Four students. Four stories. One powerful celebration of Pride through creativity, identity, and self-expression.
To celebrate Pride Month 2025, GSU invited students across the University of Greenwich to submit original creations that explore what Pride means to them. Whether through poetry, photography, visual art or a mix of all three we were honoured to receive heartfelt, thoughtful and creative expressions from across our LGBTQ+ community and allies. From deeply personal reflections to bold, unapologetic self-expression, every submission reminded us why Pride still matters.
Here are the four incredible winning entries. We’re proud to share excerpts and snapshots below and invite you to read or view each full submission through the links provided.
1. "My Mirrored Image" by E. Theseus
This powerful and emotionally resonant poem explores gender identity and dysphoria through the metaphor of a mirror. The writer paints a vivid picture of longing and transformation describing the emotional tension between how one is perceived and who one knows themselves to be.
It’s a piece about grief, hope, and the quiet strength it takes to see your future self just beyond reach, and to keep walking towards them.
“Yet, even on dark days like this... it’s always a comfort to know that one day,
that man will be on the other side of the mirror, waiting for me right where I left him...”
Read the full poem here
2. "I Kissed Her Hi" by SK
A beautifully honest and tender poem, “I Kissed Her Hi” captures the complicated emotions that come with unspoken queer love. It’s about falling for someone who may never return that love, and the quiet heartache that lingers long after.
The poem reflects on what it means to carry two kinds of pain: the fear of not being loved back, and the fear of being seen too clearly.
“I kissed her hi. It wasn’t on my wishlist, but how do I lie?
I fell for the girl of my dreams who doesn’t love me, nor even thinks of me...”
3. Untitled Photograph by Rachel Ogedi-Uzokwe
This stunning self-portrait challenges conventional narratives around gender, beauty, and self-expression. Through carefully constructed composition and natural light, the artist captures a moment of quiet power a gaze that is both vulnerable and defiant.
Their submission reminds us that visibility itself is an act of Pride. It tells a story without words: one of growth, confidence, and reclaiming space in the frame.
View the photo submission here
4. "Love is a Spectrum" by Gousia Mastani Parveen Patan
A bold and vibrant digital artwork that combines colour, symbolism, and gentle commentary to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community in all its diversity. Accompanied by a short reflective text, this piece explores the fluidity of identity and the freedom that comes with self-acceptance.
The artist reminds us that Pride is not just a celebration it's a personal and collective affirmation that love does not belong in a box
“To me, Pride is being able to exist fully and loudly.
Love is a spectrum and I exist somewhere on it, without shame.”
View the artwork and story here
Voices That Inspire
A massive thank you to everyone who submitted for your vulnerability, courage, and creativity. Your voices, your art, and your truths are what make GSU’s Pride celebration so meaningful. We’re proud to uplift you.
🏳️🌈 Stay proud. Stay visible. Stay you.
Want to learn more about how GSU supports inclusion all year round?
Visit our Equality, Diversity & Inclusion page to see how we’re working to create a campus where every student feels seen, heard, and celebrated.