We couldn't do what we do without our incredible student staff who work across the Guild, so we once again hosted a Student Staff Awards Night - a chance to thank them for their hard work and dedication, and show recognition for the impact they have had over the past year.
From Content Creators and Receptionists, to Academic Support and Event Assistants - each and every student staff member are a critical part of the Guild and help us to make it a truly student-led organisation.
A massive thank you to everyone who came along – and an even bigger congrats to all our award winners:
- Empowerment Award - Chancele Van Landu (Student Activities Administrator)
Chancele has taken the initiative to independently develop a plan for co-creating content with students for our Student Leaders Portal - a project that not only shows her leadership but also her commitment to making our resources more relatable and accessible. From thoughtful gestures like kind little notes to taking on larger projects with determination and care - Chancele has been a standout team member of the Activities Team from day one.
- Collaboration Award - Kate Gorkovaia (Data Assistant)
Kate has consistently gone above and beyond, showing initiative, precision, and a deep commitment to excellence in everything she does. Thanks to Kate, no piece of student feedback has gone unnoticed. Her efforts have ensured that student voices are not only heard, but acted upon - driving meaningful change across the University, in particular through work on Survey Superheroes reports which have gone on to shape the AI and Data Privacy Report used by multiple University Stakeholders.
- Radically Inclusive Award - Lia Zaman (EDI Student Consultant)
Through thorough research, community engagement, and strategic alignment with university goals, Lia built a compelling case that won the support of key University groups - including the Faith and Worldview Equality Group and the Student Experience Partnership Board. Thanks to Lia's work, we now have an updated Inclusive Food Policy, a marketing campaign in development and Guild-wide support for awareness efforts, and new kosher meal options launching this term.
- Fun Award - Kelly Irahola (Event Assistant)
Kelly's journey has been incredible. From a regular Give it a Go attendee to becoming one of our brilliant Events Assistants - they’ve truly gone full circle. Whether it’s leading activities with enthusiasm or encouraging others to step out of their comfort zones, Kelly brings a can-do attitude and infectious positivity to every event, creating memorable experiences that truly embody the spirit of our events programme.
- Innovative Award - Ella Kelynack (Content Creator)
Ella has not only produced fantastic content, they have helped shape how we connect with students in a fresh, fun, and authentic way. From quick campus interviews to recapping big moments like Change Week and the Guild Awards, Ella has an eye for capturing everyday moments and turning them into engaging stories using her originality and student-first approach.
- Community-Focused Award - Oliver Stubb (Community Organiser)
Oliver joined us in a brand new role at the Guild this year and has gone above and beyond to bring people together, and really shaped the role into what it is. He has been creative, persistent, and proactive - reaching out to community leaders, making them feel welcome, and driving engagement with initiatives like the Cultural Festival.
- Newcomer Award - Aanya Gaur (Content Creator)
Aanya joined us in September when she was new to the University and student life. She has brought a fresh voice to the Marketing Team, creating content that is thoughtful, engaging, inclusive and resonates deeply with students. She has helped us to capture the joy of events such as Diwali, develop our presence of the St. Luke’s student experience, and brought creativity and authenticity they have produced.
- Spotlight Award - Georgia Williamson (Reception Assistant & Student Activities Administrator)
Georgia started out on our Guild Reception in 2022, and across their time at the Guild they has been supporting more than half of our staff teams with various projects. They have been a friendly face for students in need, a calm and professional presence in challenging moments, and a powerhouse of support behind the scenes. They have brought experience, insight, and a deep understanding of what the Guild needs to thrive - all while being a dedicated student volunteer and a true team player.
- Guild Champion Award - Becky Rowe (Reception Supervisor)
Becky's impact has been so wide-reaching, consistent, and transformative, that we simply couldn’t let it go unrecognised. Becky has been the first impression of the Guild for students and visitors alike on Reception, handling all manner of situations with professionalism, supported students with empathy, and taken on responsibilities that have lifted the entire organisation. Becky has taken on administering the Gender Expression Fund, the Alumni Annual Fund, delivered society training and developed our Reception staff as our first Reception Supervisor. They embody everything the Guild stands for, and we'll be sad to see her leave when she graduates.
We'll be hiring for new student staff over the summer so keep an eye out on Instagram and Handshake for more details.