The idea emerged from a broader initiative to support underrepresented groups on campus, following a report by Unite Students that identified the challenges Black students faced in accessing culturally appropriate services.
Identifying these gaps, we decided to take action, seeking the voices of current Black students to guide the creation of a resource that would be both authentic and useful. The journey began in 2023 with the development of a welcome booklet specifically tailored for Black students. This booklet aimed to highlight resources and services that were relevant and accessible, helping new students navigate campus life with confidence. However, we soon realised that the guide had flown under the radar for many, partly due to its unclear name and its physical format, which didn’t align with how students access information today.
Recognising the need for a more comprehensive and dynamic platform—one that could evolve with students’ needs and provide ongoing support—we created the ‘Black Students Guide to Kent‘ webpage, designed as a living document, which could be continually updated to reflect the changing landscape of student life. To understand our student’s needs and gather up to date, relevant content we organised two focus groups, inviting students to share their experiences and insight. This collaboration was not just about gathering feedback but about truly listening and creating something of value for our students.
Throughout this process, the involvement of Black students was central. Their input shaped everything from the content to the tone of the webpage, ensuring it was not just a top-down resource but a community-driven project. The result is a webpage that provides essential information and also aims to foster a sense of belonging and empowerment among Black students at Kent.
This initiative reflects the University’s ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion, recognising that true support comes from understanding and addressing the unique challenges faced by its students. By working closely with the Black student community, Kent has taken an important step towards creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for all.
To learn more and continue exploring, be sure to check out the Black Student’s Guide to Kent webpage.