Author: Malcolm Baggaley

Finalists
Rebecca Darwin
Mohammed Sahnon

WINNER!

Rebecca Darwin – MEng Mechanical Engineering 

What they did: 

“Volunteered to coach and mentor an Industrial Cadets project with a local school, which consists of a team of all girls.  Instrumental in the design of the project and attends the school and events associated on a regular basis.  Encourages the students to put themselves forward for other events and potentially participating in the North Star 2023 event.  Key skills observed have been interpersonal skills with both students, teachers and peers and has influenced both internally and externally to ensure the project is supported.   

Relates well to everyone associated with the project and positively encourages students to consider careers in Engineering, therefore positive impact on diversity.  Demonstrates a true passion for STEM. As an example, during time at AMETEK has designed a new retraction system for the cameras and came up with a concept to final product.  Final dissertation is the thermal analysis of that.  In addition to the project demonstrates an ability to apply theory to practical and has the ability to explain and help the students understand the technical elements of this type of work, whilst coaching them through projects such as the EDT.” 

What was the Impact? 

“Encouraging increasing diversity in STEM through the work with students. Shows passion for the subject and the projects.  Students benefitting from the passion and encouragement that is shown in addition to time spent helping them to understand.  They keep everyone associated updated and through balancing part-time work with full-time study is an inspiration to the students.  Inspiring and educating the students to consider STEM seriously as a career.  Demonstrates the talent to inspire others by the ability to explain and help others understand.” 

How it inspired others: 

“Inspiring the students to consider STEM as a career and proactively encouraging them to participate in future events which maintains the excitement.  Inspiring them to deliver the best with the project which they will present to other students, teachers, members of the EDT and will be judged on their efforts.  Open and approachable which provides an environment where the students will be more open and inquisitive.  Comes up with new ideas, is innovative and brave, and this comes across when coaching and inspiring others to do the same.  Inspires not only the students but in the work environment too.” 

Finalists
Daniel Challinor
Azmina Singh

WINNER!

Azmina Singh – BSc (Hons) Criminology and Psychology 

What they did: 

“As part of their Graduate Research and Development module, the student attended a guest lecture regarding Knife Crime from South Yorkshire based charity, Always An Alternative. Following this lecture the student took it upon themselves to speak to and team up with Always An Alternative’s founder, Anthony Olaseinde, to support his charity which works to educate young people around the implication of carrying and using weapons. To support the charity, the student organised, marketed, and ran a Winter Charity Ball at Ye Olde Bell Hotel, Barnby Moor, on November 26, 2022.” 

What was the Impact? 

“The event was a huge success with over 104 guests and raised £3545 for the charity. As further outcomes of the event, the student is in contact with Brendan Clarke Smith, the local MP for Bassetlaw to meet in the new year to discuss potential funding for Always An Alternative to reach out past South Yorkshire regarding the new sports youth fund that aims to tackle youth crime. As a result, the student has been asked to join Always An Alternative as a trustee and is currently supporting on a project, Victims Voices by reaching out to people whose family members pass away due to knife crime so they can speak at an event in March 2023.” 

How it inspired others: 

“Being in level 4, this student has demonstrated the impact students can have by pursuing their passions from very early on in their course. They have also shown by leading through example how students can make impact for social change through activism and fundraising. This student continues to engage with opportunities provided by SHU having signed up to attend the Human Rights field trip in Lesotho in June 2023. This is a humanitarian two week project in partnership with Rotherham-based charity, Africa’s Gift. The aim of the visit is to have a direct positive impact on human rights, specifically on the health and education of women and children in the country.  

The student will be fundraising again to fund the trip, as well as supporting other students fundraising, so that they can make an impact internationally as well as locally.”

Finalists
Praise Ishola
Vasim Shaikh
Rhythm Sharma
Saira Tabasum

WINNER!

Vasim Shaikh – MBA Global MBA

What they did

“Candidate has gone above and beyond the expectations of the company and consistently proven to be exemplary amongst the other manager in all aspects of their company involvement throughout the placement. Mainly, your student was able to foster positive relationships with company resources  and other employees. E.g, the candidate was able to create positive brand awareness by running 400km in a week in one of the event to help diffrent NGOs to support women empowerment and child labour and were able to generate huge amount of money..”

