Little Black Book 2009-2010 - Cambridge University Students' Union

4 CUSU Little Black BookIntroductionOn behalf of the Cambridge UniversityStudents’ Union and the CUSU BlackStudents’ Campaign we welcome youto the eighth edition of the Little BlackBook.This booklet is a guide designedfor incoming freshers to learn aboutdiversity in Cambridge, as well as thesupport channels for minorities here.It is our belief as a Campaign that allstudents should be able to strive forsuccess, no matter what their race,culture or background. The Campaignaims to unite ethnic minority studentsin the fight against any attacks on thisideal, whether these attacks involveovert racism or a lack of awareness.This year’s booklet sees acontinuation of the profile intensiveapproach of last year. By taking youon a journey through the experiencesof students, we hope to remove anyfears and encourage involvement inactivities within the wider Cambridgecommunity. Also included in thebooklet is a section on some of thevarious religious and cultural societiesyou can join at Cambridge.The Black Students’ Campaign aimsto work in the name of multiculturalismand promote the different cultures thatunite us under the title of Britishness.In the words of Jimmy Carter, formerpresident of the United States ofAmerica: “We become not a meltingpot but a beautiful mosaic. Differentpeople, different beliefs, differentyearnings, different hopes, differentdreams.” This perfectly underlinesour belief that one can celebratethe numerous cultures that form anintegral part of our society today, not inthe name of segregation or assimilationbut integration and appreciation.Even if you don’t end up joining acultural society here, these years willundoubtedly be a unique experienceto be treasured for years to come. Wehope that you find this a useful startingpoint to your exciting and unparalleledjourney about to unfold. A sincerewelcome to Cambridge University andto the Black Students’ Campaign.Mostafa Al-Mossallami & Hassan ShaikhCUSU Black Students’ CampaignCo-Chairsblackstudents@cusu.cam.ac.ukFarrah JassatCollege Liaison Officerfymj2@cam.ac.ukSabiha AhmedPublicity Officersa516@cam.ac.ukEva MuiruriAnti-Racism Officerem435@cam.ac.ukSafian YounasWelfare Officermy291@cam.ac.uk

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6 CUSU Little Black Book 2009Black Students’ CampaignThe Cambridge University Students’ Union BlackStudents’ Campaign is an autonomous platform thatairs the voice of ethnic minority students within CUSUand throughout the University.As a campaign we work withstudents and student officers offeringsupport and facilitating networkingwithin the Black & Minority Ethnic(BME) Community and the widersociety. Our focus is primarily onimproving race relations, fosteringand developing cultural diversity,promoting integration withoutassimilation, and tirelessly workingto ensure effective representation.Our long term goal is that all minoritystudents can experience Cambridgelife to its fullest without the slightestfear or reservation.Who are Black Students?A ‘Black’ student is a person whois ethnically under-represented inCambridge and the wider society.It’s an all-embracing term seekingto include a spectrum of studentswho may share many experiencesat Cambridge which are differentto the experiences of the majorityof students who are ‘white’. Blackstudents are typically of African, Arab,Asian, or Caribbean descent. At thetime of printing, the name of thecampaign was being re-evaluated.What is the Black Students’Campaign?The CUSU Black Students Campaignis here to represent these studentsand to empower them to be proudof their background, enabling themto overcome adversity and anyapprehension they may hold so thatthat they make their views heard. Weseek to ensure racial equality for allstudents in the University, encourageBlack students to fully engage withthe community as a whole and toeducate and inform the generalpopulation about the diversity of Blackstudents at Cambridge. This includescampaigning for the cultural and

CUSU Little Black Book 2009 7Black Students’ Campaignreligious needs of the range of BlackStudents communities. For those ofus whom have been lucky enoughnot to have experienced racism orother unfair disadvantages as a resultof our ethnic origin, the reasons forthe existence of the Campaign mightnot be transparent. Unfortunately,more often than not, issues suchas institutional racism and studentalienation go unnoticed. It is thereforethe duty of the Campaign to discoverthe reality and inform the community.Why do we need a Black Students’Campaign?Black Students are typicallyunderrepresented across theuniversity and the student body,whether in college JCRs, UniversityCommittees or a range of otherorganisations. It is widely recognisedand understood that despitesignificant progress, racial equality,respect for - and understanding of -Black student issues are at nowherenear the levels expected.The Cambridge University Students’Union Black Students’ Campaign isan autonomous platform that airsthe voice of ethnic minority studentswithin CUSU and throughout theUniversity. As a campaign we workwith students and student officersoffering support and facilitatingnetworking within the BlackCommunity and the wider society.We seek to improve race relations,fostering understanding and fightingagainst ignorance and prejudice. Ourhope is that all students who defineas Black get the most out of theirUniversity experience and fulfil theirpotential.We seek to ensure racialequality for all students inthe University

8 CUSU Little Black Book 2009Black Students’ CampaignWhy the term ‘Black’?The term Black is an inclusive term,not used in reference to the colourof our skin, but the colour of ourpolitics. It offers an umbrella termused to include all members of theBlack community, we are able toestablish a united Black co-operative.It is important to recognize therange of cultures that exist withinthe Black Students Campaign andtherefore we facilitate a space fordifferent communities to focus onissues specific to them, which we thenadopt and subscribe to as a collective.By creating a single cooperative for allBlack Students, we are able to buildnetworks and support each other as acommunity.How do we take action?The Campaign takes action in avariety of ways. Firstly, through thepower of joint discussion in generalopen meetings. Furthermore ouronline forum serves to provide afertile ground for healthy discussion.Nobody should hesitate to voice theiropinions on any issues and concernsbecause only then can action begin.

