Another year to continue growing and harvesting achievements. Another year to learn and embrace the gift of life.

I am grateful for all of life’s blessings, and for the extraordinary people and experiences that have shaped who I am today.

As I continue on my path, I look forward to all that lies ahead, as every experience—whether bitter or sweet—is what leads us to where we are meant to be.

Cheers to all that is to come!

Even the strongest tree falls after resisting many years of storms and windy days, but this is sometimes necessary for seeds to grow in its place, to bear stronger roots and a stronger trunk.

So is the journey of us humans. We rise, and when at the peak, we sometimes feel like we are falling. Whenever we do, it may seem like the end. However, there is a chance to grow in every situation we face, as joyful or painful as it may be.

Just like a tree, the key is to be rooted in fertile soil and surrounded by others who shelter and uplift us, like roots intertwined beneath the ground, until our branches have reached the sky and dense foliage once more.

As the season comes and goes, so do the leaves, flakes, and petals of them all, each with the promise of something much more beautiful. In the end, that is time’s way of shaping us all. As one with this earth, we each experience different sunsets and twilight, just to become something much greater.

As the world mourns the loss of Pope Francis, I join millions of Catholics and non-Catholics alike in paying my respects, not only for his life as a man of faith but for his unwavering commitment to social justice and his dedication to promoting interreligious dialogue.

His years as head of the Catholic Church and the Holy See were marked by his less traditional approach—something, perhaps, that distinguished him from his predecessors—as he represented the spirit of his origin, being the first ever Pope of Latin America and the first from the American continent.

I personally admired him for his views, the way he made young people connect with their faith, not only through the Gospel, but on a wider level, invoking a sense of social responsibility and a life sustained on principles of respect, inclusivity, and faith.

I was fortunate to witness his recitation of the Angelus in September 2024 at Saint Peter’s Square in Vatican City. It is a moment I will always cherish. Among the many things he shared that day, he reminded us of the importance of caring for one another.

The world has indeed lost a humanistic figure who reminded us that, regardless of our beliefs and who we are, we all have a place in this world, and we should cherish our common home, respect, and care for one another.

Rest in peace, Pope Francis.

Over the years, I have met many extraordinary and hardworking women who exemplify determination, resilience, and knowledge across different fields and disciplines. They actively engage with and contribute to their surroundings, each playing a role in making the world a better place.

From them, I have witnessed profound acts of solidarity and the vital need to promote a fairer world—one where respect and equality are at the core.

On this Women’s Day, our commitment remains the same as every year: to advocate for a more inclusive world for women, especially in places where it is needed most—amplifying their voices and ensuring their rights and dignity are respected. Together, we can raise awareness and take meaningful steps toward a more just and equitable world.

I’m happy to share the launch of the CrossTides Podcast—a space for global discussions and learning from people with diverse backgrounds and experiences.

Since the age of 14, I’ve been involved in radio broadcasting on local, regional, and national stations. Now, after more than 10 years, I’m excited to have my own space to interact with people and share their stories with the world.

The first episode will air soon! I invite you to subscribe to CrossTides on your favourite audio streaming platform and follow the project on social media. Here’s the link: https://linktr.ee/crosstides.

As we celebrate Winter Graduation, I warmly congratulate the postgraduate Class of 2023/2024 from the School of Global Studies of the University of Sussex.

This academic year has been an extraordinary journey of learning, enriched by the diversity and cultural vibrancy of Sussex, which has broadened our perspectives on the world.

It has been a privilege to represent the International Relations class and department as a Student Rep and to contribute to the Global Studies Student Experience Group (SSEG). Working to ensure students’ voices were heard and their needs addressed has been deeply rewarding.

Wishing everyone a future filled with growth and success. 

Shayron Tower 

IR Student Rep 

Class of 2023/2024