Hertfordshire Business School Dean’s Awards 2025

Aditya Narayan, Adya Mathur, Alexander Ncube, Arian Rexhepi, Arnold Sebastian, Ayodele Adisa, Chandrayee Bose, Chioma Okeke, Daniel Neves, Emeka Victor Mba, Emmanuel, Onyekachukwu Emefiele, Evelyn Ward, Fariya Hoque, Hannah Thompson, Himanshu Parmar, Jihad Al Hayek, Joel Paolunsei Touthang, Lydia Bautista-Marquez, Mark Cheyaden, Mir Shah, Nancy Sinha, Olivia Soldano, Rebecca Beardshaw, Saba Ghandchi, Saeeda Umrani, Saheed Temitope Adeyemi, Shivamkumar Vadaliya, Tabitha Yousuf, Tanya Bhutani, Tia Simon, Titilayo Elizabeth Ayeni, Vani Lakshamana, Rama Krishna, Vinay Varia

Kaivalya Vani Vaka

Vani’s journey at the University of Hertfordshire is a story of resilience and achievement. From modest beginnings in MSc International Business, she graduated with distinction while leading events and societies that fostered community and inclusivity. Her dedication and leadership transformed challenges into triumphs.

Lewis Shillingford

Lewis’s journey reflects true transformation. From early struggles with attendance and expectations, he persevered to achieve top grades and become an engaged, motivated learner. His growth in confidence and commitment led to academic success and a professional role as Digital Marketing Specialist.

Monique Foster

Monique’s dissertation tackled an under-researched topic with depth and insight. Her qualitative approach uncovered rich data, showcasing exceptional analytical skills and intellectual curiosity. Through reflection and dedication, she produced work of outstanding quality.

Elnur Mazanov

Elnur’s passion for learning set him apart. His curiosity drove him to explore beyond module boundaries, ask insightful questions, and deliver exceptional work. Achieving the highest final mark in years across Economics and Business Economics, he exemplifies intellectual excellence and a genuine love for discovery.

Emilia Binaghi

Emilia exemplifies academic excellence and intellectual curiosity. Leading a client-based dissertation project for the Humanos app in Milan, she combined rigorous research with professional project management. Her top-tier results, analytical depth, and reflective approach place her among the programme’s top 5%, making her an outstanding candidate.

Estera Avram

Estera excelled during her finance placement, mastering tasks from payroll to cost analysis and software testing. Returning to her studies with renewed motivation, she engaged actively and achieved a First-Class Honours degree. Her dedication and professionalism make her a shining example of growth and achievement.

Anmolpreet Kaur

Anmolpreet’s dual degree journey at Kedge Business School in France was transformative. From mastering payment analysis during her Paris internship to embracing challenges with entrepreneurial spirit, she returned stronger and secured a Banking Graduate role at Barclays. Her resilience and ambition exemplify excellence and global perspective.

Anita Animashaun

Anita completed an HR placement and was able to apply her experiences within her studies. Anita was a dedicated and self-motivated student who worked collaboratively with others and demonstrated professionalism at all times. She received a First-Class Honours degree. We are proud of her achievements and wish her every success in her future career.

Lemar Prah

Lemar’s placement experience sparked remarkable growth. Returning with confidence and strong communication skills, he became an active contributor in class and a supportive peer. His leadership potential and enthusiasm for learning shine through, making him an outstanding example of how real-world experience transforms academic and personal development.

Chloe Smith

Chloe’s placement experience sparked a remarkable transformation. Once reserved, she returned confident, approachable, and eager to connect. Her optimism shines through in class engagement and valuable contributions to the programme team. Chloe’s journey exemplifies how real-world experience inspires personal growth, confidence, and a strong sense of belonging.

Krishnaben Patel

Krishnaben’s journey through the Business Administration programme exemplifies transformation and excellence. Graduating with distinction, she combined academic success with leadership as a Student Representative, contributing to key initiatives and enhancing the student experience. Her sandwich degree and placement highlight her commitment to growth.

Shafaq Ghuman

Shafaq embraced her placement as Recruitment Events Assistant, excelling in planning and organisation while building confidence and problem-solving skills. Her leadership continued as a Student Ambassador, culminating in a First-Class Honours degree in Business Economics. Now thriving as Student Engagement Officer, Shafaq exemplifies growth, resilience, and achievement.