CUSU Little Black Book 2009 9Black Students’ Campaignhelp usyou can take actionAn important place to start making contributions to the community is fromwithin your college.Campaign for an EthnicMinorities’ Officer in yourJCR/MCRHave panel debates onissues like Islamophobia,stop and search policingor underachievement ofethnic minoritiesShow ‘Black’ films (a richvariety exists: Bollywood,Nollywood and Africancinema or documentaries)Organise events for BlackHistory MonthHave a freshers’ stallwith information ongetting involved and whoto approach for detailsPut on cultural eventsRun a Rise Against Racismweek/event in your collegeFor further information on how to make a difference please contact the CUSUBlack Students Campaign on blackstudents@cusu.cam.ac.uk. Together we canbuild the unity that is our greatest strength.

10 CUSU Little Black Book 2009Anti-racismAn interview with CUSU’s anti-racism officerName?Miri FentonWhat do you do?I’m the CUSU Anti Racism Officer andalso CUFF (Cambridge UniversityFaiths Forum) Secretary. I’m also asecond year history student at Selwyn.What is the Anti-RacismCampaign?The Anti Racism campaign inCambridge has two main aims: 1)to resolve any incidents of racismwithin the university and 2) to preventfuture occurrences by promotingdiversity. Throughout the year we tryto organise awareness-raising eventssuch as film screenings and speakerevents as a means of encouragingbetter relations between people fromdifferent backgrounds.Are there many cases of racismwithin Cambridge?There are, unfortunately, a fewincidents of racism in Cambridge(though often not related to theUniversity). Nonetheless, racism is stilla real issue within the university, andin society more generally. There is alot of work to do before Cambridge isfree from racist prejudice.What support is available?If you experience racism, your firstport of call will be your college tutor.As Anti Racism Officer, I am alsoavailable if you wish to seek assistancefrom the Students’ Union. All reportsare dealt with in strict confidence.Other sources of support includethe University’s Counseling Service,your college nurse and your collegechaplain.What advice would you give toblack students in Cambridge?“Defining yourself, as opposed tobeing defined by others, is one ofthe most difficult challenges to face”(Carol Moseley-Braun). Diversity is oneof the greatest strengths it’s possibleto have - embrace it, live through itand try not to be afraid.Contact: anti-racism@cusu.cam.ac.uk

CUSU Little Black Book 2009 11Women’s UnionHello! I’m Natalie Szarek, the Women’sSabbatical Officer, which means thatI work full-time coordinating theWomen’s Union, running campaigns ongender issues which affect Cambridgewomen and providing individualsupport for students who self-define aswomen.I’ve recently graduated fromNewnham doing Social PoliticalSciences. Throughout my degree Iwas involved in the Women’s Unionand in Cambridge activism, includingfacilitating the Newnham FeministShebang, a gender discussion group.Like the Black Students’ Campaign,the Women’s Union is an ‘AutonomousCampaign’ of CUSU which means thatwe are funded, but not run, by CUSU.All women students are automaticallymembers and we are here to offersupport and representation; from whenyou come to Cambridge, to the timeyou leave.While there have been realimprovements in the way the universitytreats women over the past twentyyears, there are a lot of areas wherewe still need to work. Unfortunately,women still encounter discriminationin Britain (starting pay for graduates islower for women than for men) andface stereotypes, sexual harassmentand unfair treatment. There are alsoissues specific to Cambridge; women’ssports societies are often less wellfunded and supported than men’sand female students receive fewerfirsts than male students. Despite allthis, Cambridge women continue tomake invaluable contributions to theCambridge community in every spherepossible. The Women’s Union hopes tosupport and encourage women in theirtime at Cambridge, highlighting bothachievements and challenges.I hope to coordinate a lot withthe Black Students’ Campaign thisyear, recognizing that women havedifferent experiences based on race,ethnicity and religious and culturalbackground. I would like to emphasizethe needs of Muslim women, whichcolleges often fail to meet, and ensurethat black women’s experiences arenot marginalized. There is a Black andAsian Women’s Officer on the Women’sExecutive Committee who coordinatesevents and campaigns dealing withrace and gender. If you are interestedin running for this position or gettinginvolved in the Women’s Union, pleasecontact me at womens@cusu.cam.ac.ukor by phone on 01223 761694, and jointhe Women’s Bulletin email list.

