We crafted a series of documentary films that celebrate students and provide inspiring role models for those who may follow them to Royal Holloway. The documentary format helped Royal Holloway feature students in stories of triumph in a way that doesn’t fall down the traditional marketing route.

Challenge

Royal Holloway, University of London, wanted to inspire the next generation of Global Majority students to go to university, and create marketing videos that celebrated changing demographics and challenged the old stereotypes about being an un-diverse, home counties university.

Outcome

Recognising the power of personal stories, we created a series of documentary films celebrating the experiences of Global Majority students. The second film explores Shanika’s journey to a fulfilling postgraduate career – a story designed to appeal to more applicants like her.

It felt like chatting with a friend who I'd known for a while, rather than a filmmaker. There was real genuine warmth and flow of conversation and although some of what I said was unfamiliar to Bill, he was able to react and adapt with his questions.

Shanika Ranasinghe, PhD Music Student | Royal Holloway