Frankie Phillips

Frankie thrived during her placement at Uptown Events, managing her own successful events and honing exceptional planning skills. Balancing part-time work with studies in her final year, she graduated with First-Class Honours in Event Management and is now a Project Coordinator at Oddity Events.

Lisa Gillen

Lisa’s study abroad in Spain and placement with Reuters Events marked an incredible journey. Managing international events across Europe, she gained invaluable experience and confidence. Graduating with First-Class Honours in Tourism Management with Spanish, Lisa now thrives as Venue Sourcing Coordinator at Reuters.

Olatunbosun Victoria Akinmayowa

Victoria excelled as an Audit Supervisor intern, leading audits and mentoring juniors while sharpening leadership and technical skills. Olatunbosun demonstrated maturity and critical thinking, applying classroom concepts to real-world auditing challenges. Both showcased professionalism, adaptability, and growth.

Htet Arkar (Alex) Maung Maung

Alex excelled during his placement with the Business Intelligence team, creating Power BI reports, supporting budget processes, and contributing to international expansion plans. His professionalism earned praise from his manager, while his peer inspiration sessions showcased leadership.

Elisa Solis Gala

Elisa impressed her employer at a networking event, securing her placement within a week. She quickly adapted to front desk operations, mastering check-ins, check-outs, and administrative tasks while learning Opera software with no prior experience.

Komal Pandey

Komal excelled in her sales placement, supporting customers with insurance and lending solutions while leveraging CRM tools and prior sector experience. Her perseverance — applying to over 250 roles before securing this opportunity — reflects resilience and determination.

Dominica Obonodi

Dominica made an outstanding contribution during her placement, ensuring the smooth running of the branch through her dedication to daily operations. Her confidence grew enormously, reflecting her adaptability and professionalism. Dominica’s journey is a shining example of how placement experiences inspire personal growth and practical skills.

Hedayatullah Aslam Zai

Aslam’s journey is a testament to resilience and excellence. Overcoming challenges with determination, he graduated with First-Class Honours and an outstanding 88% final mark. Recognised with a Business School Achievement Award, Aslam exemplifies courage, perseverance, and academic brilliance — an inspiring role model for students striving to achieve their best.

Elliott Holt

Elliott’s determination and strategic planning led to an incredible achievement — completing his TABSA dual degree with First-Class Honours. From studying abroad in Spain to securing a placement there, he demonstrated resilience, time management, and grit. Elliott’s success reflects global ambition and academic excellence.

Hamza Khan

Hamza’s journey at HBS reflects resilience and dedication. With quiet determination, he consistently gave his best, demonstrating maturity, focus, and strength. His perseverance inspired peers and tutors alike, culminating in the successful completion of his degree.

Tara Clackett

Tara has been an outstanding advocate for the HRM programme, embracing roles as a student representative, supporting Open Days, and inspiring prospective students. Her resilience and hard work earned her a First-Class Honours degree and a university prize. Tara’s achievements reflect leadership, dedication, and a bright future ahead.

Francesca O’Neill

Francesca demonstrated resilience and professionalism throughout her studies, delivering a client project that exceeded expectations and earning a First-Class result. Her courage, integrity, and ability to perform under pressure reflect both academic excellence and personal strength. Francesca’s journey is an inspiring example of determination and capability.

Yin Hon Ng (Sam)

Sam’s journey is a powerful story of resilience and determination. Overcoming challenges with courage and focus, he returned stronger, achieving continuous academic and professional growth. Graduating with First-Class Honours, Sam turned adversity into motivation, inspiring peers and embodying the spirit of perseverance this award celebrates.

Md Mohiuddin Ridwan

Mohiuddin exemplifies resilience and determination. Through unwavering commitment and adaptability, he successfully completed the Business Administration programme, reflecting the core values of the Business School. His perseverance and strength make him an inspiring role model for peers.

Sultan (Aiden) Odukoya

Aiden’s journey reflects resilience and determination. Through consistent effort, resourcefulness, and proactive engagement, he overcame challenges to achieve academic excellence, including a distinction in his dissertation. His unwavering commitment and ability to thrive in adversity make him a shining example of perseverance.

Hamna Uppal

Hamna embodies resilience and leadership. As a proactive Student Representative, she strengthened community engagement, boosted PTES response rates, supported onboarding, and contributed to programme development. Her dedication, adaptability, and collaborative spirit make her an outstanding role model.

Nicole Archer

Nicole’s determination and positivity shine through her academic journey. Despite facing significant challenges, she persevered with tenacity and produced a dissertation she can be proud of.