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CUSU Little Black Book 2009 13International StudentsMy name is Mike, the CUSUInternational Chair (international-chair@cusu.cam.ac.uk). I am a third yeareconomist at Downing and I come fromChina. CUSU International’s objectiveis to represent international students,to create a platform where they caninteract with each other and withBritish students and to promote culturaldiversity and mutual understanding. Wehelp to improve the quality of life andwelfare for all international students, byproviding them with representation,services and by campaigning on theirbehalf. We also give support to theinternational societies and groups, toenable them to continually improvethe range of events they organise forinternational students.I think the most difficult problemfacing international students isinteraction with British students. Thiscan often be due to cultural differencesand language problems. CUSUinternational aims to break down thesebarriers. We arrange events, such asinternational formal dinners, foodfestivals, paintballing and garden partiesto promote cultural diversity and createa platform for both international andBritish students to interact. This year,we are hoping to introduce a CUSUInternational ‘family’ system, whichshould promote greater interaction.We also organise events and talks overfreshers’ week to provide internationalstudents with more detailed informationto enable them to settle in. Find theInternational Students’ Guide atwww.cusu.cam.ac.uk/publications

14 CUSU Little Black Book 2009Your Cambridge, Your CUSUAs a student at Cambridge, you are amember of your college and of yourcollege Common Room (JCR/MCR/SU). However, you are also a memberof Cambridge University, and ofthe Cambridge University Students’Union (CUSU).CUSU is a federal organisation,within which every college students’union has voting rights.We exist both to representCambridge students’ interests at auniversity and national level and toprovide central services and support.Your Union is made up of all of youcollectively, and there are plenty ofopportunities to get involved, bethey in our campaigns, research,entertainment, or supportinggrass-roots student activities andorganisations.On a day-to-day basis, the CUSU isrun by its Executive arm, consistingof six full-time sabbatical officersand numerous part-time studentvolunteers organised into teams(Education, Welfare, Democracy &Development, Access and Funding,Ethical Affairs, and a ResourcesGroup). CUSU supports, fundsand facilitates the AutonomousCampaigns, such as the BlackStudents Campaign and the Women’sUnion. The Union also employsaround half a dozen full-time staffat any given time. CUSU policy isset by a Council comprising threestudent-elected representatives fromeach College, and everyone in theUniversity has the right to submitmotions, attend meetings, and speak.On a day to day basis, CUSU

CUSU Little Black Book 2009 15Your Cambridge, Your CUSUprovides a substantial range offacilities for its students, fromdiscounts to vehicle hire, condomsto photocopying, pregnancy teststo laminating and binding. TheCUSU offices, at the Old ExaminationHall on the New Museums Site, areopen during normal office hoursfor students to make use of theseservices.But one of CUSU’s primary reasonsto exist is to make sure that the viewsof all students are never far from theminds of those making the decisionsthat affect our lives, be that theGovernment, the University or theColleges.Various CUSU Officers sit onUniversity Committees; in fact,there are very few committees leftin the University without studentrepresentation on them. Fromthe University Council and theGeneral Board to the Committee onBiohazards, we act as both your earsand your voice.On a national level, you havea formal representative structurethrough the National Union ofStudents. Each year, Cambridgesends about a dozen delegates to anational policy-setting conferencein Blackpool to form the UKstudent agenda. Many informalrepresentations are also made bythe CUSU to members of the NUSNational Executive Committee atregular events and meetings.Locally, CUSU is building upstronger links with the local councilto represent students’ views onissues like public transport and streetlighting; we have also lobbied heavilyon behalf of services for studentssuch as Cambridge Rape Crisis andthe Young Persons’ Mental HealthService.And we work with futuregenerations of Cambridge studentsto ensure that the student bodyreflects the diversity of society, interms of educational, social andeconomic backgrounds. Each year,we bring hundreds of school pupilsto Cambridge and send hundredsof Cambridge students to schoolsup and down the country, to breakdown the myths and stereotypes thatcontinue to surround the University.So whatever your interest andwhatever your concern, CUSU willcampaign on issues that matter toyou and support you throughoutyour time at Cambridge.For academic and welfare support,contact:welfare@cusu.cam.ac.ukacademic@cusu.cam.ac.ukTo get invovled with our schoolaccess events, contact:access@cusu.cam.ac.ukFind out more about CUSU at:www.cusu.cam.ac.uk

16 CUSU Little Black Book 2009Cultural SocietiesIntroduction to Cambridge’s cultural societiesThanks to the richness of culturaldiversity that exists in Cambridge, wecan boast a large and ever growingnumber of national and culturalsocieties. For many students, culturalsocieties can provide the comfort ofhome and an opportunity to interactwith world-class speakers and otherstudents that belong to their ownculture.Typically, national societies inCambridge have largely been host tointernational students exclusively fromthat nation. However, increasingly,British students with common culturalroots or with just curiosity have beenattending national society events andinteracting more with internationalstudents. Cultural societies offer agood opportunity to experience arange of cultures and are usually verywelcoming to those who are interestedin learning. Many students bringwith them a great deal of expertisein music, dance and range of otherart forms from other cultures and it isoften possible to find classes in thesedisciplines open to all students. Asyou will see, Cambridge has a lot tooffer and the CUSU Black StudentsCampaign is an intrinsic part of thatrich tapestry.

