Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
Driving change through sport
Devansh Sehara is a dedicated sports professional with a Master’s in Sport Development and Management from Leeds Beckett University. He currently serves as a Community Development Officer - Leeds at Yorkshire Cricket Foundation, where he works to promote cricket and engage diverse communities. Passionate about leveraging sport for social change, Devansh combines academic insights with hands-on experience to create inclusive, sustainable programs. His postgraduate journey refined his leadership, strategic planning, and management skills, empowering him to make a tangible impact in the sports sector.
Tell us a bit about yourself and what you've been doing since you graduated?
Since graduating, I have been working as a Community Development Officer - Leeds at Yorkshire Cricket Foundation. In this role, I design and implement projects that bring diverse communities together through cricket, breaking down barriers so that everyone can enjoy the game without worry. My postgraduate studies provided a strong theoretical and practical foundation, and I continue to use these skills to drive positive change in the community through sport.
What were the highlights of your course?
One of the biggest highlights was the diverse range of modules that combined theory with real-world application. Courses like Sport for Development, Strategic Management, Applied Social Theory in Sport, Advanced Leadership in Sport, Global Sport Policy and Governance, and Global Perspectives in Sports Marketing expanded my understanding of the sports industry. These modules challenged me to think critically and develop innovative strategies that are directly applicable to community development and sports management.
Tell us about your job and why you chose to study a PG course at Leeds Beckett?
As a Community Development Officer, I plan and execute projects that ensure cricket is accessible to all members of our community. My role involves breaking down barriers so that individuals can participate in the sport without any concerns. I chose to study at Leeds Beckett because of its strong reputation in sports education, experienced faculty, and the course’s practical focus—all of which aligned perfectly with my career aspirations in sport development and management.
How has your experience studying at Leeds Beckett influenced you and your career?
Studying at Leeds Beckett was transformative for my career. The hands-on projects and industry-focused curriculum taught me advanced leadership and strategic planning skills. I benefited greatly from staying in constant touch with the faculty, who provided invaluable guidance that led to opportunities such as volunteering and part-time coaching. This support not only deepened my academic knowledge but also prepared me to tackle real-world challenges in the sports industry.
What attracted you to study your course at Leeds Beckett University?
Leeds is a vibrant sporting city where football, rugby, and cricket are immensely popular, and Yorkshire Cricket is one of the most prestigious counties in the sport. With so many opportunities available, Leeds was an obvious choice for me. The comprehensive course content and excellent industry links provided an ideal environment for learning and growth. I was keen on embracing every opportunity in the sports setting, and the faculty’s ongoing support played a significant role in my decision.
Did you enjoy studying your course and what advice would you give someone thinking about studying the same one?
I truly enjoyed my time at Leeds Beckett. The course was engaging, offering a balanced blend of theory and practical application that prepared me for a dynamic career in sport development. I even pursued additional qualifications in umpiring and coaching alongside my studies, which significantly boosted my employability. My advice is simple: start with the basics and never shy away from any opportunity, no matter how big or small. Success is achieved step-by-step, with each experience offering valuable lessons.
What's next for you?
I’m excited to continue growing in my role at Yorkshire Cricket Foundation. Moving forward, I plan to expand our community sport initiatives by specifically increasing participation among women and girls, as well as African and Caribbean communities. By developing targeted programs and breaking down existing barriers, I hope to create more inclusive spaces where everyone can experience the benefits of cricket. Ultimately, I aim to take on greater leadership roles and drive innovative projects that foster long-term social change in the sports industry.
