Pyongyang has insisted male
university students have their hair cut in the style of Kim. Despite widespread coverage, the story has not been confirmed and journalists based inside the country say they have not noticed a change in hairstyles. However, North Korea has previously instructed men to keep their hair to no longer than two inches. A spokesperson for the North Korean embassy said they were “not in a position” to comment about the salon poster.♦
Marshall Islanders sue nuclear-armed states Tom King, BA Politics The Marshall Islanders are set to sue the nine nuclear-armed states over their failure meet their legal obligations to disarm. The Islands, which were the site of a total of 67 nuclear weapons tests from 1946 to 1958, brought nine cases before the International Court of Justice at the Hague last week; claiming that the nuclear powers have failed to meet their obligation to
disarm under Article VI of the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. The cases involve the five nuclear states recognised under the 1968 treaty – Russia, China, US, UK and France – along with the three declared nuclear states of India, Pakistan and North Korea and the one undeclared; Israel. Under article VI, the nucleararmed states are required to pursue “negotiations in good faith on effective measures relating to cessation of the nuclear arms race
at an early date and to nuclear disarmament” and the Marshall Islands argue that “the long delay in fulfilling the obligations enshrined in article VI of the NPT constitutes a flagrant denial of human justice”. Israel, Pakistan, India and South Sudan are the only states not signed up to the NonProliferation Treaty; with North Korea withdrawing from it in 2003. The islanders claim they are justified in putting forward the cases because they are still suffering from the long term environmental and health damage of nuclear testing on the chain of Pacific islands. The court documents are critical of not only the continued stock piling of nuclear weapons but of countries such as the UK continuing to modernise their nuclear capabilities, which it portrays as a violation of the Treaty. The UK is currently in the process of renewing its Trident nuclear weapons system, despite the NonProliferation Treaty having been in place since 1970.
YOUR PAPER NEEDS YOU!! Enjoy highlighting grammatical bloopers in mainstream publications? Feel that the opinion of your student body needs a platform? Itching to get creative and involved in producing a printed paper?
WE want you! Your paper will face a design and editorial refurbish come September, and now is the time to pledge your interest. Get in touch and let us know how YOU could make a difference!
Soas.spirit.editor@google.com
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The SOAS Spirit | May 2014
SOAS Spirit
Join our teams!!! Application deadline: 14th of June To apply: Send an email to apply.soas.spirit@gmail.com Send a brief letter explaining why you're passionate about joining our team and any relevant experience you have along with a 200-300 word article on a subject you're interested in. Alumni and year abroad students can also join. News: Our newspaper works to hold the Students' Union, SOAS and those in power to account. This is your chance to investigate important issues and break news on both the SOAS and national level. Working as a news writer, you are asked to always be alert to news events, keep an open eye and always report stories small or large that affect our community. Features: This is our biggest section made up of a variety of articles and activities. Features writers cover the social life of students and the events, activities and campaigns that make SOAS such an exciting place to be as well as exploring issues effecting the global community which SOAS is part. Writers can also get the chance to explore London and cover the major events of our great city; signposting students to the best of the latest cinema releases, getting to review books before they've hit the shelves and letting people know about the best and worst London's restaurants have to offer. Sports: As a sports writer for the Spirit, you will be part of a team that seeks to showcase the successes of SOAS' competitive and noncompetitive sporting life, while engaging in the cultural and ethical issues that concern the wider sporting world. Our sports team will keep our community updated not only on the results of our own teams but provide insightful and investigative coverage of sport's global role.
Global Spirit: Are you going abroad next year? Global Spirit writers will be given the freedom to write news opinion and features articles for our insert which tracks year abroad students on their travels. The articles will be published in print and online. Writers should ideally have previous writing experience and an open mind about writing about a variety of different issues, which they will do from their region. Writers must be good communicators and punctual at answering emails and meeting publishing deadlines. Photography skills will be an asset! Copy editors: Copy editors will monitor the quality of articles written by our writers and will be required to ensure that all articles and the overall newspaper are in professional quality. Its not only about spell and grammar check but about making sure that we are always meeting the high ethical standards we set for ourselves. Sub-editors: Sub-editors with a keen eye for detail required to join our team of designers. Subeditors will edit articles for quality and layout the articles in the paper with suitable artwork and design features. Sub-editors will also engage in advertisement creation for advertising campaigns. Previous experience using Adobe Photoshop, Indesign or Illustrator desired but not mandatory as we have workshops to train your design skills. Must have good communication skills and be able and prepared to put in time, especially to ensure publishing deadlines are met. This is a great opportunity to develop your design skills in a publishing environment. No article is required as part of the application for these positions. Photographers: Having photographs to accompany our stories enriches the readers understanding of the issues at hand. We need a team of excellent photographers to work closely with our writers and editors to capture the perfect images to bring our paper to life. No article is required as part of the application for these positions; example photographs are desirable but not compulsory. ♌
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Opinions Fossil fuel divestment: how
Feigned Freedom in the new international boycott campaign makes moral, political the Rainbow Nation Sabeehah Motala, LLB Law
and economic sense It is important for SOAS to uphold its principles and values and to divest from fossil fuel companies taken up this cause; in February of this year, the Church of England announced that it was reviewing its own £8 billion investment portfolio, as members were arguing that continued support for the FF (fossil fuel) industry goes against the church‟s moral teachings. Some of the biggest impacts have been made in educational establishments, with student campaigns emerging at universities such as Oxford, Edinburgh and Harvard, as well as our very own fossil-free SOAS. Apart from the moral argument, there are other major reasons to push for divestment. As the market value of FF companies is linked to the resources they control, it relies on the idea that all these known stockpiles will be exploited at some point in the future. Most scientists agree that the vast majority of unused FF resources must remain untapped to avoid catastrophic climate change and, because of this, investors are seeing a potentially huge market crash. A major Norwegian pension fund, Storebrand, recently revealed it would be divesting from 19 fossil fuel firms, including coal and tar sands, because it argues that these stocks will be “worthless financially” in the future. The fossil free divestment campaigns will not bankrupt Exxon, BP or Shell. Rather, the point in these efforts is to take away the power and influence these organisations have over our society. The lack of affirmative action taken by governments has been due to the vested interests and the political clout of the FF lobby groups, and this must be addressed if any progress is to be made. The solutions these companies offer to the climate change crisis do not hold up to scrutiny, as they involve burning more carbon than would be safe to burn. Further exploitation of any fossil fuel resource can now only be described as irresponsible. The blame for this, not only rests with the companies and their employees, but also with anyone who politically or financially supports them. ♦
Rupert Wilkinson, BA African Studies and Swahili In the 1960s, an international protest movement emerged on university campuses calling for the divestment and economic boycott of apartheid South Africa. These efforts had no major economic impact until the 1980s, but the existence of the campaign was significant in raising international awareness and opposition to the actions of the apartheid regime. The eventual downfall of the S. African government is widely credited to its economic and political isolation from the international community. Today, one of the icons that Archbishop helped e n d Desmond Tutu is Apartheid, A r c h b i s h o p leading calls for a Desmond Tutu, new investment is leading calls boycott for a new investment boycott – aimed at the fossil fuel industry. Archbishop Tutu is not alone in this, a number of different organisations have emerged in recent years calling for universities, religious groups as well as state governments to divest from fossil fuel companies. These organisations see fossil fuel investment as a serious moral issue, one that threatens the lives and wellbeing of the entire world, not just those in the poorer regions of the global south. Already, many institutions have
Fossil Free: Boycott across educational institutions
Image: Britannica
20 years after South Africa's first free United Nations' latest crime report and fair elections, citizens of the rain- shows that South Africa's murder rate bow nation are still living with high has dropped to 31 per 100,000 people in rates of crime, poverty, unemployment 2012 from twice that in 1995. In 1994 and government dissatisfaction. This only 60% of people had access to clean year's election, on the 7th May, will drinking water, today 94% do. Even mark the first vote by the 'free' genera- though GDP Growth rate is fluctuating, tion, born after 27th April 1994. But it still remains far above the 1992 rate the general opinion within the nation is of -2.1%. The mining industry has inthat the New South Africa is just as creased from approximately R50 billion bad as the old one. in 1994 to almost R400 billion by 2013. A recent BBC documentary Reggie South Africa has a free and outspoken Yates' Extreme South Africa, showed press, unafraid of challenging the govimpoverished white township dwellers, ernment. Importantly, South Africans a new phenomenon. The Black Econom- have forgotten the fundamental basics ic Empowerment programme resulted – dignity, freedom and rights upheld by in a forgotten class of unemployed poor firm law, supported by the Constituwhites and 'Black Diamonds' – young tional Court. wealthy black businesspeoIn light of the upcoming elecple. The economic gap widens tions, the legendary ANC is and the majority of impover- only 12-15% of facing an outraged public. Howished persons remain of the 12-year olds ever, lack of credible opposition black race. For the poor, life means they are likely to be is still tough and their hope are voted in again. The left-wing in post-Apartheid changes is proficiently Economic Freedom Fighters, led waning. by ex-ANC Julius Malema is too literate The documentary also radical for South Africa: policies emphasised increasing viopropose nationalisation of lent crime. In Khayelitsha township, mines, equal distribution of wealth and there are up to 100 stabbings in a sin- eradication of white ownership. But a gle weekend – the number London seat in parliament will let them keep experiences in a year. Rape statistics the ANC on their toes. Centre party are at around 500,000 incidents every Democratic Alliance still has the repuyear. tation of a 'white' party and has often Furthermore, education is suffering. questioned the ANC but failed to delivAccording to The Economist, only 12- er solutions. Their attempted marriage 15% of 12-year olds are proficiently earlier this year with 'black' centre literate. Schools lack equipment and party Agang SA would have made the decent teachers. The high school DA more attractive, but the relation(Matric) pass rate seems wonderful, at ship soured. 78.2% in 2013, but this is skewed by Ultimately life is far from the idealisthe ridiculously low pass requirement, tic dream. But South Africa has few at just 30%. Those who score under options for leadership change. What 50% cannot attend university or find they can hope for under a second term decent jobs. from Jacob Zuma is more accountability Above all, government satisfaction is through the press, the public protector at an all-time low, highlighted by re- and voices of the opposition in Parliacent implementation of 'e-Tolls' (these ment. The government needs to underelectronic toll gates were vehemently stand that improvement needs to be rejected; outstanding payments are in step-by-step. Eradication of corruption excess of £28 million) and the 'Nkandla' is indispensable if South Africa hopes scandal (President Jacob Zuma's pri- for genuine progress and more gradual vate home in Nkandla received around policies should be introduced. Essen£12 million worth of upgrades). Govern- tially, the government should be prement's shortcomings are igniting anger pared to sacrifice short-term dissatisin the people, as they wait for the Afri- faction over policies for long-term develcan National Congress (ANC) to deliver opment. South Africans equally need to on its wonderful promised post- have patience so South Africa can flourApartheid dreams. ish into the utopian democracy that However, the news is not all bad. The was promised 20 years ago. ♦
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The SOAS Spirit | May 2014
SOAS
Where is G12? If you‟re still asking, then you clearly haven‟t acquainted yourself with SOAS Career‟s Service!
