The ACEs

Iain Simpson

Today we recognise someone who has been described as brilliant, invaluable, and an absolute powerhouse—Iain Simpson, winner of both the Change Award and Students’ Union Employee of the Year.

As a second-year School President, Iain has fearlessly tackled key issues like homophobia, sexism, and racism while mentoring new leaders and amplifying student voices. He has been called the “go-to student” for both staff and students, always ready to support and advocate for others.

In his SU staff role, Iain has gone “above and beyond” across multiple departments, ensuring that every student’s voice—especially those often overlooked—is heard. His work, including a “high-quality” Unitu report used by both the SU and University, has left a lasting impact.

Beyond his achievements, Iain brings energy, positivity, and a commitment to making things better. One nomination said “It’s frustrating how little credit he gives himself,” but with these awards, we are here to give him the recognition he deserves.

Congratulations, Iain!

Daniel O’Connell

I’m here with someone described as generous, skilled, and incredibly inclusive—Daniel O’Connell, winner of the Development Award.

As UCLan Table Tennis Club Coach, Daniel balances professionalism and personality, creating a welcoming and structured environment where every player thrives. His intuition and empathy ensure that all members, regardless of ability, feel challenged and supported. His flexibility and humour keep sessions engaging, contributing to high retention and growth.

A true advocate for diversity, Daniel has increased female participation, ensuring equal league opportunities. And he’s done all this while completing his master’s degree—an incredible achievement!

Daniel, your dedication and impact on the club are truly inspiring. Congratulations!

Hyunseo Lee

Congratulations to Hyunseo Lee, winner of the Extra Mile Award.

Hyunseo’s dedication and commitment to the Chamber Orchestra Society have been truly outstanding. From leading engaging sessions at the January Society Fair to fostering an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere at weekly rehearsals, they have always gone above and beyond. Their thoughtful gesture of preparing snacks and drinks each week created a warm, community spirit within the society.

Even while facing academic challenges and health issues, Hyunseo’s passion never wavered. Their selflessness and perseverance truly embody what it means to go the extra mile.

Congratulations, Hyunseo!

Harley Keasey

Congratulations Harley Keasey, winner of the Opportunities For All Award.

Over the past year, Harley has led a powerful campaign to End Period Poverty, recognising the barriers students face due to a lack of access to period products. By passing a Big Idea through council and pushing for change, she highlighted the University’s need to match national standards.

Thanks to Harley’s advocacy, the University has now committed £14,000 to provide free period products across campus—an achievement that will remove barriers and ensure equal access to education for all students.

Harley, your work is truly transformative. Congratulations!

Wilderness and Expedition Medical Society

I’m here with the Wilderness and Expedition Medical Society, winners of the Rising Stars Award.

Since launching in September 2024, they have shown outstanding leadership, growing to 61 members and successfully organising multiple events early on. By encouraging interdisciplinary participation, they have expanded awareness of Wilderness Medicine, an exciting and emerging field.

Despite the demands of medical school, their teamwork and dedication have ensured the society’s rapid growth and lasting impact. They have built a strong foundation for the future, and we can’t wait to see what they achieve next.

Congratulations!

The Brain Tumour Charitable Society and their OSCEthon

We’d like to recognise The Brain Tumour Charitable Society for their exceptional commitment to medical education, teamwork, and charitable initiatives. Winners of both the Committee Excellence Award and the Event Award for their OSCEthon, they have demonstrated outstanding leadership and organisation.

Through their OSCEthon events, they provided invaluable exam preparation for medical students across all years, praised as the best OSCE preparation by attendees. Their events featured realistic clinical stations, expert feedback, and a well-structured learning environment, helping students gain confidence and essential skills.

Beyond academics, the society has made a lasting impact with charitable efforts, including a fundraising bake sale for brain tumour research. Their dedication to both student success and social causes showcases their professionalism, teamwork, and passion.

Congratulations to The Brain Tumour Charitable Society—a very deserving winner!

