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Voices for Equal Futures is a student-led podcast series from the University of Galway

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Voices for Equal Futures is a student-led podcast series from the University of Galway, where students sit down with alumni to talk about their educational journeys, career paths, challenges and growth. Through these conversations, the series highlights a range of experiences to help students explore their own futures with confidence, curiosity and a sense of belonging.

This project was a collaboration between the Career Development Centre, Access Centre, Digi Champs and the CELT Studio, supported by funding from the EDI Project Fund.

Episode 3: Dr Mary Keogh & Vanessa Lanzo -Always keep learning, develop people skills and stay open to take the future as it comes

University of Galway · Voices for Equal Futures Podcast 3 - Vanessa Lazur and Dr. Mary Keogh

In this episode, Dr. Mary Keogh joins us online to talk about the lessons she has learned by following a non linear path in her career. She speaks about the importance of transferable people skills, continuous development and knowing ourselves for a fulfilling life, confronting uncertainty and recognising the people in our life that can become our mentors. We also learn about her perspective on work life balance and the importance of being challenged in life, as well as her experience in the PHD and with reasonable accommodations in the workplace.

Vanessa Lazo

Is a blind Mexican postgraduate student at the University of Galway doing the diploma in Irish. She is an international human rights lawyer, a trained conference interpreter, writer and musician. She has legal, research and teaching experience. She is passionate about language and culture, Nature, working with people and embracing creativity in every aspect of life.

Dr. Mary Keogh

PHD graduate from the University of Galway’s Centre for Disability Law and Policy. She has over twenty years of experience in international policy, advocacy and research on disability rights and inclusive development. She is currently the advocacy director at CBM Global Disability Inclusion, chair of the International Disability and Development Consortium, and an adjunct Professor with the University of Galway’s School of Law.

Episode 2: Eoin Maher & Phil Trill- Community is so important

University of Galway · Voices for Equal Futures Podcast 2 - Community is so important

Eoin and Phil talk about alternative education routes, the experience of returning to education as a mature student and the importance of community in helping shape us as students, academics and people. They also talk about how coming from an 'atypical' family can shape us in a positive manner.

Eoin Maher

Eoin has just completed the BA Journalism course at the University of Galway. Coming from a large family and returning to education as a mature student, Eoin's route to education was anything but 'typical' or linear. He understands the importance of alternative routes to education and how important they are for students who may not be able to attend university without them. Eoin has just completed the BA Journalism course at the University of Galway. Coming from a large family and returning to education as a mature student, Eoin's route to education was anything but 'typical' or linear. He understands the importance of alternative routes to education and how important they are for students who may not be able to attend university without them.

Phil Trill

Phil currently works as a teacher alongside his success as a coach for Galway United's women's football team. He graduated from the University with a BA Arts degree in 2016, alongside completed a Professional Masters of Education in PME in 2020. Since graduating, Phil has played and instrumental role in guiding students and potential students towards alternative education routes through his vocational and voluntary work.

EPISODE 1: Councillor Helen Ogbu, Mayor of Galway and Sophia Saetes

University of Galway · Voices for Equal Futures Podcast 1 - Sophia Saetes and Councillor Helen Ogbu

What does it take to navigate the journey from university student to researcher and professional? In this episode, newly elected Galway Mayor Helen Ogbu shares her story with PhD Candidate Sophia Saetes, reflecting on the challenges, opportunities, and people that shaped her path. Together, they discuss academic life, career choices, resilience, and the advice Helen wishes she had heard earlier.

Sophia Saetes, BA, MS, MHRS, SC

Sophia Saetes is a PhD researcher in Ireland, originally from California, with a background in psychology and over five years’ experience in frontline advocacy supporting women and children with disabilities.

Her research examines the Dobbs decision and its intersectional impact on women across race, ethnicity and socioeconomic status. Her work connects academic research with lived experience, policy and advocacy.

As a single mother and survivor of homelessness and domestic violence, Sophia brings resilience and a strong commitment to ensuring lived experiences are represented in academic and policy discussions.

Her goal is to build a career at the intersection of scholarship and advocacy, contributing to a more equitable and informed conversation about reproductive justice.

Connect with Sophia:
Instagram: Sophia Saetes (@sophiachrissa)
Email: s.saetes1@universityofgalway.ie

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