Features SOAS Careers Service Special
Gemma Ludgate, Head of SOAS Careers Service Hi there! I hope you have exciting plans in place for your summer break! These could include a paid internship, a volunteering project either in the UK or overseas, returning to your part-time job or traveling… If you aren‟t sure yet how to spend your precious break, or if you suspect that there could be a better opportunity out there to develop your skills or experience, come and see us in the careers service! Don‟t forget that whilst you are lying on a beach we are here; ready to give you advice whenever and wherever you need it by phone, email or Skype. Come along to the careers service (room G12) or check out our website to find out more, and book an appointment today! If you are taking exams soon, good luck and don‟t forget that we‟re here to help when your mind starts to move onto life post-SOAS…
How can we help? Quick Query: We offer 15 minute one-to-one appointments Monday-Friday between 2-4pm. If you‟re unsure of what to do with your future, we can help you look at different career options, including further study. We also give advice on the application process, including CVs, cover letters, application forms, and beyond. To book an appointment, please call or come in to G12 on the day. We also offer Research Quick Queries for our research students on Thursdays between 10am-12pm. These last 30 minutes and can be booked up to two weeks in advance in person, over the phone, or via email. Do you have an interview coming up? We can help you! Book a Practice Interview with us as soon as you know the interview date. Longer Careers Discussions are available upon referral from the careers adviser once you meet for a Quick Query.
Gemma Ludgate
Head of SOAS Careers Service
Top-Tips Upcoming Events: Restless Development: Volunteering Abroad Wednesday 30 April at 1pm in L67 Do you have a job for the summer? Are you waiting to apply for an internship or volunteer position until AFTER exams? DON‟T WAIT! It will be too late. If you're interested in working in international development, come to this event to find out more about opportunities working and volunteering with Restless Development, the youth-led development agency. Places are limited. To register for a place, please bring a £5 attendance deposit into the careers service (G12) today! This will be returned to you only if you attend the event. Futures Fortnight! 2-13 June 2014 Come along to the Careers Service during our two week careers extravaganza with loads of sessions and events on offer: Our Jobs Bazaar Drop in CV Checks Careers advice with trained staff Workshops on job hunting and interviews Employer Presentations And much more!
For details of all of our events, check our website: http://www.soas.ac.uk/ careers/events/
What to do, and when: Year 1 – Develop your skills and build your work experience Year 2 – Build on your skills and work experience and research your options Year 3 – Apply for jobs and prepare for the selection process
And don‟t forget to…
Get involved Get informed Get experience Get thinking Get networking Get to your Careers Service!
Resources If you want to know more about SOAS Careers Service, take a look at our website where you will find information about what we have to offer, graduate destinations, events, FAQs and more! http://www.soas.ac.uk/careers/ You will find we have many resources available to you online, especially through our Moodle site, where we have helpful information on job hunting, postgraduate study, working outside of the UK, and more!
Check out these useful links: ble.soas.ac.uk
Contact Us! Office Hours: Monday to Thursday from 10.00am - 5.00pm Friday from 11.00am - 4.00pm Closed from 1.00am - 2.00pm during holiday periods
SOAS Careers Service, G12, College Buildings, Thornhaugh Street, Russell Square London, WC1H 0XG Tel: 020 7898 4115 Fax: 020 7898 4119
Email: careers@soas.ac.uk
The SOAS Spirit | May 2014
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SOAS
Features
Interview with an Alum: Elham Saudi The SOAS alumni column seeks to track down what the alumni are doing after they graduated from SOAS and tries to elicit crucial advice on how to survive in the “real world”. This issue we interview Elham Saudi who is the Director of Lawyers for Justice in Libya (LFJL). LFJL was established in response to the 17 February 2011 uprising in Libya by a network of Libyan international lawyers living in the Diaspora, with the aim of using their legal expertise to seek routes to the promotion of human rights, the establishment of the rule of law and the facilitation of a smooth transition towards a democratic and inclusive Libya. Ciara Bottomley, LLM Human Rights, Conflict and Justice In her role as Director, Elham has worked on fact finding in connection with investigations into alleged human rights violations in Libya in the period since 15 February 2011. She has also provided advice to a number of European governments and international bodies in relation to the 2011 conflict in Libya. In addition, Elham advised the National Transitional Council in Libya on a number of matters of international law. Most recently, she accompanied a team of Libyan lawyers and social activists, who travelled to over 35 locations across Libya in order to engage members of the public in discussions about the upcoming constitutional drafting process. Before we go into your history with SOAS, could you tell us a bit about your background before you set up the charity Lawyers for Justice in Libya? After finishing my degree in Arabic and Modern Middle Eastern Studies at the University of Oxford, I studied law at Nottingham Law School. I then practiced commercial law at Slaughter and May, a leading corporate law firm in the City of London, from 2003 to 2010. I completed an LLM in International Law at the SOAS in 2011. At this time the revolution in Libya had started which led me to focus on international human rights law and international humanitarian law. My dissertation was entitled “The „Protected Revolution‟: The Libyan Uprising and the Responsibility to Protect.”
“I felt that NGOs while good at what they do, they lack the City mentality of getting work done effectively and efficiently.” Before coming to SOAS you worked as a City lawyer for a number of years, what prompted you to leave your corporate role to pursue a career in human rights? Yes I worked in the City for seven and a half years prior to coming to SOAS. I had always wanted to do Human Rights and considered setting up an NGO. Before doing this I wanted to get formal training and obtain the highest level of professionalism to bring to an NGO. I felt that NGOs while good at what they do, they lack the City mentality of getting work done effectively and efficiently.
I stayed there for longer than I had planned, enjoying the geeky tax work before enrolling on the SOAS LLM in 2010. The timing of my departure was very fortuitous given the revolutions that were kicking off in Tunisia, then Egypt and then of course Elham Saudi Libya in February 2011. You had the idea of setting up LFJL when you were at SOAS, could you tell us a bit about the early days of setting up the charity? I think I was very lucky to have studied at SOAS when I did. When I started my LLM, I was keen to set up an NGO looking at migrant rights issues in Libya. Under the Gaddafi regime, which severely limited space for civil society, it would be impossible to set up an NGO like LFJL which looks at human rights issues more generally in Libya. The SOAS staff were instrumental in the setting up of LFJL. One of the first projects undertaken, by what would later become LFJL, was the Guidelines for Revolutionary Fighters. Together with the assistance of SOAS, we drafted the official guidelines of the National Transitional Council, which specified the treatment of detainees and the rules of targeting under the law of armed conflict. The concept was supported by Prof. Lutz Oette and Prof. Iain Scobbie who helped to create leaflets which were widely distributed on the ground in Libya. What was novel about the guidelines was that they were disseminated by SMS and television by the revolutionary forces, so every Libyan household at the time of the revolution had access to the rules of engagement. As a result of this, the leaflets have gone on to be the focus of academic review by the Yale Journal of International Affairs and EJIL: Talk!, the Blog of the European Journal of International Law. What projects have LFJL got on at the moment? Today we have four main projects we are undertaking at LFJL. We are looking at constitutional reform, raising awareness and training. We have been instrumental in the constitutional drafting process. We have a project called Sawti, which in Arabic means „my voice‟ as well as, „my vote.‟ This looks at freedom of expression concerns in Libya. We have funding to
provide strategic litigation for torture victims which we hope will promote best practice using both the Libyan courts and international mechanisms. And
““We are also a very SOAS heavy organisation, as quite a few of our staff members and volunteers are SOAS alumni. SOAS will always be part of the fabric of LFJL.” Finally, we are in the process of organising a civil society coalition in order to contribute to the United Nations Human Rights Council Universal Periodic Review on Libya. Finally, we touched on how important SOAS was in the setting up of LFJL, do you still have ongoing contact with anyone at SOAS? There were three people who were fundamental to the setting up of LFJL and we will always go to them for advice, they were Prof. Lynn Welchmann, Prof. Scobbie and Prof. Oette. LFJL do a lot of anti-torture work with Lutz Oette‟s charity, REDRESS. I also call Iain Scobbie regularly for advice and he sits on our advisory board. While I was studying for the LLM, I did the Human Rights Clinic module with Lynn Welchmann. This course gives students the opportunity to undertake practical research projects for NGOs. I keep in in regular touch with Prof. Welchmann and the SOAS clinic students have successfully carried out two projects for LFJL. We are also a very SOAS heavy organisation, as quite a few of our staff members and volunteers are SOAS alumni. SOAS will always be part of the fabric of LFJL.♦
LFJL are currently recruiting for summer interns. For further details, please email jobs@libyanjustice.org.
