Host of Netflix hit show ‘World's Toughest Prisons’ to speak at University event

Raphael Rowe, presenter of Netflix docuseries ‘Inside the World's Toughest Prisons’, will speak about his life and experiences at an online event, open to the public, at the University of Derby on Monday 26 April.

Inside the World’s Toughest Prisons follows investigative journalist and public speaker Raphael as he visits some of the most notorious prisons across the globe. The programme, which is now in its fifth series, sees Raphael interview prisoners and prison guards about what it is really like to serve a sentence and how facilities vary from country to country.

Raphael brings a unique perspective to the programme. In 1990, he was sentenced to life imprisonment for a murder and robbery he did not commit, before being acquitted and released a decade later. While in prison he studied journalism and has since gone on to work as a reporter for BBC Radio 4's Today Programme, the BBC’s Six O'Clock News and Panorama.

The talk from Raphael is part of the University’s ongoing Student Lecture Series, which puts industry experts and professionals from across the globe in front of its students, so they listen, learn and debate as they hear about real-world experiences.

Speaking about the event, Raphael said: "I am so pleased to have the opportunity to talk about my experience of the criminal justice system at events such as this one. Only with greater knowledge and understanding can real reform take place, so I admire the University for providing this kind of experience for its students.

“I hope that by sharing my story and advice with the students, I can influence and inspire their careers."

Professor Philip Hodgson, Head of the School of Law and Social Sciences at the University of Derby, added: “I am thrilled to be hosting an event with Raphael Rowe to provide our students, and an external audience, the opportunity to hear about his extraordinary life and work – leading up to, and including, the success of the Netflix series.

“At Derby, we want to give students the best educational experience possible. Exploring how other countries approach legal, justice and social issues is key to learning how we can make positive changes moving forward. Having the opportunity to ask questions and hear first-hand from a high-profile speaker like Raphael is a unique opportunity for them.”

The talk will start at 2pm on Monday 26 April. The event will be of interest to anyone who is curious about Raphael’s life and experience, but particularly those involved in the sector. Tickets are free but booking is essential as places are limited, so please use this booking form to reserve a space and receive a link to attend the event online.