CUSU Little Black Book 2009 17CU Malaysia and Singapore AssocationWho are you and what do you do?Hi. I’m Justin Lee, a 2nd year Politics,Psychology & Sociology studentat Christ’s College and President ofthe Cambridge University MalaysiaSingapore Association. (CUMSA)Cultural SocietiesWhat does CUMSA do?The Cambridge University Malaysiaand Singapore Association (CUMSA)organises a range of social andrecreational activities, from sportsactivities, bops, food festivals to formalsand balls, to bring together not onlyMalaysians and Singaporeans but alsoother interested students of differentnationalities. The sense of communityunderpinning the activities organisedaims to foster a support network formembers during the course of theirstudies in Cambridge.Any events I should be lookingforward to?Yes! We have an action-packed 09/10planned for our members. This year,we’ll be holding frequent formals atvarious colleges, organising bops, andwe’re hatching a plan for a brilliant ball,continuing on from last year’s success.True to tradition, once again this Easterwe will be holding a Garden party; thisis not to be missed as well as other BBQevents during the year.You have a rather nice, flashywebsite. I particularly like the blogand the items for sale section.I’m interested in the Ceramic hairstraightener; whom do I contact?Just your luck that the hair straightenerhas now been sold! Keep on checkingthe site though for regular blog updatesand, hopefully for you, more hairstraighteners for sale.Did you know CUMSA means 5 inArabic?Oh wow, no I didn’t. You learnsomething every day. I’m sure we canuse that little nugget of informationsomewhere!

18 CUSU Little Black Book 2009Cultural SocietiesCU African Caribbean Society* We are also here to entertain. Ifyou’re bored of work and want to trysomething different, come to one ofthe many social events we organiseduring the year. We guarantee you willand get a true taste of Africa and theCaribbean!Who are you and what do you do?My name is Charles James. My parentsare originally from Jamaica and I’m thePresident of the CU African CaribbeanSociety (CUACS). I am also a 2nd yeareconomist at St Edmunds.Why does CUACS exist, what doesit do, and who does it cater to?The society exists to provide a focalpoint for students of African &Caribbean origin, and those interestedin all aspects of the diverse countries ofAfrica and the Caribbean. The societyhas 3 goals:* We are here to educate others andourselves about the varied cultures,politics and societies that exist acrossAfrica and the Caribbean.* We are here to empower byproviding a strong social supportnetwork for African and Caribbeanstudents and equipping them with theskills and advice needed to succeed atCambridge and beyond.Any events I should be lookingforward to?We’re working hard organising a bigwinter term event at the moment.Don’t miss it! It’s going to be a crackingnight and I look forward to seeing youin traditional African/Caribbean attire!For more information on this, andthe Society more generally, find us atSocieties Fair.Where in Cambridge can I getmyself some jerk chicken and a bitof plantain?You can get yourself some Jerk chickenand Jollof rice from the Caribbeanman’s stall at the centre of town orfrom us at our food and drinks eventsevery term.Where can I learn the Zulu dance?There is a society called the HomertonAfrican Dancers and they performat formals and May balls for a bit ofmoney too. So if you are interested injoining email africandance@cusu.cam.ac.uk

CUSU Little Black Book 2009 19CU Pakistani SocietyCultural SocietiesWho are you and what do you do?Hi, I’m Noor Janjua, a fourth year medicalstudent from Trinity Hall and Presidentof the CU Pakistani Society.What does the Pakistani Society do?CU PakSoc brings together Pakistanisin Cambridge and all those peopleinterested in learning more aboutPakistan. The aim of the Society is toprovide an opportunity to learn aboutPakistani traditions, culture and heritage,and to promote Pakistani identity inCambridge. You don’t have to be ofPakistani heritage to come to our events- everyone is welcome! If you comewith a sense of humour, a good moodand, of course, a healthy appetite, toany PakSoc you’ll fit right in and have agreat time! For more information, visitwww.cupaksoc.co.uk or email me atpakistan@cusu.cam.ac.ukWhat events are you holding thisyear?The highlight of the PakSoc calendaris our Annual Dinner & Ball that willbe held in Lent term. This is not to bemissed! Last year, not only did we raisea phenomenal sum for charity but wealso wowed our guests with what canonly be called a feast. This included ahuge 5-tiered milk chocolate fountain,a line-up including a fusion danceperformance (containing break-dance,Bollywood and bhangra), celebrityguests and much more. Other eventswe’re planning include a Freshers’Squash & Dinner, chill-out Nashthasand Chais (breakfasts and teas) and acomedy show. There’ll also be regulardinners, a movie night or two, severalprominent guest speakers and, ofcourse, we’ll end the year with ourtraditional garden party (another eventnot to be missed). New events arealways been planned. To find out more,get on our mailing list by emailing meat nj238@cam.ac.uk and we’ll keep youupdated on everything!Do I need membership?All our events have members’ pricesand non-member prices. However, asour members will vouch for, we have somany great events that you can save alot of money by becoming a member.Lifetime membership only costs £10- a lifetime of awesome events at anunbeatable price.Can you sort me out with somefree henna?Henna art is a staple of big PakSocevents. So not only can I sort you outwith some free henna, I can sort youout with traditionally designed hennatattoos by some of the best hennaartists at our University!CU PakSoc is one of the most active,diverse and friendly societies around.Come see for yourself at any PakSocevent and I guarantee you won’t regretit.

