From insight to impact: my experience as a Purpose Coalition Student Ambassador

This is a guest blog by Aranija Sakthythasan, a Purpose Coalition Student Ambassador and Purpose Lab member who is studying at the University of Chester.

I’ve really enjoyed being a student ambassador with the Purpose Coalition. It’s given me the chance to be part of conversations that aim to shape a more inclusive future by prioritising equal opportunity and access for everyone in the workspace. 

Through this role, I’ve had the opportunity to connect with organisations like TP, the NHS, and the Co-op, who are all working to break down barriers for underrepresented communities. Hearing about the changes they’ve already made — and the ones they’re still working on behind the scenes — has really opened my eyes to how businesses can play a huge part in creating fairer opportunities for people from with different backgrounds. 

It’s also been great to engage with companies like E.ON, Enterprise, and Colt. I appreciate their interest in our perspectives, listening to our opinions and answering our questions.  

Being exposed to so many different organisations across various sectors has changed how I think about my own future. I’ve discovered career paths I hadn’t really considered before, and I’ve come to realise that a job isn’t just about the work you do — it’s also about the values, culture, and purpose behind it. That’s something I’ll carry with me as I take my next steps when entering the workforce. 

I have also enjoyed meeting students from across the UK. We’ve had some really thoughtful conversations, and it’s been eye-opening to hear different perspectives on the challenges we face — and the changes we want to see. 

Being a student ambassador isn’t about having everything figured out. It’s about being curious, working together, and helping to amplify voices that don’t always get heard. I feel very privilege to be part of something that’s having a real impact.