CONTENTS
"The Best Year of My Adulthood": Dinoo’s Journey to Edinburgh with the Commonwealth Scholarship
Dinoo Wickramage, a driven professional from Sri Lanka, reflects on her transformative year at the University of Edinburgh. Through the support of the Commonwealth Scholarship and the University's Scholars Network, she navigated an intense academic programme, cultural adjustments, and personal growth. Her experience underscores the critical role of scholarships and community support in empowering students from developing countries to thrive.
Dinoo's Story
For Dinoo Wickramage, the decision to pursue an MSc in International Development at the University of Edinburgh was rooted in her passion for sustainable development and a vision to contribute to her home country. Coming from a vibrant career in sustainability, working for organisations such as the United Nations and Coca-Cola’s, Dinoo recognised the value of expanding her knowledge to make a greater impact. Yet, the journey to Edinburgh wouldn’t have been possible without the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship, funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office. “I couldn’t have funded this programme on my own,” Dinoo shared. “Coming from Sri Lanka, where opportunities like this are limited, the scholarship was a lifeline. I was so grateful to be one of only 10 to 15 Sri Lankans selected for this prestigious award.”
The University of Edinburgh’s programme attracted her not just for its academic rigor but also for its unique placement-based dissertation option. “Although I didn’t end up doing the placement dissertation, knowing that such opportunities existed was part of why I chose Edinburgh. And let’s be honest, the city itself is magical. You have to love where you’re going to study!”
Adjusting to Life in Edinburgh
Arriving in the UK marked a significant cultural shift for Dinoo. “It was my first time in the UK, and everything felt new. Simple things like grocery shopping or using public transport were unfamiliar,” she explained. The University of Edinburgh’s Scholars Network proved instrumental in helping her acclimate. “The Scholars Network became my anchor,” Dinoo said. “It’s not just for Commonwealth scholars but also for students on other scholarships, like refugee scholarships. It created a community of like-minded individuals from similar backgrounds who were also navigating this intense academic environment. The support team, who run the network, were amazing. They made sure there was always someone to turn to, whether it was about academic concerns or just life in the UK.” Through the network, Dinoo participated in well-being events, outdoor trips and regular gatherings that made the one-year programme less overwhelming. “One year for a master’s is incredibly intense,” she admitted. “I came back to academics after seven years, and it was a steep learning curve. The Global Scholars network provided the mental and emotional support I needed to get through.”
Navigating Challenges and Finding Support
The intensity of the programme wasn’t without its challenges. Dinoo recounted experiencing anxiety during her second semester. “It was a lot to handle in such a short time, and I reached a breaking point,” she said candidly. “In Sri Lanka, mental health isn’t something we talk about much, but here, the support team encouraged me to prioritise my well-being. They convinced me to take an extension for an assignment project, something I initially resisted. That support helped me deliver my best work.”
Looking Ahead
As Dinoo graduates, she remains committed to her goal of contributing to Sri Lanka’s development. “The Commonwealth Scholarship has a clear mandate—we’re meant to take what we learn and bring it back home. That’s my priority,” she emphasised. While actively job hunting, she is exploring opportunities in corporate sustainability and development sectors, both in Sri Lanka and abroad. Reflecting on her year in Edinburgh, Dinoo’s words resonate with a sense of fulfillment: “It was the best year of my adulthood. The combination of academics, the support system, and the city itself made it an experience I’ll cherish forever. Scholarships aren’t just about funding education. They’re about creating opportunities for individuals who are determined to make a difference but lack the resources. And networks like the Scholars Network? They’re the bridge that ensures we don’t just survive but thrive.”
Dinoo’s story highlights how scholarships and supportive communities can transform lives, turning challenges into stepping stones for a brighter future.
Pioneering Fertility Preservation and Cancer Awareness Through Art: Grace Forsyth’s Inspiring Journey
Grace Forsyth is a trailblazing PhD student dedicated to improving fertility preservation options for childhood cancer patients while making science more accessible through innovative public engagement projects. Her work integrates reproductive biology, artistic collaboration, and a deep commitment to engaging communities in conversations about cancer. This article explores Grace’s background, research, and the development of her unique colouring book project aimed at children with cancer.