What was the impact?

“The impact was so high, which inspired not only employees but company CEO, and now we have decided to organise such events twice in a year. Not only for good cause, but they were able to generate a very high amount of money to support poor children and women’s who want to go for higher education. Mainly, it increased overall company brand awareness.”

How it inspired others

“This student gave the workplace a new lease of life. Furthermore, candidate constantly inspire others inside the company to set higher goals, work harder, and live more purposeful lives. The nominee is the real idea behind making work more enjoyable.”

Finalists
Ollie Turner
Eva Patel
Sophie Harvey
Shahina Hanif
Phoebe Cross

WINNER!

Shahina Hanif – BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy

What they did

“This student was on a leadership placement with me for 6 weeks. The student is a mature student from a muslim background and has faced many challenges to get onto the course. Their family did not approve of them wanting to have a career as a physiotherapist as they believe they should be a wife and mother. This student has overcome all of the barriers she has faced to do what she passionately believed in. During her leadership placement she inspired other students and staff by talking about her background and the challenges she has faced and how she has overcome these challenges. She described to others how, as a personal trainer, she set up a class for muslim women to help their wellbeing as there was nothing in her area for these women. This student spoke about her leadership journey to others but also taught other students about her culture and how to overcome challenges for the good of others. After the placement this student had the opportunity to speak about her leadership journey at a national webinar for the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy attended by over 120 professionals. She jumped at the opportunity, something she would not have done prior to the leadership placement. “

What was the impact?

“This student impacted other students on the placement with her can do approach and her attitude to overcoming challenges. Her story inspired many other students and professionals on the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy webinar  (and on the recording since which has been watch over 200 times) to recognise that anyone can do anything they want to and become anything they want to be with the right attitude and perseverance. This students story is now being told in an article for the Guardian which she was chosen by the SHU media to take part in. Again this student took this opportunity to inspire others with gusto and will now have a further national impact by appearing in the Guardian article.”

How it inspired others

“This student inspired other students on the placement, on her course and nationally with her can do approach and her attitude to overcoming challenges. Her story inspired many other students and professionals on the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy webinar  (and on the recording since which has been watch over 200 times) to recognise that anyone can do anything they want to and become anything they want to be with the right attitude and perseverance. This students story is now being told in an article for the Guardian which she was chosen by the SHU media to take part in. Again this student took this opportunity to inspire others with gusto and will now have a further national impact by appearing in the Guardian article. She will have inspired many other students across the country from her cultural background to work towards and apply for courses they would not have thought possible.  She is truly an inspirational student and thoroughly deserves this award.“

Finalists
Stuart Rogers
Alice Iveson
Shawn Perrie
Amelia Metcalfe

Shawn Perrie – LLB (Hons) Law

What they did

“This student is a student leader in their capacity as the current Chair of the Sheffield Hallam Students’ Union Council. Last year, when the conflict in Ukraine commenced, this student promptly drafted and presented a policy condemning the aggression and supporting those affected by the conflict (Solidarity with Ukraine Policy). The policy was well drafted and presented by this student. Therefore, it was approved by the Policy Development Committee, SHSU Council and adopted by the Students’ Union in record time.

In addition, as the Chair of the Sheffield Hallam Student’s Union Council, this student conducts meetings of the Sheffield Hallam Students’ Union Council in an impartial and friendly manner which is engaging and inviting of students to express, exchange and debate ideas.

This student is also a fine student ambassador for the University and has actively participated in drafting and submitting proposals to be considered by the National Union of Students. This student has also represented Sheffield Hallam University at the National Union of Students –National Conference last year.

Remarkably, this student achieved all of the above, along with first class grades for all the assessments completed last year.”

What was the impact?

