Kavelle Savary: BA Hons Child and Adolescent Studies

Kavelle Savary

BA Hons Child and Adolescent Studies – 2007

“Carnival will always be my passion,” says Kavellle as I conclude our alumni profile interview, “it’s in my blood.”

Kavelle, former BA Child and Adolescent Studies student, is the Arts Development Officer for the newly constructed UK Centre for Carnival Arts in Luton. And although she arrived in the UK looking to pursue a career in interior design, the fact that she came from Trinidad, “the birth place of carnival”, led her to follow her passion.

That, and a desire to help others.

Kavelle has worked in carnival, initially as a volunteer and now in a paid role, since she arrived in Luton in 2004. Initially, she took the opportunity to use the volunteering service at the University and found a place with the Carnival Arts Trust. Helping with the Mas Camp – where the costumes are prepared – led to more responsible roles and ultimately the job she has now.

She spends her time working with schools, community groups and outreach projects running workshops and training sessions to take novices from “root to fruit”.

And if carnival is in the blood so is the willingness to help others. She has worked in a volunteer capacity for the chaplaincy and even now gives time to the local Sickle Cell and Thalassaemia charity. As Kavelle says,” I was always brought up to believe that if you have talent, you should look for ways to share it or give something back.”

So it comes as no surprise that Kavelle recommends that students should look beyond their classes and seek to broaden their experiences by working with others.

“You’ll be amazed where it might lead you. The skills you learn will take you further in life.”

Profile added June 2009