It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of Melz Owusu, a University of Leeds alumni and former LUU education officer and member of staff.
This is an immeasurable loss, and our thoughts are with Melz’s loved ones, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Melz had recently celebrated the publication of his debut book and the successful completion of his PhD viva—both significant milestones that marked a bright and promising chapter in his life. He had been looking forward to graduating as a Dr. of Sociology from Cambridge University, later this year.
During his time at the University of Leeds, Melz created a legacy of campaigning and liberation work which has been passed on to successive officer teams. As LUU’s Education Officer for two years, Melz brought immense joy and play to political campaigning with his iconic campaign videos, and championed curiosity, compassion, solidarity, and decoloniality as pedagogical principles.
Melz is celebrated with a mural in the rear atrium of the LUU building, which has served as an inspiration to those in our community of the diversity we celebrate and the values that education at Leeds represents at its best.
Aidan Grills, LUU Chief Executive said of Melz, “It was a privilege to work with Melz as a student leader and later to advise on the Free Black University project that he founded. His life reflected one of imagination, passion and energy and we were all better for knowing Melz and his philosophy of education.”
A Copy of the book, “Undisciplined : Reclaiming the Right to Imagine” will be available for students to access in the LUU Liberation Hub, an accessible and inclusive space for all.
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