A Passion for Reproductive Biology and Public Engagement
Grace’s journey into reproductive biology began during her undergraduate studies at the University of Edinburgh, where she graduated in 2020. She further honed her skills with a master’s degree in London before returning to Edinburgh to embark on a PhD. Her research focuses on fertility preservation for male childhood cancer patients, a pressing issue as current chemotherapy treatments often compromise fertility. To address this challenge, Grace is exploring protective drugs that could be administered alongside chemotherapy to safeguard fertility in situ, avoiding invasive procedures or reliance on future technological advancements.
Her PhD programme also incorporates a unique public engagement and science communication component, where students learn to translate complex scientific concepts for broader audiences. This training inspired Grace’s commitment to making her research more accessible.
Bridging Science and Art: The Colouring Book Initiative
Grace’s enthusiasm for creative expression led to the inception of her colouring book project, designed to resonate with children on cancer wards. “I was always interested in mixing science and art for education,” she said, noting how art can demystify science for the public. Reflecting on the accessibility of science compared to art, Grace observed: “People feel that they can’t access science—it’s all behind closed doors—whereas you can just walk into an art museum.” Collaborating with artist Alice Haskell, Grace envisioned a co-produced colouring book that would reflect the experiences of children with cancer. The project’s content is informed by a survey targeting parents, adult survivors of childhood cancer, and medical professionals. “We’re asking about their hospital experiences, understanding of treatment, and a bit about fertility preservation,” she said. This input ensures the book is both engaging and relevant to its audience, children aged 6–11.
Workshops and Co-Creation
To further refine the colouring book’s content, Grace and Alice are conducting workshops with adult survivors of childhood cancer. These sessions include activities like visual journaling and comic strip drawing, designed to encourage participants to reflect on their experiences. “The workshops will help us create something that really suits the audience,” Grace emphasised. The involvement of medical professionals, such as consultants and play specialists, also enriches the project, ensuring it aligns with the therapeutic needs of its target demographic.
The Importance of Funding
Grace’s work is supported by a student experience grant, essential for covering the costs of public engagement initiatives. She candidly acknowledged the financial challenges of such projects: “People don’t realise how expensive public engagement stuff is to do. I wouldn’t have been able to do the project without the grant.” The grant funds Alice Haskell’s artistic contributions and the workshops, which are vital for the colouring book’s development. “The colouring book itself costs around £4,000, and the workshops are about £1,300,” Grace noted.
Looking Ahead
With her PhD set to conclude in 2025, Grace is in the final stages of both her research and the colouring book project. She hopes the book will be ready for publication early in the new year. Beyond this, Grace remains deeply committed to combining scientific inquiry with community engagement. Her work exemplifies how creativity and empathy can transform complex scientific challenges into tangible, impactful initiatives. As Grace succinctly put it: “I wanted to make sure the content was reflective of their experiences.”
Grace’s journey underscores the vital role of interdisciplinary approaches in tackling some of science’s most pressing challenges. Her ability to integrate cutting-edge research with artistic collaboration and public engagement offers a powerful blueprint for fostering understanding and innovation. Grace’s work not only advances the field of fertility preservation but also demonstrates how science and art can intersect to create meaningful, accessible projects for communities in need. Her dedication to improving lives through research and outreach is a testament to the power of innovation and compassion. As her colouring book project nears completion, it promises to leave a lasting impact on children and families navigating the challenges of cancer treatment, highlighting the importance of continued support for such transformative initiatives
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Ruweyda’s journey through education and opportunity
Ruweyda Ahmed is a fourth-year history student at the University of Edinburgh, whose journey from London to Scotland highlights the impact of scholarships and the vital support networks that have shaped her academic and personal growth.
Born to Ethiopian parents and raised in London, Ruweyda's path to higher education was paved with both challenges and aspirations. Choosing to leave her home city, she sought a university experience that reflected her personal and academic ambitions. “There are really good universities in London, but I didn’t want to stay home for three to four years,” she explains. “The University of Edinburgh’s unique degree structure and vibrant academic community looked like the perfect fit.”
