The White Rose Equity in Leadership Programme is a pioneering and award-winning cross-institutional initiative aimed at fostering diversity in higher education leadership.

The programme adopts an equity-based approach to accelerate career progression for global majority talent, with the ultimate goal of diversifying leadership within higher education.

Hear from Dr Moaed Al Meselmani, Researcher at the School of Biosciences at the University of Sheffield, as he reflects on his journey on the Equity in Leadership programme.

“The programme helped me rethink leadership and strengthened my confidence to lead with purpose, inclusion, and impact”

Applications for the programme are now open. Find out more and apply here.

In what ways has your personal background or identity shaped your approach to leadership and your understanding of equity?

My personal and professional journey has shaped my understanding that leadership is not only about decision-making or influence, but about creating inclusive environments where people feel valued and able to contribute. Working across different communities and contexts has made me aware that opportunities are not always equally distributed and that systems can unintentionally exclude people. As a result, I try to lead in a collaborative and reflective way, grounded in fairness, inclusion, and respect for diverse perspectives.

What attracted you to the Equity in Leadership programme? 

I was attracted to the programme because it encourages a more critical understanding of leadership through the lens of equity, rather than relying on traditional leadership models alone. I wanted to deepen my understanding of inclusive leadership practices, reflect on my own approach to leadership, and learn from colleagues across the higher education sector who are working through similar challenges.

What aspects of the Equity in Leadership programme did you find the most beneficial?

One of the most beneficial aspects of the programme was the opportunity for open reflection and discussion with peers from different disciplines and institutions. It created a supportive space to explore complex issues around equity, leadership, and institutional culture. I also found the practical frameworks and reflective exercises especially valuable, as they helped translate ideas about leadership into everyday practice, not just formal roles.

Was there anything about the programme that surprised you or that you didn’t expect?

What surprised me most was the emphasis on self-awareness and personal development alongside leadership skills. I expected the programme to focus mainly on practical leadership tools, but it also encouraged deep reflection on how values, identity, and lived experience shape leadership approaches and decision-making.

How has taking part in this programme complemented your role?

The programme has complemented my role by strengthening my confidence to lead with greater intention and a stronger focus on equity and inclusion. It has helped me think more strategically about how decisions and processes shape outcomes, and improved my ability to facilitate conversations and support collaboration. It has also encouraged me to reflect more deliberately on the wider impact of leadership at both individual and institutional levels.

What message would you like to send to academics who are aspiring to leadership roles and considering taking part in this programme?

Leadership does not begin with a title—it begins with how you influence, support, and create opportunities for others. I would encourage academics considering the programme to take part with curiosity and openness. It offers a valuable space to reflect, challenge assumptions, build confidence, and connect with others committed to creating more inclusive and equitable academic environments.

Applications for the programme are now open. Find out more and apply here.