The Christian Union Committee

Congratulations to the Christian Union Society Committee, winners of the Wellbeing Award, for their incredible work in fostering a welcoming and supportive community.

Through events like Globe Café, Bible studies, and prayer walks, they provide students with friendship, emotional support, and a safe space to explore faith. Their welcome week program helped freshers connect and settle in, while their annual retreat and Events Week offered a much-needed break from academic stress.

Many students describe CU as a family where they can truly be themselves, making a lasting impact on wellbeing and inclusivity.

So a massive well done to the Christian Union Committee!

Aasiyah Rawat

This year’s ACE Volunteer of the Year is Aasiyah Rawat, the Public Relations Officer of UCLan ISoc, for her outstanding dedication and professionalism.

Aasiyah has played a crucial role in promoting key initiatives such as Charity Week, Discover Islam Week, and Freshers' Week, ensuring high engagement and participation. Her expertise in social media management, outreach, and sponsorship coordination has helped secure vital support for events like Iftars at Oasis.

Her ability to connect with students and external partners has significantly enhanced ISoc’s visibility and impact, making her an indispensable member of the team.

Please join me in congratulating Aasiyah Rawat!

Islamic Society

It is my pleasure to present both the Collaboration Award and the Community Award to the UCLan Islamic Society for their outstanding efforts in fostering unity, teamwork, and inclusivity.

Through their partnership with Benefit Mankind, they raised over £6,500 for orphans and families in Lebanon and Palestine, working with 30+ local businesses and organising successful fundraising events. Their collaboration with Edge Hill ISoc further strengthened community ties through a charity football tournament and a Sip & Paint Night.

Beyond fundraising, their initiatives like Discover Islam Week and Ramadan Iftars have created a welcoming space for both Muslims and non-Muslims, promoting education, inclusivity, and a strong sense of belonging.

Their dedication to charity, collaboration, and community building is truly inspiring. Congratulations to the Islamic Society on this well-deserved recognition!

Muhammad Shayan Ul Huda

This year, the ACES panel found it impossible to award Committee Member of the Year to just one person, so have decided to recognise two amazing Society Committee Members.

Firstly, it is my honour to present the Committee Member of the Year Award to Muhammad Shayan Ul Huda for his exceptional dedication and hard work in ensuring the success of UCLan ISOC.

Shayan has been a driving force behind charity fundraisers, Ramadan iftars, and student events, handling logistics with precision and commitment. His problem-solving skills, reliability, and selfless efforts have made a lasting impact on both the society and the wider student community.

Though he works tirelessly without seeking recognition, his contributions have been invaluable. With this award, we celebrate his unwavering dedication and outstanding service.

Congratulations, Shayan, and thank you for everything you do!

Bwalya Gianna Chibesa

Our second winner of Committee Member of the Year Award is Bwalya Gianna Chibesa for her exceptional leadership and dedication as Chair of the Catholic Society.

Gianna has been a driving force in fostering interfaith dialogue, securing grants for the society, and organising impactful events such as Bible studies, Christmas gatherings, and game nights. She has also championed Christian unity, bringing together different societies for the first Meet the Chaplains event.

Her commitment goes beyond planning—she uplifts those around her, offering wisdom, support, and compassion. Gianna's tireless efforts and passion have left a lasting impact on the Catholic Society and the wider community.

Congratulations, Gianna, and thank you for your outstanding contributions!

Abigail Beavan

It is an honour to present the Council Member of the Year Award to Abigail Beavan for her outstanding dedication and advocacy as Disability Rep.

Abi has been a strong voice on council, unafraid to challenge, support, and uplift others. Her passion for inclusivity and accessibility is evident through her work, from attending council meetings and leading campaigns to her commitment at the Disability Disco and Lampworks.

She has been instrumental in submitting impactful ideas, including proposals for reasonable adjustments for disabled students, and has worked tirelessly to ensure that all students feel heard and supported. Her kindness, leadership, and ability to bring people together have made a lasting impact on the university community.

