who are we?
Established in 2015, we are a committee of students at the University of St Andrews (UK) dedicated to coordinating an annual event focused on Africa and the African diaspora. SAASUM plays an important role in the introduction of African affairs to highly capable and enthusiastic students who might otherwise have little connection to the continent. The benefits of this event lie in giving students the opportunity to instigate inquiry into Africa’s historical ties to the Western world, to change narratives around Africa’s political and economic affairs, and to inspire a genuine interest and desire to participate in Africa’s future.what are we doing?
This upcoming April 2025 marks our 11th annual Summit. Each year the conference focuses on a particular topic that reflects a vital theme affecting contemporary Africa. This year's theme is "Africa in Focus: Stories, Visions, Realities". Our inspiration for this idea largely stems from the unique environment St Andrews has curated. Despite its tiny population and remote location, St Andrews is home to students from over 143 countries. Thus, this small town bolsters an immensely diverse array of perspectives, upbringings, cultural practices, religions, and ideas resulting varying understandings of and exposure to topics regarding the continent of Africa. With this theme in mind, we seek to offer our community a lens into the continent, demonstrating how Africa countries, companies, and individuals perceive topics such as the arts, media, finance , entrepreneurship, and geopolitics. It is our hope that insights from the source will challenge preconceived notions and prove how context shapes beliefs.
why are we doing this?
Our aim is to collaborate with professors and students to develop awareness of global issues at a local level. We also aim to give the University community a rare and invaluable opportunity to directly engage and interact with some of the greatest leaders from the African continent on the critical issues and trends shaping its affairs today.
How you can help us?
You can help us achieve our mission of organizing another successful SAASUM for our St Andrews community by making a donation or spreading the word for us!
Where will the money go?
The minimum target will cover the costs of our speakers' transportation to and accommodation in St Andrews. Any additional donations will help towards:
- Printing the SAASUM Annual Review
- Developing our website
- Creating awareness of SAASUM in the lead up to the event
- Paying for venues to stage debates before the Summit
Please note: all payments will be processed at the time of donating. This means that you will be charged immediately upon making your donation. In the event that a project does not reach its specified target, rest assured that your donation will be directed towards future summits. This approach allows us to maximise the impact of your support and ensures that your contribution continues to make a meaningful difference. If you have any questions or concerns about this update, please do not hesitate to contact us at saintsfunder@st-andrews.ac.uk
help us succeed!
Please help us to bring this amazing opportunity to the St Andrews community by:
- Donating today - check out our rewards!
- Signing up as a follower or a helper
- Sharing the project through word of mouth, social media, email or any other way you think fit!
Your support and sponsorship make a difference! Thank you for helping us make this happen. (All donations will be held securely with the sole purpose of funding this and future summits.)