“This student’s initiative and leadership in relation to having the ‘Solidarity with Ukraine’ policy adopted and published by the Sheffield Hallam Student’s Union led to many at Sheffield Hallam University with links to Ukraine feeling supported. In addition, the policy set an obligation upon the Sheffield Hallam Students’ Union to support and publicise campaigns involving Sheffield Hallam

students, which fundraised for the purpose of supporting those affected in consequence of the conflict in Ukraine. One such activity was the Cycle to Ukraine initiative by the Law and Criminology department (which this student also took part in), which raised thousands of pounds in donations.

This student’s impartial and friendly manner of Charing meetings of the Sheffield Hallam Students’ Union Council, which allows for productive exchanges of ideas and debates inevitably promotes freedom of expression. There has been a marked improvement in the quality of Sheffield Hallam

Students’ Union Council meetings under this students’ leadership, in comparison to some previous years.

In addition, this student’s active contribution towards submitting proposals to the National Union of Students and representation of Sheffield Hallam University at the National Union of Students –National Conference have helped student issues be considered at a national forum.”

How it inspired others

“The publication of the “Solidarity with Ukraine” policy on the Sheffield Hallam Students’ Union website and mentioning the Cycle to Ukraine initiative is likely to have inspired many students to support student initiatives which fundraised to support those affected by the conflict in Ukraine. In addition, the manner in which this student conducts Students’ Union Council meetings and encourages freedom of expression inspires other students to share their opinions without fear at Sheffield Hallam Students Union Council meetings.

The student’s active involvement with regard to submitting proposals to the National Union of Students have inspired other student leaders to also play an active role in engaging in such processes which enables issues faced by students to be considered at national level.”

Finalists
Abu-Bakr Bin Abdulrehman Bapu
Ellie Wyton
Madelaine Martinis Canino
Tayoour Akbar
Praise Ishola

WINNER!

Praise Ishola – MSc Big Data Analytics

What they did

“Advanced and championed the sensitisation of students mental and wellbeing. Built a strong student/university relationship during his turner as the Student Union President. Spent years coordinating, chairing and advocating what students needed the most. The nominee single-handedly supported and understood the challenges of many international students of different walks of life because he had experienced many of those challenges himself and so could offer solutions and guidance to all. Increased support for disabled students. They enabled the university to see spots they could not see. Their humility and friendliness towards all is well emulating as a leader. I fully support and endorse awarding this one for the inspiration students award.”

What was the Impact?

“Students were  the most beneficiaries for his servant hood service . Some of the achievements were ; – Launched Post Student Work Visa policy to support International students. – Launched Men’s Mental Health Policy -Passed a national policy on Awareness and accountability of university to international students at the National Union of Students Conference -Delivered 13 speeches at the graduation ceremony for 2020/2021 academic year. – Chaired the election committee that broke the Student Union election record.  -Launched IT’S NOT A JOKE Campaign, a mental health campaign for all students. -Increased volunteering at the SU -Supported Anti-spiking policy and movement. – Increase hardship funding for students. – Lobbied for recorded lectures for commuter students, increasing support for students with disabilities. -Effective digital and social media communication to students.”

How it inspired others

“The nominee inspired others through their dedication towards work (as president) and people who came to them for support. Encouraged and mentored many who aspired to be leaders in diverse roles. Encouraged and supported SHU country oriented societies and offered support and opportunities like networking among the new and old students.”

Finalists
Cai Ware
Christopher Edwardson
Amelia Schofield, Dawn Gayl and Asli Garane
Nathan McDowell

WINNER!

Cai Ware – BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science

What they did:

“The development of this student over the last year has been an inspiration. This student has multiple learning, health and mental health issues that severely impacted on their studies last year. These adversities included frequent seizures and recurrent hospitalisation, inability to focus/study due to the seizures and late diagnosis of ADHD (despite being clearing a bright student) and depression both due to the frustration of not being able to study or consistently perform day-to-day functioning. Despite this adversity and the barriers to learning, they showed incredible determination and passion for their studies to continue where I believe most would have not; and have still achieved first-class grades. Recently, some health issues have improved and this student has seized the opportunity to use their adversity to help and inspire others by becoming course representative proactively promoting the student voice and building a sense of community within a large course cohort (which has historically been very difficult to achieve) through multiple social events. Additionally, they have jointly spear-headed 3 new student-lead societies within the department, Student Minoritised Group, LGBTQ+ group and a Biosciences Accessible Student’s Space (BASS) for neurodiverse students, all of which allow safe and inclusive support across the department.”

