Quickfire Questions: Leyla Buran

Leyla keeps the 'why' in focus in her role at a White Ribbon UK.

Why did you choose Warwick?

I initially chose Warwick because of its reputation and because the LLM in International Development, Law and Human Rights felt well-rounded, with space to explore different directions through its wide range of modules. Once I got there, I kept studying, even though it was a challenge to get back into academic writing and balance all the reading, because I could feel it was changing me. Not only in terms of knowledge, but how I thought, how I saw the world, and how I showed up in it.

What are you doing now?

I am the Campaigns and Policy Manager at White Ribbon UK; the leading charity in England and Wales, engaging men and boys to prevent violence against women and girls.

What motivates you to do what you do? 

After graduating, I worked in a frontline domestic abuse support service for women and children, where I saw firsthand the reality of violence and abuse, and how systems often fail the people who need them most. That experience grounded me in why this work matters, not only in rights theory, but in the day-to-day experiences of people impacted. Now, my work focuses on engaging men and boys, as well as decision makers in Westminster and the Senedd, to shift public policy and legislation toward primary prevention. I'm motivated by a belief that real gender equality benefits everyone, and that change is possible. I try to keep that ‘why’ in focus every day, in every campaign, every conversation, and every policy ask.

How has your time at Warwick influenced what you do now? 

The law in context approach, the gendered lens, and the space to think critically about how the local shape the global have all stayed with me. That foundation influences how I approach every part of my work now, from awareness-raising campaigns to drafting public policy recommendations, to giving evidence to decision makers, including to select committees. My lecturers didn’t just teach, they modelled passion, integrity, and purpose in how they engaged with the issues. I hadn’t considered the importance of aligning my work with my values before doing the Master's. One moment that really stuck with me was a module taught by a male lecturer on the rights of women in history. The way he made space for women’s perspectives and framed those discussions with care was a powerful example of what it means to live by your values and use your position well.

Favourite memory? 

My favourite memory is sitting in the calm of the library at 8 AM, reading the day's newspapers before lectures. It was a quiet moment to connect what I was learning with what was happening in the world. Those mornings helped me to be present and really soak up the day ahead.

Best thing about the Warwick community?

Everyone had space to speak. Throughout the year, I heard so many different opinions, and not once did I see anyone shut down for asking a ‘silly’ question or being told they were wrong. That openness to discussion made the learning richer, more dynamic, and more respectful.

Favourite place on campus?

The library.

Leyla Buran

LLM International Development Law and Human Rights, 2019