Student radio stations across the country, including Bristol's The HUB and Bath's URB, are broadcasting that the UK's National Student Pride (NSP) is now just six weeks away. The landmark event for LGBTQIA+ students is scheduled to take place in London over the weekend of 13th and 14th February.
The organisers describe the festival as a student-led, not-for-profit initiative committed to enhancing the queer student experience nationwide. "We’re made for students, run by students," a statement reads. Founded in 2005, the event positions itself at the forefront of LGBTQ+ issues, hosting agenda-setting discussions on topics from racism and mental health to inclusive sex education and LGBT+ homelessness.
The centrepiece of the weekend is billed as the UK's largest LGBTQ+ inclusive careers fair, connecting attendees with proactive employers. The festival also promises a full programme of main stage panels with celebrities, queer performances, and dedicated club nights at the iconic Heaven venue in London.
Call for Volunteers and Performers
With the event fast approaching, National Student Pride has launched appeals for volunteers, performers, and award nominations. Volunteers, described as the "heartbeat" of the event, are offered hostel accommodation in London if needed, covered travel expenses, food and drink, a festival t-shirt, and a wristband granting entry and queue jump access to the Heaven club nights.
The organisers are also seeking talented LGBTQ+ student acts to perform on the festival's Music Stage on Saturday, 14th February. Successful applicants will have reasonable travel expenses covered and receive a fee for their performance, with the stage deemed suitable for acoustic acts and spoken word artists.
Awards and Career Development
The NSP Awards have also reopened for nominations across categories including Society of the Year, Student Changemaker, and Student Event of the Year. Furthermore, the dedicated 'UpSkill' careers afternoon returns, this year hosted at the London School of Economics (LSE).
The UpSkill session will feature a panel discussion with speakers from global companies and skills workshops run by event sponsors such as Clifford Chance, Aon, and Deloitte, concluding with networking drinks. Attendance is limited to 150 people, with a £10 deposit required upon booking that will be refunded on the day.
