My alumni story: Charis Hawkley
BA (Hons) History alum Charis tells us about her inspiring work as a dyspraxia champion and how it’s resulted in an exciting award nomination. She also shares some wonderful memories of meeting her future husband here at NTU.
Q: Tell us what you’re doing now
A: “I’ve been a youth champion for the Dyspraxia Foundation for two years. As a younger individual with dyspraxia, it’s been great to represent my views and experiences.
“Around five percent of the population exhibit dyspraxia traits, which equals 16 million people. Dyspraxia is a hidden disability so it is not apparent if an individual is dyspraxic by appearance. It’s a neurological condition that affects the brain's ability to process information. This results in issues with speech, movements, planning, processing, and learning new information. Dyspraxia can cause issues with coordination and balance and many other things we might otherwise take for granted.
“Dyspraxic individuals such as myself are often referred to as being ‘lazy’ or ‘stupid’ – which is certainly not the case. It’s a misunderstood disability.
“I also volunteer as a Head Up mentor. It’s a scheme where university students and graduates with disabilities are matched with a 14-18-year-old individual with similar disabilities. It helps me support someone and avoid them having the difficult experience I had as a young person.”
Q: What are your standout memories of NTU?
A: “I received my dyslexia and dyspraxia diagnosis whilst in the first year of studies. The support given was incredibly helpful – such as being allowed extra time with coursework and exams.
"I had a great relationship with a couple of the History lecturers. I loved the teaching styles of Dr Nicholas Morton, and I owe passing my degree to Professor Martyn Bennett, as he showed such compassion during my final year. His module on the English Civil War was probably my favourite topic of the entire degree.
“On my first day during Welcome Week, I also met my now husband, Oscar Hawkley! We got engaged in 2018 at the Canal House in Nottingham and were married in 2022.”
Q: Can you explain a little more about your nomination at The National Diversity Awards?
A: "They’re one of the UK’s most prestigious diversity events and celebrate the achievements of communities and individuals. For me, the awards pose an opportunity for me to represent the dyslexia, dyspraxia, and autism communities. I'm really thrilled to be able to speak as a member of the dyspraxia community and hope that by being nominated, and perhaps shortlisted, I can begin to contribute to positive changes and recognition for the community.”
Read more about Charis and her nomination at the National Diversity Awards
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