What was the impact?

“Through the course representative role, they have given students a voice to help influence the way the course is run and to promote close relations between academics and students. This is enhanced by the openness, honesty and approachability of the student to facilitate the channels of communication. Acting on feedback from both students and academics, this student has been jointly involved in organising course and department-wide social activities to promote sense of community. I look optimistically forward to seeing a positive impact of this on future NSS scores, particularly for the BMS where this factor usually scores poorly. The student support groups (minoritised, LGBTQ+, and BASS) are a new initiative in the department that will positively impact the student experience by allow safe and inclusive support across the department and creating a more inclusive and diverse culture both departmentally and potentially within STEM subjects. Beyond this, the widest spreading impact in my opinion comes from the way this student has inspired those around them through overcoming adversity to succeed and helping others throughout the process (see next section).”

How it inspired others

“I believe that students who have spoken to this student through the course or aforementioned support groups and had insight into the challenges and adversities that they overcame and continue to faced-down, feel inspired to determinedly pursue their own academic and life goals even when things get hard. This is certainly true within my tutorial groups at L4 and L5 where this student engages and supports others through shared experience, empathy and compassion for individual situations above and beyond their own daily battles. This is inspirational and a privilege for me to witness and in turn inspires me as a tutor every time I interact with them. This student’s enthusiasm, passion and selflessness is contagious and truly inspires. I have the best dynamics in my tutor group that I have known, due largely to the influence and honesty of this student. Regardless of the outcomes of this award I will look to showcase the difficult journey of this student through academia as a real success story of how determination and compassion, even in the face of great adversity, can overcome huge barriers to achieve personal academic progression while leaving a lasting impact on others around them through support and understanding.”

Finalists
Yusuf Nawaz
Fozia Sultana and Ria-Jade Doherty
Fozia Sultana
Adel Mouaden

WINNER!

Fozia Sultana – LLB (Hons) Law with Criminology

What they did:

“Worked within a multidisciplinary team to embed a student steering group called “Manifest Diversity” with opportunities to create for co collaboration across all elements of university life, facilitate opportunities to network, develop leadership skills and promote the student voice and an inclusive culture . This student was the co chair and led the project. The aim of the project was to was to foster an understanding of the experiences of students from African, Asian and other minoritised groups and work proactively to embed an inclusive curriculum and student offer. In their spare time they work with refugee groups to enable them to access the support they need when they arrive to the UK and as part of their course they are also undertaking a placement providing business immigration services and legal advice to clients.”

What was the impact:

“Worked with other departments to help them set up similar student steering groups. Written several EDI centred articles for publication on SHU Blogs. Hosted a biweekly podcast exploring minority student views with members of staff. The student authored a guide for staff in the department towards promoting inclusivity.

Developed an alternative freshers map which has been adopted across several departments and is working with Hallam Welcome to develop an advanced university wide map. Undertaken research on placements and inclusivity and made a word site to publish the works that have been created so far.”

How it inspired others:

“This student has championed EDI and enabled members of minoritised groups to feel welcomed and part of the student community and the law programme. Their hard work and passion in this area has also spread to other departments and at University level which is incredibly impressive. This student has made a significant contribution and impact to the work of the department in raising awareness of these issues.”

Finalists
Amal Hussein
Krishna Harish
Temiloluwa Ojediran

WINNER!

Seun Seidu – MSc Food and Nutrition Sciences

What they did:

“Being a Masters student at SHU is intense. The duration of the programme is just over a year, so to maximise success and thrive on the course, students have to ‘hit the ground running’. This is especially challenging for international students who may not be familiar with British University systems. However, the nominated student has not only embraced the course from the outset, but has also nurtured and encouraged fellow students to do the same. The nominee was quick to volunteer to be a Course Rep, and through this role has collaborated closely with course tutors, as well as listening to, and fostering a sense of belonging and inclusion, with fellow students.”

What was the impact?