20 CUSU Little Black Book 2009Film from around the worldCambridge isn’t all hard work, and those hours you haveoff would not go to waste if you rented and watchedone of these films with a few friends in your JCR. They’reboth entertaining and culturally enlightening. Enjoy!Deus e o Diabo na Terra do Sol(1964)Voted as the best Brazilian film of alltime - this dramatic film focuses on thesocio-political problems facing Braziliansin the 1960s. Incorporating a uniqueblend of mysticism, religion and popularculture, this symbolic film insists that wemust determine our own path by ourown voice.Spring in a small town (1948)This is a post-war tale of the onceprosperous Dai family. Like many films ofthis era it deals with conflicts betweenlove and family loyalties, happiness andsadness; the future and the past. ‘Springin a small town’ is considered one of thebest Chinese films of all time.The Yacoubian Building (2006)A fairly recent film and definitely a mustsee.The film portrays a modern Egyptiansociety much changed since the 1952pre-revolution era. It’s set in downtownCairo around the time of the firstgulf war, the Yacoubian building (thename for a luxurious and prestigiousapartment block) offers a scathingportrayal of modern Egyptian societysince the coup d’etat of 1952.Bashu - The Little Stranger (1986)This Iranian drama is about a young boy‘Bashu’ from the Khizesan province, Iran,whose parents are killed in bombingduring the Iran-Iraq war. Escaping on acargo truck, Bashu finds himself seekingrefuge in a farm, leading him to thestrangest of friendships. A sweet filmabout family, friendship, as well as a hintof childhood mentality, it is consideredto be one of the best Iranian films to beplaced on the big screen.Tokyo Story (1953)This is considered as one of the topten films ever made. Tokyo story tellsthe story of an elderly couple’s visit tothe busy metropolis city of Tokyo fromtheir calm seaside retreat to visit theirgrown up children, who to their surprise,are too busy to spend much time withthem. Shot in the distinctive ‘tatamilevel’camera style and with prestigiousdirector Yasujiro Ozu’s unique plot style,this film is sure to entertain you in away that Hollywood just can’t, whilequestioning the true strength of familyties.Oldboy (2003)Oldboy is the second part in theVengeance trilogy, and it’s a powerful

CUSU Little Black Book 2009 21Film from around the worldfilm about a man locked in a hotel roomfor fifteen years for an unknown motive,only to be suddenly released into aweb of conspiracy and strangeness.This South Korean film has even gotHollywood filmmakers on the move foran American remake. See it!Ali Zaoua - Prince of the Street(2000)This Moroccan crime drama tells thestory of a brave trio of homeless boyswho vow to bury their friend ‘Ali Zaoua’like a prince following his murder by thepetty crime gang they work for. As theydig deeper into Ali’s life and past theybegin to learn more about the real Ali.Filled with mystery, suspense, action,betrayal, drama, crime and even theoccasional random romance, what morecould you want?Tender is the Wolf (2006)This recent Tunisian film deals with theconsequences of the decisions of oneman, who failed to prevent his low-lifefriends from raping a woman. Exploringissues that are considered taboo in theArab world, this film recently won thebest Arab film of all time at the SanFrancisco festival.Lagaan (2001)This is one enthralling film and in factone of the only Indian films to (almost)get an Oscar. It is set at the beginningof the 20th century when India wasstill part of the British Empire. This filmis for those cricket lovers out there, afilm about teamwork, courage andovercoming authority; this film isexciting right until the last.Heritage… Africa (1987)You may have trouble getting yourhands on this film; it was even a struggleto make for the director, who had touse his own house as collateral for thebank to lend him money to create it.Ghana’s film industry was virtually nonexistentin the 80s when it was made,and isn’t based on the Nollywoodmethod, which thrives on witchcraftand wealth. The film won the Etalon D’orde Yennenga for best feature film andfocuses on the actions of the first blackdistrict Commissioner after Ghanaianindependence in 1955.Beautiful Washing Machine (2004)This exceptional film comes from anunlikely place, Malaysia. The countrynever was a movie powerhouse, alwaysbeing overshadowed by its far easternneighbours in Taiwan, Japan and China.However, this may be about to changewith young directors like James Leecoming on the scene. This dark yetfunny comedy is set in the fast changingcity of Kuala Lumpur and really is abouta washing machine (well, not entirely). Ayoung man, ‘Teoh’, buys a second-handwashing machine and after finding it hasa life of its own, Teoh looks to exploit hiswashing machine. I don’t want to revealtoo much here, watch it; there’s a goodtwist at the end too.

22 CUSU Little Black Book 2009Ethnic Minorities in TeachingIt may sound likea cliché but every day asa classroom teacher is sodifferent.“After my final year at uni, a lot of myfriends were going into city jobs andthe financial markets. I heard many ofthem complaining about long hoursand monotony in their professionsand the impersonal aura of theiroffices – being stuck in a rut. I decidedthat I did not want that sort of feelingwhen I came into work every day. Itmay sound like a cliché but every dayas a classroom teacher is so different.”Chris Green, English and Drama PGCE,2007/8The Faculty of Education wantsto encourage more ethnic minorityundergraduates and graduates toconsider taking a Post GraduateCertificate in Education (PGCE)in order to become teachers. Itis essential for people from allbackgrounds to be represented in theteaching profession as we are living ina multicultural society so we obviouslyneed representation in the educationsystem. What better way is there topromote diversity and understanding?Teaching is a well-paid career, withsalaries comparing well with otherprofessions, and offering great careerprospects to motivated and ambitiousindividuals. Unlike many jobs,teaching allows you to do somethingdifferent every day, whether that’sconnecting with a challenging class orproviding pastoral care for students inyour form group.“I wanted to enter a career whereno day would ever be the same and Icould work in and for the community,whilst having a great time. Teachingis the combination of all these things.…. I realised that as a teacher you arenot only aiding children to developmentally but also socially, emotionallyand physically.” Syma Khan, Early YearsPGCE, 2006/7I realised that asa teacher you are notonly aiding children todevelop mentally but alsosocially, emotionally andphysically.