Chandrika Kanda

Chandrika exemplifies resilience and leadership. Through determination and adaptability, she earned a distinction in her final award while serving as a Student Representative, Student Engagement Champion, and Careers Coach. Her commitment to supporting peers and making a positive impact beyond academics makes her a deserving candidate for this recognition.

Chioma Okeke

Chioma exemplifies resilience and creativity. As a Student Representative, she led innovative events like a fashion show and proudly represented her cohort at graduation as the student thanker. Her leadership, positivity, and commitment to the HBS community make her an inspiring role model.

Rohith Krishna Babu

Rohith exemplifies resilience and leadership. Joining as an international student, he immediately became a Student Representative, championing his peers and enriching the community. Through resourcefulness and dedication, he achieved outstanding academic success, including a distinction and top 10% ranking. Rohith’s journey reflects courage, commitment, and the true spirit of this award.

Cyril Lukose

Cyril’s achievement is outstanding. Completing a four-year BA (Hons) Business & Management Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship with First-Class Honours, he balanced rigorous studies with his role at Leonardo, earning a promotion to Project Leader. His diligence, adaptability, and positive attitude exemplify resilience.

Engelbert Dube

Angie’s journey is truly inspiring. She progressed from Senior Sister to Senior Manager, championing cultural diversity and team wellbeing while excelling academically. Her confidence and proactive approach transformed challenges into opportunities, making a lasting impact at Whittington Health NHS Trust.

Cassandra Jack

Cass’s journey reflects determination and innovation. Committed from day one, she engaged fully with learning and applied her knowledge to improve patient care. Her strategic proposal to transform medication access is now being implemented by her NHS Trust.

Swati Shilpa

Swati demonstrated exceptional professionalism and academic excellence. As Project Manager for a client-based usability testing project, she delivered strategic recommendations that added real value to Xelerate Learning. Her meticulous planning, ethical approach, and outstanding communication earned glowing client feedback, making her a true example of resilience and achievement.

Deborah Ogundiya

Deborah delivered exceptional work on the NPCC E-Bikes Portfolio project, analysing national crime data and presenting insightful findings to a UK-wide audience of police officers and staff. Her professionalism and clarity earned outstanding feedback from the Assistant Chief Constable, showcasing her resilience, analytical skill, and ability to make real impact.

Nabeel Ayman Ahmad Sno

Nabeel delivered exceptional work on the NPCC E-Bikes Portfolio project, analysing crime data and presenting insightful findings to a UK-wide audience of police officers and staff. His professionalism and clarity earned outstanding feedback from the Assistant Chief Constable, showcasing resilience, analytical skill, and an ability to make meaningful impact.

Chinedu Justin Amize

Chinedu stands out as an exceptional student, combining academic excellence with a passion for change management and sustainability. His client project for Ubeta Gas showcased strategic insight and leadership. Highly engaged, collaborative, and resilient, Chinedu inspires peers through his dedication, professionalism, and transformational learning journey.

Jumoke Sakinat Jimo

Jumoke exemplifies academic excellence and leadership. As Project Manager for a client-based research project with Xelerate Learning, she delivered strategic recommendations through meticulous analysis and professional communication. Her outstanding project management skills and dedication added real value to the organisation.

Muhammad Shafqat Wasim

Shafqat demonstrated exceptional professionalism and initiative during a live business project with Sage People. Through rigorous research and critical analysis, they delivered a high-quality report with actionable insights, earning praise and an invitation to Sage’s head office.

Alanna Francis

Alanna’s journey on the Young Enterprise programme showcases resilience, creativity, and leadership. She transformed her vision into DoQuMate, an AI-powered educational platform, pitched to investors, and developed a functional prototype. Her innovation and determination earned a £1,500 prize fund, making her an inspiring role model.

Group Award: Rana Moazzam Latif, Irfan Iqbal, Muhammad Sohel Ahammad, Muhammad Nauman Shaukat, Abu Huraira and Muhammad Amjad

Rana, Irfan, Muhammad Sohel, Muhammad Nauman, Muhammad Amjad, and Abu delivered an outstanding sustainability strategy for Malaysia Airlines, proposing a practical plan to cut in-flight food waste by 23%. Their innovative meal pre-ordering system and reward campaign earned client praise, with several recommendations selected for pilot implementation.