Congratulations, Abi, and thank you for your dedication!

Mahfooz-e-elahie Mahdi

It is an honour to present the Burnley Trailblazer Award to Mahfooz-e-elahie Mahdi, whose dedication and leadership as Burnley Campus Representative for UCLan ISoc have greatly strengthened the student community.

From welcoming freshers and organising events to coordinating Friday prayers, Mahdi has worked tirelessly to ensure Muslim students feel supported and connected. His efforts in organising the Grand Iftar and Eid Dinner further highlight his commitment to bringing people together.

Through his leadership and dedication, Mahdi has made a lasting impact, bridging the gap between Burnley and the wider UCLan community.

Congratulations, Mahdi!

Alicia Bibby

With so many amazing student staff members, selecting a winner for Students’ Union Employee of the Year Award was incredibly tough. However, in recognition of her hard work and dedication, the panel is proud to award Alicia Bibby a Highly Commended Award.

Alicia has been a valued member of the Welcome Point team since 2022, providing an exceptional first point of contact for students at UCLan SU. Her passion for the role was clear when she reached out to return in 2024, balancing her master’s degree, a weekend job, and cheerleading while continuing to deliver outstanding service.

Beyond her daily duties, Alicia has played a key role in training new staff, ensuring they feel confident and supported. Her professionalism, enthusiasm, and positive attitude have made a lasting impact on both students and colleagues.

Congratulations, Alicia!

Cassia Williamson

Congratulations, Cassia, on winning the Caring Colleague Award!

Your positive energy never fails to make people smile, even on tough days. You are described as “emotionally intelligent and self-aware”, always noticing when someone is struggling and reaching out to brighten their day. Your genuine care and compassion have helped create strong connections beyond the workplace, ensuring colleagues “always have someone to turn to.”

During difficult times, you have gone “above and beyond to provide reassurance, guidance, and practical support,” even bringing the team together to support a colleague in need. Your kindness and encouragement have made a lasting impact.

You really are an asset to the Union, and this award is so well deserved!

Anjasi Gosalia

Well done, Anjasi, on winning the Integrity in Action Award!

Your hard work and initiative have made a real difference. You always go beyond what’s expected, whether it’s organising the volunteering cupboard to make resources more accessible, creating a clear and user-friendly guide for society committees, or taking the lead on the Great Donate—securing a room, setting up payment options, and running the event seamlessly.

Colleagues have praised your ability to anticipate what needs to be done and take action without being asked, making everyone’s work smoother. Your commitment to efficiency and problem-solving has had a lasting impact, and this award is truly well earned!

Aaron Anderson

Congratulations, Aaron, on winning the Champion of Joy Award!

Aaron is a true source of positivity and enthusiasm in the SU, always the first to volunteer for events and ensuring every student feels engaged and welcomed. Whether he’s hosting Get-Togethers, running craft sessions, or even taking part in a dance-off with inflatable sharks while dressed as Preston the Panther, Aaron brings energy and fun to everything he does.

He has a natural ability to break the ice and encourage participation, making every event more interactive and enjoyable. His leadership in student community projects, such as revamping the SU’s bike hire scheme, demonstrates his dedication to creating lasting benefits for students.

Aaron’s commitment to spreading joy, fostering connections, and making a positive impact on both students and staff makes him a deserving winner of this award!

Akema Carty

Congratulations, Akema, on winning the Diversity and Inclusion Advocate Award!

Akema has been a driving force for inclusivity at the SU, ensuring every student feels welcomed and represented. From shaping Get-Togethers to working with vendors on culturally appropriate food, she’s made a real impact.

She’s grown in confidence, leading initiatives like Golden Roses, Speak Weeks, and elections while bringing joy to students through quizzes and games. More than just supporting diversity—she lives it.

As she moves on, her legacy of inclusivity and support will remain. Thank you, Akema—you’ll be truly missed!