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The SOAS Spirit | May 2014
SOAS
Features
Pitch me your PhD! All around us, there are people doing original research about topics they are really passionate about, but unfortunately, nobody else knows about them. In this series, I will be asking the PhD students if they can enlighten me, a mere undergrad, about their research. In this issue I will be speaking to Michael Edward Walsh, who is writing a PhD called „The Social Construction of Security‟ Peter Nygaard Christensen, BA Persian and Politics What does the title of your PhD mean? If we presuppose that the world is just made of matter, how do we have things that aren‟t physical per se, but are mental phenomena? We take certain concepts in security and government for granted and see them as objective, but how do we understand that ontologically and epistemologically? Security concepts are mental phenomena, so without us, without conceptualization - they don't exist. So how do we understand the process by which these things are created and come into being? I started in pre-med so I am committed to the notion of physicalis, so if you have this commitment to physicalism and reject philosophical idealism - that nothing really exists except for the mental – then you have a huge problem on your hands. I went from an educational background into the Department of Defense in The United States around 9/11 and one of the problems that I‟ve been trying to understand is terrorism. Is there something objectively that makes someone a terrorist? Is there some act that makes something objectively a terrorist act? Obviously not. We tend to be on the inheriting end of research in security studies and one of the problems I have, is that most security studies research doesn‟t start in metaphysics, so we don‟t really understand what we mean by subjective and objective. One of my first orders of business is therefore to lay a foundation that makes explicit what my ontological, epistemological and methodological commitments are as a researcher. I understand that you are interested in a criticism of the Copenhagen School, could you explain what that is and why it has to be criticized? The securitization framework of the Copenhagen School came about in 1998 and provided a theoretical framework to explain two things. Firstly the widening and deepening of security, which is the concept that the state alone doesn‟t have monopoly as the referent object for security. Individual security matters, international communities security matters, world security matters. There are endless numbers of referent objects that could matter for security. The Copenhagen School is also committed to this notion that by moving issues from the political arena and taking them above it, the actors who are entitled to mitigate them have „emergency powers‟ to go out and mitigate the issues on behalf of society. “Taking the gloves off” to use the Bush era notion. Many people say this is a good thing because we are recognizing that the world has security issues beside military issues that should concern us. But you are also potentially militarizing the entire world by creating the grounds for militaries to take on new roles and
responsibilities in the name of security – potentially broadening the security agenda without limits. If you can‟t explain the mechanism by which this occurs, then you can‟t make a normative argument about what the limit should be, because there are no norms in place within the security system. It purely says that language when properly used can create a security issue. I don‟t believe that the Copenhagen School is descriptive. I believe it is teleological. What they say is that by speaking security, you make security. But they have no explanation for what that process looks like. Stefano Guzzini argued that they have left explanation and
“what has frustrated me is that we
rarely understand or agree on the concepts that we use to describe or explain security issues. How we conceptualize these things ultimately play a role in real world events” all causal factors to the other. Thierry Balzacq has argued that you have to believe in this „mystical power of language‟ for it to work. What I‟m trying to figure out is: what is the mechanism? And then the second point is to ask: is this social construction subjective or objective? Then the third step is to answer the normative point: is there agency within this social construction to set moral or ethical limits? What specific cases are you looking at? I argue that Somali pirates are a case of social construction of a security threat. We have socially constructed Somali pirates as something that we justify our use of military action against, so conceptually we have to understand what was created. But we also have to understand what agency we gave to the states, who they represent and what that agency is empowered with doing. We need to have a theoretical model that is capable of explaining that. And that‟s what‟s missing. This operation is a special, because in the case of Japan, they had to create new laws to even justify or allow them to participate in a counter piracy mission. It transformed the notion of what self-defense is for Japan. This construction of Somali piracy is global. If you look at the number of countries participating in
counter-piracy operations, we‟re not just talking about NATO, we‟re talking about China, India, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and Japan. This is part of a larger normative issue that I have: what are the limits we should impose on the construction of security-issues as social constructs? Normatively, does Somali piracy warrant military action against them? Or should it only be law-enforcement action? Some countries define it as military action, but others will not use that term in any way. They will say that the military is being used as a law enforcement actor, which is re-conceptualizing what the military is. We have expanded the use of force quite a bit over the last 10 years, and many countries seem willing to expand the use of militaries, but they are not always willing to conceptualize it as a military action. They want to conceptualize it as peacekeeping or law enforcement. What do you hope will be done differently as a result of your research? Right now, because we don‟t understand the mechanism with which social constructions of security are created, I don‟t believe constructivism has a standing in making the argument that it is able to explain how security threats are created. If we don‟t have a stronger theoretical framework or clear theoretical basis, then we‟re at loss as constructivists of how we can contribute to the collective understanding of security and security threats. I‟m lucky to have worked in both journalism and policy making, because I‟ve seen both sides. But what has frustrated me is that we rarely understand or agree on the concepts we use to describe or explain security issues. How we conceptualize these things ultimately play a role in real world events. Look at terrorism – as we have re-conceptualized terrorism over the past ten years or so, the direct consequence of what is and what isn‟t terrorism, limits what actors can and cannot do. Piracy is no different from terrorism in that sense. ♦
The SOAS Spirit | May 2014
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SOAS
Features
Mining for gold in the SOAS archives If the library is a maze of information, the archives is a wormhole into a distant time from where you can never return.
In the library, it‟s very easy to lose yourself in books. So easy, it can be counter-productive. I love procrastinating by looking at interesting books near the ones I need and pretending they‟re vital to my research. Thirty minutes later, I‟m well versed in titles and back cover descriptions without a clue on what I‟m writing my paper about. But if the library is a maze of information, the archives is a wormhole into a distant time from where you can never return. The SOAS archives are no exception; its collections are full of historical gems valuable to researchers and students alike. A unique and very special feature of the SOAS archives is its documentation of NGO activities in Asia and Africa. These documents provide a fascinating glimpse into the ground level situation during times of political strife. While sifting through the records of Christian Aid, a charity organization, I came across a great find: a report from 1970 detailing the counselling services offered to prospective emigrants from Hong Kong to the United States. The program was set up by the International Social Service (ISS) after a successful request for funding from Christian Aid. The letter of request shed light on the problems affecting refugees from China and South East Asia living in an urban setting that was socially unjust, hedonistic and unpredictable. In light of these circumstances as well as relaxed immigration laws since 1965, starting anew in
Shehryar Nabi , BA History
the U.S. was an appealing option. After receiving funds, the program set the objective of fostering a community of people who shared similar feelings of anxiety about the future and were interested in emigration. Participants took part in group counselling, language classes and career sessions among other services. With proper counselling and skills, the report stresses, immigrants in the U.S. would properly integrate into society. Furthermore, many immigrants who hadn‟t gone through counselling regretted it. This was because the new generation of immigrants represented a young, urban class whose concerns were quite different from the existing residents of Chinatowns throughout the U.S. Although the report doesn‟t tell the whole story of the emigrant experience, it certainly captures the sense of worry felt by emigrants in Hong Kong. It is also evidence of the emergence of a new social dynamic in Hong Kong that had its own set of problems. Revealing documents such as these are the truly reward-
ing result of time invested in research, and many more can be found in the large NGO collections of the SOAS archives. ♦
Image: wordpress.com
Only at SOAS: Origami Society turns 4 Justyna Nikoopour The SOAS Origami Society was established in 2010 to promote the art of paper folding. Our sessions are open to anyone interested in folding, whether you‟re a new face or a regular attendee. All models are taught from scratch and you‟re welcome to join for the entire session or only a few minutes! It is made up of a friendly group of students that usually meet twice a week in the JCR, often with sweets and snacks. In the festive seasons and during the stressful exam period the society has sessions every day for a week to help us relax and to improve our memory skills! Their work concentrates on seasonal themes including Halloween or Christmas tree decorations. In one of their recent events, feats were decorated a small passageway buried within the SOAS building, hanging origami models from the ceiling and covering the walls with messages for a happy 2014. On the last day of Term One the society threw a drinks party to celebrate the temporary exhibition, which could only be caught for 24 hours before we dismantled it with the help of the SOAS cleaners‟ children. The displays took hours of folding and assembling, but was dismantled within minutes – because paper art is a transient art … Models that the talented students have made (using old newspaper as well as specialised origami paper) include carnival hats, hearts for Valentine‟s Day,
flowers (such as tulips, daffodils, and whirl flowers) Arabic, Chinese, Hindi and Japanese ones (for the and egg holders, rabbits and crosses for Easter. beauty of their script), as well as old leaflets and teaThey‟ve also produced a number of practical bag packets. Their biggest project objects like purses, boxes, piggy banks, cups was re-using old envelopes, espeand decorative cards for different occasions. In the festive seasons and cially those with interesting intriThe diverse team have also been blazing during the stressful exam guing geometrical patterns inside. a trail with experiments in origami toilet They folded hundreds of reused period the society has paper! Their aim is to fold a horse for the envelopes into trees and stars and SOAS War Horse and Donkey conference sessions every day for a combined them in clusters on the (which coincides with International Donkey week to help us relax and walls of the JCR and the bar. We Day on 8 May). In June 2014 the Origami also used hearts and camellia to improve our memory society will be teaching how to make paper (Japanese tsubaki) models and musical instruments – some of which can skills! joined them together to form a really produce a sound – for SOAS Music large design which still can be Day. seen on the wall behind the cash machine in JCR. It Past projects have also included: reads „WE LOVE SOAS‟. • folding sessions at a Christmas dinner in the From 1 May – 30 May you are invited to see their Oriental Restaurant origami exhibition which will be displayed in six glass • floating origami session on board the boat to cabinets outside the to the Khalili Lecture Theatre. Greenwich There will be competitions as well as workshops on • participation in the British Origami Convention paper marbling (Turkish ebru, Japanese suminagshi). in Birmingham in March 2014 The society hopes to travel abroad to take part in yet • workshops at the SOAS Alumni and Friends another origami convention in late spring 2014. When weekend the weather allows, there will be al fresco origami • workshops at an employees’ day out in London lessons in front of the main building.♦ Zoo. To stay up-to-date, email juliet804@hellokitty.com or • Paper floral tributes for Prof. Beasley’s memorial find them on Facebook: SOAS Origami. They hope to event at SOAS have an exciting and fruitful year so come and join What the Origami society does is environmentally them! friendly – they often use old newspapers, especially
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The SOAS Spirit | May 2014
SOAS
Features
Every day in every way, I am getting better at Chinese Francisca Everduim, MA Theory and Practice of Translation Learning a language is no picnic. Many SOASians are in an enviable position, though: they come from countries where English isn‟t the official language or are raised in multilingual families or families that travel all over the world; others go to primary or secondary schools where education is offered in a different language than the official national language. If you are part of this group who already speaks more than one language, you are something special in the United Kingdom. If you only speak English and you‟ve come to SOAS, chances are you are here to learn a new language. However, language courses at SOAS and around the world have traditionally suffered from high dropout rates. Are you in your first year studying Arabic or Chinese? At the end of the year, you might notice that half of your classmates have disappeared. When I started my first year of undergraduate Arabic, I saw my classmates dropping like flies. We went from a class of twelve to a class of five and, not to make this a gender issue, but out of those seven dropping out, six were guys. Their reasons for dropping out? “Arabic is too difficult,” “not enough time to study,” and “I would really like to study something else.” Learning a language is an incredibly rewarding experience, not just personally but also financially if you play your cards right, but when you sit in a class trying to memorize words that sound more like gibberish than anything useful, it can be easy to forget why you should keep learning. SOAS is especially ridden by language dropout rates and my first guess was, not everyone can get used to the work ethic required fast enough. First-year Arabic, for example, consists of “approximately fifteen one -hour classes weekly,” and on top of that the expectation is that students spend at least another two to four hours a day studying Arabic on their own. That doesn‟t take into account any other courses you might be enrolled in, nor activities outside of school. So does a too rigorous schedule explain why so many students stop learning a language in their first year? On second thought, no, it doesn‟t. Why? Because think about how we learnt our first language: we were constantly surrounded by people who speak it in front of us and in
Every year hundreds of students came to SOAS because of the internationally renowned language courses. But: The drop-out rates are ridiculously high too. We took a look at the possible reasons for that and what it is that might keep you going in your language degree.
mass media, constantly forced to use it – much more than twenty-five hours a week. And yes, even in primary and secondary school, we had to learn words and grammar by heart. The only difference here is we had no choice. So rather than trying to explain why students quit learning languages, let‟s take a look at what they can do to be successful language-learners. What are the keys to language-learning success Firstly, at the risk of being captain obvious, you
What are the keys to language-learning success? Firstly, at the risk of being captain obvious, you need a reason. It doesn‟t have to be a great reason, but it has to be one that will keep you going.
