It comes off the back of Geri organising work experience at Red Bull Racing for several Sheffield Hallam engineering students earlier this year, and a visit to the Red Bull Technology Campus in Milton Keynes for the University’s Women in Engineering Society.
The award-winning musician and writer, who released her first children’s novel Rosie Frost and the Falcon Queen this month, talked students through why she became an author, her writing process and the tools and techniques that helped motivate her to finish the book. Sheffield Business School students benefited from hearing about the subsequent publicity tour that she has undertaken.
Geri also read an excerpt from Rosie Frost to over 20 children from Dronfield Henry Fanshawe School, Brookfield Community School and Astrea Academy Trust. The book has topped New York Times’ bestsellers list and the USA Today Booklist chart.
Geri Halliwell-Horner said: “It was wonderful to return to Sheffield Hallam and speak about my journey as an author. I'm so impressed by the talent and passion I see in these young writers, and I hope I can inspire them to pursue their dreams just as I have. Education truly empowers us to achieve our potential.”
Professor Helen Scott, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Learning, Teaching and Student Success at Sheffield Hallam University, said: “We are honoured that Geri took time to share her experiences and advice with our students and staff. She is an inspiration not only through her musical career, but also her commitment to education and raising aspirations for the next generation. Our students gained valuable insights that will help them on their own creative career paths.”
Last year, Geri received an honorary doctorate award from the University in recognition of her commitment to raising the aspirations of children and young people, advocating for women’s rights and an outstanding contribution to the music industry over the last 25 years.
She rose to fame in the 1990s as part of the Spice Girls, selling over 100 million records worldwide to become the best-selling female group of all time. Geri has continued to use her considerable media platform and philanthropic work to champion children’s literacy and access to education and inspire women of all backgrounds to achieve their best.
It was announced earlier this month that Geri will serve as an ambassador for the Barbara Bush Foundation to raise awareness of literacy issues and encourage families to connect through reading.
The creators of the multi award-winning musical Standing at the Sky’s Edge are among the notable public figures to receive an honorary degree from Sheffield Hallam University this year. The awards will be presented alongside graduating students during ceremonies in November.
