Copyright © 2025 UK Unplugged CIC
We work with enthusiastic individuals from a wide range of backgrounds. Our volunteers have come from across the world, studied an eclectic range of subjects and contributed in all sorts of different ways.
Hello! My name is Aggie and I study Popular Music at the University of Liverpool.
I have always loved music and it’s been such a pleasure to be able to study it and learn so much more about how we use it in everyday life. It’s been so fun working on Dinos Roar and researching all the interesting ways dinosaurs used sound. I hope you love it too!
I also worked as the illustrator on the Iran Box.
Hi! My name is Katie and I am a Communication and Media student from the University of Liverpool.
I have always loved drawing and creating my own designs. I have had so much fun designing these dinosaurs! I find them fascinating because of all the unique features they have and the different sizes they are! I have had great fun learning about Dinosaurs and hope you enjoy it too!
Xin chào! Hello! My name is Yen (my English name is Judy) and I’m a Communication and Media student from Vietnam.
Sharing my culture is like sharing my childhood to everyone which is really beautiful and remarkable. Having a chance to recreate these memories and bring them to people is so precious to me. I hope I can bring awesome experiences and memories that can be a part of your life journey.
Hi! My name is Jolie and I’m a Music student from Vietnam. Having the opportunity to share my culture is absolutely wonderful.
I’ve always loved and am proud of Vietnam because of its fascinating natural landscapes, the unique and vibrant food scenes from North to South, its rich history and very friendly people. You should definitely visit Vietnam if you have the chance to!
I am a recent graduate from the University of Liverpool’s English BA.
I love reading and watching worlds come to life which is why I enjoyed being apart of the Fairy Troll Universe while I was a student. I helped create this box at university with some fantastic members of UK Unplugged. I really enjoyed seeing the creatures come to life in the Wirral and hope you will too.
Hi! My name is Andrine and I study Architecture at the University of Liverpool.
I love drawing and creating digital illustrations as a hobby. Being able to use
my love for art to bring the Troll Fairy World characters to life was a great pleasure. I particularly enjoyed drawing Drake, I loved showcasing his clumsy personality! I hope you love him and the gang as much as I do!
Hola! My name is Edgar Garcia.
I’m a Data Science and AI student from Mexico. I’ve always loved experiencing other cultures and sharing mine at the same time. Dia de Muertos is one of the most picturesque and yet profound Mexican traditions, and I’m happy to share more about it with you.
Monica is a native of Mexico. She has lived in Hong Kong, USA, Germany and the UK and is a book and culture lover.
Hello! My name is Hope and I study English Language and Literature at the University of Liverpool.
I was fortunate enough to have been able to help out at UK Unplugged where I helped to create the content for the Day of the Dead box.
Researching such an ancient and unique tradition was really interesting, and I learnt some fascinating facts I want to share with you all! I worked alongside Katie and Edgar and together we have created some really cool…and rather spooky activities that we’re sure you’ll love!
Hi my name is Katerina and I’m an English Language student at the University of Liverpool. I’ve really enjoyed creating this project to share with you all! It took me back to my childhood when I learnt about the Victorian era and reminded me of how much I enjoyed it. My role entailed researching what a Victorian Christmas looked like and working alongside Holly, turning these ideas into a fun experience for everyone to take part in. I hope you find this exciting and learn something new!
Hello! My name is Holly and I’m a Communications and Media student from the University of Liverpool.
I’ve always had an interest in the Victorians and have really enjoyed my journey to the past. Discovering how they entertained themselves with theatre productions and even their own version of cinema has been fascinating. Learning about film is a main focus of my course so going back in time to the beginning of animation has been a great opportunity. I hope you enjoy time travelling as much as I did!
Hello! My name is Dalia, and I am a second-year International Business
student at the University of Liverpool.
Dancing and travelling are my main passions. As I love learning and experiencing new cultures, I am happy that I could share the knowledge gained about Japanese culture with you. I really enjoyed creating this box, so I hope you love it and have fun learning about Japan!
Hello, my name is Kanae. I am from Japan.
My hobby is organising Japanese cultural events where we share our traditional and modern culture to local people. I love to help people enjoy Japanese calligraphy, kimono dressing, sushi workshops,
origami activities, dance and taiko drumming. I hope you can enjoy Japanese culture
Hi! I am a marketing student from the Cayman Islands and Jamaica. My family has a good number of cultural backgrounds so sharing some aspects of the Caribbean was a very exciting opportunity.