Her journey wasn’t without hurdles. Concerned about the financial burden of studying away from home, Ruweyda took a year out before applying, using that time to research scholarship opportunities. This proactive approach led her to the Andrea Levy Scholarship, set up to specifically support Black African and Caribbean heritage applicants from socio-economically challenged backgrounds. Ruweyda is unequivocal about the profound influence of scholarships on her university experience. “It’s my biggest financial aid for studying at the university,” she says. The support has not only alleviated financial stress but also bolstered her confidence. “It makes a bigger impact on a student’s confidence than you would think.”
Beyond financial aid, the scholarship programme has connected her with a robust support network. Regular meetings with scholarship coordinators and participation in career and social events have helped her navigate some of the complexities of university life. “It’s such a big university, and networking connections can be hard to come by,” Ruweyda notes, highlighting the unique support structure provided by the scholars’ network.
In her third year, Ruweyda embraced the opportunity to study abroad in Reims, France. Though initially daunting, the experience proved invaluable. “I was a bit daunted at first but having the scholarship helped me feel more secure, both financially and personally,” she shares. Now in her final year, Ruweyda is focused on completing her dissertation and planning for the future. She aims to pivot into law, applying for vacation schemes to kickstart her legal career. “Even in my applications, the scholarship stands out as a testament to my resilience and achievements,” she says.
Ruweyda is passionate about the role of continued financial support for students. Her message to potential donors is heartfelt: “Even £10 or £20 a month can make a huge difference in a student’s life. It’s not just about the money; it’s the confidence and opportunities it creates.” Ruweyda Ahmed’s story is a shining example of how support, determination, and opportunity can come together to shape a promising future. With her eyes set on a career in law and a rich university experience behind her, she is well on her way to achieving her dreams, thanks in part to the generosity of those who believe in the power of education. As Ruweyda aptly puts it, “You are making a valuable difference for a student—a difference they will carry with them for the rest of their life.”
Expanding Horizons: The Impact of the Go Abroad Scholarships on Cristina Nievas Molina and Callum Marshall
The University of Edinburgh's Go Abroad Scholarships programme has played a pivotal role in shaping the academic and personal growth of students like Cristina Nievas Molina and Callum Marshall. Through transformative international experiences, Cristina and Callum have been able to apply their academic knowledge in real-world settings, immerse themselves in diverse cultures, and make a tangible impact on communities around the globe. Their stories reflect how global opportunities broaden academic perspectives, promote personal development, and empower students to drive positive change.
Cristina Nievas Molina: A Journey of Innovation and Community Engagement
Cristina’s international experiences have been shaped by her early exposure to diverse cultures. Born in Spain and raised in the Canary Islands and New York, Cristina always had an innate curiosity about the world matched with a passion for travelling. This global perspective led her to choose the University of Edinburgh for her civil engineering studies, where she saw the Go Abroad Scholarships programme as a gateway to enriching experiences.
"I knew I wanted to study abroad even before applying to university," Cristina shared, reflecting on her early desire for a global education. "Edinburgh’s reputation for fostering international opportunities really drew me in."
Cristina’s most transformative experience came when she participated in a two-week project in Peru through the Engineering for Change society.
"This project was a game-changer for me," Cristina reflected. "We were working with groundwater monitoring in communities that had limited access to water. The technology we used was basic, but the impact was huge." The project involved using low-cost geophysical instruments to locate freshwater sources for rural communities. Cristina acknowledged the technical difficulties but highlighted the human side of the project: "We didn’t just go in and try to fix things; we collaborated with the community, heard their stories, and worked together to find solutions."
Living alongside local communities in Peru gave Cristina a deeper understanding of resource scarcity and the importance of sustainability. "In Peru, water is precious. Here in Scotland, we often take it for granted, but in Peru, every drop counts," she noted, describing how this experience shaped her perspective on resource conservation.
