University business school students win national awards | News

August 2026

Business School students celebrate national award success across events, tourism and food science

By Claire Huggins

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It has been a summer of celebration and national recognition for University College Birmingham's Business School, with students winning major awards across events management, tourism and food science.

From national student awards and industry accolades to prestigious research competitions, four outstanding students have showcased the talent, dedication and ambition found across the University.

Two UCB students win national AEME Student Awards 2026

University College Birmingham achieved an impressive double victory at the 2026 Association for Event Management Education (AEME) Student Awards, with students winning two of the five national categories available.

Raphaela Lee wins AEME Best Academic Achievement Award

Events Management BA (Hons) student Raphaela Lee was named the overall winner of the Best Academic Achievement Award, recognising her exceptional academic performance and outstanding International Research Project.

Reflecting on her success, Raphaela said:

"I feel very honoured to have been nominated and recognised in this way. This award is not just for me but for the teaching team who have been so patient with all my endless questions. Their guidance and support played a huge part in helping me achieve what I did."

Ayesha Ayaz named AEME Most Inspirational Student 2026

Joining Raphaela among the winners was fellow Events Management BA (Hons) student Ayesha Ayaz, who received the Most Inspirational Student Award.

The award celebrates students who inspire those around them through their achievements, commitment and positive attitude.

Ayesha said:

"Receiving this award is something I'm genuinely proud of. My time at UCB has given me so many opportunities to grow, challenge myself and meet incredible people.

"It's been a privilege to represent the University, and I'm grateful to everyone who has been part of that journey. This recognition encourages me to keep saying yes to new opportunities and to continue making a positive impact wherever I can."

The awards were particularly significant as University College Birmingham secured two overall winners from a highly competitive national field.

Callum Davis awarded ITT Student of the Year 2026

International Tourism Management BA (Hons) graduate Callum Davis has been recognised as the Institute of Travel and Tourism (ITT) Student of the Year 2026.

The prestigious award honours students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, professional development and commitment to the tourism industry.

During his time at University College Birmingham, Callum secured international internships in Rome and Miami, completed a placement year at Red Carnation's Hotel 41 and graduated with a first-class degree.

Reacting to the award, Callum said:

"Winning this award is a great honour for me and just goes to show that the hard work I have put in over the last four years has paid off. Not just with this award but also with the first-class degree I have been awarded."

Callum added:

"The key to my success has been hard work, dedication and an open mind to trying new things and seeking opportunities. As a student at UCB, there are many great opportunities during your course and taking them helped to broaden my understanding of the tourism industry."

As part of the recognition, Callum has been invited to attend the ITT Summer Party at the Houses of Parliament, where he will have the opportunity to connect with industry professionals and fellow graduates.

Holly Grove wins IFST Future Scientist Competition for bakery research

Adding to the Business School's successful summer, Holly Grove, a Bakery and Patisserie Technology BSc (Hons) graduate, claimed first place in the Institute of Food Science and Technology (IFST) Future Scientist Competition – South of England and Wales Final for her research presentation, Ultra Fine Bran and its Feasibility in Sweet Bakery.

The annual competition gives undergraduate and master's students the opportunity to present their scientific research to a panel of food industry professionals, with entrants judged on scientific quality, originality, innovation and communication skills.

Holly, who has since secured an internship with Mondelez International within its Cross Category Productivity Team, credited her time at University College Birmingham with helping to prepare her for success.

"It was an honour to win the Young Scientist Award for my presentation of my dissertation research” she said.

“My presentation assessments while at UCB helped build my confidence and communication skills, and the lecturer support with my dissertation was invaluable!"

"Their awards are thoroughly deserved and showcase the exceptional calibre of students we have within our Business School."

Richard Behan Deputy Dean for Curriculum Development and Student Recruitment (Interim)

Celebrating outstanding achievement across UCB’s Business School

The achievements of Raphaela, Ayesha, Callum and Holly demonstrate the breadth of talent across University College Birmingham's Business School and the impact students are making both academically and professionally.

Whether through award-winning research, academic excellence, industry placements or inspiring others, each has exemplified the dedication, ambition and professionalism that continue to make University College Birmingham students stand out on the national stage.

“Seeing Raphaela, Ayesha, Callum and Holly recognised on a national stage is a source of immense pride for UCB,” said Richard Behan, Deputy Dean for Curriculum Development and Student Recruitment (Interim)

“Their awards are thoroughly deserved and showcase the exceptional calibre of students we have within our Business School.

“We value our strong relationships with partners such as AEME, ITT, IFST and Mondelez International, and we hope this recognition serves as the springboard for even greater achievements ahead for them.”

Congratulations to all our award winners on their outstanding achievements.

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