I am an Associate Professor in International Development at the University of Westminster in London. I have taught and researched International Political Economy and Development for 28 years. I am a National Teaching Fellow and have been awarded ”Outstanding Teacher” in 2013, 2014, 2016, and 2019 by the Students Union and in 2022, I achieved the Westminster Learning and Teaching Award. The awards recognise my flexibility and commitment to enhancing the student learning experience in multiple ways, including knowledge exchange initiatives with local and international partners, comprehensive extra-curricular activities, and student collaboration projects. I have pioneered and directed various extra-curricular, staff-student projects, including the Democratic Education Network (DEN). In 2019 DEN was a runner-up for the Students’ Experience Award at the prestigious Guardian University Awards.

DEN was established in 2016 with a vision to provide students with a more compassionate, collaborative, and relevant educational experience. The primary objective was to foster a sense of community and mutual support among students while championing democracy and innovation in education. We have explored innovative approaches to teaching and have encouraged knowledge growth through projects such as the publication of magazines, books, field trips, international workshops, and conferences. Through these initiatives, we have established links with local communities and global partners.