Cristina is now leading the Engineering for Change project and is advocating for extended project durations to allow for greater impact. “I believe the more time you spend with a community, the better your understanding of their needs and how to address them effectively,” she said.
Callum Marshall: Bridging Engineering and Humanitarian Efforts
Callum Marshall, a second-year mechanical engineering student from Edinburgh, also experienced the transformative power of the Go Abroad Scholarships programme. His journey took him to South America, where he applied his engineering skills to support communities in need, while gaining invaluable cultural insights.
For Callum, the Go Abroad Scholarships programme was an opportunity to bridge the gap between theoretical engineering and real-world application. "I’ve always been fascinated by physics and maths, and mechanical engineering was a natural fit for me," he explained. "But what really drew me to the Go Abroad programme was the chance to take what I’ve learned in the classroom and apply it in a global context."
His journey took him to Peru, where he worked as part of the Geoscience Without Borders initiative, focusing on groundwater research. The team used seismic and resistivity tests to find new freshwater sources in arid regions, which could make a life-changing difference to local farmers. "We found some promising sites near a farm, which could provide water for livestock and crops," Callum shared. "That was such a rewarding moment, knowing that our work could help families sustain their livelihoods."
Similar to Cristina’s experience, Callum’s work was both technically demanding and deeply rewarding. He also worked to teach locals how to use the methods they had applied, ensuring that the community could continue the work independently. "One of the most important parts of this project was the transfer of knowledge," Callum explained. "We didn’t just want to solve their problems; we wanted to empower them to solve their own."
Callum’s experience in Peru was more than just technical work—it was a cultural awakening. "It was a real cultural shock for me," he admitted. "The way people live, the work they do, the celebrations—they live in a very different way than we do. But the warmth and generosity of the people were incredible. Even with the language barriers, we always found ways to communicate, and that was really special."
Global Impact and Personal Growth
Both Cristina and Callum’s experiences reflect the profound impact of the Go Abroad Scholarships programme on their academic, personal, and professional growth. Each faced unique challenges—Cristina in navigating limited resources in Peru, Callum in working with local communities with little access to technology—but both found that these obstacles strengthened their skills and understanding of engineering’s real-world implications.
"Going abroad really opened my eyes to the complexities of global engineering challenges," Cristina remarked. "You realise that sometimes it’s not just about applying the latest technology; it’s about understanding the local context and working with what you have."
For Callum, the experience was also transformative in how it shaped his view of the world. "I’ll never forget the first time we tested for water in a dry area. When we found a promising spot, it was a moment of triumph for everyone. It was humbling to see how much of a difference such a small thing could make."
Both students also stressed the importance of cultural immersion in their journeys. Cristina noted, "Working in Peru was a completely different kind of learning. It wasn’t just academic; it was about understanding a culture, its challenges, and the people."
Callum echoed this sentiment, stating, "Seeing the realities of life in South America, such as the working conditions—it made me grateful for the opportunities I have, but it also made me want to contribute to making a real difference."
Cristina and Callum both expressed deep gratitude for the Go Abroad Scholarships programme and the donors who made their international experiences possible. Cristina summed it up, saying, “Not many universities offer these kinds of opportunities, and it’s something really special. I feel so lucky to have had the chance to experience this, and I hope it continues to grow for future students.”
Callum added, “I’ll never forget what this programme has done for me—not just academically, but personally. It’s helped me grow as an engineer, as a global citizen, and as a person. I hope more students get the same chance to experience what I have.”
Cristina Nievas Molina and Callum Marshall’s stories are powerful examples of how the Go Abroad Scholarships programme empowers students to extend their learning beyond the classroom, making meaningful contributions to communities and gaining life-changing experiences in return. Both have developed not only as engineers but as global citizens, deeply aware of the importance of collaboration, cultural understanding, and making a positive impact in the world. With continued support, the programme can enable even more students to follow in their footsteps, creating a ripple effect that extends far beyond their time at university.