CUSU Little Black Book 2009 23Ethnic Minorities in TeachingStatistics show that around 17% ofpupils in maintained schools are fromminority ethnic groups comparedto 8.7% of new entrants to InitialTeacher Training. Many students fromminority ethnic groups don’t haveteachers with whom they can identifyand who can provide positive rolemodels; teachers who have sharedsocial and cultural experiences as wellas the cultural mediation skills thathelp communication between schooland home. Diversity within schools islikely to have a beneficial impact onthe aspirations and achievements ofstudents from minority groups whileat the same time promote inclusionand an understanding of diversitywithin the wider community.We are keen to hear from brightundergraduates and graduates whohave a flair and passion for teachingand who want to make a differencein people’s lives. Investing in youngminds is going to bring about arevolutionary change in perceptionsof different communities as regardsto education, particularly highereducation. We want great role modelsin our schools whose success couldbe emulated by the children of ourdifferent communities.Anyone interested in finding outmore about the PGCE opportunitiesfor members of minority ethniccommunities should go to the Facultywebsite at www.educ.cam.ac.uk.It is essential for peoplefrom all backgrounds to berepresented in the teachingprofession.“For anyone thinking aboutdoing the PGCE course, I would saythat it is definitely worth taking theopportunity to do it in Cambridge!Of course, the demands andrequirements are high, but youreceive a huge amount of supportfrom subject lecturers/tutors in theFaculty, PGCE Mentors in professionalplacement schools and also fromfellow trainees.” Muriel Obasa, ModernLanguages PGCE.

24 CUSU Little Black Book 2009Meet the people...Junior Penge JumaCollege:Homerton CollegeCourse:EnglishWhat part of the country are youfrom?LondonDescribe your Cambridgeexperience in three wordsInteresting, demanding, intensive.What advice would you givefreshers about freshers’ week?Stay focused, don’t feel pressured tojoin societies, keep an open mind,and make sure you observe yourenvironment well.What societies are you involvedin?ACS; I was involved with CUSU, whereI was the BSC Chair; and The EnglishSociety.If there was one thing thatyou could change about yourCambridge experience so far whatwould it be?Nothing.Kelechi OganyaCollege:TrinityYear and Course:Second Year MedicWhat part of the country are youfrom?South LondonDescribe your Cambridgeexperience in three wordsJokes, Entertaining, Challenging (examterm!!)What advice would you givefreshers about freshers’ week?Don’t worry if you don’t get alongwith the people you first meet, you’llfind safe people eventually.What societies are you involvedin? Trinity College AFCIf there was one thing thatyou could change about yourCambridge experience so far whatwould it be?The only diversity round here is on aposter, but to be honest it isn’t thatmuch of an issue.

CUSU Little Black Book 2009 25Meet the people...Mohamed AbdallaCollege:JesusYear and Course:Second Year and Natural SciencesWhat part of the country are youfrom?BirminghamDescribe your Cambridgeexperience in three wordsIntense, Enthralling and UnforgettableWhat advice would you givefreshers about freshers’ week?Get to know as many people at yourcollege as possible, especially thosedoing your subject.What societies are you involvedin?Islamic Society.If there was one thing thatyou could change about yourCambridge experience so far whatwould it be?NothingRia HyltonCollege:Kings baby!Year and Course:1st year SPS student.What part of the country are youfrom?London Town - though my grandparentsare from JamaicaDescribe your Cambridge experiencein three wordsIntense, Baffling, Amazing.What advice would you give freshersabout freshers’ week?Talk to loads and loads of people acrossthe years and subjects. Try not to forgetnames. You will feel overwhelmed, butjust remember everyone is feeling asvulnerable as you are. And I know thissounds silly but SMILE. But not too much.What societies are you involved in?I’m part of the Education Not For Salegroup. We believe that education,whatever the form, should be free toall and fully funded by the state andcampaign for this cause, amongst otherthings. It’s not just about tuition fees, youknow.If there was one thing that you couldchange about your Cambridgeexperience so far what would it be?I wish I had spoken up more when Ithought people were making ignorantcomments and I would have liked tohave spent less money. I would also liketo have had more black guy friends. Butso far I have very few regrets. I’m actuallyquite content.Final thoughts?At first it’s weird to walk into a roomknowing that you’re the only blackperson or one of few but you do justget used to it and after a while youdon’t notice it at all. But being a blackstudent in Cambridge is just that, beinga black student in Cambridge. I’m notgoing to pretend that it’s been theeasiest transition from South London toCambridge but it has been eye openingin the most positive sense.