“They have embraced the role of Course Rep, going over and beyond to communicate with peers as well as with the teaching team. Input from the student at Staff-Student meetings has led to effective actions, as well as strengthening communication between staff and students. The student is always willing to go the extra mile in this regard and, for example, is taking part (preparing for, and delivering) in events such as the ‘Course Celebration’ event.”

How it inspired others

“The nominee is ambitious and hard-working, and this positive attitude is infectious. The student encourages peers to fully embrace the course and encourages them to actively participate in course and University events, and to give feedback about their experiences. A truly inspirational student!”

Finalists
Aisha Francis-Fisher
Cai Ware
Siouxnice Walker
Sara Raza
Ally Rafique Almaas Fatima Rafique

WINNER!

Sara Raza – BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science

What they did:

“This student has dedicated much of their time to the role of course representative over the previous academic year and has this year moved on to be departmental representative while still holding an important advisory role with the course representatives. They have brought with them an energy and a proactive approach to championing the voice of the students and to help influence the way the course is run and to promote close relations between academics and students. They have been particularly active in engagement with academic members of staff to gain deep understanding of the department to help steer recent developments and importantly feedback the student voice to academics and the academic perspective to students. I believe this has improved relationships and continues to have a positive impact on the student experience and the departmental culture. Additionally, they have jointly spear-headed 3 new student-lead societies within the department, Student Minoritised Group, LGBTQ+ group and a Biosciences Accessible Student’s Space (BASS) for neurodiverse students, all of which allow safe and inclusive support across the department.”

What was the impact?

“Taking on a proactive role as departmental representative, they have given students a voice within our courses and throughout the department. This is enhanced by the openness, honesty and approachability of the student to facilitate the channels of communication. It feels like they have reinvigorated this communication with their dedication and enthusiasm as they set to bring about real student-led positive changes. Acting on feedback from both students and academics, this student has been jointly involved in organising course and department-wide social activities to promote sense of community. I look optimistically forward to seeing a positive impact of this on future NSS scores, particularly for the BMS where this factor usually scores poorly. The student support groups (minoritised, LGBTQ+, and BASS) are a new initiative in the department that will positively impact the student experience by allow safe and inclusive support across the department and creating a more inclusive and diverse culture both departmentally and potentially within STEM subjects.”

How it inspired others

“I believe this student has made the student voice a tangible and accessible tool by reaching out to students who would have otherwise been silent. This is particularly impactful for minority groups which they compassionately champion and support. They have made this possible through hard work, dedication and a substantial time investment which has necessitated sacrifices of their own personal time 1for the good of the student communities which they represent. I consider this to be inspirational and I believe the students now with a loud and active voice within the department do too.”

Finalists
Tia Moore
Jennifer Brookman,Ava Hamer
Emily Baranowski
Ria-Jade Doherty
Bradley Gollings

WINNER!

Tia Moore – BA (Hons) Criminology with foundation year

What they did:

“We held a seminar on the white curriculum and generated discussions around critical race theory and systemic racism in our schools and the impacts of this on black students. The session was being taught by myself, a white woman, and as such lacked authenticity beyond academic literature. This student offered their viewpoint to the class, pointing out experiences of microaggressions and what it was like to grow up in a white curriculum. They showed inspirational potential in a way that most students would have felt made them vulnerable. It took courage to educate an entire classroom of their peers and lecturer and I am immensely grateful the student did this. We often see power/hierarchical structures in classrooms that are hard to overcome, so I do not underestimate the courage of the student for how they talked. “

What was the impact?

The impact added authenticity to the discussion we were having. It certainly opened the eyes of everyone in the room to systemic racism and the experiences of black children in our educational system. the bit that really made the room collectively hold their breath was when the student said ‘someone might say something and then for them it’s over, for me it will stay with me forever’.”

How it inspired others

“It absolutely inspired the classroom and my own teaching moving forwards. We saw many essays from students for this module who chose to talk about the white curriculum, and I could tell from reading their works they had been inspired by this student contribution”

Finalists
Emma Carter
Hugh Cross
Krishna Harish
Jed Gauder

WINNER!