Innovating Medical Education: David Bourne and the Creation of SimPat
David Bourne, a final-year medical student at the University of Edinburgh, has merged his passion for medicine and innovation to develop SimPat—a ground breaking platform set to transform how medical students prepare for practical examinations. Backed by the University's Student Experience Grant, SimPat exemplifies the power of student-driven innovation to tackle real-world challenges and create a lasting impact on education.
A Passion for Medicine and Innovation
After seven years of rigorous study at The University of Edinburgh Medical School, David’s academic and personal experiences gave him a first-hand understanding of the challenges faced by medical students. One of the most significant hurdles, as David identified, was the lack of affordable, high-quality resources to prepare for practical examinations. These exams involve simulated patient scenarios where students must demonstrate diagnostic and communication skills, yet existing resources were limited, expensive, and often unrepresentative of diverse patient demographics.
Recognising this gap, David was inspired to leverage the emerging capabilities of generative AI. Combining his interests in coding, business, and healthcare, he embarked on the ambitious task of developing a platform that could provide students with diverse, accessible, and cost-free resources.
“I thought I might as well see how far I could get, I had a bit of time and some experience in coding and start-ups, so I thought, ‘Why not? David recalls. Armed with a mix of determination and technical know-how, he spent six months coding and collaborating with freelancers to build an initial version of the platform. With support from Edinburgh Innovations and the University, David formed a team of like-minded individuals passionate about improving medical education.
A significant breakthrough came with the UK Student Experience Grant, which provided £5,000 in funding. “The grant made all the difference,” David says. “It allowed us to move faster, build a polished website, and start paying qualified contributors to create high-quality content.”
Today, SimPat boasts over 500 patient cases, offering the largest free repository of its kind and setting a benchmark for inclusivity by representing a wide range of socio-demographic backgrounds and medical conditions.
Expanding the Vision
SimPat’s future is as ambitious as its beginnings. The team aims to triple its content library to over 2,000 cases, ensuring comprehensive coverage of medical scenarios while maintaining its commitment to being a free resource. “We want enough cases that no student ever feels they need more,” David explains. “Our goal is to keep all the resources free, accessible, and representative of the real world. Our aim of 2,000+ patient cases this year is more than all current patient cases from all resources currently combined (and all which paid for currently) or how the current most used resource has around 1,300 cases and naturally is paid for too.” SimPat’s global reach is also expanding, with users from 33 countries already benefiting from the platform. “Hearing positive feedback from users worldwide is amazing,” David shares. “Now, we want more students using it daily, especially here in the UK and at Edinburgh.”
For David, the journey with SimPat doesn’t end with graduation. While he is on track to begin his foundation year as a doctor, he envisions staying actively involved in SimPat, either leading its growth alongside his medical career or transitioning into a full-time role if the platform’s impact expands further.
A Legacy of Innovation
As SimPat continues to evolve, its success stands as a testament to what can be achieved when passion meets opportunity. As SimPat grows, David’s vision remains focused: “We’ve come so far, but this is just the beginning. I’m excited to see where we can take it.” For David, the platform represents more than a project; it is a legacy that reflects his commitment to improving healthcare education and making a difference for future generations of doctors.
United Against Endometriosis: Claire Smith and Lynsey Milligan’s Mission to Support ENDO1000
A Shared Journey of Resilience and Advocacy
Endometriosis is a chronic and often debilitating condition that impacts millions of lives worldwide yet remains underdiagnosed and misunderstood. Claire Smith and Lynsey Milligan, have taken their experiences and transformed them into powerful advocacy and fundraising efforts, united by their shared commitment to supporting ENDO1000, a ground breaking initiative aimed at improving diagnosis and treatment.
Claire Smith
Diagnosed with endometriosis at 31, Claire Smith channelled her challenges into a mission of awareness and support. Over the past 14 years, she has tirelessly advocated for endometriosis patients, first through founding the support group Endo 5 and later through her Tattoo business, EndoInk.
"When I decided to start my own business, there was no other name I could think of other than EndoInk," Claire explains. Her business not only raises awareness but actively funds initiatives like ENDO1000. Claire's unique approach to fundraising includes offering free endometriosis-themed tattoos in exchange for donations of any size. "You don’t have to have endometriosis to get the tattoo. It’s a way for people to show support," she says.