need a reason. It doesn‟t have to be a great reason, but it has to be one that will keep you going. Reasons include: taking on a substantial bet with a friend that you can learn the hardest language in the world, or trying to win the heart of someone who speaks that language. If you‟ve gone into a language program for the mere reason of getting bragging rights at the end, it‟s going to be a long three to four years. S e c o n d l y , you need something to keep you motivated. Again, it‟s obvious, but if there is nothing for you to enjoy in Chinese, Bengali or Swahili, how are you going to enjoy mastering Chinese, Bengali or Swahili? If you are embarking on a new language-learning adventure,
make sure to get something to enjoy passively in that language: a movie, a book (with lots of pictures in it) or a CD, a documentary about the language and the people who speak it, etc. That way you get to experience it in a way that doesn‟t require hard work. Thirdly, you need to get over whatever shyness you have. OK, I am just trying to follow the rule of threes here – it‟s possible to learn a language without ever having to speak it, but it helps if you do get some practice. And here is why SOAS is one of the best places to learn a language: whatever you‟re trying to get good at, chances are there is someone at SOAS who is willing to help you. That‟s one of the great things about SOAS! In short, if you are learning a language at SOAS you have no excuse to quit. There are so many native speakers of Arabic, Japanese, Urdu, you name it, around you that if you are thinking of quitting, you should speak with them and let them convince you why their language is great. Ask them about their favourite movies, TV series, books, musicians, artists, football players, etc., and start getting excited. On the flipside, if you are one of those lucky SOAS‟ians who came to London from an Oriental or African country, why don‟t you offer your help to someone trying to make an effort to learn your language? Show them what you enjoy about your mother tongue, share little jokes or special words and phrases with them. A n d let‟s not forget about the teachers, many of whom were in your position at one point. Whether you are struggling or not, go talk with them. Ask them what you need to know. The best language teachers I have had all had something to share aside from vocabulary and grammar – whether it was the research they were doing into folk tales in their native language or just something interesting that happened to them in their home countries. Learning a language is such an enriching experience – it actually opens up a whole new world of knowledge for you and gives you the ability to connect with people on new levels. So if you are a language student at SOAS, whether it‟s full time, part-time or at an evening or summer course, find something beautiful, and keep at it!♦
The SOAS Spirit | May 2014
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SOAS
Features
Top Tips to Beat Revision Stress The most important thing to remember is that exams aren‟t the be all and end all of your life. Life goes on no matter how well or bad you do, so do enough to make sure your proud of yourself, but don‟t sacrifice your mental or physical health Rebecca Harvey, MSc Development Studies Exams can be a stressful time for all of us, especially if like me you dread the thought of them from your first day of lectures, because let‟s face it, who enjoys the whole revision/exam process? It took me most of my undergraduate degree at Southampton to get a handle on the fact that 1) no exam is going to be the defining moment that ruins/makes your life, 2) caffeine, anxiety, sleep deprived craziness is neither effective or healthy and 3) there are ways other than 14 hours of revision cramming in the week leading up to an exam to revise. This article is giving you my top tips on what you can do to revise so that you can do the best you possibly can whilst remaining healthy and (almost) stress-free.
Partnership! Take advantage of the people on your course, and collaborate together, I guarantee that you‟ll be stronger on some subjects whist your friends will be stronger on others and together you can really help each other. Take advantage of study/common rooms and come together for a couple of hours to talk over your revision and interpretations of the topics – you‟ll gain a whole new perspective and a lot more confidence in yourself.
Health! Take care of yourself. Exams can be a stressful time and it‟s easy to become so wrapped up in revision that you skip food, rest, drinks, breaks…DON‟T. This is actually counterproductive and will negatively impact on your studies. Make sure you get your 8 hours sleep, your brain needs it! Eat healthily – fish, nuts, fruits, complex carbohydrates and lots of fresh fruit and vegetables will keep you feeling energised. But avoid snacking on sweets or fast-food; this will just give you a sense of false energy for half an hour then betray you and leave you behind in a sugar induced slump for the next 6 hours. Drink plenty of water, and if you really need your caffeine stick to coffee and avoid energy drinks or tablets, they just increase your anxiety and will result in you being a crying, emotional wreck in the corner. And take breaks! If you‟re planning to spend your revision in Russell Square, go for a quick walk around the square and sit in the sun for 10 minutes, just get yourself out of the library. For most of my undergrad I thought taking breaks was counterproductive but trust me it‟s not, just 10 minutes of fresh air and I guarantee you‟ll have so much more energy and motivation to carry on.
The most important thing to remember is that exams aren‟t the be all and end all of your life. Life goes on no matter how well or bad you do, so do enough to make sure your proud of yourself, but don‟t sacrifice your mental or physical health. SOAS has some amazing facilities that are available to you as students, so if you need them, use them! You can contact ADD for support on techniques and study skills and SOAS Student Advice and Wellbeing for emotional and mental support if everything gets too much; SOAS staff are here to help you and support your wellbeing and education so take advantage of what you have on offer.
Plan! Planning is important so don‟t neglect it, and trust me when you have a plan in your head/on paper you‟ll feel so much more on top of your work, even if you haven‟t actually revised a single thing. I‟d advise giving yourself at least 4 weeks revision, if you can‟t do this for whatever reason do your best to not leave it to the complete last minute, cramming does not work! The best thing to do is to create a revision timetable so you know exactly what you‟ll be doing in each week, and on each day, and that way you can make sure you stay on track on don‟t go over on, or neglect, certain topics.
Organise! I‟m a sucker for organisation and genuinely get excited about buying stationary for exams but I know most people aren‟t actually as sad as I am and don‟t enjoy this so much. What you need to do is understand your revision is a consolidation of everything you have learnt this year, so make sure you have everything you need – lecture notes, readings, lectures slides, tutorial notes printed out and filed together so that you don‟t waste your planned revision time searching around your bedroom for them and then next thing you know realising you‟ve lost half your morning because you got side tracked by all those leaflets you‟ve been given on the steps of SOAS that you never actually took notice of until now. Once you‟ve done this go through the past exams papers and identify main topics and themes that occur, then make sure you revise these, they‟ve come up before because they‟re important! But also make sure you‟ve chosen topics you feel comfortable with, don‟t revise something that doesn‟t play to your strengths just because it‟s come up before, chances are something else your good at will also come up so focus on those. Also use these exam papers to give you practice writing essays under exam conditions, it helps prepare you and get you used to the exam process.
Make time for breaks.
Image: ctpse.or
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The SOAS Spirit | May 2014
Film
Features When your exams are over, how will you spend your warm summer days? Actually, there's a whole range of choices: sunbathing in the fresh air on Hampstead Heath, swimming in the pool, heading abroad, or crying quietly over the remnants of your student loan. Or, if you prefer, you and your pals can sit in the sweltering dark of the cinema, escaping into the rich fantasy life provided by this summer's range of movies.
Black heroines, revenge and Disney villains: your summer in movies Beth Jellicoe, BA History of Art
The Fault in Our Stars Based on the John Green novel, The Fault in Our Stars is a romance between two teenagers, Hazel (Shailene Woodley) and Gus (Ansel Elgort) who meet at a cancer support group and bond over their shared nerdiness, wit, and appreciation of incredibly awkward metaphors. But their romance faces an uncertain future. For those who enjoy John Green's work, it looks like this will be a very faithful adaptation. Fans will love it.
(out on Friday, 6th June, 2014. Directed by Josh Boone)
Yves St Laurent Biopic following the life of Yves St Laurent (Pierre Niney), covering his romance with Pierre Berge (Guillaume Gallienne), his lifelong lover and business partner. Will appeal to fans of fashion, French cinema and The Devil Wears Prada, although SOAS students may be more interested in whether the cloth used to make the dresses was ethically sourced.
(out on Wednesday, 25th June, 2014. Directed by Jalil Lespert.)
Half a Yellow Sun Film adaptation of Chimamanda Ngozie Adichie's 2006 novel, following the lives of twins Olanna (Thandie Newton) and Kainene (Anika Noni Rose) who return from abroad to newly independent Nigeria. It's the 1960s: Olanna has a love affair with a “revolutionary professor” (Chiwetel Ejiofor) whilst Kainene takes over the family business and falls in love with Richard (Joseph Mawle), a writer from England. They all become caught up in the Nigerian civil war, with tragic consequences.
Maleficent Fault in our Stars
If flamboyant Disney villains with tragic backstories are your thing, this movie will indulge your weird fetish in spades – Image: 20th Century Fox it provides backstory for Maleficent from Sleeping Beauty. Maleficent (Angelia Jolie) is forced to protect her kingdom when an army invades – but a terrible betrayal draws her into an epic battle. Must-see for Disney fans.
(out on Friday, May 30th, 2014. Directed by Robert Stromberg)
(out on Friday, April 11th, 2014. Directed by Biyi Bandele.)
The Other Woman A woman (Cameron Diaz) realises her boyfriend (Nikolaj Coster Waldau) is married and having an affair with another woman. She teams up with his wife (Leslie Mann) and other mistress (Kate Upton) to get mutual revenge on him for three-timing them. Looks great. Has Nicki Minaj in it. Probably not a good date movie.
Belle It's what we've been waiting for – an 18th-century period drama with a black heroine at the centre, based on the true story of Dido Elizabeth Belle (Gugu Mbatha-Raw), the illegitimate biracial daughter of a British Royal Navy Admiral. Belle is raised by aristocratic relatives, but suffers discrimination because of her skin colour. Eventually she falls for a young vicar's son, and they embark on a mission to end slavery in England. The costumes and settings look stunning, the story is inspiring. A must-see.
(out on Friday, April 25th, 2014. Directed by Nick Cassavetes.)
(out on Friday, May 2nd, 2014. Directed by Amma Asante)
The Other Woman
Image: 20th Century Fox
The SOAS Spirit | May 2014
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London
Features
Your Awesome, Affordable Guide Think you‟ll be “stuck” in London for the summer holidays? Don‟t worry, you‟ll never be bored here! Get some ideas from this guide and you‟ll be sure to have an exhilarating, sensational summer!
Zoo Lates
Your Country Needs You: World War I in Cartoons and Comics Dates: 2nd June - 1st September Where: The Cartoon Museum, Bloomsbury Price: £3 (Admission is included with entry ticket to the main museum) This exhibition explores the „Great War‟ and its long term effects, displaying a large range of British art, from patriotic propaganda to modern political cartoons, including puppets, pottery and pictures of wartime Britain. The event combines art and humour, and is perfect for an educational break away from sunbathing and holiday-making! Student discounts available!
Dates: Every Friday night in June and July Where: London Zoo Price: £17.50 Need a wild night out? London Zoo is opening after hours (from 610pm) to host a range of activities including a silent disco and a programme of entertainment - comedy, cabaret, talks and adult-sized playrooms, as well as the chance to visit the animals after-hours. You can save money by
The Queen's Birthday Parade Dates: Saturday 14th June Where: Horse Guards Parade, St James Park FREE Join the Queen in celebrating her official 89th birthday in this year‟s military parade, „Trooping the Colour.‟ Join crowds in the streets of London to watch her leading the troops to Buckingham Palace, salute as the guns are fired in the Tower of London and Green Park and finally join the other members of the Royal Family to watch the RAF plane fly -by. This event has been taking place since 1820 so why not enjoy the patriotic, more traditional side of London!
booking online in advance or making a group booking (for over 10 people) at www.zsl.org.
