UK student scoops award for creating safe space for LGBTQ+ college community

Jack Stokes, a 17-year-old student at Dudley College of Technology in the West Midlands, has scooped the UK’s Queer Student of the Year Award.

The Queer Student Awards (QSA) recognise talented students in the UK, who identify as LGBTQ+, and are proudly leading their lives and the communities around them, as reported. Sophia Daly, Student Development Officer of Dudley College of Technology who nominated Jack Stokes, describes him as “phenomenal young man”.

“His dedication to the Dudley College queer student community has been inspirational and the whole college has benefited by his perseverance,” explained Daly. “Educational institutions should always act as safe and progressive spaces where everyone’s voice is valued; and this is certainly what we endeavour at Dudley.”

CREATING SAFE SPACES

The pandemic has led to the temporary, and in some cases permanent, closure of many clubs, bars and community spaces, which often serves as a vital service, and place for queer people to meet safely. Verbal abuse and instances of violence towards the LGBTQ+ community are increasing globally, with many students left feeling vulnerable, with a negative impact on their mental health. Stokes’ story shows the importance of creating safe spaces for queer people and building communities where young people can support each other. 

 “Jack’s story of using his own experiences of LGBTQ+ bullying to build a safe and inclusive space in his college; where young people can feel supported no matter how they choose to identify, impressed the judges,” said QSA award organiser and Founder Steve Keith.

“Jack was bullied, harassed and attacked for simply being himself,” explained Keith. “Yet, he chose to openly share these stories before being elected to lead Dudley Student’s Union LGBTQ+ Support, Friendship and Activist group; which quickly became an inclusive community for the LGBTQ+ students at Dudley College. He also created links with local charities and raised a motion to add a transgender officer to the college’s student executive leadership team.”

LOUD & PROUD

Commenting on the award, Stokes stated: “I am so honoured to have been named the Queer Student of the Year; and I’d like to thank the judges for this opportunity and Dudley SU for nominating and supporting me. We must be at the forefront of our own narrative and refuse to be defined by those who only embody hate and bigotry. I want to be a strong voice standing up for LGBTQ+ youth; and I will not let silence be all they hear. Loud and proud, always!” 

The virtual QSA event this year also recognised the fantastic work of nine other winners, and raised £1,106.84 for charity partner Diversity Role Models.

Check out Steve Keith’s column on how employers can improve their diversity and inclusion recruitment strategies to better engage and recruit LGBTQ+ talent, here.