In addition to tattoos, Claire sells Christmas boxes, T-shirts, and keyrings, with proceeds going toward endometriosis research. “I’m trying to think of anything possible just to keep the funds going up,” she shares. For Claire, her efforts are deeply personal. “Endometriosis is such a condition that’s not spoken about,” she emphasises. “Even a little amount of money can do a lot. Just by giving whatever you can and helping get the awareness out there makes a difference.”
Lyndsey Milligan
At 24 years old, Lynsey Milligan balances her role in her family’s coach company with living with endometriosis and her drive to support ENDO1000. Diagnosed in March 2023, she knows first-hand the struggles of living with the condition. “There was a point where I thought, how am I supposed to run a company when I can’t even get out of bed?” she recalls.
Lyndsey’s advocacy is rooted in her personal experiences and determination. “I’ve always been active in talking about it. Everything I learned about endometriosis came from online support groups, social media, and research,” she explains. Through candid posts on platforms like Instagram and Facebook, Lynsey has raised awareness and helped others recognise symptoms.
Her fundraising efforts are equally impactful. Lyndsey is organising a raffle through her family business, offering an overnight trip to Chester and Liverpool. “For £5 per entry, participants can win a trip valued at several hundred pounds, with all proceeds going directly to ENDO1000,” she shares. “We need research like ENDO1000 to ensure no one else has to endure the physical and mental toll of this condition without answers. Awareness is growing, but we can’t let the conversation stop here.”
A Unified Vision for ENDO1000
Both Claire and Lynsey recognise the critical importance of ENDO1000, a University of Edinburgh initiative that will collect data and biological samples from 1,000 individuals with endometriosis to advance research. For Claire, the project represents a collective effort: "Awareness is key to everything. If we get the awareness out there, that’s going to make it so much easier for people to understand." Lyndsey echoes this sentiment, emphasising the urgent need for change: “This condition doesn’t just affect fertility—it impacts careers and quality of life. Waiting ten years for a diagnosis is unacceptable.”
Claire and Lyndsey’s stories highlight the power of resilience, creativity, and community action in the fight against endometriosis. Their message to supporters is clear: every effort, no matter how small, contributes to meaningful change. For those inspired by Claire’s and Lyndsey’s journeys, participating in their initiatives or donating to ENDO1000 can make a profound impact. Together, they are not only raising awareness but also paving the way for a brighter future for endometriosis patients.
Life-changing experiences: Lauren Vicary-Insights Programme
"Looking Back Now, I'm Doing What I Wish Someone Had Done for Me"
Lauren Vicary, alumna of the University of Edinburgh and Senior Vice President in the Communications and Strategy Department at the Centre for American Progress, reflects on her journey from a shy student to a mentor for the next generation. In recent years, Lauren has become involved as an alumni volunteer in a range of activities at the University of Edinburgh, one of which is the Insights Programme, driven by her own experiences as a student and the desire to provide opportunities she wished she had.
Lauren Vicary’s connection to the University of Edinburgh began in 1987 when she joined as a student. Her academic pursuits included diverse courses in British Empire history, English literature, and Scottish literature. These studies laid the groundwork for a dynamic career spanning over two decades as a journalist before transitioning into politics and public policy.
“I have been associated with Edinburgh since I was a student in ’87, and I’m very glad to be back and part of the University family,” she shares, reflecting on the enduring significance of the University of Edinburgh in her life.
Lauren’s involvement with the Insights Programme began with the belief that she was doing a favour for the institution’s students. However, it quickly evolved into a deeply fulfilling experience. “What I didn’t expect was how much it fulfilled a need that I had, how much I enjoyed mentoring the students,” she explains.
Through her role as an Insights alumni host, Lauren has built lasting relationships with students, helping them refine resumes, improve presentations, and even navigate life’s challenges. “A lot of times it’s just life advice, and it’s a lot of fun to dole out little wisdom here and there,” she says.