Krishna Harish – MSc Logistics and Supply Chain Management

What they did

• “Received 8 awards from SHU during the academic year 2021/2022 (Hallam Bronze, Hallam Silver, Hallam Gold, Volunteer10, Volunteer50, Volunteer100, Volunteer250, Widespread Impact & Change Award – SHU Student Representative Award 2021/2022)
• Working for 7 Ambassador schemes of SHU (General, HEPP, UniBuddy, Course, PG, International Student Ambassador, Clearing Line Operator)
• Working as a Casual Research Assistant and have worked with every department of SHU

(Current Projects: Academic misconduct – TLSEE Project with Marjory Da Costa & Kiefer Lee & Tier 2 weight management with Jordan Beaumont

Projects Undertaken: School projects with Claire Ketnor, DecolHallam with Helen Kay, Women in Leadership with Emma Abson, focus group facilitator on UG & PG student’s view on academic advising at SHU for Dr Sarah Churchill)

• Student Volunteer of Sheffield Hallam Student’s Union
• President of STAR (Student Action for Refugees) society at Sheffield Hallam Student’s Union”

What was the Impact?

“Once they graduate, they will be a great representative of SHU and a prospective SHU alum. The student will also have an impact on present students as they have agreed to support future student projects on behalf of the department.

As a student ambassador:

• Encouraged 30,000 school pupils in Yorkshire to choose higher education as a career after finishing their studies.
• Become the university’s public face by appearing on its webpages and social media.

As a course representative:

• By giving students and the course leader a forum for discussion on issues pertaining to the student experience, promote a partnership model where student perspectives are heard and considered in decision-making processes
• Meet with the teacher of the course at least twice during the semester to discuss concerns relating to teaching and learning, especially proposals for new academic modules that would make the course more practical by utilising developing technologies that would probably be deployed by 2025.
• Increasing student confidence to take on assessments & exams by their own by avoiding plagiarism and essay mills, which has resulted in better levels of satisfaction with their learning and assessment experiences.
• Rather to filling out survey forms, students prefer to speak with the department directly about the course, the module leaders, and the module delivery because they feel that their voice will be heard.
• Current students & Freshers started taking part in SHU assistive technology lectures, Go Global Events, volunteer programmes, SHU Career fairs and Fresher/Induction Events that encouraged them to deal with cultural shocks and helped them acclimatise to their new surroundings.
• For the students outside the course:
• Students now feel comfortable applying for graduate positions in their industry since they have a more expansive understanding of their professional path and objectives.
• Students today are aware of the value of work-life balance.
• More the likelihood of postgraduate students participating in SHU extracurricular activities.”

How it inspired others

• Role model & pacesetter for SHU students
• Took on a problem that was prevalent and utilised problem-solving techniques to lessen its consequences. In addition, several new initiatives for the course were created, which had a beneficial influence on many students’ attitudes and feedback regarding the course and its evaluation.
• Motivating future course representatives to take on novel projects on the course structure and academic society.
• friendliness and approachability, as well as their willingness to listen to others and make sure their opinions are considered when deciding on the best course of action.
• While working part-time with studies at the university the student has demonstrated to other SHU students that success is possible if you are willing to strive for it.
• Introducing students to SHU Award schemes and talking to students on how to achieve them.
• a fantastic example of how perseverance can help students reach whatever objectives they set for themselves to others.”

Finalist
Adam Rogers
Abigail Brady
Rachel Boldero
Nathan McDowel

WINNER!

Abigail Brady – BSc (Hons) Nursing (Child)

What they did:

“The student came across a road traffic collision during her own time and stopped to help. Their actions were so significant that the police officer attending the scene took the time to contact the university to report it. Below is an exert from his e mail. ” Already on the scene when we arrived was a first year nursing student at the Hallam University.  I would just like to pass on our gratitude for the effort and time that the student spent with the 88 year old female driver. In keeping her safe, passing clear and concise information to the emergency services about her condition and generally keeping her reassured. They spent several hours at the scene with us in freezing old conditions talking to the lady, it was an immense help. If you could ensure that the student gets the recognition deserved that would be great. A credit to your Uni and the nursing profession.”