I love the Caribbean because it is full of a vibrant mixture of people. The food here is like none other. The flavours come from all around the world and the countries of the Caribbean have used them to make unique and delicious cuisines. The beaches are so beautiful with clear water and white sand. The
music here just adds to the liveliness of the Caribbean.
Hello! My name is Jennifer and I studied Egyptology and Classical Studies at the University of Liverpool. I have always loved ancient history, and it’s been so cool to be able to learn about how different cultures lived thousands of years ago. It’s been so fun working on the Ancient World Box and researching all the fun games and art. I hope you love it too!
Luiza is an international student from Poland studying at John Moores University. Her illustrations feature on our Victorian Christmas Box, Environmental Chemistry Box and Pollution Fighter Cards.
Chloe is a Mechanical Engineer.
A cool project she’s worked on was helping to design the sub frame body structure of a new Land Rover!
Her advice to kids wanting to be engineers is to “Go for it! – Speak to as many Engineers as you can to find out about their amazing jobs to help you decide the best pathway to follow.”.
Joanna is an Award-winning Civil Engineer, an All About STEM educator and one of our directors.
A cool job she’s worked on was a highway scheme to raise roads affected by flooding so that on the event of future flooding incidents, the road is likely to remain open so communities are not cut off from family.
Her advice to kids wanting to be engineers is to “ask lots of questions. there are so many cool things to learn and no one knows everything so asking questions is important.”
Krystina is Merseyside Aerospace Engineer.
A cool project she’s worked on was a program looking at technologies for a future next generation fast jet.
Her advice to kids wanting to be engineers is to “Have a look at all of the options out there as there are many different routes into engineering. it’s all about what suits you best.”.
Robyn is a graduate with a flair for Marketing and Business. She is interested in the laws surrounding space research, and has started a Law Conversion course to develop her knowledge. She has been leading LASER on this project, coming up with activity ideas and developing materials for them.
Mack is an undergraduate Genetics student. Their interest in space stems from watching Doctor Who and Brian Cox documentaries while growing up, always wondering about how massive the universe is compared to Earth and how we got here. Mack loves that there is so much more to learn about space, like the possibilities of other life forms. They led the Planetary Snap Card activity, creating the designs for each card and researching for the planetary facts included.
Tom is a PhD student working on miniature particle accelerators. He is an electrical engineering graduate and worked on bioreactors for the International Space Station. Tom is the Chief Technical Officer of Laser and handles all the technical aspects of space-related projects. He helped with the content of the box, contacting Space Experts and coming up with activity ideas.
Zhantao is a Business Analytics and Big Data student and has always been fascinated about the universe. He loves that there is so much potential for discovering new planets and life forms and expanding our knowledge on space technology. He has helped with the creation of graphic design details to be included in the box.
Hello! My name is Mahsa, and I am a third-year Communication and Media student at the University of Liverpool. I am from Iran and I am so happy to have had the opportunity to share my knowledge about Iranian culture with you. I really enjoyed creating this box and have learnt so much more about it myself whilst creating it, so I hope you love it and have fun learning about Iran! .
Hello! My name is Kate, and I study English Language at the University of Liverpool. I have loved finding out lots of weird and wonderful things about the Victorians. I have also enjoyed creating all the fun activities and lots of drawings, especially ghosts! I hope you love this spooky box like I do!
Hi! My name is Diana, and I’m the founder of UK Unplugged.
I did my MA and PhD on Victorian Literature at the University of Liverpool, so I loved bringing all the unusual and scary stories into this box!
I’m Keris and I study Graphic Design and Illustration. I have loved learning more about Japanese culture, their environment and mythical creatures. It has been really great to illustrate and include them in the box!
I’m Ellen and I study English Literature with Communication and Media. I’ve really enjoyed researching and learning more about Japanese culture. I especially enjoyed meeting up with Kanae and learning how to play with the hanafuda. I hope you enjoy playing, creating and flipping your okonimiyaki!
Hi I’m Anjaly! I’m a Architecture graduate from the University of Liverpool. I focus on designing eco friendly spaces. I designed the Sunshine Oasis House and created the Design Challenge to get you started!
Hi, I’m Smrithi! I studied architecture and now I work in Liverpool at an architecture firm. I started volunteering with UK Unplugged during my degree, and I helped out with the Victorian Christmas and Iran events! I’ve designed the cover artwork and helped with other parts of the book.
