Georgia’s life journey thus far has been far from conventional, and it hasn’t been a smooth ride. Growing up with a sibling with a disability forced Georgia into self-reliance and independence from a very young age, but also sent her on unexpected adventures – from sibling camps to pirate ships and speed boats sailing. These activities helped her develop an outlook on life that wouldn’t have been available otherwise – a growth mindset driving her into opportunities and new ideas.
Georgia started working early – both as a carer for her older sister and as a playworker for Diverse Abilities – a local charity supporting children and young people with disabilities and their families. She has now worked for the charity for almost 10 years and was awarded a Shining Star Award and a Long Service Award for her continuous dedication and contribution.
Despite being academically strong, Georgia didn’t plan to go to university. Having lived through insecurity, and near-death experiences, financial and family chaos, she wanted to have a gap year to work and travel.
She only decided to apply five days before her deadline and with her passion for helping people and solving puzzles, she chose Forensic Investigation at BU.
While excited about her course, Georgia was even more fascinated by the range of extracurricular activities, clubs, and societies on offer. Throughout her time at university, she has been actively involved with SUBU and experimented with a wide range of interests.
At one point she was a member of the Forensic, the British Sign Language and the First Aid Societies, Cocktail and Mocktail Society, Nerve Media, Pagan and Witchcraft Society, the Wildlife Conservation Society, and the Climbing Club! She also did a scholarship with the University Chamber Choir and completed the Graduate Skills Award.
Having become captivated with the Pagan and Witchcraft Society, which allowed her to discover the ancient roots of paganism - ranging from Egyptian and Norse mythology to Wicca practices, zodiac signs, palm reading and crystals, Georgia joined the committee as a Society Secretary & Communications Officer and has contributed immensely to its success and growth in popularity. Amongst steep competition, they won the Society of the Year Award at SUBU’s 2022-23 Annual Awards Ceremony!
But her ingenuity didn’t stop here, and Georgia went through the process of writing a business case and founded her own society and driven by her curiosity about crystals, she also founded a business start-up, selling crystals and jewellery. To help support fellow startup owners, Georgia was behind the first Student Owned Business Fair at SUBU, which allowed students to showcase their business ideas, and explore funding and support to take their businesses to the next level.
“Clubs and societies have helped me and many other students to find ourselves and our tribe, giving us the space to learn, talk frankly about our experiences and break the stigma surrounding some of them.”
Reflecting on the richness of her story – both on personal and professional level, Georgia feels she has grown to be much more mindful, self-aware, and appreciative of her opportunities and is trying to make each day the fullest and best it can be. She likes creating purpose for herself and others. She also likes dreaming, living consciously, and connecting with nature and like-minded people.
“If I hadn’t joined societies, so many parts of my life wouldn’t exist! I wouldn’t have a strong spiritual connection with the world and living. Chances are, I wouldn’t have started my business and been able to promote it through stalls on campus. Most of my closest friends I also found through these communities”
Thinking about the future, Georgia is feeling scared but also excited to keep the momentum, planning to continue drawing her unique path while developing and expanding her business ideas, interests, and passions.