University News Last updated 10 January
An Applied Performance alumna has received royal recognition for her outstanding contribution to the film and television industry, as well as her efforts to champion British culture.
Emaleigh Conn was invited to Buckingham Palace recently, where she met King Charles III. The meeting celebrated her impactful work in improving representation on stage and screen, and her dedication to empowering underrepresented communities.
Emaleigh said: 鈥淢eeting King Charles and discussing my work was a 鈥榩inch me鈥� moment. The highlight of the evening was not only sharing my journey but also connecting with other creatives who are shaping the industry.鈥�
Her passion for social justice and storytelling began in her hometown of Dudley, where she volunteered to support local communities and tackle inequality. This commitment continued during her studies at Royal 探花直播 Conservatoire (RBC) where she realized the power of drama to drive social change.
She explained: 鈥淚鈥檝e always felt compelled to tackle prejudice, and during my time at RBC, I discovered how theatre could be a tool for raising awareness and creating meaningful change."
Emaleigh founded the Gypsy Roma and Traveller Working Group (GRTWG) within the Actors鈥� Union, Equity UK. Over the past six years, her efforts have focused on ensuring accurate and fair portrayals of ethnic minorities in film, television, and theatre.
In addition to her advocacy work, Emaleigh supports victims of modern slavery, helping rehabilitate those trafficked into the UK. She hopes to continue expanding opportunities for marginalised voices in the arts.
鈥淢y dream is to create a space where members of the GRT community and anyone who feels underrepresented in the arts can flourish and feel empowered to take their rightful place in the creative industry.鈥