Alumni Achievement Award Winners 2024

About the Awards

Our annual Alumni Achievement Awards are an opportunity to honour and recognise alumni who achieve excellence in their field and inspire others. Our alumni truly represent our Salford values and demonstrate how our alumni community drives positive change in all sectors and across the globe.

The Award categories were changed this year to align with our focus on innovating to enrich lives. We also introduced highly commended recipients for some awards so we could acknowledge as many achievements as possible from our brilliant alumni.

The Award winners were decided by a panel that represented University staff, students and alumni. Chaired by Professor Jo Purves, Pro Vice-Chancellor Academic Development, it also included President of the Students' Union, Alvina Imran, a previous Alumni Achievement Award winner, Charlotte France, and Senior Alumni Engagement Manager, Rowena Grant.

Read more about our winners and highly commended recipients below:

Alumni Lifetime Achievement Award

This award recognises a member of the alumni community who has distinguished themselves for their excellent and sustained contributions and achievements over their professional lifetime. This individual’s influence has made an enduring and profound difference in their community and the lives of those around them. Recipients of this award strive toward the highest levels of personal and professional accomplishment, excel in their chosen field, devote time and energy to their community in a meaningful way, and forge paths of leadership for others to follow.

Baroness Keeley of Worsley

Baroness Keeley of Worsley portrait

BA Politics and Contemporary History, Class of 1994

Baroness Barbara Keeley made history as the first woman elected as Member of Parliament for the Worsley constituency in 2005, winning five successive re-elections. Following boundary changes in 2010, the constituency became Worsley and Eccles South. Throughout her career, she has held several Ministerial roles during the Labour Government, including Government Whip and Deputy Leader of the House of Commons. Most recently, she served as Shadow Minister for the Arts, Music, and Tourism. From 2017 to 2020, she was Labour's Shadow Cabinet Minister for Social Care and Mental Health and served on the Health Select Committee from 2020 to 2022. Before her political career, Barbara worked in community regeneration and the IT industry, including a role as a Systems Engineering Manager for IBM. After stepping down as an MP in July 2024, she was nominated for a life peerage and created Baroness Keeley of Worsley in August 2024, officially introduced to the House of Lords in September 2024.

Alumni Excellence Awards

Alumni Excellence Awards are presented to alumni who have demonstrated excellence in line with our University of Salford values and priorities. There are four subcategories, which align to our focus as a University on innovating to enrich lives. These include:

  • Champion in Health and Wellbeing: This award celebrates alumni dedicated to advancing health and wellbeing. Ideal candidates have significantly improved public health, healthcare practices or mental health initiatives, making a lasting impact on people's lives.
  • Changemaker in Environmental Sustainability: This award acknowledges alumni who are leading efforts in environmental conservation and sustainability. We're looking for those who have implemented innovative solutions to environmental challenges, promoting sustainable practices and protecting our planet.
  • Driver of Social Impact and Inclusion: This award honours alumni who have significantly contributed to social justice, equity and inclusion. We're looking for individuals who have driven impactful initiatives or programs that address societal challenges and foster a more inclusive community.
  • Leader in Creativity and Innovation: This award recognises alumni who excel in creative and innovative endeavours. We seek trailblazers who have introduced groundbreaking ideas, transformed their field and inspired others.
Alumni Excellence Award

Champion in Health and Wellbeing

  • Winner: Luke Brown, BSc Sports Rehabilitation (Class of 2009)
  • Highly Commended: Kimberly Preston-Bond, Master of Business Administration (Class of 2021)
  • Highly Commended: Ben Andrews, BSc Exercise, Physical Activity and Health (Class of 2015)

Winner: Luke Brown

Luke Brown portrait

BSc Sports Rehabilitation, Class of 2009

Luke Brown is a community leader, therapist and judo coach, known for founding Lowton Community Hub and transforming it into a centre offering physio clinics, fitness classes, mental health support and more. His leadership secured £400,000 in funding and strengthened ties with local authorities, making the hub a regional model for community projects. With over 15 years of experience in musculoskeletal medicine, Luke integrates essential healthcare services like dementia care into his initiatives. He also leads a not-for-profit judo club, mentoring young athletes and transforming the club into a top performance centre. Luke’s commitment to health, well-being and community cohesion has made a lasting impact, improving lives and inspiring similar projects across the region.