Urban-food-fest Dates: Until Saturday 21st June Where: Shoreditch FREE If you haven‟t had the chance already, make time (and space in your stomach) to visit the dozens of food stalls at the Euro Car Parks in Shoreditch. This offers a huge mix of different cuisines, including burritos, oven-baked pizzas, sushi, jerk chicken, pad thai... including a corner for vegans!
World Naked Bike Ride Dates: Saturday 14th June Where: Various London locations FREE Oh, London. Trust our city to host this year‟s Naked Bike Ride! There will be six starting points at various times throughout the day: West Norwood, Clapham Junction, Tower Hill Kings Cross, Regents Park and Hyde Park. If you don‟t fancy stripping naked in the spirit of this festival - no fear. The dress code is „as bare as you dare‟, so go along to support the celebration of the human body, or even just to experience the oddness of glorious London!
F i n d o u t m o r e o n www.worldnakedbikeride.org/uk.
London Pride Parade Dates: Saturday 28th June Where: Central London FREE Celebrate the LGBT+ community from London, the UK and overseas in one of the largest pride parades in the UK. The Parade departs from Baker Street at 1pm and the procession follows through central London, with a route of just over 2 miles. This year‟s theme is „Freedom to...‟.
Registration for groups to take part has opened online at www.prideinlondon.org.
London Open House Dates: 20th and 21st September Where: Southbank Centre FREE If there is one thing you haven‟t done, it‟s this. London‟s Open House weekend celebrates the city‟s architectural wonders, throwing open the doors to hundreds of famous buildings - last year included The Gherkin, Battersea Power Station and 10 Downing Street, as well as architecture-themed walks and bicycle rides.
Sign up for more information to this free event online at www.londonopenhouse.org.
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The SOAS Spirit | May 2014
London
Features
to London this summer Paloma Rao, LLB Law Festival of Love Dates: 28th June - 31st August W h e r e : Southbank Centre FREE Discover a summer of romance at this year‟s Festival of Love! Romantically situated near the Thames, visitors can expect a variety of philosophers, artists, performers and scientists to explore love: one of the most complicated and important human emotion. The festival also celebrates the Gay Marriage Act and has a range of differently-themed weekends, talks, outdoor art and performances.
London‟s 2nd Holi Festival of Colours Dates: Sunday 29th June Where: Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park Price: £29.99 Why have one Holi when you can have... two? London couldn‟t get enough so is opening the doors to another Festival of Colours! With live music, drinks and a lot of coloured powder, last year‟s reviews suggest you‟ll get your money‟s worth at this event! Tickets are selling out fast so make sure to book tickets online soon.
Finley Quaye at the Jazz Café Dates: 2nd August Where: Jazz Café, Camden Price: £20 Scottish jazz artist Finley Quaye is playing at Camden‟s Jazz Café‟ this August. Quaye won the 1997 Mobo Award for best reggae act, and the 1998 BRIT Award for Best Male Solo Artist. The famous café seats 420 people and the gig begins at 7. Expect a fun night with a great atmosphere!
London Fashion Weekend Dates: 18th-21st September Where: Somerset House Price: Bronze tickets: £20 With a range of ticket packages, an affordable way to join Vodafone London Fashion Weekend is with the Bronze option, which offers entrance to the event, exclusive offers in shops and access to industry talks, as well as a designer tote bag. Access catwalk shows with the £37 Silver ticket! Choices include Julien Macdonald, Amanda Wakely and Maria Grachvogel. Not that up-to-date with the fashion world? Me neither, but I imagine it‟d still be thrilling to get an insight into yet another reason London is one of the best cities in the world!
Big Dance Week 2014 Dates: 5th - 13th July Where: Various London locations FREE Fancy a dance in central London? Various locations across the city, including parks, libraries, theatres and museums will provide stages to dance on in support of Big Dance Week - one of the world‟s most influential dance initiative. Look out for the travelling Big Dance Bus! On the 12-13th of July, a major dance commission will take place in Trafalgar Square. Events will be led by London‟s top dance hubs: East London Dance, English National Ballet, Greenwich Dance, Sadler‟s Wells and Siobhan Davies Dance. To find out more or even
p a r ti c i p a te in d an c i n g , www.bigdance.org.uk.
go
to
Jarred Christmas "The Best in Stand-Up" Dates: 7th to 9th August Where: Comedy Store, Picadilly Circus Price: £18 to £23.50 See New Zealand comedian Jarred Christmas‟ stand -up show at the Comedy Store - an intimate, famous venue for alternative comedy in the heart of the West-End. This affordable show will make for a great night of food, drinks and comedy!
For more information visit thecomedystore.co.uk.
BBC Proms in the Park Dates: Saturday 13th September Where: Hyde Park Price: TBC, 2013: £35 Attend Britain‟s largest classical music event under the stars in Hyde Park! If you don‟t get to attend the proms in the Royal Albert Hall, come and enjoy an evening of entertainment hosted by Radio 2 DJ Tony Blackburn and Sir Terry Wogan with a rug and a picnic! Gates open at 3.30 and show begins at 5.15pm.
Notting Hill Carnival Dates: 24th-25th August Where: Notting Hill FREE Whilst most of you are familiar with this annual Carnival, be sure to jot these dates down in your diary for one of Europe‟s biggest street festival! With the vibrant parades, pulsing rhythm and cannabis-scented air, there is no better place to twerk to your heart‟s content. The main parade, usually a spectacular sea of colour, is on Bank Holiday Monday (26th), so head down for a crazy day of dancing, drinks and Carribean food, or opt for the tamer family day on the 24th. Make sure to plan your route as Notting Hill station is likely to be exit only from 12 till 7pm.
The SOAS Spirit | May 2014
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Features
World
10 Places in Europe you Need to see this Summer Don‟t get swallowed up by revision and take a couple of minutes to think about where to travel this summer, with Europe in mind. Katerina Veliskova , BA Middle Eastern Studies
1. Hiking in Iceland Have about two weeks in summer with nothing to do? Well, take a plane to Iceland and criss-cross it from north to south! You can fly to the capital Reykjavik, take a bus to the north and then experience nothing but astonishingly beautiful nature for about two weeks. Apart for the necessary plain and bus tickets, and the cost of food, you won‟t have many expenses. There will be no camps on the route, just you and your tent in the wilderness. Iceland is quite a flat country, so other than the weight of your backpack and the occasional strong wind, you have nothing to worry about. Plus, the country possesses one of the most beautiful natural sites including innumerable iced-tipped volcanoes and glaciers with the freshest water pouring just next to it. So if you have a few friends who you think will still like you after two weeks in the wilderness together and after discovering your cooking skills, don‟t hesitate! Iceland
Image: RTH Sigurdsson
2. Biennale Architettura in Venice Ok, everybody‟s heard of Venice. The canals, the historical buildings everywhere, the crazy number of tourists and the incredibly good wine. What you might not know is that from June to November, there is also a prestigious International Architecture Exhibition. The title of this year‟s exhibition is Fundamentals and it focuses on the history of architecture in the past 100 years and its place in today's world. The exhibition is located in two complexes in Venice, the Giardini and the Arsenale, plus in a number of venues all around the city. As most of us are still proud holders of a student card, we are entitled to the discounted € 15 tickets. Not only is this exhibition a great excuse to visit one of the most beautiful cities in the world, but the venues and exhibition halls provide a perfect place to hide from the midday sun.
3. Tracking cultural Sarajevo If there is one word which describes Sarajevo, it‟s „History‟. The beautiful and atmospheric capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina has traces of its own journey through the history everywhere you go. It‟s a place of many churches and many mosques, where the muezzins do not call for prayer at the same time, which leaves you with the impression of a huge mélange of noises. It‟s a place where the start of the first world war was probably decided. And, maybe Image: David Levene most importantly, it is a place where the incredible variety of cultures and religions led to one of the bloodiest conflict in modern European history and where these tensions are still being worked out. On the other hand, Sarajevo is much more than a memento of the past. The different cultures and eventful history has enriched the city with an impressive number of cultural sites, historical monuments and a very unique atmosphere. With innumerable cafés and markets that are always full, Sarajevo seems alive day or night.
Venice 2012 Architectural Biennale
4. Baltic sand dunes in the Curonian Spit. Yes, there actually are sand dunes in Europe. You can find them, surprisingly, in the Baltic sea, on a spit almost a hundred kilometres long that is shared by Lithuania and Russia. Getting there is not difficult, and for people travelling from the EU, it‟s way easier to go to the Lithuanian part of the spit. The spit itself is unquestionably beautiful. The number of tourists is usually quite bearable, there are pine trees everywhere, white sand, and the sea just waiting for you to jump in. Once you get further south, you‟ll get to the dunes that are (at least at that latitude) quite impressive. Although the whole spit is a UNESCO site, you can still camp out, but be warned: it can get incredibly windy there! Curonian Spit
Image: Wikipedia
Sarajevo
Image: Alamy
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The SOAS Spirit | May 2014
Features
World 5. Corsica If you like the Mediterranean but you are not so keen on the tourists, why not try Napoleon‟s birthplace? Corsica is a mountainous island, with blue sea and small villages lost in the middle of nowhere. The cities have the typical Mediterranean feel of long lazy days, wine drinking and the smell of freshly baked bread. Direct flights to Corsica are usually quite expensive, so it‟s usually better to take a ferry from the mainland. On the island itself, you can either rent a car or even travel on foot. Just remember, camping is restricted to paid camping places – which also means fresh water and a toilet are guaranteed. The only thing you should watch out for is not to call the hospitable and happy people of Corsica Italian.
6. Meet history in Krakow This city, located in the south of Poland, is one of the most charming places in Europe. Forget any tour guides and just get lost in the streets of the Jewish quarter or get a cup of coffee in one of the magical restaurants hidden around the centre. Somehow, you‟ll always manage to get back to the Wawel Castle near the river. The city is a relaxed place, full of history, but also a living centre of culture. Plus, there is something else you need to see while being there. If you‟re in for a more serious experience, take a local train and go to Oświęcim (or Auschwitz in German). Yes, we have all seen Schindler‟s List or Sophie‟s Choice, but it‟s something completely different to see the concentration camp itself. The tours through both Oświęcim and nearby Brzezinka run all day long in almost every language and the experience of seeing the camp gives you a whole new perKrakow spective on mankind
Image: picture
7. Rock climbing and Jazz in Chamonix Rumour has it the Alps are still in their place during the summer holiday. And although you might be perfectly familiar with the mountains during the skiing season, you might be surprised with what you can find there in July. Chamonix is a small city in France, right next to the highest point in Europe, the Mont Blanc. You can easily get there from Geneva or using the French rail and rent a room in one the many hotels or stay in good and not so expensive camps. The area is well-known for rock climbing and rafting, but for the less adventurous of you, there are also many hiking routes and many cable cars to take you closer to the top of the mountains. If you get tired of sports, you can go back down to Chamonix and try the famous cheese fondue. Plus, if you plan to visit sometime between the 26th of July and the 3rd of August, you‟ll be lucky to catch the famous Cosmo Jazz Festival. The concerts are completely free and you only have to pay for the cable cars to take you to the breathtaking sites in the mountains, where it takes place. Just don‟t forget your sunscreen!
