Grassroots Initiative Grant winners 2025 announced!

The Diversity & Inclusion Office is proud to announce the winners of this year’s Grassroots Initiative Grants. These grants support student-led projects that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in innovative ways, fostering a sense of belonging within the UG community.

Maya Xinyu Dong – Re-imagining Silk Road Interactions

Maya Xinyu Dong has received the Grassroot Grant for her conference Re-imagining Silk Road Interactions, exploring the Silk Road as a vibrant network of cultural exchange and influence. Experts from Art History, History, and International Relations—both from academia and the museum world—will examine how civilizations along these routes shaped and redefined their identities over time.

By fostering interdisciplinary dialogue, the conference challenges traditional Eurocentric narratives in cultural studies and promotes a more inclusive understanding of global heritage. Topics include integrating diverse perspectives into the curriculum and developing decolonial strategies to address the persistence of Eurocentric views. In addition to talks and panel discussions, participants will visit a major Silk Roads exhibition in Leeuwarden, offering a unique chance to engage with the topic both intellectually and visually.

Ashley Monteiro & Marianne Slavenburg - Support Group for Black Women at UG

Ashley Monteiro and Marianne Slavenburg have received a Grassroots Initiative Grant for their project Support Group for Black Women at UG. This initiative aims to create a safe and inclusive space for Black female students at the UG, fostering empowerment, connection, and support within the university community.

The support group will address challenges related to identity, representation, and belonging, providing a network where students can share experiences and support each other. Activities such as “Playing with Friends,” a playful networking event, and a pre-exam support session focused on stress management and well-being will help students develop both academically and personally. With the support of the Diversity & Inclusion Office, this initiative seeks to build a stronger community and contribute to a more inclusive UG environment for Black female students.