What does pursuing a doctorate at Oxford mean when you are Black British in a space that has long defined itself through whiteness and elitism? Drawing on the findings from my research, this talk will reflect on students’ experiences, focusing on moments of avoidance, resistance, and engagement as they navigate through the physical, social, and intellectual spaces of the university. In the shadow of the movie Get Out, this talk will shed light on the complex movement between agency and exclusion, visibility, and hiddenness.

Danielle Watkis is an educational strategist and Christian scholar completing her Doctorate in Education at the University of Oxford. With a background in Psychology (BSc, MRes), her research explores how Black British doctoral students across academic disciplines navigate the spaces of the elite, pioneering methods such as virtual walking interviews. With nearly a decade of experience advising higher education institutions on governance and equity, she translates research into university-wide strategies and initiatives, including the Lit in Colour Pioneers Report (2023), which diversifies school curricula, and Close the Gap (2025), an Oxford-Cambridge project addressing racial inequities in doctoral admissions.

Danielle serves as Programme Officer for the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission, working on global partnerships and widening participation, and as CEO of DW Academy Online, supporting students with diverse educational needs. Beyond her academic and governmental roles, she is a public speaker and mentor, sharing insights with media, officials, and global leaders, including HRH Prince William and the President of North Macedonia. Danielle, a change agent and guide for the next generation of leaders, combines scholarship, practical expertise, and advocacy to advance equity, inclusion, and transformative educational practices.