Hello everyone,

My name is Jasmijn Toffano. Some of you may know my story from the headlines in The Times: 'Central St Martins student banned from taking her baby to campus' (You can read the full article here).

While that moment sparked a national conversation, it also became a catalyst for positive change. I collaborated with my university to revisit their policies and connected with a powerful, invisible community of other student mothers. This momentum grew, leading me to advocate for student parents in Parliament.

Despite the barriers, I graduated with first-class honours and am now pursuing my Master's at the Royal College of Art, raising three thriving daughters. But it wasn’t easy, and it still isn’t.

That's why I founded Mothers in Academia (MIA). While we use the name 'Mother' symbolically, our mission is to support all parents and people with caring responsibilities who are navigating a broken system.

The Challenge is Systemic

This isn't a niche issue. The data is clear: an estimated 440,000 parents are navigating UK higher education, often facing crippling childcare costs, intense time pressure, and profound isolation. Our institutions were not built for caregivers, and parents are being pushed out. This has to change.

Our Solution: Direct Action, Sustainable Support

This is why my mission-driven organisation, Mothers in Academia, is launching its non-profit Community Fund.

This fund is a sustainable initiative that will run in cycles throughout the year, providing direct, meaningful support to parents in academia. For our Winter 2025 cycle, we are raising £3,200 to provide three unrestricted grants of £1,000 each to student parents in our community. (Please note that there is no exchanges for any donations made to your GoFundMe).

This isn't just a donation; it's a direct investment in talent and an act of solidarity. It is a lifeline to help with childcare, buy a new laptop, or simply provide the breathing room to continue their studies.

How it Works: A Fair and Transparent Process

Eligibility: The grant is open to all Mothers in Academia members currently enrolled in a UK university course.

Application: A simple application form will be made available to all members to confirm eligibility and enter the draw.

Selection: In mid-December, we will host a live online event where the three recipients will be chosen via a transparent, bingo-style random draw.

How You Can Make a Difference

Your support can send a clear message: parents belong in academia.

Donate: Your contribution, no matter the size, is a powerful act of solidarity that provides a crucial lifeline to a student parent.

Share: If you can't donate, please share this campaign with your network. Spreading the word is a vital contribution.

Collaborate: Are you part of a university or student services department? I invite you to contact me to explore how MIA can partner with your institution.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Jasmijn Toffano

Founder, Mothers in Academia

For more info, visit: mothersinacademia

No raffles, sweepstakes, giveaways, or returns on investment are offered in exchange for any donations made to this GoFundMe.