Olivia Coleman

Olivia exemplifies dedication to professional growth through active engagement with the Beds, Bucks & Herts network and ICAEW. Her participation in the School’s mentoring scheme, building strong industry connections and gaining valuable insights, reflects commitment to continuous learning and contribution to the professional community.

Ammar Ibrahim

Ammar exemplifies initiative and commitment to professional growth through active engagement with the Beds, Bucks & Herts network and ICAEW. His participation in the School’s mentoring scheme with TC Group reflects a proactive approach to learning and networking, making him a deserving candidate for this award.

Sally Hopper

Sally exemplifies dedication and excellence, completing her doctoral thesis a year ahead of schedule while holding a demanding HR Director role. Her research on organisational change impressed examiners for its academic rigor and practical impact, marking her as an outstanding scholar.

Nadine Goldthorpe

Nadine exemplifies exceptional scholarship and impact. Her doctoral research delivered actionable insights that shaped digital collaboration at UH, while her mentoring, publications, and advocacy for the DBA enriched both academia and industry. Nadine’s ability to turn complex challenges into transformative solutions makes her an outstanding recipient.

Malaysia Airlines

Malaysian Airlines has shown exceptional commitment to Hertfordshire Business School through a dynamic partnership that enriches student learning. From sustainability projects and hackathons to keynote talks and cultural engagement, their ongoing support provides real-world insights and opportunities, exemplifying the qualities honored by the Dean’s Enterprise Business Partner Award.

Enterprise Mobility

Enterprise Mobility has shown exceptional commitment to student employability at HBS. Through initiatives like graduate-style interviews at Industry Day and active participation on the Advisory Board, they provide invaluable insights and opportunities. Their proactive engagement and dedication to developing future talent.

Incisive Media

Incisive Media has shown outstanding commitment to student development, earning the Dean’s Placement Partner of the Year Award. By offering valuable placement opportunities and full-time roles, they provide mentorship and career pathways that empower students to thrive in the industry.

MBDA

MBDA exemplifies outstanding partnership and commitment to degree apprenticeships. Their proactive support, quick issue resolution, and dedication to nurturing future talent set a benchmark for excellence. By championing apprenticeships and providing exceptional opportunities, MBDA demonstrates true leadership and collaboration.

Priscilla Enobun

Priscilla exemplifies the values of Hertfordshire Business School through academic excellence, peer mentorship, and lasting alumni engagement. Now a Senior Financial Officer at the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, she continues to inspire students by sharing her expertise and supporting our community.

Matthew Blakemore

Matthew Blakemore exemplifies innovation and leadership. A 2011 graduate, he is now among the UK’s Top 100 Most Influential People in Tech, CEO of AI Caramba!, and a global AI governance contributor. Through mentorship and guest lectures, Matthew inspires future leaders, making him a truly deserving Alumni Partner of the Year.

TC Group

TC Group demonstrates exceptional commitment to developing future business leaders. As an active Advisory Board member, they provide strategic insights shaping our programmes and support Accounting students through mentoring initiatives.

Sage

Sage People has shown exceptional commitment to student success through curriculum input, live projects, and industry engagement. From hosting students and providing real-world experiences to creating learning resources and delivering keynotes, their proactive support exemplifies partnership excellence.

Stream

Stream showcases the power of collaboration and transparency in the water sector. By unlocking data to drive sustainability, it empowers innovators and researchers while engaging students through live client projects. This initiative bridges academic learning with real-world impact, fostering skills and contributing to meaningful environmental change.

UK Civil Service - Priscilla Enobun

Priscilla exemplifies dedication and excellence. As a senior financial officer and proud alumna, she actively supports our Business School through alumni and industry engagement, sharing invaluable insights with students. Her commitment, professional achievements, and inspiring mentorship make her an outstanding ambassador.

Communities 1st - Deborah Olagoroye

Deborah delivered an exceptional Client Project with Communities 1st, creating a detailed Social Supermarket Feasibility Study. Her work included operational models, cost analysis, governance planning, and partnership strategies. Praised for her proactive approach and practical solutions, Deborah’s project earned industry acclaim and was voted best-presented at the PG Symposium 2025.

MBA Field Specialist Programme

The MBA Field Specialist Programme at HBS delivers dynamic, real-world learning through interactive sessions led by industry experts. Prioritising practical insights over theory, it attracted 1,100 attendees and achieved an NPS of 56. This innovative initiative exemplifies HBS’s commitment to career-focused education, bridging academic knowledge with industry practice.