Steph is a standout alumna of Sydenham High School, having excelled in various data, insight and stand-up comedy roles since her time there. She achieved second place at the stand-up comedy Roast Battle UK in 2023, was shortlisted for the 2023 BBC New Comedy Award and performed at the Edinburgh Fringe with her show about spreadsheets and mental health, entitled “Excelf-esteem”. Steph is also studying for the Wine and Spirits Education Trust Wine Diploma. From a young age, Steph has embraced a multitude of roles and fully embraced her journey, attributing much of her success to the core values instilled in her during her high school years.
Starting at Sydenham at the age of 11, she later graduated from Durham University with a focus on Biochemistry, which equipped her with the knowledge to map out diseases using epidemiology and launch her career in the pharmaceutical market research industry. Shifting to her current role as Consumer Insights Manager at Edrington UK, Steph now delves into trends in the drinks industry and human motivations that drive behavioural changes. Alongside her professional pursuits, she retains a passion for stand-up comedy, finding humour in everyday life and delighting audiences with her performances.
Steph acknowledges that Sydenham remains a significant part of her life. As a recipient of a bursary, she feels privileged to have received a top-class education that offered breadth and depth across various subjects, equipping her with the skills and mindset to achieve what she once only dreamed of. Fondly recalling her dance performance in the annual Crisis charity event, which sparked her passion for performing, and overcoming challenges during the Duke of Edinburgh program with her friends, Steph credits her Sydenham experience with shaping her academically and building her resilience and willingness to embrace new opportunities.
Looking ahead, Steph aims to spend the next five years working in research insights to apply her skills across different industries and explore human psychology in various contexts. She is also committed to continuing her career in stand-up comedy, aiming to challenge the male-dominated industry and stand up for women in a comedic manner. With an upcoming stand-up comedy show scheduled on Sunday 5 May at Brighton Fringe, Steph is excited to share her unique perspective on emotion, ageing and female strength.
Steph is also eager and passionate to contribute to Sydenham High by returning to share her career experiences with our current pupils. We look forward to welcoming her back.
Steph’s Brighton fringe show is Sunday 5th May at 4pm at The Walrus. Check it out : https://www.brightonfringe.org/events/weather-girl-work-in-progress/