Highly Commended: Kimberly Preston-Bond

Kimberly Preston-Bond portrait

Master of Business Administration, Class of 2021

Kimberly is the founder and CEO of Visit from the Stork, a family support charity that focuses on supporting those in crisis, including survivors of domestic violence. Her work has significantly improved public health and support systems for vulnerable families and has supported more than 2,000 families in Salford, Manchester and Bury. Visit from the Stork received the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service in 2022 and is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year.

Highly Commended: Ben Andrews

Ben Andrews portrait

BSc Exercise, Physical Activity and Health, Class of 2015

Ben Andrews is the Founder and Managing Director of Beyond Empower, a Community Interest Company. After graduating in 2015, he secured contracts with the NHS and local authorities to enhance health and wellbeing opportunities for disabled people in Greater Manchester. Ben also provides consultancy support to sectors like infrastructure, transport, sport, leisure and local government, advocating for inclusivity. His impactful work has earned him national recognition, including the Alumni Rising Star Award in 2019.

Alumni Excellence Award

Changemaker in Environmental Sustainability

  • Winner: Andrew Reynolds FRICS, BSc Quantity Surveying (Class of 1996)
  • Highly Commended: Carl Smethurst, BA Geography (Class of 1985)

Winner: Andrew Reynolds

Andrew Reynolds portrait

BSc Quantity Surveying, Class of 1996

Andrew is the UK & European Chief Executive and Global Board Director at Rider Levett Bucknall (RLB), a global real estate consultancy in the built environment sector. With extensive leadership and board experience, he drives strategies that address key industry challenges, such as data utilization and sustainability. Andrew is a Fellow of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and serves on the RICS Standards and Regulation Board. He is also a member of the Institute of Directors and the Construction Leadership Council’s Next Generation Delivery steering group. Outside of work, Andrew enjoys the performing arts and travel photography. He is married with five children and is also a guest lecturer at the University of Reading.

Highly Commended: Carl Smethurst

Carl Smethurst portrait

BA Geography, Class of 1985

Carl Smethurst is the National Trees for Climate Programme Manager at Cheshire West & Chester Council, with over 30 years of experience in environmental project management. He leads a partnership of 15 Community Forests and national organizations like the National Trust and Woodland Trust, delivering over 4,000 hectares of new woodland across England. Funded by Defra’s Nature for Climate Fund, the initiative has planted over five million trees since 2020.

Alumni Excellence Award

Driver of Social Impact and Inclusion

  • Winner: Nadine Travers, BSc Social Policy (Class of 2021)
  • Highly Commended: Saarah Ali, BSc Digital Business (Class of 2021)

Winner: Nadine Travers

Nadine Travers portrait

BSc Social Policy, Class of 2021

Nadine Travers founded ST4ND, a youth organisation supporting over 300 disadvantaged children and young people through alternative education, mentoring, and counselling. Many of the children ST4ND works with face school absences, exploitation, and criminal risks due to social policies. Motivated by her own challenging childhood experience of being removed from mainstream school and being labelled as a ‘disruptive’ child, Nadine is committed to safeguarding vulnerable children. In 2023, she expanded ST4ND to offer specialist commissioned education services for at-risk youth. Alongside her work, Nadine serves as a trustee for the Poverty Truth Network, contributes to the Joseph Rowntree Foundation's Grassroots Poverty Action Group, and advises the Greater Manchester Combined Authority on poverty-related issues.

Highly Commended: Saarah Ali

Saarah Ali portrait

BSc Digital Business, Class of 2021

Saarah Ali is a digital business and sports marketing professional at RL Commercial (the commercial arm of the Rugby Football League), where she uses social media to engage new audiences with rugby league as well as breaking barriers within the company to improve diversity and promote inclusivity in sport and media. Saraah continually encourages and engages South Asian women in sport. Known for her 'Just Try It' attitude, Saarah balances her career with coaching and playing netball, making her an inspiring role model for promoting inclusivity in sport and media. Starting netball at 12, she now coaches young girls and hosts games for Muslim women aged 30+ as a social outlet and an opportunity to get back into sport.

Alumni Excellence Award

Leader in Creativity and Innovation

  • Joint winner: Adam Dickinson, BA Design Practice (Spatial Design) (Class of 1999)
  • Joint winners: Mollie and Rebekah Balshaw, both BA Fine Art (Class of 2019)

Joint winner: Adam Dickinson

Adam Dickinson portrait

Class of 1999, BA Design Practice (Spatial Design)

Adam has over 20 years of experience in the games industry, rising to senior roles at companies like EA and Activision. In 2017, he co-founded Rezzil, a Manchester-based VR and XR sports tech company that enhances athlete performance through biomechanics and cognitive training. Rezzil works with major sports organisations, including the Premier League, NBA, and Formula 1, and has pioneered concussion recovery protocols. Adam’s innovation extends beyond training, with Rezzil also developing EXAR technology to enhance live sports broadcasts. A BAFTA-nominated creative, Adam remains passionate about family, having designed a game with his young son. His work continues to push the boundaries of sports tech, with Rezzil set to launch a Premier League-branded VR game.

