A LIFETIME AGO

Gus Saggu (NBS87) recalls his time at UEA and reflects on being part of the alumni community.

I arrived at UEA in 1984. I got on the bus from Norwich train station to the campus. Also on the bus was Harry, who was on my course. We went on to share a student house on Magpie Road. He’s still my best friend. My daughters call him their uncle, his call me the same.

My favourite spot on the campus is the square, especially in the warmer months. I have many happy memories of hanging out between lectures and waiting for friends.

Football was my life when I was a student. We had a tight-knit group in the team and got up to all sorts. I’d be playing or training six nights a week. In between all that, I also managed to get a degree!

I remember endlessly fundraising for the 1987 tour to Portugal. We used to have functions and parties in the Barn, which I don’t think exists anymore. I became the captain in my final year because I wanted it to be more inclusive. We tried to make the club more welcoming and expanded the women’s team.

I have UEA to thank for the experiences and the friendships I made. I still get together with old friends to return to the campus, watch today's student team and reminisce about our time at the University.

Today, I have started an investment company with a couple of partners. We’re looking to build a healthcare services business. It’s very close to my heart.

Around 25 years ago, I lost my dad to prostate cancer. He kept it all to himself and found talking to my mum about it embarrassing. I wish he had been able to go and get checked earlier. I’d like there to be a lot more research, so I donated when I saw an appeal for UEA’s prostate cancer tests. It was my very small way of supporting the University.

Biography

Gus studied BSc Accounting and Business Systems between 1984-1987. He was actively involved in the University Football Club and competed in the USA, Spain and Portugal. After graduating, Gus was employed by KPMG. His career has included various roles, including Head of Finance, Finance Director, NonExecutive Director and Finance Consultant. He also set up his own business development and strategy firm. Gus is currently a Partner and Founder of MGG Capital Partners.