The lecturing team feel that for the student to stay on scene for several hours to give calm reassurance and communicate with the emergency services was a great achievement, given that the student has only been undertaking the nursing programme since September and has not had any placement experience as yet.”

What was the impact?

“As nurses, we know that the impact of the student staying with and reassuring the injured lady will have been felt both at the time and following the incident. The lady’s family will also have felt grateful that someone stayed with their elderly relative at such a frightening time. The attending police obviously left the positive impact as a result of the student being on scene as they were able to help and also relieve some of the stress felt by the emergency services. I feel that the student demonstrated excellent team working and communication skills, during a stressful situation.”

How it inspired others

“I feel that the student has inspired their peers by their calm approach, willingness to become involved and thoughtfulness for others, despite their lack of experience and knowledge. It was a brave decision to offer to help, but the fact that the student stayed for several hours during the incident really is over and above the call of duty, so to speak. Having communicated with the student, their response was that anyone would have stopped and helped. The student’s Academic Advisor is meeting with the student to offer some debrief after the incident as it can be traumatic to experience such incidents.”

Finalists
Dhanesh Ayyappankutty
Alina Dumitru
Kendal Stoneystreet

WINNER!

Alina Dumitru – BA (Hons) Interior Architecture and Design

What they did:

This student has continually been the centre of the Interior Architecture and Design Studio Community for the last 3 years. A mature student from overseas, this person quickly became key individual for staff and students turn to for support and help in bringing the cohort together. From the days online in 2020 to the present studio culture this person has welcomed everyone, taken time to understand the needs of people and has shown love and care for their fellow students – across all years. During the difficult time in transitioning from online, through blended to full face to face teaching this person assisted staff and student to establish a studio culture again and rebuild a community. This person is a committed Hallam student helping to promote the course, department and the university as a whole, both in person and through social media. They have run workshops for other students, set up recycling schemes and regularly bake biscuits for everyone in the studio. This student thoroughly deserves the Hallam Community Award as without them I’m not sure we would have ever truly returned to having a strong and cohesive studio culture.”

What was the impact:

“The impact this student has had on the Hallam and Course Community can be measured in 3 ways:

1. Increased use of the studio space and easier transition back into face to face teaching
2. Improved NSS results. While many course saw a dip in NSS scores in 2020, 2021, and 2022 especial with regards to student community, Interior Architecture and Design consistently scored over 90%. This was in no small part down to the work this student did in helping tomake the studio a friendly space where everyone felt welcomed and part of a community.
3. Improved recruitment. One thing we talk about at open days etc is our inclusive community which is a huge draw to new students. And again, this student is a driving force behind this,helping us double the course in take for the last 2 years”How it inspired others:“The love and enthusiasm this student gives to the community is infectious and this has inspired others to do the same. A community is a group people working together, sharing thoughts and ideas, to create a supportive environment where everyone can thrive – but often it takes the efforts of a few individuals to show others warmth and compassion in order for relationships to build. This is what this student has done time and time again. They are the glue that binds people together, transforming the studio from a group of individuals to a cohesive community.”

Finalists
Ariana Croke
Lanval O’Garro

WINNER!

Ariana Croke– MSc International Business and Marketing

What they did

“During the beginning of the Covid-19 Pandemic which was my first year studying at Sheffield Hallam University completing my Business and Enterprise Management Degree I decided to create a development plan for my own business idea offering bespoke managed office space within the midlands region that focused on independent working and safe clear spaces, whilst having the ability to collaborate and separate work and home life. Offiss Ltd was born, I became the founding director of Offiss Ltd which is a bespoke managed office space which opened its doors in 2021. I have one site currently based in Cannock offering a range of spaces such as; private offices, reserved and flexible co-working, lounge access, booth seating, meeting room, podcast room and kitchen facilities. However, I am just finalising the procurement of another site in Lichfield. Offiss has a website https://www.offiss.co.uk/, social media, and we have just commenced with blogs accessible via the website.  I am currently underway with the installation of a Podcast and Recording Studio, and myself and another Student moving into creating our own business podcasts to discuss everything that is not seen externally when setting up and running a business and finally preparing to launch our very own networking group but with a twist called Offiss Astor.  The networking is to be based on the Mastermind format. I am now 18 months in with a steady flow of enquiries and a full office; we now operate a waiting list for our space. I have had businesses from a range of industries including; Contact Coffee Co Ltd (coffee company), Design by Penrose (brand management), Arco Building Services (electrical and mechanical), Square Circles (Design and Fitout), Search Recruitment (a nationwide recruitment agency) and more. I have had a growing income now for over 12 months which has given us the ability to now expand our brand further.”

