Junior Members

The RSAA’s junior members are those under the age of 26 (or under 30 and in full-time education). Recognising the difficulty for junior members to attend afternoon lectures, we run a supplementary series of informal cultural and social events aimed at bringing together students and young professionals with an interest in Asia. We host an evening event every 6-8 weeks during term-time, always on a week day and in a central London location. Events to date have included gallery tours, exhibitions and theatre trips, and all end up in a pub or restaurant for lively discussion and networking.

The junior members also host two annual events: the junior members lecture evening at the East India Club in St. James; and a day of talks for 6th form students held jointly with SOAS. Both events include multiple young speakers with a personal, academic or professional interest in Asia, and they are intended to inspire others to take an active interest in the region.

The majority of junior members have spent time overseas, be it on a gap year, while studying, or for work, and we are keen to share our experiences and expertise, as well as learning new things and getting inspiration for future trips. The Society’s Peter Holmes Memorial award encourages applicants wishing to pursue “purposeful travel” anywhere in Asia, and the possibility of a junior members’ expedition in 2011 is under discussion.