The Sheffield Hallam Inspirational Student Awards are a way for the University to recognise students who have inspired those around them.
The winners were celebrated at an event held on campus at Hallam Hall, attended by their loved ones, staff who have supported their time at Hallam and senior university leaders, as well as honorary doctorate recipient, Ayo Akinwolere, who graduated from Hallam in 2004.
One of the awards up for grabs was the Inspirational Individual Award, which celebrates individuals' achievements and those who inspire others by overcoming adversity.
Bilaal Ali, College of Business, Technology and Engineering winner of the Inspirational Individual Award 2023, said: "Despite having a disability, I was partaking in classes and achieved a high mark in the module. I was happy to hear about the award - it's been positive to have achievements in the first year."
The academic who nominated Bilaal said: “He never misses a class, participates in the classroom, asks for extra projects in order to solidify his knowledge, and smiles to everyone, even if he can’t see the reaction of his smile on them."
Current students, apprentices, placement students, alumni, academic societies, and small groups of students from staff, students and industry partners were eligible for Inspirational Student Award nominations.
Another award on offer was the Academic Society Leader Award, awarded to the individuals who demonstrated outstanding leadership in their role within an academic society.
Speaking about Doohan Blackburn, HWLS College winner of the Academic Society Leader Award 2023, a lecturer said: "He was the first generation of his family into university education and took every opportunity that came along. As a student rep, he's ensured that students were supported and has fostered an inclusive atmosphere on the course."
Professor Helen Scott, Pro Vice Chancellor for Learning Teaching and Student Success, said: "The Inspirational Student Awards is one of the very special highlights of the year. I was genuinely impressed and moved by the many and varied stories we heard from our students and guests during the evening.
"Sometimes, in the day-to-day comings and goings of working at such a large university, it is very easy to forget why we are all here and what for. The Inspirational Student Awards reminds us of the many reasons why we do what we do and our shared, core purpose-to provide the very best opportunities and environment for all our students to flourish-whatever their circumstances and starting points. A brilliant evening and a privilege to be involved."
Other awards included the Hallam Community Award, celebrating contribution to the Sheffield Hallam Community by working collaboratively, showing compassion, support, and/or kindness to fellow students and/or Hallam community members, the Student Voice Award, celebrating those actively advocating the voice of students and representing their collective interests amongst others.
To see a full list of the winners and their stories, visit the Inspirational Student Awards page here.