8. Finland and its thousand lakes
Chamonix
Image: Aneta Hlavnickova
For those of you who enjoy weird languages and almost endless daylight, Finland is the place! The capital Helsinki is known for its parties and night-life, and while the city itself does not have that many historical buildings, there is a very good modern art museum that is definitely worth seeing. Mainly however, Helsinki is a place with friendly people, so while you explore all the clubs, try to persuade some of the locals to take you to their cabin. Almost everyone in Finland has a cabin near one of the many lakes and that is perfect for a weekend trip. Once you get there, you also need to try the typical Finnish sauna and finish the experience by jumping in the crystal clear lake.
9. Open‟er Festival in Poland
Findland
Image: Helena Svandova
Going to a music festival outside your country is always exciting and different. But when you have a festival on the seaside with The Black Keys, MGMT or Lykke Li, you know you have something to look forward to. The event takes places at the very north of Poland, from the 2nd to the 5th of July. There‟s an airport nearby, so you don‟t have to worry about the journey. The tickets for the whole four days of festival are now around € 151, camping including. Other than the music, you can also explore the nearby seaside or even take a trip to Gdańsk, a traditional seaport and the birthplace of the Polish Solidarity movement against the Communist regime. After this cultural stop, you can go back to the festival and have a bottle of local beer. And maybe you can take part in the huge silent disco party planned for in between concerts!
10. Caves and coffee in Slovenia Another former part of Yugoslavia awaits your exploration, this time with mysterious caves and the comfortable and welcoming capital that is Ljubljana. Arriving to this lovely city, you‟ll be astounded by the number of cafés and the relaxed atmosphere of this small capital city. Plus, it‟s also a place of a unique architecture, with charming arcades and markets as well as the famous triple bridge. After spending your time slowly sipping coffee and observing the city‟s life, you can take a train and explore the Slovenian mountains. If you go to the south-west, you‟ll find one of the most beautiful caves, some of which, admittedly, full of picture-taking tourists, but nevertheless stunning.♦ Open’er Poland
Image: P.Tarasewicz
The SOAS Spirit | May 2014
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Features “Urban Dictionary definition: Chirpse - to chat up, or flirt with, someone.” Louise Perry, BA Social Anthropology Ok, so Milk & Honey is not cheap by any reasonable definition of the word. Cocktails are about £9 a pop, bar snacks are something similar… it‟s very easy to rack up a bill that will make your eyes water with real and actual grief. Of course that‟s true of any London cocktail bar, that's just the price you pay for… well, expensive rent, traffic and bits of black gunk on your hankie when you blow your nose. Ah well, let‟s leave that for another article, eh. But the expensive drinks at M&H are all part of the plan, you see, since a cocktail session there actually costs LESS than dinner at Nando‟s. Think about it – even if the soft drinks are bottomless, a £20 bill at Nando‟s is pretty much guaranteed, whereas it‟s perfectly possible to linger over your one elegant BoBo cocktail at M&H and leave only £9 poorer. This is perfect if you‟re cruising for a schmoozing with someone with expensive tastes, the kind of person who might be impressed by a PRIVATE MEMBERS BAR, the sort of place where licking the top of the toilet will get you high, not diarrheal. I mean, you will have a miserable life if that‟s what you look for in a romantic partner, but this column is about dating, not happiness. Such a date will be wowed by the secret entrance, the waiters in waistcoats, the cucumber flavoured tap water – so much so that they won‟t notice
London
Cheap Chirpse: Milk & Honey Looking for a first date option that is a little bit different? This edition‟s Cheap Chirpse idea… what a scrooge you really are. Though don‟t think that I‟m writing M&H off as just any old Oligarchy bar in the West End. The really excellent thing about it, if you‟re a crusty old misanthrope like me, is that in all the years I‟ve been going I‟ve never once heard the sound of another customer. I don‟t know if they‟ve got sound -proofing in those leather booths or what, but it‟s such a relief not to be have your neighbour‟s discussion of how so -and-so from school has just started working for Goldman‟s inflicted on you (I‟m not hating on other M&H customers here, this is my actual life - who is and isn‟t working for Goldman‟s is all I ever talk about nowadays. I‟d hate to inflict it on you.) M&H famously also have a rule against gentlemen talking to ladies if they haven‟t been previously introduced. Ok - weird, old fashioned and totally reinforcing the gender binary, but it means that ladies get guaranteed perv-free leisure time! Not to be sniffed at! Obviously all of this comes at a price and I
Ultimate Power Club – Review
shudder to think what membership costs, buuuuut non-members can book for a table for up to 4 MondayWednesday if you call far enough in advance and vacate by 11pm. So. Worth. It.♦ Cost: £9 if you linger over your cocktail (and tap water is free!) Location: 61 Poland Street, Soho Pros: Quiet, elegant intimacy Cons: £10 cocktail sausages
Image: Milk and Honey
er Club seems to have hit on a brand new demographic – it‟s not about being innovative, edgy or sexy. It‟s not even about pulling. The sole purpose of Ultimate Power with the SOAS Spirit. Louise Perry , BA Social Anthropology Power Club seems to be to have good clean fun, and “Welcome to God‟s greatest club night, playing nothup-past-your-bedtime scene. It‟s really a very basic that‟s definitely a new thing on the London scene. ing but God‟s own tunes”. So says the compère of set up – a nice big room with lots of people, a bar, a They‟ve clearly thought it through, as well. Instead of Ultimate Power Club as he revs us up for another dance floor and someone putting on a mixtape of 80‟s a DJ or a live band, there are a few guys up on stage choooon, the crowd close to hysterical after 3 hours of favourites. NOW That‟s What I Call Music Volume 2, who seem to be there to get the crowd pumping. So relentless power ballads. I say compère because DJ perhaps. Kinda like a school disco really, or a wed- they play air guitar, sing along, bounce around preisn‟t quite the right job description here. Ultimate ding. But there‟s something about back -to-back Jour- tending to be rock stars and weirdly enough this Power is a club night like no other I‟ve ever been to in ney, Celine Dion and Phil Collins that seems to mess super lame behaviour is greeted with adoration by my years on the London getting-drunk-and-staying- with the brain, because this is like no school disco I‟ve the crowd, myself included. One guy (the spitting ever been to (unless this is image of the journalist in Apocwhat all school discos were like alypse Now, sunglasses and in the 80‟s… a compelling all) knew the words to every Ultimate Power is a club night single power ballad and held thought). Now let‟s be clear, nobody could argue that Ulti- like no other I‟ve ever been to us enthralled with his total mate Power Club is cool. Held in my years on the London lack of embarrassment. The monthly at the Electric Ball- getting-drunk-and-staying-up- compères hand out blow -up room in Camden, it‟s as relent- past-your-bedtime scene. toys – guitars, microphones, lessly white as most Camden saxophones – and everyone club nights. The crowd is somejust, well… plays. Plays at what older than usual, with being rock stars. I cringe to quite a few be-suited men who seem to think about it now, but I was wedded to that toy have come straight from work and guitar (pictured) for the entire night. I don‟t even plenty of classic hen night behaviour. know which end I‟m supposed to hold a guitar at, but As a jaded 22 year old, the novelty of I was screaming along to Wilson Phillips as if the clubbing has long worn off for me, so I noughties never happened. I can‟t promise I‟ll be couldn‟t help but be surprised by the joining the Ultimate Power faithful and sporting a number of real live grown-ups that mullet and disco leggings at the next event, but were out in force on a wet and misera- please, if you‟re there, don‟t judge me if I get a little Louise (left), not even drunk Image: Ultimate Power Club ble Saturday night. For Ultimate Pow- too into it. I‟m sure you will too. ♦
Our verdict on the club night everyone‟s talking about. Head on down to Camden‟s Ultimate
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The SOAS Spirit | May 2014
Film
Divergent
Features Honor Bulmer, BA Study of Religions
Shailene Woodley is not a name many would recognise, but you might remember her performance as George Clooney‟s daughter in „The Descendents‟ in 2011. She was nominated for a Golden Globe back then, and her performance in Neil Burger‟s latest creation, „Divergent‟ didn‟t disappoint. In my mind at least,it‟s earned her the title of “Jennifer Lawrence in waiting”. Woodley even shares Lawrence‟s looks and convincing acting, though apparently not the same costume designer nothing could top Trish Summerville‟s now iconic self igniting costumes which act as symbols of Lawrence and Hutcherson‟s transformation from unknown „citizens‟ to famous „tributes‟ in “The Hunger Games”. Sadly, the closest initiates into „Divergent‟s‟ regime ever get to flaming clothes is by throwing their old ones in an incinerator. However, Woodley plays that physically – and mentally – she‟s a strong female lead, to which the dystopian and totalitarian setting seems to lend itself superbly. It‟s also one which, I‟m pleased to say, the film industry is slowly coming around to - if only for the sake of creaming off series of successful books. Though, at this point I don‟t care because both „The Hunger Games‟ and „Divergent‟ pass the Bechdel test! Zoe Kravitz („X -Men: First Class‟), too, is well -cast as Woodley‟s best friend Christina, especially in the early scenes, where they bond over the vigorous initiate tests, designed to determine their suitability for the faction they have chosen(societal groups separated by virtue and skill). In this case, both Tris (Woodley) and Christina reject their upbringing (the city‟s motto is
“faction before blood”). Though they both opt instead for membership in „Dauntless‟, it is our heroine alone who must face the consequences of being „divergent‟ – i.e. possessing a mix of the different personality traits and, in the regime‟s eyes, a “defiance of categorisation.” As one of five factions, each group has its own function – those from Dauntless are known for their bravery and their role in Image: Rex Everett protecting and defending Shailene Woodley stars in 'Divergent' as Tris Prior society, though they are sadly portrayed in the film by generally nothing more than knowledge) and played by an excellently frosty Kate a love of All Saints clothing, tattoos and parkour in- Winslett, develops a mind-controlling serum with the volving trains. purpose of eradicating individual free will, which The film is based on the first instalment of Victoria threatens the downfall of the faction system. Though Roth‟s trilogy of the same name and is aimed at the there are some interesting scenes played out in a „young adult‟ (whatever that term actually entails). chemical-induced reality in which Tris and Four (her The futuristic setting is post-war America (the cause lover and a fellow divergent – he played the mysteriof which we‟re left to decide - though the impressive ous Turk in an episode of „Downton Abbey‟) must face opening panning shots of the film suggest it‟s on the their greatest fears, questions about societal versus scale of nuclear intensity), where all but Chicago has individual freedom feel under explored. Maybe I‟m been destroyed. The division of society into factions, expecting too much from what is essentially a watered originally designed to “create lasting peace”, later -down action-cum-sci fi movie, but in a race against develops into the film‟s core tension and the crux of „Hunger Games‟ it would get a definite, yet well the plot, though it is slow to arrive there. deserved second place. ♦ Jeanine, leader of the Erudite faction (who value
The Amazing Spider-Man 2 When watching The Amazing Spider -Man 2 one thing can be said with absolute certainty: Andrew Garfield is infinitely better suited to playing the titular character than Toby Maguire ever was. Indeed, the protagonist cuts a much less pathetic and downtrodden figure, with Garfield confidently injecting his own brand of humour into the character and taking (most) of the adversities he is faced with in his stride. In this way, much like the first instalment of the new trilogy – directed by Marc Webb of (500) Days of Summer fame – the recent film harks back to a day when superhero movies were not all grit and graveness but also a fun
Spider Man 2
Image: Colombia Pictures
Darian De La Cruz, BA Japanese
story to be enjoyed by the whole family. The film is packed with astounding action sequences and feats of CGI technology which viewers cannot help but be entertained by – villain Electro (Jamie Foxx) battling Spider-Man to the sound of a bass version of “Incy Wincy Spider” is a particular scene that springs to mind. Nonetheless, avid fans of the original Marvel comics, as well as a majority of the audience who came expecting two hours of high-octane non-stop action, will inevitably be displeased by the sheer length of scenes relating to Peter Parker‟s personal problems and relationships. Understandably, the human side of Spider-Man must be explored to a certain extent in adaptations of the famous comic, in order to understand his vulnerabilities as a man. However, the prolonged scenes in which Garfield plays a misunderstood teen that has problems with dealing with his emotions and cries over photos of his dead parents as indie music plays in the background, do become tedious after a while. Admittedly, the romantic on-screen chemistry between Garfield and real-life girlfriend Emma Stone (who plays main girl Gwen Stacy) is undeniable, most likely due to Webb‟s specialty in dealing with poignant exploration of human relationships. Still, the movie often strays dangerously close to becoming a fusion of rom-com and action genres. Put simply: too much talking, not enough
fighting. As for the villains, Foxx convincingly plays the intelligent, yet largely invisible, character of Max Dillon – a low-ranking employee working for the infamous OSCORP, who develops a dangerous fanaticism towards Spider-Man. Following the work incident (involving a tank of genetically-modified eels) that transforms him into a villain, the storyline takes a knock and becomes strained. The main reason for Electro‟s rampage across Manhattan seems to be simply his desire for attention and his indignation at the fact that Spider-Man did not recognise him. Thus, cool as his powers are, Electro poses as a rather onedimensional character with no particularly interesting backstory. The situation is somewhat salvaged by the other villain of the movie, the young heir of OSCORP, Harry Osbourne (Dane DeHaan). DeHaan‟s skilled portrayal of the twisted menace that is Green Goblin is highly satisfactory, which means that the viewer is left highly frustrated by the limit imposed on the development of this villainous alter-ego. Bonus: Hang back during the end credits and you will hear Jamie Foxx lending his voice to the soundtrack as well as have a sneaky preview of a scene from The Amazing Spider-Man 3. ♦
The Amazing Spider-Man 2 plays at the Ritzy Picturehouse until the 6th of May.
