One of Europe’s most renowned storytellers has been awarded an Honorary Fellowship at the University of Wolverhampton for his commitment to championing diversity and entrepreneurship across the globe.
Honorary awards are presented by the University of Wolverhampton to people who have made a significant contribution to their field of expertise. Born, raised and currently living in Wolverhampton, and a recipient of a 100 Masters in England award for celebrating creativity and excellence in the Black Country, Peter Chand is a British Indian storyteller.
As one of a family of eight, Peter’s parents were immigrants, ‘grafters’ who worked hard to establish a life here and send money back home to support family there. His passion for storytelling began in his busy house which was full of speaking and listening and making up stories with his siblings.
Now one of Europe’s most renowned storytellers, Peter is constantly in demand for his tales of life, love, and the supernatural. He has shared his tales across Britain and has also performed in Norway, France, Austria, Canada and Singapore, amongst other countries.
A few days after his graduation ceremony he flies out to Tennessee to start a week-long residency at the International Storytelling Centre in Jonesborough. He is also a trainer of high repute, leading workshops with teachers, librarians, budding storytellers, university students, business leaders, health professionals, and anyone trying to find their voice and gain confidence when performing in public.
Peter is part of the organising team of Festival at the Edge, which is the oldest storytelling festival in England, and was the Storyteller in Residence at The Story Museum in Oxford for almost two years. He said: “I’m delighted to have been awarded an Honorary Fellowship at the University of Wolverhampton.
“All stories are political. And all stories, whether we tell folktales, myths, legends or true stories, are personal. That is why we tell them and why they shape how we see the world and ourselves.”
“We are all made of stories and stories form part of our DNA. I am very keen to develop, support and inspire the next generation of Storytellers, especially those from a Global Majority heritage.
“I hope this Honorary Fellowship will help towards making that happen in my city and beyond.” The University’s graduation ceremonies took place at the Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton.
Graduates are encouraged to keep in touch with the Alumni team and take advantage of a range of benefits and support on offer to them including a discount for Postgraduate study and opportunities to benefit from mentoring, volunteering and career advice.