I am an alumna of the Laidlaw Programme at the University of St Andrews, where my research project focused on contemporary literature from the Comoros islands. I am currently a PhD researcher in Comparative Literature at the University of St Andrews, where I study recent literary translations produced in Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia.

Hi, I'm Simona, a fourth year student at the University of St Andrews reading Art History and Film Studies. My areas of expertise involve history of art, film and fashion, costume design, fashion communication, brand image and web content creation. I am interested in the relation between art and fashion, which is also the topic of my final research titled "Giuseppe De Nittis, Painter of Modern Elegance". I love films, music, Italian literature, yoga, and everything food!

Hello! I've been part of the Laidlaw Foundation for over 4 years, working on strengthening our global community and broadening our initiatives aimed at breaking the cycle of poverty, reducing inequality, and cultivating a new generation of leaders. I'm currently completing a Masters in Anthropology & Professional Practice at UCL, delving into my passion for using ethnographic methods and design to effect systemic change, particularly in the education sector. My journey in design has been diverse, beginning with graphic design, transitioning into UX/UI and service design, and now evolving into systemic design and innovation.  Originally from Kazakhstan 🇰🇿, I pursued my undergraduate degree in Human Sciences at UCL. I'm an amateur naturalist, avid swimmer, and an obsessive podcast listener. Let's connect and chat—drop me a line and find me on LinkedIn! 💬👀

Alex is the Programme Director of the Laidlaw Scholars Leadership and Research Programme. He is responsible to source and work with university, business school, NGO, government department, business and charity partners to manage and develop programmes which further the Laidlaw Founation's purpose – to reduce poverty and inequality by investing in the education of the underprivileged and underrepresented and to develop a new generation of diverse and ethical leaders. Prior to joining the Laidlaw Foundation Alex spent over a decade at the University of St Andrews, Scotland, where he most recently managed the university’s Laidlaw Scholars Programme. In addition, Alex taught leadership courses and guest-lectured internationally on the subjects of strategy and leadership. A bilingual speaker, dual national and keen traveller, Alex has lived, visited and worked in several countries around the world. During this time, he has had a unique opportunity to encounter and explore different cultures and working environments, experiencing first-hand what good leadership can achieve. His passion for this topic is driven by these experiences and a desire to challenge people to unlock their full leadership potential. Alex holds an MBA from the Open University and a Master of Research in Management from the University of St Andrews. He has also obtained Associate Fellow status with the Higher Education Academy. In his spare time, Alex is an avid skier and volunteers with a local guide dog organisation.