Joint winners: Mollie and Rebekah Balshaw

Mollie and Rebekah laugh

Both Class of 2019, BA Fine Art

Since graduating with BA Fine Art degrees five years ago, Mollie and Rebekah have transformed the North West's visual arts scene through their business, Short Supply. Known for their playful, down-to-earth approach, they’ve inspired numerous collectives in the region and proven that high-quality art doesn’t need London-based recognition. With nearly 100,000 online followers and advice videos reaching 15 million views, they’ve built trust within the creative community. Their project MADE IT, the North West’s first independent Graduate Art Prize, has run for five years and supported over 500 emerging artists. They’ve collaborated with major organisations like Manchester Art Gallery and BBC Manchester and were shortlisted for the 2023 Deutsche Bank Award for Creative Entrepreneurs.

Image credit: Alan Murphy

Alumni Rising Star Award

The Alumni Rising Star Award is presented to those who have demonstrated success, excellence or significant achievements in the short time since they graduated. Rising Stars are those who demonstrate potential for further positive impact in their field, sector or for the community. This category is open to nominees who have graduated within the last ten years. Four winners are selected – one from each school. 

Alumni Rising Star Award

School of Arts, Media and Creative Technology

  • Winner: Noor Al-Naser, MA Terrorism and Security (Class of 2022)
  • Highly Commended: Hauwa Yakubu, MA Digital Video Production and Marketing (Class of 2022)

Winner: Noor Al-Naser

Noor Al-Naser portrait

MA Terrorism and Security, Class of 2022

Noor is an Iraqi national with over eight years of experience working with the United Nations. Before attending Salford University, she was an Operations Analyst for the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) in Iraq, managing explosive hazards clearance projects in post-ISIS areas. Awarded a fully funded FCDO Chevening Scholarship, Noor pursued an MA in Terrorism and Security at the University of Salford and interned with the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT). She later worked as a Lecturer at Salford, specialising in Terrorism and the Middle East, and served as a Senior Prevention of Violent Extremism Programme Officer with the International Organization for Migration in Iraq. Currently, Noor is a Senior Officer for Programme Management at the UNOCT in Doha, Qatar, while continuing her part-time lecturing.

Highly Commended: Hauwa Yakubu

Hauwa Yakubu portrait

MA Digital Video Production and Marketing, Class of 2022

Hauwa is a multi-award-winning digital technology mentor and United Nations UK Delegate focused on decentralising mentorship for underrepresented groups. She volunteers with organisations like ADPlist and MicroMentor, mentoring young girls and non-binary individuals across 14 countries. Recognised as one of the Top 100 Women in UK Tech 2024, Hauwa has over a decade of experience working with major brands like Walt Disney and Google. As Chief Digital Officer at Kugali, she leads initiatives promoting gender equity and representation in tech. Hauwa is also a Global Ambassador for WomenInTech and actively volunteers with nonprofits like FareShare, supporting families in need during the cost-of-living crisis.

Alumni Rising Star Award

Salford Business School

  • Winner: Qazeem Faniran, MSc Digital Business (Class of 2020)
  • Highly commended: Josh Armitt, BSc Human Resource Management (Class of 2018)

Winner: Qazeem Faniran

Qazeem Faniran portrait

MSc Digital Business, Class of 2020

Qazeem is a digital technology specialist with over a decade of international experience. As a co-founder of the Nigerian startup Vysend, he promotes sustainability by recycling old phones and has empowered over 5,000 young people, especially girls, through NSBE Nigeria. At Helping Hands, he improved operational efficiency by integrating various technologies and led a CRM Rebuild Project that enhanced usability and data flow using Zapier. Currently, as a Digital Transformation Programme Lead within the NHS in Northwest England, he spearheads innovation and strategic initiatives. Qazeem is committed to driving technological advancement and operational improvement across multiple sectors and was selected for the NHS England Digital Academy’s Digital Health Leadership Program at Imperial College.

