Spotlight on... Joselene Peres

What is your role and what does it involve?

I am an EDI Officer (Programmes and Charters) in UCL's central EDI team. I’m proud to support and lead a range of initiatives that help advance equity and inclusion across the university, from the EDI Contribution and Engagement Fund to Athena Swan mock panels and the Fair Recruitment Specialists programme. I also work closely with senior colleagues to drive meaningful change, including helping to establish the Equality Monitoring and Advancement Committee, which plays a key role in tracking our progress and impact.

How long have you been at UCL and what was your previous role?

I joined UCL in November 2023 after previously working as the EDI Lead at UEL. Following the pandemic, I made a conscious and personal decision to shift direction in my career, moving from the social housing sector into higher education, a transition that’s been both challenging and incredibly rewarding.

What working achievement or initiative are you most proud of?

Taking a leap of faith to pivot from one sector to another was a bold step, but one I’ve fully embraced. Transitioning into higher education has brought its share of challenges, yet I’ve welcomed them all. Grateful to contribute to institutions that serve as gateways to people’s future careers and life paths.

Tell us about a project you are working on now which is top of your to-do list?

I am working collaboratively with colleagues on the Fair Recruitment Specialists (FRS) learning Refresher Programme, developing a series of CPD sessions that require careful planning and commitment to ensure their success. Alongside this, I manage various administrative tasks such as creating registration forms and organising a celebratory networking lunch with other EDI specialists to promote mutual recognition and support.

What is your favourite album, film and novel?

My favourite album is by Whitney Houston, especially the song Greatest Love of All. I have vivid memories of serenading our neighbours with it every week, singing at full volume, eyes closed, clutching a hairbrush as a microphone, standing proudly on a wooden plinth outside my mother’s bedroom window. Even at a young age, I was deeply moved by the lyrics and felt every word; I truly loved that song with all my heart.
Film: Dirty Dancing and Set it Off (sorry I can’t choose between them!)
Novel: Go Tell It on the Mountain (1953) by James Baldwin.

What is your favourite joke (pre-watershed)?

I have to admit, ‘dad jokes’ have never really been my thing. They rarely make me laugh. But if I had to choose one that might just coax a smile, it would be:

“What did the cheese say when he looked in the mirror?"

"Hallou-mi looking G-ouda!”

It’s silly, it’s cheesy – literally – but somehow, it gets me every time!

Who would be your dream dinner guests?

Besides my chosen family (friends) I have a long list of inspirational people that I have admired for most of my life.

• Nelson Mandela
• Tina Turner
• Whitney Houston
• Annie Lennox
• George Michael
• Angelina Jolie
• Maya Angelou
• Joni Mitchell
• Janis Joplin
• Sade (lead singer)
• Lady Gaga
• Queen Latifah
• James Baldwin
• Maria Callas

What advice would you give your younger self?

“Girrrrrrl, you must always follow the three B’s: “Be Bold, Be Brave and Be Beautiful.”

What would it surprise people to know about you?

I am half Portuguese.

What is your favourite place?

There’s a beautiful beach and coastal town in Mozambique called Tofo, and it holds such a special place in my heart. Everything about it is wonderful, the ocean, the golden beaches, the warmth of the people, the fresh seafood, and the clean, salty air. Always feels utterly magical. It’s a place full of cherished memories, and I absolutely love it for the sense of peace and joy it brings every time I think of it.