Dear Alumni,

We are delighted to share Issue 8 of the SOAS World newsletter, your opportunity to reconnect with our global community, discover inspiring alumni stories, and stay up to date with the latest news from SOAS.

We are very grateful to the alumni who spoke to us for this special edition about leading and shaping cultural institutions around the world: Dr Gus Casely‑Hayford is the Director of the V&A East Museum in London; Sutima Sucharitakul founded Nova Contemporary gallery in Bangkok; Colin Siyuan Chinnery co‑founded the Sound Art Museum in Beijing; and Nana Oforiatta Ayim established ANO Institute of Arts and Knowledge in Accra.

While their careers span different continents, disciplines, and institutional models, they share a commitment to leading change, challenging convention and connecting with audiences far beyond traditional boundaries.

Across these interviews, a consistent theme emerges: the foundational role of SOAS in shaping confidence, curiosity and critical thinking. Some of our featured alumni reflected on the impact of individual lecturers and mentors who recognised their potential, offered guidance, and created connections. Alongside this, the diverse SOAS student community provided a lasting network of peers who continued to serve as points of reference and support as they moved into professional life.

As you know, this global community is one of SOAS’s greatest strengths. We encourage you to stay connected and involved, whether by attending alumni events around the world or exploring the full range of benefits available to you. Make sure to keep your details up to date so we can send you information about events in your region.

We are also pleased to share recent news that reflects SOAS’ continued excellence in teaching and research. In the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026, SOAS achieved an exceptional result, with four subjects ranked in the global top 25 and thirteen in the global top 100. The QS rankings are an internationally recognised league table used by prospective students worldwide when deciding where to study.

Finally, each April, our community comes together to support the SOAS Library, the intellectual heart of SOAS. We are asking for your help to raise £20,000 and ensure the Library continues to support students and researchers for generations to come.

We would love to hear your thoughts on SOAS World and welcome your feedback as we continue to develop the newsletter. Please feel free to get in touch at alumni@soas.ac.uk.

With best wishes,

Shona Aitken

Director of Advancement and Chief of Staff