Highly Commended: Josh Armitt

Josh Armitt portrait

BSc Human Resource Management, Class of 2018

Josh Armitt is a People & Culture Business Partner with HR experience across industries like consumer goods, manufacturing, and brand agencies. Currently, he is Talent & Learning Business Partner at FTSE 250 company PZ Cussons, overseeing Talent, Learning, Engagement, and DE&I strategies for the UK and USA. After attending the One Young World Youth Leadership Forum, Josh played a key role in developing PZ Cussons' first DE&I strategy and establishing Employee Resource Groups. He also serves on the Board of Advisors for Think For The Future, a social enterprise supporting schools with intervention programs. Josh provides pro bono consultancy on People, Culture, and Operations, driven by his passion for social impact and inclusion.

Alumni Rising Star Award

School of Health and Society

Winner: Nadine Travers, BSc Social Policy (Class of 2021)

Winner: Nadine Travers

Nadine Travers portrait

BSc Social Policy, Class of 2021

A dual-winner in this year’s awards, Nadine is also awarded the Rising Star award for her dedication to safeguarding vulnerable young people and inspiring her peers through her devotion to charity work. In forming her youth organisation, ST4ND, just one year after graduating, she now supports over 300 disadvantaged children and young people, demonstrating her commitment to supporting marginalised groups.

Alumni Rising Star Award

School of Science, Engineering and Environment

Winner: Emma White, BA Geography (Class of 2022), MSc Sustainability (Class of 2023)

Winner: Emma White

Emma White portrait

BA Geography, Class of 2022 and MSc Sustainability, Class of 2023

Emma is a dedicated advocate for sustainability and inclusion. During her final year at university, she founded the Salford Swap Shop, donating hundreds of unwanted clothes to students and raising over £150 for the British Hedgehog Association. With five years of volunteer experience at the Student’s Union, Emma champions equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI), working to dismantle barriers for disabled students. Despite facing health challenges, including severe hypermobility syndrome, she remains a beacon of hope for others. Currently, she serves as admin on the Student Union helpdesk, receiving multiple awards for her contributions. As the founder of the first-ever Disability Society at the University of Salford, Emma is now pursuing a PhD with aspirations to become a lecturer.

Alumni Volunteer of the Year

Alumni volunteers’ support, experience and inspirational stories help raise students’ confidence and aspirations both during their time at university and in preparation for what comes after. Our Alumni Volunteer of the Year recognises a member of our alumni community who has provided their time and experience for the enrichment of students’ lives.

  • Winner: Paul Hutchings, BSc Business and Management Studies (Class of 2008)
  • Highly Commended: Azeem Butt, BSc Psychology (Class of 2015)
  • Highly Commended: David Utley, BSc Psychology (Class of 2013), MSc Media Psychology (Class of 2018)

Winner: Paul Hutchings

Paul Hutchings portrait

BSc Business and Management Studies, Class of 2008

Paul has dedicated 16 years to Salford City Council, rising to Deputy Chief Finance Officer and gaining recognition for his expertise during challenging times. As a proud Salfordian, he is deeply committed to social inclusion, particularly in empowering students from one of the UK’s most deprived areas. His volunteering work with the University has spanned over a decade, where he actively promotes opportunities such as sandwich year placements, apprenticeships, and graduate trainee schemes. Paul has also introduced a new initiative for two-day-per-week placements alongside degree courses, enhancing career prospects for students. Through guest lectures at the Business School, he shares insights on the impact of industry placements, significantly contributing to the development of many successful students.

Highly Commended: Azeem Butt

Azeem Butt portrait

BSc Psychology, Class of 2015

Azeem Butt is a User Experience Research Consultant at BJSS Limited, with a background in business consultancy and a Psychology degree from the University of Salford. He also holds a postgraduate certificate in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and a Cyberpsychology diploma. Azeem is a dedicated volunteer at his alma mater, regularly speaking at the Psychology Department’s Alumni Insight events, where he shares career advice and tips on breaking into the UX field. For the past two years, he has facilitated collaboration between his company, SPARCK, and the MSc Media Psychology programme, co-creating assessment briefs and organising alumni career panels. His efforts have inspired students and strengthened links between industry and academia. 

Highly Commended: David Utley

David Utley portrait

BSc Psychology, Class of 2013 and MSc Media Psychology, Class of 2018

David is a Senior User Researcher at the Home Office. He views his MSc experience at Salford as life-changing, leading to a fulfilling career he loves. Committed to giving back, David has supported MSc Media Psychology students for a number of years, offering guidance on user experience projects and sharing insights into the research field. He actively participates in project presentations, mentors students to ensure their work meets industry standards, and engages in alumni events. His warm, approachable demeanour and honest storytelling inspire students to persevere through challenges.