Global Illuminations Procession: Get involved!

We caught up with Michelle Watson, Student User Experience Officer, who told us all about the Global Illuminations Procession and why you should volunteer to support.

The Global Illuminations team are still looking for volunteers to support the event. Read more about the Global Illuminations Procession and sign up to volunteer now!

What is the Global Illuminations Procession?

"Put simply it’s a beautiful, dazzling light procession that winds its way around campus, with some surprises along the way. This year, it’s for Warwick's 60th anniversary, so a great time to get involved!

It’s one of the nicest and most amazing ways to really experience the multicultural-ness, if that’s a word, and the diversity of our students, first hand. When I’ve supported, I can’t help but start jumping and dancing along. The Piazza was filled last year with stunning handcrafted lanterns and we’re expecting around 1500 students to join the parade this year.

It's a perfect opportunity to get some face-to-face time with students, especially if that's not usually part of your day job. There is no doubt in my mind that you will find something to enjoy. It’s hard to describe in words, so please do come along and experience it for yourself!"

Why should I get involved?

"I can’t think of any reason not to get involved. It’s not just fun, you get a really great insight into student life and our student population. A lot make their lanterns based on the flags of their home country, their passions, interests or sometimes even memes they’ve seen online. We have such a huge group of students with such a large range of personalities, cultures and experiences and this celebration gives us a chance to celebrate it all! Some of the lanterns and light sculptures are works of art, the students get so creative and they look beautiful against the night sky.

I helped out last year for the pilot, but one thing with the Together at Warwick team is that every event is a chance to experience something different, you never know what to expect. Last year was incredible, there was an amazing samba band (rumoured to be back again this year) and the procession was led by our amazing props! And this year, it’s bigger and better than ever, promise!"

What can I end up doing?

"There’s load of ways to get involved, the lantern making workshops are brilliant but the real atmosphere is out with the procession.

If you can support in anyway please sign up. We’re looking for volunteers to help with prop carrying, you’ll be in the thick of it celebrating with the students, and with marshalling so that we can create a safe space for the procession to walk.

If you’re helping to marshal the parade you get a hi-vis jacket, and who doesn’t need an excuse to wear one of them. We’ll make sure you get a hot drink as well but you won't get cold because you’ll be dancing your way round!"

What can I expect to see on the evening?

"Hopefully I’ve given you a good flavour on what happens but if you’re still not sure on what to expect, have a watch of this video from last year - it gives you a great idea on what a magical night it’ll be."