What was the Impact?

“The vision I had was to focus on bringing the city workspace to smaller market towns, why did the larger cities get all the inspirational space?  I wanted to bring the small towns something new and exciting.  My focus and drive for the business was to offer boutique space to smaller businesses, one person to 12 person businesses that needed support, the ability to brainstorm and collaborate with others, with the space I provide; a large communal space so it allows for the ability to network and hold networking events in turn most of all the ability to help them grow. Our research into lighting and colours has allowed us to divide open spaces using these medias to benefit the individuals who work within them.”

How it inspired others

“When planning Offiss things that accelerate innovation was taken into consideration such as; the layout, the colours and the USP to create actants. I wanted to have open plan space but with defined areas, working areas, relaxation areas, health and well-being areas.  So we have soft seating, high level working tables, collaboration work tables, acoustic lone working pods, and laptop tables.  I did not stop there, I added a games machine and a Peloton exercise bike with yoga mat space.

The space became friendly, welcoming and most of all flexible for all working types. It allows everyone the opportunity to have the space away from home to grow. We had a tenant who came to us to enable suppliers to visit and have an interesting inspiring space to meet them; he felt the space gave him and his team motivation and the ability to grow.  We helped them on their journey to find their own office and expand themselves.  They now look after all our insurance needs as they have expanded the markets they offer.

Our friendly family atmosphere has welcomed those with mental health issues and people who do not confine themselves to a gender without the fear of being judged. We also support ex serving and serving military personnel and their families with availability of space and discounts.  I are currently applying for our Armed Services Covenant where we hope to achieve Silver status.”

Finalists
Reece Kelly
Olivia Tate
Molly East

WINNER!

Olivia Tate – BA (Hons) Illustration

What they did:

“Supporting others through self-empowerment is at the heart of this student’s business strategy, using illustration as a catalyst and social media as a platform to give a voice to their cause by opening up conversations and spreading awareness of topics such as mental health, sexual harassment and body positivity.

Their meticulous attention to their personal branding strategy effectively reflects their artistic style and the causes they support. The student has shown consistent dedication, enthusiasm and focus on their work, as evidenced by a steady increase in paid commissions and recognition from their peers as somebody who is working at a professional level. A fractured ankle at the beginning of the placement did not slow them down!

Their work ethic is exemplary, with new ideas swiftly and successfully executed, such as planning a retail event for International Women’s Day, with over 40 applications within one week.

The student has pushed to learn new skills in areas such as website design, marketing, and sales.  This quality of work produced is impressive – a testament to the hard work that has been put in. This level of entrepreneurial achievement is not often seen among freelancers so early in their career.”

What was the impact:

“Confidently and openly speaking out about social topics they are passionate about, the student attempts to break stigmas and make a positive difference to others. Through their artwork and self-expression on social media, at events and amongst their peers, the student encourages and facilitates meaningful discussions around topics that young people are greatly affected by, such as mental health.

I have seen first-hand how this discussion has made a significant difference by empowering others to share their feelings, stories and ideas. By regularly showing up and doing the work, the student is a visible example to their peers of how hard work gets results. I have seen how others have been inspired by their determination and enthusiasm.”

How it inspired others:

“Few students are as visible in being ambassadors for topics that significantly affect mental health and are so clearly and effectively directed at a young audience.

A combination of talented illustration, courage and articulate messaging is igniting new conversations on topics that young people care about. The effectiveness of this can be seen on their social media channels and in their sales; people are paying attention and paying money because they not only relate but also feel empowered.”