Alumni awards is a global platform and India is among the select countries hosting a national-level Study UK Alumni Awards ceremony, a testament to the significant impact UK alumni have in the region. This year’s awards were attended by Lindy Cameron CB OBE, British High Commissioner to India, representatives from UK universities, business leaders, and key influencers from diverse industries. Esteemed guests, including Chiki Sarkar, Founder & Publisher of Juggernaut Books, Sam Dalrymple, Writer, Filmmaker, and Historian, along with Sparsh Ahuja, Filmmaker & Creative Producer, were also present at the event.
This prestigious international award celebrates UK higher education and the achievements of UK alumni all over the world. Now in its eleventh year, the award received almost over 130 in India and over 1300 applications from international UK alumni nearly from 100 countries across the UK.
The evening celebrated the achievements of UK-educated professionals for the four award categories- Science and Sustainability Award, Culture and Creativity Award, Social Action Award, and Business and Innovation Award.
Alison Barrett MBE, Country Director India, British Council, remarked, “The eleventh edition of the Study UK Alumni Awards in India has once again showcased the inspiring journeys of UK alumni who are shaping industries, influencing policy, and creating lasting impact. This year’s winners and finalists represent a diverse spectrum of talent—from groundbreaking sustainability advocates to visionary entrepreneurs and influential leaders in social change. Their achievements reflect the power of higher education in nurturing global changemakers and strengthening the UK-India partnership.”
The Science and Sustainability Award recognises distinguished alumni in the world of science and sustainability who have demonstrated the impact and scale of their achievements in their profession and beyond. The award was presented to Prof Aashish Mathur, an alumnus of Ulster University. He is currently working as a professor at UPES, specialising in Nanotechnology.
The Culture and Creativity Award acknowledges alumni who have carved a career for themselves in arts and culture and demonstrated their artistic ingenuity, influence, and creativity. The award was presented to Gayatri Madkekar, an alumnus of Leeds Beckett University. She is a sports psychologist and is known for sports & performance psychology in India.
The Social Action Award honours the work of alumni who have made an exceptional contribution and commitment to creating positive social change and improving the lives of others. The award was presented to Raju Kendre, who studied at School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London. He is the founder and CEO of Eklavya India Foundation and works to break barriers for marginalized students accessing top-tier education in India and abroad.
The Business and Innovation Award is bestowed upon alumni who are active in initiating and contributing to innovative or creative new ideas, solutions, or business opportunities that have the potential for growth. The award was presented to Mayank Bherulal Nagori, an alumnus of University of Nottingham. He is the founder of Gud Gum, a biodegradable, plastic-free chewing gum brand tackling global plastic pollution and promoting sustainability.
The winners of the UK Alumni Awards in India will gain enhanced visibility, networking opportunities, and professional growth avenues. The finalists also stand a chance to be selected as global winners, who will be invited to the UK for a special networking visit, engaging with key stakeholders and fellow awardees.
For more information, please visit: https://study-uk.britishcouncil.org/alumni-awards
