Alumni reconnect at Soho reunion to celebrate community and social justice

Held on a gloriously sunny day in the heart of the capital, the event brought together alumni working across a range of industries, from media and tech to health and business. The atmosphere was lively and full of nostalgia, as old friends reunited and new connections were made.

Dr Pradeep Passi, Associate Pro-Vice Chancellor for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, delivered a warm and inspiring speech on the University’s ongoing commitment to social justice and equity. He spoke about our inclusive commitment to welcoming students from widening participation backgrounds, and shared updates on our work with IntoUniversity, the local education hub supporting local school children with their academic aspirations. Part-funded through philanthropy generated by the University, the centre is a key part of our mission to raise educational attainment and broaden access to university.

The event also gave alumni a chance to share their own Salford stories, sparking plenty of fond memories, from iconic gigs at Maxwell Hall (including the legendary Sex Pistols), to meeting lifelong friends in halls of residence. One alumnus from the 1970s had guests laughing with tales of arriving to find five mattresses on the floor and no bathroom in her temporary accommodation—quite the contrast to today’s modern student living!

Behind the laughter and memories, the evening had a clear purpose: to build a stronger Salford alumni community in London. The aim is to foster a connected network of alumni who are keen to give back by supporting our students through guest lectures, mentoring, offering placements, industry advice and philanthropic support.

This is just the beginning of growing our alumni presence in the capital. The success of the event shows the deep pride our alumni have in the University, and their enthusiasm to stay connected and support future generations of Salford graduates.