Hi I’m Yakshitha! I started working with UK Unplugged as a volunteer, and I did part of my final Master’s research with them on designing schools for young people with a variety of needs. I designed the Go Build Card game!
Hi I’m Mikey! I am a Education Intern! Previously I’ve worked with exercise groups and so I felt at home designing games for you all! I also did the brownies!
I’m Hannah and I drew the cards and the people for the design challenge on the Earth Friendly Architecture Box! I also drew all of the cards, booklet and Bermuda Triangle game for the Avionics Box. I’m an LJMU Illustration student.
Hi I’m Alicia. I’m studying Aerospace Engineering with Pilot Studies at the University of Liverpool. I am passionate about planes and want to work towards creating a sustainable future.
With inspiration from NASA, I am working on building a wind turbine blade.
To all aspiring young women, never let a challenging subject or discouraging words scare you. Embrace your passion!
I’m Hana, and I’m studying Electrical Engineering at the University of Liverpool. I’ve had a growing interest in autonomous vehicles for years which inspired me to study engineering. I’m currently working to build a robot car by using sensors and motors. My advice to young women would be to not be scared that science is dominated by men; you can do anything you put your mind to!
I’m Nouran. I’m studying Electrical Engineering at the University of Liverpool. I am passionate about practical work, innovation and creativity.
In the lab, I’m currently working on creating a cool robot car that can avoid obstacles.
If you’re a young girl interested in science, don’t let anyone discourage you from not doing what you are passionate about!
I’m Tom and I study Electrics and Electrical Engineering at the University of Liverpool. I worked on the Bermuda Triangle Game to give you two versions. I also spoke about GPS satellites and how they work at our Avionics Event.
Hi, I’m Chio. I’m from Peru and I studied Marketing at the University of Liverpool. I suggested the idea of the Peru box after volunteering with UK Unplugged for another event. Unfortunately, I can’t attend the Peru event as I’m now working in Central America, but my game is in the box!
Hi, I’m Ben. I study art at Liverpool John Moores University. I worked with Diana, Ximena and Masirah to illustrate this box and create the Hamilton Bear comic! All of the beautiful animals were drawn by me!
Hi, I’m Melissa. I studied literature at the University of Liverpool and teach in the English Department there. I have always been fascinated by the Titanic and really enjoyed doing research for this box, especially learning about Polar the Titanic Bear!
Hi, I’m Lillie and I’m studying English Language at the University of Liverpool. I was lucky enough to help Uk Unplugged in the creation of the Titanic box. I hope you enjoy the activities as much as I enjoyed researching all the interesting facts and stories!
Hi, I’m Lucy. I’m studying architecture at the University of Liverpool. I helped brainstorm the ideas for this box and did lots of research. I loved learning about the fashion on board the Titanic!
Hi, I’m Matthew, and I teach late nineteenth- and early twentieth century literature. Looking into the Titanic more closely was really fascinating for me, especially how they entertained themselves – I hope everyone enjoyed the shuffleboard!
UK UNPLUGGED
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Company registered in England and Wales (company n°: 12120550).
We create opportunities for families to create, explore and unplug.
We are grateful to our generous supporters, helping us to fulfil our mission.
Copyright © 2025 UK Unplugged CIC
Kadar volunteered as our Marketing Lead for UK Unplugged’s Environmental Chemistry Project sponsored by the Royal Society of Chemistry, while studying Business Management at the University of Liverpool, and he felt this experience led directly to his being hired after graduation as a Graduate Project Executive.
As the marketing lead on the UK Unplugged Chemistry Project, Kadar gained essential hands-on experience. This role not only helped him develop critical skills but also instilled the confidence needed to succeed in his new position.
When asked about the benefits of volunteering with UK Unplugged, Kadar pointed to the fact that the real-world experience and community involvement it offers are unparalleled, providing an excellent foundation for anyone looking to launch their career.
Reflecting on his 3-year journey studying Business Management at the University of Liverpool, Kadar explained one of the highlights of their university experience was working closely with Diana Powell, CEO of UK Unplugged to lead the marketing for an event that promoted environmental chemistry to future generations. This project allowed Kadar to apply his academic knowledge practically and engage more deeply with the Liverpool and Wirral communities.
“I highly recommend students volunteer with Unplugged. It’s a great way to gain real-world experience to help start your career”.
