Romanian graduate speaks at House of Commons

Essex Business School graduate Roxy Anghelina was invited to speak at the House of Commons as part of an event celebrating Romanian women in leadership.

Roxy was one of eight speakers invited to share their experiences and achievements at the event which took place on International Women’s Day and was hosted by MP Gareth Thomas, Chair of the Romania All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG).

Roxy graduated with a BSc in Business Management in 2015 after moving to the UK from Romania aged 19. Since then, she has built a successful career in digital marketing and web development, working across startups, global corporations and her own business ventures.

Speaking about the experience, Roxy described it as a “great honour” and said the University of Essex played a vital role in her journey, calling it “a real stepping stone” in building her career in the UK. Roxy said: “I had a great start in my career thanks to Essex’s Frontrunner programme.For two years I gained experience as a Social Media and Marketing Assistant during my studies.”

In her speech, Roxy reflected on her journey from graduate to business leader. After leaving Essex, she began her career in digital marketing at an early-stage startup later acquired by Amazon, before going on to lead marketing strategy for a Fortune 500 company. She has since founded her own digital agency, supporting businesses across the UK to grow their online presence, and expanded into entrepreneurial ventures including 3D printing and importation.

Addressing the audience, Roxy said: “I am a proud Romanian, but I am also a product of British opportunity.”

The event was held in partnership with Roconect, a community interest company focused on strengthening relationships between Romanians in the UK and their local communities and highlighting the contribution of Romanian women to leadership and enterprise.