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Recognising the achievements of our diverse, global community of staff, students and partners – past and present - Faces of UCL uncovers some of our unsung heroes alongside more renowned figures. Read on to explore Faces by selected themes or browse through all the Faces using our search page.
If you're feeling inspired by the impact our students have made, put yourself forward in the Leadership Race and help us shape the next 200 years.
Firsts and visionaries
Here, staff and graduates from all over the world have challenged convention and pushed boundaries to become the first in their fields, lead nations to independence, make world-changing discoveries, and live life on their own terms.
Getrude Leverkus
Gertrude Leverkus was the first woman to graduate from the Bartlett School of Architecture, using her skills to design pupose-built safe spaces, and support careers, for women in the capital. Walk through London and you’ll be sure to spot the impact of Gertrude Leverkus (1898 – 1989) – a groundbreaking architect whose work to develop purpose-built spaces for women can still be felt in the city today.
Breaking barriers
From 1826 to the present day, our staff, students and partners have challenged the status quo, fighting for fairer and more equitable institutions, societies, cities and systems. Together, their work continues to redefine policies, cultures and disciplines.
Jamie Gardiner
Jamie Gardiner arrived at UCL in 1971 from Melbourne to pursue a PhD in Applied Mathematics. London offered new opportunities to connect with gay communities, and he soon became immersed in the city's emerging gay rights movement. Having founded GaySoc, one of the UK’s first student societies for gay students, Gardiner later helped pass the National Union of Students’ first motion supporting gay people in 1973. Now a leading human rights activist, political lobbyist and community lawyer, he was awarded the Order of Australia Medal for his pivotal role in Australia’s LGBTQ+ rights movement.
Kavya Mukhija
Kavya Mukhija is determined to turn personal challenges into societal change. Born with a rare muscle condition, Kavya began advocating for disability rights from a young age, representing India at UNICEF at just 13. Kavya’s advocacy set a new precedent for UK caregiver visas, allowing her mother to accompany her to UCL to study for an MSc in Disability, Design, and Innovation. A Chevening Scholar, her recent contribution to a landmark report led India’s Supreme Court to declare accessibility a fundamental right. In 2024, she received the prestigious Diana Award in recognition of her humanitarian work.
Community builders
UCL staff, students and alumni have dedicated their lives to building, enriching and supporting their communities and creating cultures of openness, curiosity, inclusivity, accountability and care - at UCL and beyond.
Rawleka Wilson
Rawleka Wilson has turned community into a calling. Born in Montserrat, Rawleka grew up in Gloucestershire and was drawn to UCL for its life-changing brain sciences research. Moving to London proved a culture shock, but she soon found community through volunteering opportunities and student leadership roles. Alongside studying for a master's in psychology, she served as a Student Trustee, Volunteering Officer and People of Colour Officer, helping others find meaningful connections across campus and reinforcing her belief that UCL thrives through its people.
Lewis Murphy
Lewis Murphy’s journey at UCL demonstrates the power of learning beyond the classroom. Following a degree in Mathematics, Lewis pursued a Master’s in Light and Lighting, inspired by his time at UCL’s Bloomsbury Theatre. As President of the Stage Crew Society and Arts Officer, his dedication – from one-man social media team to hosting the Arts Ball - has helped grow ArtsUCL into a recognised brand and thriving creative community. Now Activities Administration Coordinator, Lewis is passing on his skills to support student leaders and enrich all aspects of student life.
Angel Au
Angel has been a tireless voice for mental health advocacy, starting her own mental health campaign when she was 16 and now helping to support thousands globally through her charity Overcome. During her 4 years studying for a UCL MSci in Psychology, Angel Au was President of both the Psychology Society and Mental Health Society, and a Psychology Course Representative.
Katie Sykes
Katie Sykes helps students to feel happier, healthier and more connected through sport. As a first-generation student, Katie understands how vital university sports can be. Now, she leads TeamUCL, championing award-winning initiatives like Project Active, which supports thousands of students to take part in sport and physical activity, while her post-pandemic ‘return-to-play' efforts helped initiate UCL’s milestone Student Life Strategy. Katie and her team work with everyone from beginners to elite athletes, fostering confidence and a genuine sense of belonging through sport.
Cranktina
Since arriving at UCL in 2022, Jack Probert – better known as Cranktina – has been an integral part of the drag and queer community. A natural performer, Cranktina joined the Drag Society in her second year, transforming its monthly showcase into a vibrant hub of weekly events, workshops and mentorship. Drag, for her, is the moment someone realises they’re ‘funny and interesting because they’re different’. She takes pride in sparking confidence among her peers and drag family - whether in the dressing room, lecture theatre or on stage.
What's next?
- Browse through all the Faces of UCL using the search page.
- Learn about the history of the Students' Union through the past 130 years.
- If you're feeling inspired by the impact our students have made, put yourself forward in the Leadership Race and help us shape the next 200 years by nominating yourself to become a student leader.
- Explore what we have planned this year for UCL200
- Sign up to updates about the UCL200 Summer Festival 2-6 June