A Difficult Start in Life
When Jason Arday was just three years old, he was diagnosed with global developmental delay and autism spectrum disorder. Doctors warned his family that he might never be able to speak, learn, or live independently.
Growing up in South London, England, Jason remained nonverbal until age 11 and didn’t learn to read or write until he was 18. Yet, his mind was constantly active, observing and questioning the world around him.
He often wondered, “Why are some people homeless? Why is there war?”
Even without words, Jason was already thinking like a future sociologist, searching for answers to society’s inequalities.
The Mentor Who Changed Everything
Jason’s life took a new direction when he met college tutor Sandro Sandri, who became his mentor and lifelong supporter.
With Sandro’s encouragement, Jason learned to read and write, earned a degree in Physical Education, and began working as a PE teacher.
Determined to push further, he studied at night while teaching full-time, eventually earning two master’s degrees and a PhD in Educational Studies, after facing years of rejection from academic journals.
“Looking back, that was when I first really believed in myself”, Jason said.
“From that moment, I was determined and focused, I knew this was what I was meant to do”.
Making History at Cambridge
While completing his PhD, Jason set a bold goal: to teach at Oxford or Cambridge University.
Just eight years later, he achieved his dream.
In March 2023, Jason Arday became the Professor of Sociology of Education at the University of Cambridge, making him the youngest Black professor in the university’s history, and one of only six Black faculty members currently teaching there.
A Mission for Inclusion and Equality
Now, Jason is using his position to fight for greater diversity and accessibility in higher education.
“Cambridge has made progress, but there’s still much more to be done,” he said.
“If we want to make education more inclusive, the best tools we have are solidarity, understanding, and love”.
Jason’s inspiring journey, from a nonverbal child once written off by doctors to a leading academic voice, is a testament to the power of resilience, belief, and mentorship.