King's College London

Inaugurated in 2022, the awards celebrate our students’ outstanding impact on King’s Business School and our wider community, whether through their work as student representatives, mentors, student societies and beyond.

The ceremony also included a speech by alumnus Eid Aljazairli (BSc Accounting & Finance 2024) who told the inspiring story of his journey from fleeing Syria as a refugee to complete his interrupted education in the UK and compete as an elite swimmer.

The Innovator Award: Ijeoma Chuku

For an individual, committee or society that has developed, created, or implemented an innovation or initiative that will enhance student experience at KBS, serve the broader University or better the local community.

Ijeoma won this award for her work on innovating and implementing new learning and teaching models, for example real-world assessments, the Business Accelerator module, an improved Personal Tutoring system and expanded student internship opportunities.

Society of the Year Award: King’s Entrepreneurs Society

For a society that has continually delivered excellent events, activities, and an inclusive community for its members helping them to grow personally and professionally.

The Entrepreneurs Society won this for an active events programme and partnerships and campus ambassador programmes with companies such as LinkedIn, Notion, Canva, TechStars. It also developed the ‘Launch London’ social club for student entrepreneurs and was involved in the launch of Strand Ventures; the first inter-university student-run venture fund backing student founders. Two further highlights were the international MedTech competition with the National University of Singapore and a partnership with Affiliated Stanford Entrepreneurial Students London.

Sustainable Engagement Award: Hector Laine

This award recognises an individual or group who has championed sustainability across KBS and the wider University.

Hector’s ‘Clean It’ initiative organises regular litter-picking walks in London and has expanded to Tanzania, mobilising students and volunteers to take direct action in keeping public spaces clean.

He brings his commitment to sustainability in his role as Events Officer at King’s Entrepreneurs, facilitating the discussion of responsible business practices and the intersection of innovation and sustainability.

As CEO and Co-Founder of EcoSeats, Hector is also pioneering a more sustainable approach to air travel, addressing inefficiencies and environmental challenges within the aviation industry.

Diversity & Inclusion Award: Indian National Students Association

This individual, committee or society have engaged in considerable efforts to help make KBS a more equal and inclusive place for its students and staff.

The King’s branch of the Indian National Students Association (INSA) has opened up Indian culture to students from all backgrounds through an events programme welcoming everyone to experience the richness of Indian traditions.

From Diwali and Holi celebrations to career networking events and academic talks with prominent figures like former cabinet ministers, authors, journalists and actors, INSA has created a space for cultural exchange where students from diverse communities come together, celebrate, and learn.

Exceptional Leadership Award Demir Timuray

An individual who has contributed significantly to the KBS community through exceptional acts of leadership. They have invested significant time, energy, and consideration to serve their peers.

In the words of one of his nominators: “I don’t know where he finds the time! His leadership and hands on involvement with the ILEAD widening project, IGIVE, has been truly exceptional - bringing other students with him to support under privileged children in London schools and opening their eyes and ambitions to university and business education.”

Community Engagement Award: Hana Shiraishi

This individual has continually shown up for and engaged in KBS events and opportunities, contributing positively to the KBS community, and enhancing the student experience in the process.

Hana was honoured for her work on the CAPCO Immersion week project and commitment to 4 different roles: peer career coach, student assistant, student advisory board representative, and a voluntary student representative role.

“She is super energised and always engages with strong passion and a sense of responsibility.”

Outstanding Representative of the Year (4 Awards)

An Academic Representative that has committed to their role, sharing the views of their peers, and helping motivate positive change at KBS and beyond.

First Year Winner: Janelle Kairat

“Janelle has been brilliant to work with this year. She represents the opinions of her peers confidently and has been very engaged in her role.”

Second Year Winner: Finn Feddersen

“Has demonstrated amazing leadership and dedication through his role as Student Representative, always being open to collecting our feedback and making us feel valued”.

Final Year Winner: Isabel Kershner

“She dedicates a lot of her time helping King’s Business School and helping other students become more aware of anything going on. Ultimately, I don't think anyone has put this much effort in!”

Postgrad Winner: Aaron Palaparthy

“Aaron has made every effort to be inclusive and build community with his fellow students. He's also taken on additional responsibilities. He’s a great leader and I look forward to seeing what he gets up to next.”

Engagement Associate of the Year: Miriam Talabi

This Engagement Associate has truly committed to their role, serving their students fully and, as a result, helping make their first-year journey memorable. They are an inspirational role model and valuable resource to their students.

“Miriam has been an incredible leader for all student associates, ensuring equal representation across the KBS student cohort, while also constantly coming up with inclusive representation practices to improve student experience.”

Most Engaged First Year Award: Hugh Salvador Nethercott

This award recognizes a first-year student who has made a significant impact on the KBS community through leadership, active involvement, and meaningful contributions.

“He reached out asking questions on how to get involved in everything that uni offers. He is an events associate in A&F society, received an offer to do a semester abroad at Bocconi, is planning to do a placement year in his 3rd year, and is running to become a Treasurer at Abacus society for next year. This year he also joined 180 consulting society as a Consulting Associate… I have no doubt that he'll play a huge role in King’s Business School's community in his future years at King's.”