Art Parking Lot

Cambridge Union Society

The origins of the Cambridge Union Society date back to 1815, attracting interesting people from various fields. As the largest society in Cambridge, it captures a broad and engaging audience. During weekly debates and talks, the Union serves as a platform for both speakers and students. My involvement with the Union began as a trial photographer in May 2021, leading to a full position the following term. This term, I serve as co-head photographer alongside Nordin Ćatić.
Below, you can find a range of speakers I've covered, including the recent recipient of the Stephen Hawking Fellowship Katalin Karikó, Princess Diana's brother Earl Charles Spencer, and spy author Ben MacIntyre. Cambridge, 2021

Bear Grylls OBE, March 2022

Bear Grylls is an incredibly active person. While this might not come as news to you, his level of activity is truly exceptional. There were moments when we weren't sure where he had wandered off to as he explored the Union. To add a touch of adventure and entertain the audience, he brought a handful of mealworms, which he enthusiastically threw into the crowd.

Robert De Niro, February 2022

I watched numerous movies featuring Robert De Niro when I was younger, so meeting him was undeniably exciting. He was kind and calm, and it was evident that he knows what he's doing and how to work with people. During the interview, he exhibited wit and the same charisma that makes him memorable in his movies.

Ai Weiwei, February 2022

I was extremely thrilled when I learned that Ai Weiwei was coming to the Union. I purchased his book a few days prior, and I couldn't put it down until I finished reading it. The anticipation for the event was equally significant. Ai Weiwei is an extraordinary person and artist, and, simultaneously, it made me realize how much such famous individuals are just people too. People can get annoyed by people. Despite not having a great experience during his first visit to the Union many years ago, Weiwei decided to return. He not only came back but also enjoyed the event so much that he stayed until the very last person had asked their question.

Katalin Karikó, Novemver 2021

Katalin Karikó is a biochemist best known for her work related to RNA vaccines. During her talk about her life story at the Union, she made a very humble impression and left a deep mark on all of the audience. While most of us regarded her as the next Nobel laureate (and finally received in 2023), she welcomed us warmly and on a more personal level than any of the speakers I have met before.

Earl Charles Spencer, June 2021

While Earl Charles Spencer is best known in relation to Princess Diana, he is also a dedicated historian. Accompanied by paparazzi, he made his way into the Union building but quickly left that behind and delved into his preferred domain: English history. At his talk at the Union, he took the opportunity to discuss his new book, The White Ship. It reflects on the implications of the sinking of the white ship in 1120, which took England's only heir, William Ætheling, the son of King Henry I, with it.

Ngozi Fulani, June 2021

Ngozi Fulani has a clear vision: she wants to help black women experiencing domestic abuse. In pursuit of this goal, she founded the charity Sistah Space to provide much-needed support. The way she spoke at the Union showcased her deep passion for the matter and her unwavering determination. Her presence exuded a calm yet impulsive aura. The way she looked at the camera resembled that of a wise woman, whose life experiences have been vast enough that not much can shake her.

Lord Dyson, June 2021

Lord Dyson was one of the first speakers I photographed. Once a student at the other place, he forged a career as a barrister and eventually held positions as Master of the Rolls and Head of Civil Justice, as well as Justice of the Supreme Court of the United Kingdom. The narrative of his unique life path painted a picture filled with serendipity and dedication to his profession. For the many law students who attended the event, it was undoubtedly a source of inspiration and fascinating to witness the unpredictable journey life can take.

Ben MacIntyre, June 2021

Teaming up with the former sleeper agent Jack Barsky, Ben MacIntyre provided insights into the hidden life of spies. With humor, he shared how he was once contacted by MI6, but the unsettled feeling he experienced when keeping a secret probably wasn't the best trait for a spy. Nevertheless, his enduring interest in spies led him to become a spy author, benefiting the public with his work.