Growing up in conservative Walsall, Rhys often felt out of place as a gay man. Whilst he was supported by his loving family, he describes his younger self as ‘quiet and reserved’. Coming to Bournemouth University offered a fresh start.
“When I came to university, I asked myself, ‘Who actually am I?’ For the first time, I could explore that.”
Rhys quickly found friends through SUBU’s Iris LGBTQ+ Society at Freshers’ Fair.
“There were five or six of us, and we were just massive nerds! A couple are still my closest friends today.”
Getting involved in societies like Iris, Improv, Roleplay, and Gaming gave Rhys a strong sense of belonging. He joined committees, eventually working closely with SUBU’s LGBTQ+ Network. But near the end of his second year, academic challenges forced him to retake some modules.
“When I was younger, it always seemed to be the case that people left me to it and thought I was doing fine on my own. It made me think that if people were saying that I’m okay, maybe I was okay. I was getting good grades, but there were other things in my life that I needed help with, and I struggled to voice that.
“It wasn’t until I got to university and experienced this sudden change of feeling free in Bournemouth and having to do everything myself, I realised that that maybe I do need help with how overwhelmed and lonely I’m feeling. It was almost like the initial excitement of first year suddenly went, and that was really tough.”
With support from his personal tutor and wellbeing services, Rhys balanced resits and part-time work. During this time, he was invited to step into the role of LGBTQ+ Officer after the previous officer stepped down. Rhys accepted and soon found himself representing SUBU at the National Union of Students’ (NUS) Conference.
The opportunity inspired Rhys to officially run for the Part-Time LGBTQ+ Officer role in his final year, when he was successfully elected.
“Becoming LGBTQ+ Officer has been such a different experience from anything I’ve done before. I’ve never been in a role where I was representing a whole group of people, so that felt amazing! I actually have a voice now to help make the changes that people want to see.”
As LGBTQ+ Officer, Rhys helped plan special events like Queermas-a festive celebration for students who might not feel safe or accepted at home. Having seen the impact Queermas has had for the community, Rhys was delighted to have the opportunity to help plan the event.
“Being at home for Christmas is a really hard thing for some people, especially those who are outwardly queer. It can also be really tough for trans people, as they may have to go back home to a family that isn’t supportive or aren’t aware of their identity.
“To have a family of your chosen people and feel accepted is quite special. I felt really proud to host a space where people can have fun, feel safe and be who they are.”
Rhys also organised a wide range of events for LGBTQ+ History Month including a Clothing Swap.
“No one is judging you for what you’re picking out of the Clothing Swap, you can go and pick whatever you want, you’re entitled to it. I love events like those.”
Rhys also hosted a Human Library, where attendees were able to hear stories from members of the LGBTQ+ Community.
Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with attendees finding conversations powerful and eye-opening. Volunteers also found value in taking part, as they were able to be part of a space where people wanted to hear their voices.
His efforts as LGBTQ+ Officer led to Rhys being awarded Part-Time Officer of the Year at the 2025 SUBU Awards.
“It was really gratifying and reassuring that I’m doing a good job. I do have doubts whether I’m doing enough, but receiving that award made me realise that I am making a difference!”
Rhys openly shares how loneliness shaped his journey-but so did reaching out and joining in.
“Loneliness happens, but it’s what you do next that matters. SUBU has something for everyone. Even if the first thing doesn’t click, try again.”
Over four years, SUBU became Rhys’s second home. He’s also been a Student Rep and Student Ambassador, and though he arrived with a plan to become a teacher, his outlook has evolved.
“Being an Officer showed me how much I love representing people. Thanks to SUBU, I’ve learned it’s okay not to have a five-year plan-I can stay open to what’s next.”
You can also find the full 2024/25 Impact Report here.