Adam Vasco on Identity, Belonging and Building Authentic Inclusion in Education

In this heartfelt and thought-provoking episode of Voices of Resilience, host Mary Mosoeunyane speaks with Adam Vasco, Director of Student Success at the University of Wolverhampton and a national leader in diversity, inclusion, and educational change. Drawing on his dual Nigerian and Scouse heritage, Adam shares a personal and professional journey defined by identity, authenticity, and the courage to challenge systems from within.From growing up as one of only a handful of Black and mixed-heritage pupils in Liverpool to leading institutional transformation in higher education, Adam reflects on what it means to belong in spaces not designed for you. He speaks candidly about the long-term cost of assimilation — and why reclaiming identity and voice is central to personal and collective healing.Adam and Mary delve into his pioneering work on cultural competence — a framework built on humility, self-awareness, and centering marginalised voices. He explains how universities can move beyond statements to real action through community partnerships, inclusive curriculum design, and co-created change.They also explore the Everyday Heroes outreach programme and the importance of listening to young people from underrepresented communities — not as data points, but as partners in shaping the future of education. Adam’s reflections are both deeply human and rigorously practical, offering a roadmap for educators and leaders who want to move from talk to transformation.This episode is a moving conversation about identity, equity, and the quiet power of listening — and a reminder that inclusion begins where authenticity is allowed to thrive.