Society Spotlight: In conversation with Warwick STAR

Amid the hubbub of society life at the University of Warwick, there is one that sparkles the brightest. Warwick STAR (Student Action for Refugees) is a true treasure of Warwick life and is part of a national network of young people and students that aims to raise awareness as to the struggles of refugees and asylum seekers throughout the UK and support them in their journeys. Seeking to make the UK more compassionate towards refugees and their families, their quest to support refugee rights is one filled with compassion and philanthropy, and their story is undoubtedly inspiring.

Cultivating a sense of welcome is intrinsic to the ethos of STAR, and is a sentiment that carries through every activity they run

“STAR to me is striving towards a society where refugees are always welcome and can thrive as equal members of the community,” states Elicia d’Ambrosio, the Co-President of STAR. Cultivating a sense of welcome is intrinsic to the ethos of STAR, and is a sentiment that carries through every activity they run. With Zoe Bonnett, also Co-President of STAR, reiterating that a “place of sanctuary” is necessary for refugees in the UK, she further emphasises the need to break down “barriers to higher education, enhancing and building English skills and helping them to imagine a brighter future.”

From those who have lived in the UK their whole life or those who have been asylum-seekers or immigrants more broadly, the team that represents STAR are further representative of the vastly diverse nature of the UK, with their ranges of experiences coalescing to ultimately make such a philanthropic team.

STAR is primarily represented by its two flagship events, Conversation Club and Youth Club, which differ on a week-to-week basis, alongside various Open Days in addition to the regular volunteering schedule. Conversation Club, as described by a current Conversation Club Coordinator, Annam Khalid, is a “safe space where refugees in Coventry can practice English, share their experiences and simply have fun.” When the learning is finished, they often wind down with some card games and football, all with the aim of allowing those in the club to feel more welcome and to grow in confidence. Not only does Conversation Club aim to teach basic English, but also helps prepare its members for interviews with local colleges, and even universities. Last year, STAR was delighted to support four attendees of Conversation Club in applying for university and scholarships, with one attendee this year receiving a university offer.

Every time I visit the hotel and see the children’s faces light up when they see me, I’m reminded of how lucky I am to be involved in this work

– Sam Pordale, Communications and Advocacy Officer

The success of the Conversation Club and Youth Club shows the compassion of the Warwick community. It is clear that the work of these clubs has been a truly eye-opening experience for those involved, an experience filled with love. As Sam Pordale, Communications and Advocacy Officer, explains: “Every time I visit the hotel and see the children’s faces light up when they see me, I’m reminded of how lucky I am to be involved in this work.” This testimony makes clear the feelings of hope, opportunity, and the belief in a better future that STAR represents. The team involved forever feel grateful for their opportunity to help in such a powerful way and be able to be involved so passionately in uplifting the local community.

However, the political backdrop that surrounds the work of STAR is one that is increasingly turbulent and changing. In recent years, the status of refugees has become highly politicised and contentious throughout the UK, exacerbating various tensions throughout society. However, STAR, and similar organisations, remain more determined than ever to pioneer the education and advocacy of refugees.

It is becoming harder and harder to equip refugees with the necessary information and skills to allow them to transition and integrate into life in the UK

STAR’s events and activities are currently filling gaps in governmental support, which have made the teaching of English to asylum seekers and refugees even more challenging in the UK. Without access to this education, it is becoming harder and harder to equip refugees with the necessary information and skills to allow them to transition and integrate into life in the UK.

In addition to helping attendees develop their language skills and gain opportunities in education and employment, STAR also works to inform students about the everyday realities of the refugee experience, warning against misinformation and anti-immigration rhetoric. In the words of Maria Massironi, the Postgraduate Rep for STAR: “We stand on the belief that everyone should be given a fair opportunity to rebuild their lives,” reinforcing the society’s commitment to creating an “understanding and compassionate society for refugees in the UK”.

If Warwick STAR could be described in one word, it would be welcoming – both to the refugees they support daily, but also to all those in the Warwick community interested in joining

The story of Warwick STAR is one that has attracted great praise from wider organisations outside of the university. In 2025, Warwick STAR was proudly named in the Top 100 Big Issue UK Changemakers of the Year, an award dedicated to the people and organisations making the biggest and brightest changes to society. Bonnett (STAR’s Co-President) cherishes the moment that Warwick STAR gained acclaim from The Big Issue, stating: “To receive external recognition of the value of our work was amazing.” With over 39 universities being home to STAR groups throughout the UK, Bonnett hopes that “it may have even inspired a student or two to find their own local STAR group,” and to show people “the possibilities available to support refugees”.

If Warwick STAR could be described in one word, it would be welcoming – both to the refugees they support daily, but also to all those in the Warwick community interested in joining. The members of STAR are truly welcoming to anyone joining STAR; regardless of background, confidence, or volunteering experience. As urged by d’Ambrosio (STAR’s other Co-President): “If you’re even slightly considering joining STAR – do it,” promising the chance to become part of a “welcoming and passionate community who are committed to standing in solidarity with refugees.” She continues: “You don’t need to be an expert in refugee rights, asylum challenges, or activism to make a difference at STAR”.

As Ashwin Aggarwal (STAR’s Secretary) asserts: “In a world where money-making is prioritised over humanity, STAR will remind you of your privilege”. Left with a truly lasting impression of the society’s mission, he reflects: “There is no greater feeling than the warmth of knowing that today you made a difference.”