77 university student interns since 2020 and countless volunteers
A parent deeply committed to sustainability connected with us in April 2020 and has remained a part of the UK Unplugged community.
Pre-Involvement Perspectives on Sustainability:
Before our engagement with UK Unplugged, our family already had a strong connection with the environment and the principles of sustainability. We actively instilled in our children the importance of mindful consumption, using reusable and plastic-free products, cultivating our own fruits and vegetables, and participating in regular litter picking activities as a family.
Impact of UK Unplugged on Sustainability Education:
Being a civil engineer with an existing interest in sustainable practices, my involvement with UK Unplugged provided me with a unique opportunity to further explore and promote sustainability within my community. The activity boxes enabled me to engage with young people and introduce sustainability concepts in a playful and accessible manner. It’s crucial that sustainability becomes ingrained in the normal habits of the younger generation, rather than an afterthought.
Significance of Sustainably Sourced Boxes:
The fact that the UK Unplugged boxes are sustainably sourced holds significant importance for our family. While these boxes may come at a higher cost compared to alternatives, we find value in supporting local businesses and contributing to our community’s resilience against corporate giants. Knowing that our purchase supports local talent and family businesses brings a sense of fulfillment that transcends mere material acquisition. The conscious decision to shop small and locally resonates deeply with us, especially when it aligns with our environmental values.
Dedication to Environmental Responsibility:
UK Unplugged, under Diana’s leadership, exemplifies a commitment to environmental responsibility that extends beyond mere rhetoric. Diana’s dedication to fostering talent, creativity, and community engagement is commendable. Her choice to deliver boxes via bicycle underscores a genuine commitment to sustainability, contrasting with superficial carbon offsetting measures adopted by larger corporations. It’s this authentic dedication that sets UK Unplugged apart, making it a beacon of sustainability within our community.
Conclusion:
Our journey with UK Unplugged has not only deepened our understanding of sustainability but has also empowered us to actively contribute to our community’s environmental well-being. Through our engagement with UK Unplugged, we’ve not only found a platform for sustainability education but also a community-driven initiative that embodies the principles we hold dear. As parents, we’re grateful for the opportunity to instill these values in our children and contribute to a more sustainable future, one UK Unplugged box at a time.
80% of kids give us 5 out of 5 stars
In the realm of mental health, the struggle for timely intervention and support has long been a challenge. On average, a young person spends 40 weeks on the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) waiting list.
In 2023, the Care Navigators who support the waiting list connected us with a young person. Their story shows the profound impact that UK Unplugged boxes can have on the lives of individuals dealing with mental health issues.
At the time, this young person was struggling to leave their house. They had lost interest in their usual hobbies and their school work. UK Unplugged hand-delivered a space-themed box, which includes activities ranging from educational materials to DIY projects. This allowed the young person to discover a new set of hobbies and interests they had never considered before, and this spark of passion set the stage for positive change.
Through engaging with the thoughtfully developed activities within the boxes, the young person rekindled their desire to go outside and see the stars, which began by learning about different constellations.
Going outside had such a positive effect on the young person, and led to more confident trips outside. Eventually, this experience led to the young person going to the library and wanting to learn more about this topic, meaning they were integrating back into society and regaining a sense of community.
This brought joy to not only this young person but their family and friends too. The case of this young person exemplifies the real-life impact of UK Unplugged boxes on mental health and well-being. By providing a tangible and engaging avenue for self-discovery and exploration, the boxes became catalysts for positive change.
434 boxes donated to the CAMHS waiting list
A young person was struggling with emotional regulation and mental health when themselves and a family member attended a UK Unplugged event.
This young person was very shy, and often could not go to activities outside of the house, such as school. They usually struggled with focus, often moving from one uncompleted task to another, which caused family frustration and financial strain, leaving films, and events early, in an attempt to keep them entertained.
Attending UK Unplugged’s event was revelatory for the young person and their family: they stayed for the entire 2 hours and were entertained throughout the entire event, including listening to inspiring talks from students, getting involved in the activities and games, and even claiming that, despite hating science at school, they would enjoy it if their teacher did lessons like UK Unplugged!
The young person took the games played at this event and showed the rest of his family how to play at home, providing fun for the entire family.
The parent of this child said, ‘in other settings, our children are noticed for what they are struggling with rather than what they’re interested in, […] I just wish more people would go out of their way to look for, encourage and grow these things in our amazing children’.
50% of families we interact with have a SEND member