{"id":8187,"date":"2025-01-22T10:19:02","date_gmt":"2025-01-22T10:19:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sites.manchester.ac.uk\/humanities-blog\/?p=8187"},"modified":"2025-01-22T10:19:02","modified_gmt":"2025-01-22T10:19:02","slug":"seeding-change-my-uni-experience-with-social-responsibility-society","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sites.manchester.ac.uk\/humanities-blog\/2025\/01\/22\/seeding-change-my-uni-experience-with-social-responsibility-society\/","title":{"rendered":"SEEDing Change: My Uni Experience with Social Responsibility Society"},"content":{"rendered":"

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Starting university can feel overwhelming. Freshers’ Fair is a whirlwind of noise, freebies, and unfamiliar faces. But amidst the chaos, I stumbled upon a society that would change my university experience: SEED Social Responsibility.\u00a0<\/p>\n

My first event was a World Caf\u00e9, and let’s be honest, the free pizza sealed the deal. But it turned out to be much more than just a free meal. To set the stage, Nichola Banks, the Director of SEED Social Responsibility, welcomed us and gave us a really insightful talk. She explained what social responsibility actually means, how we can perceive it differently, and explored some key areas like digital illiteracy, the challenges facing our cities and more. It was really interesting to hear her perspective, sowing SEEDs of change among students.\u00a0<\/p>\n

\"\"It was inspiring to share ideas and debate solutions with other students passionate about making a difference. We sat in groups, eating and discussing these issues with one person playing a host and managing the group, drawing mind maps incorporating individual ideas, identifying challenges and proposals. Through attending this event, I met a lot of people whom I have met previously but did not know that we share similar interests.\u00a0 That’s when I realized the power of this society. I met people with similar interests, forming genuine friendships that extend beyond campus.\u00a0We even plan trips together!\u00a0<\/p>\n

The following months were a whirlwind of exciting events. We brainstormed key social responsibility themes for the year, along with learned from incredible changemakers like Anshu Gupta of Goonj. Goonj have made some incredible change by promoting community-centred impact while tackling the climate crisis through restoration and repurposing. And even co-hosted a unique play about the climate crisis with a difference\u00a0\u2013 we\u2019re all stars in it. Additionally, SEED Change-maker roles are now officially Stellify-accredited.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n

One of the most exciting opportunities, being part of the society, is the SEED Social Responsibility Catalyst Fund. This fund allows students to bring their ideas to life and make a real impact. It’s a fantastic way to turn your passion into action. Imagine, your innovative project tackling food waste in the student union, or a campaign raising awareness about mental health \u2013 the possibilities are endless. A call for applications is circulated early in Semester 1, with an additional funding call in Semester 2 if funds are still available. So, watch out!\u00a0<\/p>\n

The society also offers valuable skills development opportunities. We learned about project management, communication, and teamwork \u2013 skills that are highly transferable to any career path. Beyond the practical benefits, joining the SEED Social Responsibility has enriched my university experience in countless ways. It’s a supportive community where I feel valued and heard. I’ve gained confidence in my own voice and learned to think critically about global challenges. I’ve also developed a deeper understanding of social responsibility and the role I can play in creating a more just and sustainable world. It’s inspiring to be part of a movement of young people who are passionate about making a difference.\u00a0<\/p>\n

I encourage all incoming students to explore the diverse societies available. You might just find your tribe, like I did. And I can’t wait to read about your own amazing university experiences in the coming year!\u00a0<\/p>\n

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+44 (0) 161 306 6000<\/p>\n

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The University of Manchester
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