Hello, and welcome to my space, which can be your space, too.

 

I am Dr Alice Mpofu-Coles, a passionate advocate for social justice, a tireless activist, author, creative researcher and compelling public speaker. My work using Participatory Action Research is focused on tackling community problems caused by inequalities, including poverty, education, refugees, racial disparities, and well-being. This work aims to enable those whose voices are unheard or whose knowledge is not considered, thereby expanding their influence on services, policies, and practices within their communities and lives. 

 

My PhD research at the University of Reading focused on identity and activities for young immigrants with the title Identity, Transnational, Translocal Activities and Intergenerational Relationships a case study of Young Zimbabweans in the U.K.  Currently, I am a Senior Research Fellow at the University of Reading.  The research work I do embeds Participatory Action Research (PAR) and develops community themes to build on their knowledge, skills, and capacity, embedding coproduction, diverse methods, equality, diversity and inclusion in research initiatives. I also support the work of the university on race equality and sanctuary strategy, decolonising research and outputs and helping to shape the University's future on ras an engaged University.

 

Beyond research, I extend my dedication to civic duties as as an elected Local Government Councillor in Whitley Ward and I was the first Black female Mayor 2025-2026, Deputy Mayor of Reading, U.K 2024-2025. I am also a trustee and sit on the Equity Partnership of the Berkshire Health Foundation Trust NHS. My commitment to serving the communities has received numerous local, national and international awards. 

 

My path has not been without adversity. I faced the harrowing challenge of battling breast cancer and the heart-wrenching loss of seven family members. Nevertheless, my resilience and unwavering dedication to social justice issues remain constant.

 

As a global citizen, I am always looking for ways to engage in speaking events and collaborate on research with communities, social justice issues, and policies, contributing through talks, creativity, and bringing feminist ethics of care and kindness to the authentic voices of people.

 

Let us learn together to pursue a more just and equitable world.