Dr Camila Devis-Rozental

I am an author and academic on a quest to humanise education by inspiring others to practice with their head (what they know), hand (what they do) and heart (how they show their emotions and build relationships) as interrelated and inseparable. I am passionate about representation, widening participation and education as a tool to enable social justice.
My academic journey is non-traditional, I was a mature student, with English as a second language and two small children when in 2005, whilst completing my degree, I became disabled. This changed our lives in many ways and we (my family and I) began a journey to learn how to exist in this new way. It took time, perseverance, drive and a passion for life to find a new way of being which allowed me to still do what I love. This journey showed me strengths I didn’t know I had, which I call collateral beauty – those amazing things we find about ourselves when we least expect it.

In 2022 due to COVID-19 my vocal cords became damaged. This was a difficult adjustment, especially as a teacher who could no longer teach, at least in the traditional way. I decided again to challenge my barriers looking for meaningful ways to be me.

I am fortunate because Bournemouth Uni, my fantastic employer, supported me and enabled me to find different ways to share my passion and my knowledge. In my current job, I work with our leadership team to improve the quality of education and student experience.

I am also a director and Trustee of the Lightyear Foundation, a charity breaking down barriers for children with disabilities interested in STEM, and I serve in various research projects and groups as equity, diversity and inclusion advisor.

As a researcher, I am interested in developing others to flourish with a focus on social justice. As an author, I have written many books sharing my lived experience, research and passion for education.

My purpose is to nurture and engage others to find ways to be their best selves, and to know that together we are better.