26 CUSU Little Black Book 2009Eating ethnic in CambridgeOne can be forgiven for thinking it’s alltea and crumpets in Cambridge, a cityworld-renowned for its rather Englishheritage. Cambridge in fact has quitean exciting mix of cuisine. Not as muchas London, but its enough to satisfyone’s day-to-day cravings. There is a niceselection from Thai food to sushi barsand Indian-food-loving taste buds willcertainly have a vast range to choosefrom.The Grafton centre has its fair shareof restaurants, but it’s a little more ofa trek, so my advice: hungry students,drag yourselves to Regent street -packed with restaurants including Shiraz,Wagamamas, Siam Thai, Zizzis and eventhe Gourmet Burger shop, as well as theoccasional take away such as city kebab.Bridge Street and Rose Crescent are otherCambridge restaurant clusters also worthexploring.As far as ethnic cuisine goes, though,one of Cambridge’s best kept secrets isMill Road. As far as I know you can getpretty much everything there (perhapsnot the wild stuff like a good Somalian orVenezuelan) but still a mighty good curry.Carlos and Sweet ‘n Spicy are two verygood cheap eats that are worth checkingout. The smokers amongst you may takesolace within the Shisha cafes availableto relax in after your meal. There’s evena Chicken Cottage here! Fried chickenshops are a rarity in Cambridge. Onething’s for certain, if you make the trip,Mill Road’s not going to disappoint.Of course it helps to know whatis great, what is just acceptable and,importantly, what’s cheap. Here are tenethnic restaurants to definitely try out inCambridge:Name: Al CasbahLocation: Mill RoadType: Arab/North AfricanRating: ✪✪✪✪Comments: For an authentic NorthAfrican atmosphere, and the best tastinglamb in Cambridge, head down to AlCasbah. Try the Medaillon à la Casbah orthe Cotelettes Grillée Laakiba. It’s a bitpricey at £15 to £20 for a 3 course mealand you may have to wait for a table orfood on the busier nights.Name: AnatoliaWhere: Bridge StreetType: TurkishRating: ✪✪✪✪✪Comments: This friendly little outlet isdefinitely a place to check out, with agreat atmosphere and really nice, freshfood in traditional surroundings perfectfor those special moments. Expect to pay£15 or more for a proper meal.Name: The Taj TandooriWhere: Cherry Hinton RoadType: IndianRating: ✪✪✪✪✪Comments: This restaurant is off thebeaten track but I’ve negotiated ahalf-price deal on Mondays for all CUstudents, meaning you can get a currywith a Naan or Rice for no more than afiver.Name: Yippee Noodle BarWhere: King StreetType: JapaneseRating: ✪✪✪Comments: Now this is a great placeto go to if you’re in the mood for aWagamama style experience but on acheaper budget. A filling meal ranges

CUSU Little Black Book 2009 27Eating ethnic in Cambridgefrom five to eight pounds. However, atbusier periods be prepared to share thelong-wooden refectory tables in trueJapanese style, or Wagamama style atleast.Name: Curry QueenWhere: Mill RoadType: Indian with a BangladeshitwistRating: ✪✪✪Comments: What Curry Queen really is,apart from an Indian restaurant with fairlygood food, is a place great for holdingbig parties - especially when you don’tknow how many are coming.CurryQueen will give parties own private roomwith a buffer service, and will only chargeyou for the number that arrive no matterhow many you initially booked for. There,problem solved.Name: Ugly DucklingWhere: John’s StreetType: ChineseRating: ✪✪✪Comments: Don’t let the name put youoff - there is a sweet 10% discount onall takeaways, and the food is gorgeous(which is more than I can say for thedécor, but who cares if you’re taking itout?) Centrally located, it’s also good forlunch; you can get a meal for under afiver.Name: ChiquitoWhere: Cambridge Leisure ParkType: MexicanRating; ✪✪✪Comments: This Mexican grill and barcan be found where Hills Road andCherry Hinton Road meet. Part of a chainthat’s been running for twenty years,you can find enchiladas, burritos andquesadillas from less than £10.Name: Bangkok CityWhere: Green StreetType: ThaiRating: ✪✪✪Comments: This is definitely thebest Thai food in Cambridge - but beprepared for a bit of a wait, and fairlysteep prices. Alternatively check outSalad Thong, a rising star in CambridgeThai food.Name: CarlosWhere: Mill RoadType: Mediterranean/Turkish/FastfoodRating: ✪✪✪✪Comments: This place is no-frills; infact, I wouldn’t call it a restaurant. It’s abit grotty but, on the plus side, there is aplasma TV in the corner. The great thingabout Carlos is that it’s cheap and theportions are massive. My favorite is thegrilled Chicken shish with rice for abouta fiver.Name: Rainbow Vegetarian BistroWhere: Kings ParadeType: VegetarianRating: ✪✪✪✪Comments: OK, so not strictly an ‘ethnicrestaurant’ - but this list would not becomplete without it. It really is one ofthe best places to eat in Cambridge (alsoin a great location opposite Kings) andpractically as a tourist attraction in itself.The café also has historical significanceas the first vegetarian restaurant in theUK. A bit pricey, but where it is definitelyworth it.

