The importance of alumni volunteering – CAUKIN Studio

In 2015, Joshua Peasley (MArch 2018), Harry Thorpe (MArch 2018) and Harrison Marshall (MArch 2018) founded CAUKIN Studio. The aim? To empower global communities through sustainable design and architecture, whilst educating and upskilling local communities around the world.

Whilst studying at Cardiff University, the trio worked with the Student Futures’ Enterprise and Start-up team, winning two student start-up awards in the process. The team at CAUKIN aim to show that an organisation can balance profit with purpose, utilising collaborations, education, and international development.

Their 52 projects worldwide have provided 10,000 end users access to better designed spaces and educated 800 community members in design and construction through 200,000 hours of on-site education.

As well as this, CAUKIN regularly give their time back to Cardiff University, volunteering their knowledge and expertise wherever possible. They’ve delivered student career talks, and provided summer volunteering opportunities, allowing students to get first-hand experience with construction projects and experience new cultures.

CAUKIN’s work led to them being the recipients of the Environmental Activist Special Recognition Award at the 2022 30(ish) Alumni Awards. The 30(ish) Awards celebrate the change-makers, innovators, and rule-breakers in the Cardiff University alumni community, and nominations are now open for 2023.

The team have been able to bring on Cardiff University students as studio interns to provide valuable knowledge and insight for those looking to pursue careers in architecture and construction.

Providing internships, delivering talks to students, and mentoring are just some of the great ways CAUKIN and countless other Cardiff University alumni give their time and knowledge to support future generations of Cardiff students and alumni.

At Cardiff University, our worldwide alumni community plays an active role in our ambitious future. Read more about how you can get involved and help inspire the next generation of Cardiff University students and alumni.

The 30(ish) Awards celebrate the change-makers, innovators, and rule-breakers in the Cardiff University alumni community. Nominations are open now.