Alumni Stories
Alumni story: Cherif Seidi
Academy: Harris Academy Peckham
Current role: Analyst at Goldman Sachs
Tell us a bit about your background...
I was born and raised in the outskirts of Lisbon, the first son of two Guinea-Bissau migrants. I moved to London when I was 9, first living in Stratford (pre-Olympics) for primary school and subsequently in South London for secondary school and sixth form. My time in secondary school was pretty turbulent and I lived in many different council houses. This includes one in Plumstead from which it would take me 1.5 hours to travel to school, and Aylesbury estate in Walworth, named an epitome of the failures of the state by David Cameron.
I attended Harris Academy Peckham from Year 7 through to my A-levels. The school had its challenges, being one of the lowest ranked in London at the time, though some motivated teachers made all the difference. I greatly benefitted from the Harris Experience programme, which opened my eyes to the opportunities that were available to me. The masterclasses, university visits, lectures and other events that took place expanded my academic and cultural capital.
What path did you take after school?
Post sixth-form I enrolled in the Foundation Year scheme at Lady Margaret Hall, a University of Oxford college. The programme aims to prepare students who may have been prevented from reaching their full educational potential by life circumstances. I honed not only my Physics aptitude, but also my ability to convey thoughts and write compelling essays. Whilst on the foundation year I applied for the full-time course, receiving an offer after successful interviews and pre-interview examinations.
What motivates and inspires you?
My biggest motivation is my mother, who was not afforded the same opportunities as me during her childhood, and has worked tirelessly to allow me to get to where I am today. I also love hearing about success stories from students that I interact with. We all have a duty to help others where we can.
Do you have any advice for current students?
Keep an open mind and make the most of everything Harris offers. The opportunities are incredible and can unlock doors you never thought possible. Remember, resilience and ambition are your best assets, and they’ll carry you far-no matter where you start.
Alumni story: Nadine Rose Johnson
Harris Academy attended: Harris Academy Peckham
Current role: Performance Artist
Tell us a bit about your background.
I’m an actor, writer, vocal artist, musical director, and workshop facilitator based in London. Over the years, my work has taken me all over the UK and internationally, performing in award-winning shows, creating original productions, and running acting, vocal, and beatbox workshops for all kinds of people. I’m passionate about using the arts to educate, empower, and spark social change.
What path did you take after school?
After my time at Harris Academy Peckham, I continued my artistic journey at Chestnut Grove Visual Arts College, Coulsdon College, and The National Youth Theatre of Great Britain. These experiences set me on the path I’m on today. I’ve been lucky enough to work with some incredible theatre companies, and one of my proudest projects was Frankenstein: How To Make A Monster, which earned multiple awards and gained international attention and won multiple awards.
What motivates and inspires you?
I’m inspired by how performing arts can bring people together, spark new ideas, and challenge the way we think. I’m especially passionate about using the arts to open doors for young people and marginalised groups, making sure everyone has access to creative opportunities.
What are your current plans?
Currently I am in a hip hop retelling of Romeo & Juliet, playing the lead, which is on a schools tour and luckily visiting some Harris schools too! Recently, I had the pleasure of playing ‘Robyn’ in the OFFIE Award-winning musical Pied Piper at The Birmingham Rep Theatre. I’ve also been involved in BEATFLYS, a sensory-driven show for adults with PMLD by Blink Dance Theatre, where I worked as a musical co-collaborator and vocalist. Aside from performing, I’m still leading workshops, teaching in drama schools and mentoring young creatives, helping them find their artistic voice and shape their futures in the arts.
Do you have any advice for current students?
Follow your passion and don’t be afraid to take risks. The journey in the arts isn’t always straightforward, but every experience, no matter how small, adds something valuable to your path. Stay curious, stay resilient, and never forget the power of your creativity to make a difference in the world.