28 CUSU Little Black Book 2009National OrganisationsStudent Assembly Against RacismThe Student Assembly AgainstRacism is the student wing of theNational Assembly Against Racismand exists to unite a broad alliance ofstudents around fighting racism bothon campus and in the community.Young people are both the victimsand perpetrators of racism in its mostviolent forms. The deaths of studentssuch as Ricky Reel and StephenLawrence are a constant reminderof this. Students have historicallyplayed a key role in the fight againstracism, such as the anti-apartheiddemonstrations in the 1980s. It isessential that students continue tobe a key component of the anti-racistmovement.National Black Students AllianceThe National Black Students Alliance isthe student wing of the National BlackAlliance (NBA) which was foundedin 1994 to further unity of actionbetween African, Caribbean andAsian peoples in Britain in the face ofincreasing racism and violent attacks.The NBA and NBSA see the fightagainst racism in Britain as part of thestruggle of the nonwhite majority ofhumanity against racism and everyother form of oppression.British Organisation of SikhStudentsThe British Organisation of SikhStudents (BOSS) is a body ofSikh students, ex-students and

CUSU Little Black Book 2009 29National Organisationsconcerned individuals involved inthe administration and organisationof various activities for Sikh Societies,Youth groups in universities, collegesand Gurudwaras all around Britain.BOSS is a non-political, non-profitmaking, independent body which actsas an umbrella organisation helping todevelop, assist and support Sikh youthgroups, in particular those aged 18-30,of whom a significant proportion areat institutions of further and highereducation, although this in no wayexcludes those under or over that age.Union of Jewish StudentsThe UJS represents the interestsof Jewish students within thecommunity and on a national level. Itaims to provide a safe environmentfor Jewish life on campus, and toprotect Jewish student interests inthe higher education context. Thelong-term aim is to create a positiveJewish experience that can translateinto good leadership for the futureof Anglo-Jewry. A particular concernto UJS is campaigning against racismand fascism. This is an area where weco-operate with other organisationslike the Searchlight Trust. UJS’ concernfor anti-Semitism is part of its widerinvolvement in campaigns againstall forms of intolerance and racismon campus. Outside the studentenvironment, Jewish students havemobilised in campaigns in the widercommunity against the BNP and otherFar-Right organisations.National Hindu Students’ForumNHSF is a movement of Hindustudents to rediscover their identity;as future leaders of British societywith the rich backing of their Hinduheritage. It is a challenging balanceto find, but activities run by NHSF helpstudents connect with their culturewhile integrating into Western society.NHSF Hindu societies run manyevents at local level, ranging from filmnights and cultural evenings to Diwaliballs and lively debates, while NHSFnationally holds an annual conference,sports competition and ‘Sewa’ (charity)

30 CUSU Little Black Book 2009National Organisationsweek. The purpose is to provide anopportunity for Hindu students todiscover and develop themselves bygaining a better understanding of ourHindu Dharma.NHSF also aims to represent the 36000 Hindu students in Higher Educationby providing a platform for them to airtheir views. Hindu students always excelindividually but this lack of a collectivevoice often results in them gettingoverlooked. NHSF is there to preventthat. So find out more about who youreally are – because only when youknow where you came from will you beable to understand where you can go.Federation of Student IslamicSocietiesFOSIS (the Federation of Student IslamicSocieties) was established in 1962 torepresent Muslim students. This andthe growing awareness of Islam ledto events such as the Festival of Islam,which was opened by Her Majesty theQueen in 1976. Campaigning for theirrights remains a prominent feature of theMuslim community. The government’sdecision to finally allow funding toMuslim schools comes after a longstruggle to end years of discrimination.Whilst education is vital, Muslims hadto campaign for girls to be allowedto wear appropriate clothing despiteunfavourable school uniform rules.

CUSU Little Black Book 2009 31National OrganisationsOn the dawn of a new millennium,the Muslim community finds itself atan important crossroad. As the secondlargest faith community, and the fastestgrowing one, its young are growingincreasingly aware of their Islamicidentity. Whilst many become successful,the community as a whole remainsone of the poorest in Britain in terms ofdiscrimination.NUS Black Students’ CampaignThe NUS (National Union of Students)Black Students’ Campaign believes allstudents should have the opportunityto succeed, regardless of their race,religion, nationality or background. It’sthe largest organisation of black studentsin Europe, representing all studentsof African, Arab, Asian and Caribbeandescent. It campaigns and lobbies toraise awareness of issues affecting blackstudents at a local and national level. Inaddition, it highlights the inequality blackstudents face within the education sectorand society. Delegates from Cambridgehave the opportunity to attend the NUSBlack Students’ Conference each year.To find out more about the NUS BlackStudents’ Campaign, go to:www.nus.org.uk/Campaigns/Black-Students/

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CUSU Little Black Book 2009 33No bull.Straight talking from KPMG.Graduate ProgrammesAll degree disciplinesThe truth is, we’ve got it all here atKPMG. The training and developmentyou want. The level of support youneed. And the type of professional,friendly environment you alwayshoped you’d end up working in.For more straight talking, visitwww.kpmg.co.uk/careers