Roses are white 2025
Breaking barriers, building communities — how one scholar turned her first UK sports weekend into a story of sustainability, volunteerism, and global inspiration
The 60th Roses Tournament lit up North Yorkshire this past weekend (2–4 May), bringing fierce athleticism, vibrant culture, and spirited charity to the University of York. With over 160 fixtures ranging from rugby and rowing to chess, swimming, and street dance, students from the University of York and Lancaster battled for glory in Europe’s largest inter-university sports tournament. In a thrilling finish, Lancaster edged out York with a final score of 184–160—but York’s pride burned bright, especially after a dramatic Women’s Rugby 1st win with a last-minute try, sealing a 15–12 victory and a pitch-side explosion of joy.
Among the thousands of students cheering, playing, and contributing behind the scenes was Sofonie Dala, an Angolan Chevening Scholar experiencing her very first Roses—and her first time in the UK.
“I had never even heard of Roses before arriving here,” she says, eyes lit with joy. “But this weekend, I saw the power of sport to unite, energise, and uplift a whole community.”
Sofonie’s presence at the Roses is more than symbolic. Just days before the tournament, she was volunteering with The Conservation Volunteers (TCV UK), maintaining cycle routes across The Stray to ensure safe, accessible pathways for both students and the public. Her 180+ volunteer hours since arriving in the UK last October reflect her deep commitment to environmental protection and social equity.
"Volunteering is a way to give back—and to build forward. Every small act contributes to the Sustainable Development Goals, from good health (SDG 3) to climate action (SDG 13), and strong communities (SDG 11)," she adds.
Sofonie isn’t just participating—she’s inspiring. Her online sustainability platform has reached thousands of young people across continents, many of whom are now registering to volunteer with UK-based organisations after seeing her work.
As Roses 2025 came to a close with echoes of celebration and camaraderie still in the air, Sofonie’s story became one of the quiet triumphs of the weekend: a young woman from Angola, breaking barriers, volunteering tirelessly, and using sport and service to build a better world.
How did you find Roses this year? Did you participate or support from the sidelines?
Sofonie Dala’s journey reminds us that every cheer, every step, and every act of kindness counts.
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