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Features
The SOAS Spirit | May 2014
Travel
Fresh off the Banana Boat Raising money for Link Community Development‟s school projects in Africa, Iselin Shaw & Erlend Daae set out on foot to hitchhike from London to Morocco.
ing bags. Unfortunately, this extravagant budget hadn‟t equipped us for camping in the “They don‟t pick you up because they think you smugwet and freezing conditions that followed us gling drogas”. The eavesdropping man gestures with a through France and Spain. On the bright side, slight head nod towards our whiteboard, where the our incompetent Viking genes, unable to withremnants of the word „Algeciras‟ are still scribbled in stand the cold, introduced us to a whole new black pen. “Many turista take hashish on barco to culture we never knew existed - that of service Morocco,” the man continues, using his hand to simustations. late a boat moving along wavy waters. “Where are you Water, warmth and potential rides! The from?” he asks, and leans back to resume puffing at service stations also offered blissful breaks his fake branded cigarette. “Norway,” we reply. “Ah, from the constant language barriers we faced muchos trabajo y muchos dinero, si?” the man chuckdue to our lack of French or Spanish skills. At les whilst choking slightly on his cigarette. We smile one point, we even endured a lengthy 3am half-heartedly in reply, now slightly fed up of being conversation with a Bulgarian lorry driver ambassadors of a country where apparently everyone about crime in Europe. Although adamant he swims in oil money and polar bears walk the streets of was speaking German, there were pretty few Oslo. “You find me trabajo?” he asks, “I go Norway non-Bulgarian words used other than this summer!” We laugh and tell him “schlafen” and “bandito”. Who jokingly that it might be a possibility. needs Rosetta Stone when you He eagerly shuffles his chair closer to He eagerly shuffles his have a giant, sleep-deprived truck our table and opens his cigarette chair closer to our table driver looking for some conversapacket to share. “Vale, vale, I help and opens his cigarette tion in the wee hours of the mornyou”. ing? That night, Erlend, my boyfriend packet to share. “Vale, Being entirely dependent on the and hitchhiking partner, and I slept vale, I help you” good will of strangers was admitin the downstairs Mosque of a service tedly a tad burdensome at times, station. We had reached Bailen, a but our adventure story cannot be mini-Middle-East in the South of Spain. It was day told without crediting the gems that made it five of our hitchhike and we were 3.5 hours away from possible. There‟s Michel, the baguette -loving the ferry port that would take us to our final destina- farmer, who swung by his farm to tend to his tion, Morocco. Our 20-hour wait there required every horses before giving us a tour of the living last nano-particle of energy we had left. As the last room he had affectionately decorated with a five days had proved to us however, there is always a multitude of self-hunted animal heads. We kind soul within reach willing to give a helping hand. strangers were then left in his kitchen sipping Regardless of the fact that he might expect a job in freshly brewed espresso whilst he disappeared Norway this summer, Ahmad, the smoking eavesdrop- for a shower. The famous blue streets of Chefchouen, Morocco Image: Iselin Shaw of Tordarroch per, was the night‟s knight in shining armour. We had Pablo, the stuntman (yes, stuntFor 2000km we had burdened our backs with the man!) currently starring in the film “Fire”. Karla and so dearly for neither had hot water or pillows softer weight of our newly purchased £30 tent and £7 sleepGill, the Portuguese couple who bought us lunch after than a sack of potatoes didn‟t matter. Nor the fact admitting to disthat we had been talked into thinking the cussing whether or We decided to put our exchange rate was far lower than reality, not we looked like therefore paying £20 for a 5 -minute cab faith in the words of serial killers before ride, paying £40 for a bottle of dusty deciding to pick us this ever-so-charming plonk, stale nuts and microwave-heated up. The 26-year-old scammer: “you are in “tapas” and topping it all off by tipping railway worker our “guide” £30 for his splendid services. with six kids. And Mama Africa now, she The air was warm, the captivating sound finally, Adabierto, will take care of you.” of Arabic ayn‟s and glottal stops rippled the Brazilian chaufthrough the air and no longer would we feur whose truck became our have to rely on Tesco muesli-bars to fulfill our daily humble abode for the 18-hour calorie intake. We decided to put our faith in the journey from Abbeville to Bor- words of this ever-so-charming scammer: “you are in deaux. Mama Africa now, she will take care of you.”♦ In the end, we spent six days on our hitchhike from London to Morocco. Despite being scammed *So far, Iselin and Erlend have raised almost half of in our exhausted stupor within the £600 they need for the Link Community Develophalf an hour of arriving in ment school projects. They intend to raise the rest via Tangier, reaching Morocco felt like stepping onto cloud nine. The a photography exhibition planned for this summer. Michel's adventurously decorated living room Image: Iselin Shaw of Tordarroch fact that the hostel we had paid
Iselin Shaw Of Tordarroch , BA Arabic and Politics
21
The SOAS Spirit | May 2014
End of Season
Sport
This Year in Pictures
As the Sports season draws to a close, we give you the highlights of this year‟s Sports Award winners and team triumphs. Imogen Edwards , BA History
Left: Sadiah Waziri and Nadine El Bayoumi Foty were recipients of “Most Committed Player” for their dedication to basketball and football. As were tri team- stalwarts Florence Savage (see below with Football) and Selja Ryoppy (see below with Squash) Right: Mens Basketball were winners of the LUSL Cup- Rabah Tahraoui (far left) also won best captain and Dom Poon (third from left) received two awards for Best Player
Left: Men’s Rugby. Captain Moni Moni –Nwinia (6th From right – back row) with Most Involved player Sam Navaratnam (Far Left Back Row) and winner of Lifetime Commitment Tim Henderson (7th From Left Back Row)
Right: League Winners Women’s Football with Captain Olimpia Burchiellaro.
Left: (Women’s Basketball top/ Squash below) Women’s basketball had significant wins this year. Sacha Brenn (far left back row) won best female captain whilst Bijan Hakimian (the only bloke in this picture) won best man ever for his coaching for both women’s and men’s team.
