Dr Ridwanah Gurjee

Riz has specialist experience in community development and delivers training in Volunteer Management, Mentoring Methods in the Community, Social Return on Investment (SROI) and Evidencing Impact of Community Project Development. Riz also teaches modules in Practice-Based Research and supporting students in leading independent community research projects. Riz leads the UCLan quality assurance processes and procedures for CPD qualifications with the Institute of Leadership and Management. Riz has published widely in peer leadership and community mentoring and contributed chapters to the Sage Handbook of Mentoring which was a collaboration of mentoring practice and research from across the globe as well as the book on Transformative Education: Changing Lives and Transforming Communities. Riz has also delivered several conference research papers for the International Mentoring Association, USA, one which has been published in the International Journal of Social Work and Human Services. Riz is also a member of the University Board and plays a vital role in planning UCLan's future and ensuring the highest standards are being met.

Since 2001, Riz has taken a core role in developing the Community Leadership programmes at Foundation, BA and Masters Level. Riz is highly experienced in volunteer management and delivering community based learning and has supported over 17,000 students and community volunteers as well as the development of successful bids totalling £3million. Riz has delivered the DfES Pilot, Millennium Volunteers and then the new Russell Commission Initiative, V within the UCLan, Centre for Volunteering and Community Leadership (CVCL). Riz has played a lead role in the co-ordination of HE Volunteering Projects across UCLan Campuses (local and international) including partner colleges, engaging university students and staff in community action. I have supported the development and delivery of a substantial portfolio of community projects, making it now the largest University volunteering programme in the UK and has an excellent track record of building and sustaining internal and external partnerships.