.jpg)
National award ceremonies took place in 18 countries. The British Council received over 1,800 applications from alumni across over 120 countries, representing 140+ UK universities.
Our incredible alumni were named in two of the four Study UK categories across four different countries.
In China, two alumni were recognised in the Culture, Creativity and Sport category.
Shunhao Jia (Sport Management MSc, 2013) was named the winner. He is the First Team Assistant Coach at Dalian Yingbo Football Club. On winning the award, he said:
“Many thanks to Loughborough University and the University of Birmingham. My professors and advisors gave me a lot of support and helped me find my coaching talent and become a good football coach.”
Fangjin (Virginia) Zhang (Virtual Product Design MSc, 2009) was named a finalist in the same category. She is the Vice President of Zero-One Artificial Intelligence Technology Research Institute. She shared an insight into her Loughborough experience:
“The University emphasises the transition from education to the real world, encourages further education and entrepreneurship, and provides effective guidance during the learning process. I obtained this award all because of my Loughborough University education.”
In India, alum Aman Dhall (Sport Management MSc, 2011), founder of CommsCredible, won the Culture, Creativity and Sport Award. He said:
“Loughborough University is not just a world-class institution, it is a global ecosystem that brings together diverse perspectives. It shaped how I think about collaboration, sport, and building across borders.”
Aman Dhall pictured right
Two more alumni were named finalists. In Nigeria, author Foluso Agbaje (Accounting and Financial Management BSc, 2013) reached the finals of the Culture, Creativity and Sport category. Foluso’s novels aim to tell the untold stories of Nigeria.
In Saudi Arabia, Director of the Yanbu Research Center, Fahd Ahmed Banakhr (Electrical and Electronic Engineering PhD, 2013), was a finalist in the Science and Sustainability Award – Saudi Arabia category. He said:
“I’m truly honoured to be named a finalist for the Study UK Alumni Awards. This recognition means a great deal to me because it reflects more than an academic journey – it highlights the real-world impact that can grow from a UK education. My time in the UK shaped how I think, lead, and solve problems: with curiosity, evidence, and a commitment to high standards.”
Alumni around the world are making a meaningful impact across industries, sectors, and societies worldwide. Their achievements reflect not only their individual dedication, innovation, and leadership, but also the strength of the education, skills, and global perspective they developed during their time at Loughborough.
Many congratulations to everyone.