Anti-clockwise from above: Netball; Mixed Badminton; Tennis; Volleyball; Men’s Football; Cricket
Image: SOAS Sports images and Sports Ball 2012
22
The SOAS Spirit | May 2014
Sport
Basketball
Women’s Basketball– Views from the court Two of SOAS‟s women‟s basketball stars this season, Maria Lucescu and Nadine El-Bayoumi Foty, reflect upon what basketball means to them and how they have developed as people from taking up sports at SOAS. James Appleby, BA Politics and African Studies Maria:
ing a sport and competing, at any level, gives you the opportunity to see others at their best and at their We are told, almost on a daily basis, that sports are a worst, and being part of the same team means you good way to get in shape, and to attain the physical have to stand together and work through any probappearance we are told we must covet. The benefits of lems that may arise. On the court, whether at practice sports to our health usually take second place, and or in a match, the facades that people put on are inevifurther than that, we hear very little else about the tably stripped away. There is no room for pretending – importance sports can have to our daily lives. At hard work, determination, and commitment will alSOAS the attitude towards sports is very often one ways have the last word. akin to disdain. However, sports can be a very strong Sport does not discriminate. It brings people togethbinding factor. They bring together people of all ages, er regardless of gender, race, nationality, or any other backgrounds, beliefs, and ideas in order to work to- criteria we use to define ourselves. It forces you to see wards a common goal. Being part of a sports team past grudges, arguments, and stereotypes. In my means learning to trust and respect one‟s teammates opinion, the sports programme is one of the most based on their hard work, determination, and commit- inclusive SOAS has to offer, giving players the opporment to the team. tunity to become part of a community There is much talk at SOAS about in which everyone is welcome on the the need for safe spaces, and the issue one condition that they are willing to of inclusivity forms the basis of many “It brings people together commit to the team and put in the heated debates. Against this back- regardless of gender, race, effort required to keep a team togethground the feeling I experience within nationality, or any other er. the basketball community is a welcome change. Creating a well-knit team criteria we use to define Nadine: requires a space in which people feel ourselves. It forces you to free to make mistakes, and to feel safe Q: Do you think SOAS sport has see past grudges, in their learning process because a helped you develop as a person? team cannot function without trust in arguments, and each other. We need to trust each other stereotypes” A: Definitely. In high school, I had a to open ourselves up to taking decisions really bad experience with basketball and to the risk of making a mistake – I had said previously that I didn‟t that comes with any decision. We need trust to give each other the possibility of making decisions we may not have made. This trust, which is based on learning to communicate with each other, translates, off the court, into friendship. In my experience, playing a team sport inevitably leads to a sense of camaraderie, if not outright friendship. There is something about running up and down a court, sweating, and going through every possible emotion, from joy and excitement, to anger and sadness, depending on the situation, that allows you to connect with your teammates in a way that you may not be able to in other circumstances. PracticThe Women’s Basketball team
want to play it anymore because of those experiences. So when I first came, I thought that I would try it once, but probably not like it. In the end, coming here was to renew my love for basketball because this season I have just had the best experience with the coolest people. Q: How is SOAS basketball different to playing outside SOAS? A: In so many ways. Firstly, if I go out for a casual game of basketball where there are men around, there is still the question: „Are you sure you want to play with us?‟ Whenever you show up, they don‟t take you seriously, because you‟re a woman. So in the world of mixed basketball, there is a sense of patriarchy “playing a team sport that I don‟t feel ever at inevitably leads to a SOAS. In terms of playing on sense of camaraderie, women‟s teams, in high if not outright school I felt alienated. There was a silly kind of friendship” general stigma at the school, where everyone thought „if you join the basketball team, you become a lesbian‟. Unfortunately, the mostly-homosexual members of the team perpetuated this stereotype by pressuring me, making me feel alienated. I think some female athletes feel the need to adopt a certain persona of masculinity or lesbianism because of the flawed notion that it makes them a better performer. For me, sexuality is a completely private matter and separate from sports, and I am so pleased to play on the SOAS basketball team because nobody tries to attempt to impose anything on you. The general attitude is not „you are homosexual‟ or „you are transgender‟, the attitude is „you are you.‟ But it is important for female sports not to suffer from these issues, as this is a big part of the reason why they take second place to men‟s sports in many people‟s eyes. Why should we adhere to patriarchal norms?♦
Interested in Basketball? Be sure to check out both team pages on Facebook or through the SOAS SU, and consider signing up for next year! Image: SOAS Sports images
23
The SOAS Spirit | May 2014
Football
Sport
Women’s Football– Success driven by Team Spirit James Appleby, BA Politics and African Studies Carlo Saturnino is a uniquely dedicated SOAS sporting figure. This summer, he will manage his native Angola in what will be their first participation in the Africa Nations Cup UK, a football tournament that has gained recognition from the English Football Association and will be shown live on TV across the world. The tournament is not a corporate cash cow the like of which will be seen in Brazil this summer, it is ran on a not-for-profit basis and will be made up of teams mixed with ex-professionals and young people of the African diaspora living in the UK. Due to various petty disputes within the Angolan diaspora, no one had been able to form a team to represent the nation at this football festival. Until Carlo came along. In his own words, it was a dream driven by „promoting togetherness‟ and „raising awareness on issues affecting the diaspora population in the UK such as advice and guidance on drugs, gun and knife crime, and health issues.‟ Through the tournament he says, he can help the Angolan diaspora develop „employment opportunities and sociocultural events that will initially increase the profile of the community and its members, consolidating it as a professional organisation in the future.‟ It was right here at SOAS, however, where master‟s student Carlo‟s coaching has played a part in success. This year, SOAS women‟s football 1sts won their BUCS league after a series of outstanding displays. Coach Carlo wasn‟t the only one leading the team through their triumphant season, however. I was keen to question team The Women’s Football team captain Olimpia Burchiellaro on what drove the team to glory. Q: How did you manage, as a player, to lead the team such success on the field? Olimpia: Managing the team, a task which seemed insurmountable on week 1, became more and more accessible thanks to the support and the girls who showed up at every practice and gave me advice on how to proceed. The sacrifices that the team made, ie staying in on a Saturday night when everyone is out partying, or getting muddy and soaked under the rain on a Wednesday afternoon (not my ideal afternoon), have paid off in the best of ways, we couldn't have done any better. Q: So team spirit played a big role?
Olimpia: After our first training, many people gave in to the exigencies of studying and attending lectures and tutorials. However, i knew then and there that the girls who had found the time to stay on the team, where there to stay. We have been a very compact group from the start. With time we came to know each other as individuals and players, supported each other for our faults and shouted words of encouragement and appreciation on the pitch when we showed off our personal ability. Q: How did you manage to combine the role of winning team captain with your studies? Olimpia: I wouldn't say my studies have been affected at all by the experience. Rather, it is only about learn-
ganization of our SU hasn't impeded on the success of the team and has overall helped us achieve it with their support and encouragement. One aspect that I must compliment above anything else is the SU's desire to ask for the opinions of players regarding the functioning of the sports society's system, showing a willingness to improve things. I am sure Kabir Joshi will address some of the inherent issues, and I am optimistic about the direction of sports at SOAS.
When I spoke to another of the team‟s stars this season, Nadine El-Bayoumi Foty, she echoed her captain‟s words - that togetherness was key. Nadine: I‟ve played in a lot of teams in the US but SOAS was definitely the place where I found the best atmosphere. I think this is largely because everyone comes from different backgrounds and just wants to be part of a family as well as competing. It‟s something so unique that I can‟t put it into words. We have this core group of people who want to come to practice every time and are happy to dedicate time, even master‟s students such as myself. I think we were really lucky to have the group of people we did. Q: What else made the difference between you and other teams in the league? Nadine: There was lot of raw talent, which was easy to see from the first practice. Good leadership, from both Olimpia and Carlo, also really helped. Even those who hadn‟t played football as much within our team really felt included in the team dynamic. I loved that about this season. Q: Women‟s football is an under exposed sport in the UK. How do you feel it is represented at SOAS? Image: SOAS Sports images
ing to take time off every week, even every 2 days, to engage in the technicalities of organizing matches, referees, bookings and travel. There have been a few episodes where I have had to learn the hard way, for example arriving at the pitch for one of the most important games and realizing the pitch had not been booked, or a referee wasn't available. That was stressful, but luckily enough things turned out to be okay. Q: So organisation within SOAS sport could still be improved? Olimpia: Most of the problems can be easily resolved. Indeed, to enable teams to accommodate more players there should be a designated afternoon left free for sports. However, despite difficulties here and there the results speak for themselves. The occasional disor-
Nadine: Women‟s sport in general at SOAS is really well-promoted, as everyone is aware of patriarchy. On more general terms, being a female athlete is still stigmatised at a societal level inside and outside of SOAS – for example, if I am to dress up in non-athletic clothing, people express surprise when I say I‟m a footballer, because the stereotype of a female athlete is still to look butch or be homosexual. The SOAS women‟s team is such a diverse group of people that these issues don‟t really exist, though. We just all clicked!♦
Congratulations to this year‟s victorious women‟s football team, and let‟s build on your success next year. Special thanks go to Carlo Saturnino, Olimpia Burchiellaro, Nadine El-Bayoumi Foty and Imogen Edwards who all made this article possible!
The SOAS Spirit | May 2014
24
Interview
Sport
An interview with… Kabir Joshi The new man at the helm of SOAS sports gives a frank interview with The SOAS Spirit, telling us he is not overawed or afraid of changing James Appleby and Imogen Edwards, BA Politics and African Studies and BA History strategy next year… Q: What is your background in sports? K: Although I haven‟t been involved so much in SOAS teams due to time constraints, I was in both cricket and football teams for a number of years before I came here. Sport is most significant to me in terms of the sense of identity it has given me. Playing football as a child in the UK made me feel less of an „outsider‟, whilst playing cricket and supporting India helped me to connect with an I admire the work of Indian heritage Football Beyond that I was otherBorders and I will try wise quite distant from. to follow in their
legacy of initiatives by scheduling events across a range of sports.
Q: Your predecessors such as Johann and Keiko have been big personalities on the sporting scene. Do you feel intimidated stepping into their shoes? K: It‟s true that they had direct connections with the sports teams, but I don‟t feel intimidated because I think the best way to go about this job is to maintain a secure base of people around you, to guide you. This can only be done by building strong connections with all of the team captains, which can be done through sports socials. It‟s not my biggest concern though, I would rather focus on what actually restricts sports teams. Q: A big concern of captains I have spoken to has been the poor standard of sports equipment. What do you think you could do to address this issue? K: I agree that it is very important that we address this matter to ensure that equipment is in decent condition. Of course, it‟s going to be a money issue, but it is something I will look to resolve when devising next year‟s sports budget. The most effective way to raise funds to improve equipment would be to introduce membership fees for SOAS sports societies. This is what the vast majority of UK universities do, and I think it is a conversation we need to have. If most students could afford a small membership fee at the start of the year, then it would be wrong to keep providing below-par equipment just to maintain free participation ideals. Before taking any such measure, we will need to determine what all of the students have to say
about it. There has also been a problem of venue bookings, with teams being under pressure from the union to „block -book‟ venues such as pitches. I will aim to ensure that next year, there is more flexibility on the union‟s part to the demands of captains. Q: What kind of new initiatives do you intend to bring to the role? K: As I said earlier, I am looking to bring in more events concerning sport‟s role in identity and cultural issues. At the moment, I am consulting the cricket team on hosting an event about the successful West Indies
The most effective way to raise funds to improve equipment would be to introduce membership fees for SOAS sports societies
cricket team of the 70s and how they played a role in the lives of the Caribbean diaspora in the UK. I am planning a project on corruption within FIFA as well. I admire the work of Football Beyond Borders and I will try to follow in their legacy of initiatives by scheduling events across a range of sports. I will look to further the progress made by the Saturday Club also, ensuring that sports teams have the opportunity to gain coaching experience in partnership with local schools in Camden Borough. If any team were to look to follow in the footsteps of the men‟s football team in having a project such as a tour abroad, then they could come see me and I will give them my full backing at UGMs, and try to raise money for them through socials where, for example, the proceeds of the bar can go to that project.
Q: Of course, a key part of your role next year will be the transition of leaving Vernon Square and moving into Senate House. What will the move mean for SOAS sport moving forward? K: It won‟t change much. We are not losing any facilities in Vernon, but we are not gaining any from Senate House. They have no plans to allocate us any spaces for sports in North Block and I very much doubt that that will change. We will look to utilise the basement gym more often – with upgraded equipment. We also plan to speak to UCL to see how we can utilise their facilities more than we currently do. The Senate House Consultation has not really been active for a while, however, and I know that this is going to take up a large part of my role next year. The 800 extra students coming in to SOAS means that students simply must benefit from more space from the move. The university does recognise this, and if we can‟t get our own spaces in North Block, we are going to push for more space in the Main Building. ♦