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

Happy New Year to everyone! May 2025 bring you renewed strength and steadfast determination to pursue your goals and fulfil your most heartfelt aspirations.

My favourite songs of 2024. 

1. Almost (Sweet Music) – Hozier
2. Arcade – Duncan Laurence
3. Be Kind – Zak Abel
4. Catch 22 – Alli, Anne-Marie
5. Clouds – JVKE
6. Cloudy Day – Tones and I
7. Esta Vida – Marshmello ft. Farruko
8. Fairytale – Livingston
9. Kleur – Snelle
10. La Vida la Vida – Joséan Log
11. Lullaby – Rilan
12. Mi Amor – Sam Feldt, JVKE, Annits
13. Mona Lisa – Dominic Fike
14. Praise Jah in the Moonlight – YG Markey
15. Pretty Slowly – Benson Boone
16. Too Sweet – Hozier
17. What Love Is – Zimmer90
18. What Would I Change It To – Avicii
19. Whisper – Myles Smith
20. Why Why Why – Shawn Mendes

A few days ago, I was reading the holiday messages I’ve written over the past eight years, and it made me realise how far I’ve come, how much I’ve grown, and how much the world has changed around me.

2024 is no exception. It has felt like a novel—a year full of emotions, with its highs and lows. A year of memorable moments, special people, and meaningful achievements, but also of tough lessons. Through it all, the sunny days have taught me to cherish the present, and the cloudy ones have helped me find strength in the good within and around me.

This year, as with the good moments, there were people who made the tough days easier and the good days even better. I’m grateful to those who have reminded me how lucky I am for my life and for the people—like them—who are part of it.

There’s so much I will carry with me and be thankful for in 2024 because every experience, whether sweet or bitter, shapes us. And as we grow, we eventually find our way to where we need to be.

As the year draws to a close and a new one begins, I wish everyone happiness within themselves and in the simplicity of life. May you find your path and discover peace in your surroundings.

Happy holidays to everyone!

From the pebble-strewn shores of Brighton, England, to the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, this week I received my diploma, officially awarding me the title of Master of Arts, with Merit, in International Relations from the University of Sussex.

That little island boy who once visited the beach almost daily to watch the sunset would be amazed by the many obstacles he has overcome throughout his life and proud of the experiences and accomplishments he has achieved so far.

For some, this may seem like an insignificant or conventional milestone. For me, however, it represents the result of hard work, determination, and commitment. It is a step not everyone can take, often due to economic constraints, but it becomes possible when the right path and means are discovered.

Anything and everything is possible when we believe in ourselves and work tirelessly, selflessly, and with virtue to achieve our dreams. Set your goals and work towards them—don’t let anyone bring you down. You define the life you want for yourself, and even for others, through the power of education.

As the quarter-century mark approaches, I look forward to continuing to work towards my aspirations in the coming years, remaining committed to serving others and helping to better my surroundings.

The best is yet to come. Ad Astra.

A hardworking, persistent, independent woman of faith – these are just some of the many words that describe who my late grandmother was.

Her life was a testament to how hard work and dedication can take you where you need to be.

She always had something to share – whether it was a story from her past, a tale from a novel or history book she had read, or a verse from the Bible – and each one always carried a lesson to be learned.

We were fortunate to have had her in our lives. She was always there for anyone who needed her and kept us all close, from childhood to adulthood.

Thank you, grann', for scolding us when necessary, for being our home dentist, seamstress, and counsellor, and for looking after us as we grew up.

You will forever be remembered by those of us who cherished your company and loved you dearly.

Fly high – you are now with the love of your life.

Rest in peace, grandma!