Carver Anderson

My Graduate Story

My name is Carver Anderson and I completed a M.Soc.Sc Socio Legal Studies and PhD in Theology at the University of Birmingham.

I currently work as a Executive Director and am the co-founder of Bringing Hope Charity which was established in 2004 as a consortium addressing the impact of gangs, guns, knives, and violence in Birmingham. The charity became registered in 2008, expanding its expertise in working with offenders, ex-offenders, and communities affected by crime and violence. Bringing Hope focuses on the root causes of social exclusion, helping clients through community-led, faith-based, and public health-informed interventions.

A Day in my Life

As Executive Director, I ensure our strategic and operational functions align with the organisation’s mission. This includes evidence-based approaches, building partnerships, and supporting individuals, families, and communities impacted by crime and violence.

Morning:

• Reviewing programme outcomes, staffing, and rehabilitation progress to prioritise daily tasks.
• Meeting with the Executive Team to ensure cohesive organisational goals.
• Engaging in external relations, including meetings with the West Midlands Violence Reduction Partnership Faith Alliance to mobilise faith-based approaches to violence prevention.
• Addressing collaboration opportunities and advocating for clients’ welfare needs.

Afternoon:

• Fundraising activities, including reviewing program evaluations, meeting with the Executive Team, and drafting funding bids.
• Managing safeguarding concerns, assessing risks, and exploring resolutions in line with policy.

End of Day:

• Reviewing priorities to prepare for the next day.

My Journey to Bringing Hope Charity

I was already involved with Bringing Hope when I completed my PhD. My role as Executive Director provided access to the prison estate and community leaders, which enriched my research and helped me complete my PhD. The learning experience shaped my ability to lead and address social challenges effectively.

My Birmingham Experience

My PhD experience was instrumental in developing critical thinking skills and evidence-based practices. It prepared me to tackle complex social issues like crime, violence, and social exclusion. The program’s focus on multidisciplinary approaches helped shape Bringing Hope's strategic direction.

I also honed collaboration, analytical, and communication skills, enabling me to assess program effectiveness, advocate for policy changes, and secure funding. The mentorship from tutors and exposure to high-level academic discourse deepened my subject matter expertise and enhanced my leadership capabilities.

Birmingham's Impact

The critical thinking and research skills I developed during my studies have greatly enhanced my ability to address real-world challenges. The relationships with tutors provided invaluable mentorship, while the practical application of academic theories to professional work was transformational. Graduation marked a significant milestone, validating my commitment and preparing me for complex leadership challenges.

The development of critical thinking, strong mentorship from tutors, and the overall experience of graduation were standout aspects of my time at Birmingham. The program encouraged analytical thinking and problem-solving, which have been invaluable in both my academic and professional journey.

My Achievements

My biggest achievement was conducting in-depth research that directly informed my work at Bringing Hope Charity. This allowed me to apply theoretical knowledge to practical challenges, especially in addressing social exclusion and violence prevention.

Personally, graduating was a milestone that validated my dedication and prepared me to lead on complex challenges.

Advice for Students

• Adaptability and Lifelong Learning: Embrace education as a stepping stone for ongoing development.
• Networking and Relationships: Build and nurture professional networks early in your career.
• Purpose and Impact: Pursue a career aligned with your values.
• Resilience: Be prepared for challenges and stay persistent.
• Wellbeing: Prioritize mental, emotional, physical, and moral health.
• Seize Opportunities: Take calculated risks to expand knowledge and skills.