Hi! My name is Tiwa Shonekan and I’m a recent graduate from the University of Warwick where I studied Politics and International Studies. Before coming to the UK, I completed my IGCSE’s at the British International School in Lagos before starting Bromsgrove School for my A – levels where I studied Politics, Economics and History. While it was a shock moving over at 16, Bromsgrove was an incredible experience where I found support, opportunities and community. In sixth form, I actively participated in theatre and sports, continuing on from my involvement during my time at BIS.

My interests are vast and mainly sit within Politics and the Arts. I enjoy reading, writing and exploring the intersections between literature, theatre, and politics – especially as an avenue for cultural/political expression and as a lens for socio-political analysis. While my interest in Politics will never wane, my passion lies in the performing arts. I am currently working towards pursuing further study within this field. I am excited to offer guidance to students progressing on their educational and/or creative journeys, and offer insight on moving to study in the UK.

What was the biggest challenge you faced adapting to boarding school?:

Definitely going from being in a familiar environment where I always blended in, to a new school where I was very aware of my racial and cultural differences. Having no other Nigerian person in my boarding house, I remember feeling isolated and initially struggled with acclimatising to an environment that was so different from BIS. After a few weeks, I settled down and made amazing friends, quickly coming to think of my boarding house as a home and family.

Education:

 BA Politics and International Studies, University of Warwick (Coventry, UK)

Previous Schools:

• Bromsgrove School (Worcestershire, UK)
• British International School (Lagos, Nigeria)
• Lagos Preperatory School (Lagos, Nigeria)

Extra-Curricular Activities:

• Drama Society at Bromsgrove School
• 2nd team Netball at Bromsgrove School
• Member Warwick Politics Society, Warwick Literature Society and Warwick Unversity Drama Society

Notable Achievements and Experience: Experience:

• Political Risk and Terrorism Underwriting Intern at Inigo Insurance (London, UK)
• Centre 59 Theatre Week at the Roundhouse (London, UK)
• Interior Design Intern at Essential Living (Lagos, Nigeria)

Notable Achievements:

• Awarded house colours for achieving a high number of academic, sport and theatrical commendations at Bromsgrove School
• Helped establish a Mental Health Awareness programme in BIS (Lagos, Nigeria)
• Involved in Bags4Kids Charity (Lagos, Nigeria)