On Saturday, I graduated from the University of Exeter with Master of Arts in History, at merit. The Chancellor of the University is Baroness Floella Benjamin, a woman who has appeared on TV for years, especially in my youth, as a presenter of nursery level education programmes.
This wonderful, inspiring woman captured my heart when I went up to receive my award. I knew from friends who had graduated in previous years that Floella's stock message was "change the world". I went up, had a hug and kisses on both cheeks. She then holds my cheek and says "Handsome. So handsome. You'll do well." She then takes my hand, gives me the stock message: "Change the world, you'll do that, won't you?" I was tongue-tied and I believe I said something like "My pleasure!" before rushing off the stage blushing.