Her approach to mentorship is grounded in relatability and authenticity. “I don’t think of myself as particularly unique or different. I’m a regular old alum. But that’s the point—you don’t want to be intimidating or threatening. You want to show them there are pathways, there are ways to succeed, and we are here to help.”
Lauren’s participation in the Programme is motivated by her own experiences as a student. “I wish I had seen some of those pathways when I was a student. I wish I hadn’t been so frightened of networking and communicating. Looking back now, I’m doing what I wish someone had done for me.”
Lauren is passionate about ensuring the Insights Programme thrives, emphasising that the generosity and support of our donor community is key to the success of the Programme. “One of the reasons that donations are so important to the Insights Programme is it wouldn’t really be possible without it,” she says. These donations allow Insights to run as a fully-funded programme, meaning there is no cost to the students who take part. The Programme offers invaluable opportunities for students, particularly those who face financial or social barriers. “In some cases, they’re the first to go to college. They might not otherwise get any opportunity like this if it weren’t for the generous donations,” Lauren explains. Through initiatives like the Insights Programme, students gain access to networking opportunities, career guidance, and exposure to diverse career paths, allowing them to envision a broader range of possibilities for their futures.
Lauren’s story highlights the transformative power of mentorship and the lasting impact of supporting programmes like Insights. Her commitment exemplifies the profound difference alumni can make in the lives of current and future students.
Insights Programme
Thank you to all our Insights donors and alumni hosts. Your generous support helps to further career exploration, broaden horizons, and demystify workplaces and professional life for widening participation students at the University of Edinburgh. If you would like to find out more about how to get involved with the Insights Programme, please contact: insights.programme@ed.ac.uk
A Legacy for the Future: Richard Casebow’s Journey Toward Supporting Sustainability
Richard Casebow, a psychotherapist and Alexander technique teacher has built a life and career steeped in philosophical inquiry and practical compassion. With a background that spans philosophy, therapy, and education, his dedication to understanding the human condition has also fuelled his commitment to environmental sustainability. His decision to leave a legacy to the University of Edinburgh, despite no direct academic connection to the institution, underscores his belief in education and environmental stewardship as cornerstones for a better future.
Richard’s journey began with a philosophy degree at the University of Aberdeen, though his path soon took an unconventional turn with an early foray into accountancy, which left him unfulfilled personally and professionally. Following a period of reflection, he discovered the Alexander technique and its synergy with psychotherapy, which shaped the next 30 years of his professional life.
“I found a way to be a philosopher,” Richard explained, “but in the way that I can help people live richer lives by integrating physical and emotional well-being within philosophical inquiry.”
Richard’s decision to support the University of Edinburgh was driven by its reputation for transformative impact. Over time, his focus shifted toward addressing sustainability and environmental challenges. “I felt the biggest impact I could have was to put money towards sustainability and the environment,” he explained. “If we fail to achieve a sustainable environmental future, those who come after us may have no future at all.”
Richard’s passion for sustainability stems from a lifelong awareness of environmental issues, inspired in part by the Centre for Human Ecology, which originated in Edinburgh. Richard’s legacy will support the University of Edinburgh’s environmental initiatives, including rewilding projects and broader sustainability efforts. “Through these initiatives is where my legacy can have the most impact,” he said, adding that he is impressed by the institution’s approach to addressing the climate crisis.
Richard’s generous decision to invest in education and the environment reflects his values and serves as a reminder that impactful legacies transcend personal connections. By leaving his mark at the University of Edinburgh, Richard Casebow is ensuring that his passion for sustainability will continue to inspire and empower others long into the future.
Legacy giving
If you would like to discuss leaving a legacy in your Will to support the University’s work, please visit our website or contact our Head of Legacies and Planned Gifts: Morag.Murison@ed.ac.uk www.giving.ed.ac.uk/legacy-giving
All opinions expressed are those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect those of the University of Edinburgh. The University of Edinburgh is a charitable body, registered in Scotland, with registration number SC005336. The University of Edinburgh Development Trust is a charitable body, registered in Scotland, with registration number SC004307