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About me:
My name is Riya, and I am nearing the completion of my PhD in Business and Management at the University of Glasgow (UofG). My doctoral journey was funded by a highly competitive UK Research & Innovation (UKRI) scholarship award. Originally based in Peru, I have spent over 8 years in the UK, having completed my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees at UofG on student visas.
My research addresses a critical gap: I strive to help shape UK organisational policy and practice to better reflect the realities of living and working with complex mental health challenges, particularly for underrepresented communities.
My research impact so far:
- Engagement with the Royal Family: I discussed post-COVID mental health research with Prince William and Princess Kate during their visit to the University of Glasgow.
- Globally Recognised Academic Excellence: I obtained a Distinction for my Master’s, published my work in a top-rated (Q1) academic journal, and presented at various international conferences.
- Policy and Collaboration: I presented findings to Scottish Government policymakers and collaborated with international institutions like the Copenhagen Business School.
Beyond the PhD: Community Impact
- Founded DigiGallus Connect: A digital inclusion initiative helping older adults tackle loneliness during COVID-19. This project was nominated for the Herald Higher Education Awards.
- Pro Bono Consulted for Charities: Helped charities solve core business problems during COVID-19 as part of two student consultancies (180DC and CoronaUnity).
- Mental Health Advocacy: Led therapeutic art and business skills workshops at the Glasgow Association for Mental Health.
- Youth Volunteering: Served as a Cub Scout Leader.
Why Am I Fundraising?
To continue this work in the UK, I need to apply for a 3-year Graduate Visa. The total cost, including all fees, is approximately £4,200.
While I have worked throughout my PhD, the financial requirement for this visa has increased at an unprecedented rate, posing a significant barrier:
- Exponential Cost Hikes: Since 2021, total upfront immigration costs in the UK have increased by up to 126%. In 2024 alone, the mandatory Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) rose by 66%, jumping from £624 to £1,035 per year.
- Targeting Researchers: These abrupt increases mean that UK Graduate Visa costs are now roughly 438% higher than the international average for similar post-study work routes.
- Unforeseen Barrier: Because these major fee hikes occurred while I was already deep into my doctoral research, they created a financial gap that was impossible to anticipate or save for on a standard doctoral scholarship.
How Your Donation Helps:
All funds will go directly toward the mandatory costs of remaining in the UK under a 3 year Graduate Visa:
- Application fees
- The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
- Associated processing and service fees
Thank You!
Whether you donate or share this link, you are helping ensure that research with real social relevance doesn't stop at the university gates. Thank you for supporting mental health inclusion in the workplace and helping me continue this vital work in the UK.
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