🎉 Brighton Students' Union Awards 2025 🎉
The BSU Union Awards celebrate the incredible contributions of students and staff at the University of Brighton. These awards recognise excellence in teaching, student support, academic engagement, and volunteerism—highlighting those who’ve made a real difference to the university community in the 2024/25 academic year.
🏆 Winners were announced at the awards ceremony held at the Leonardo Royal Hotel Brighton Waterfront on Thursday, 1st May 2025.
🎓 University Staff Awards
🌟 Inspirational and Motivational Teaching Award
Dr. Yousif Shamsaldeen
Dr. Shamsaldeen creates a learning environment where students feel supported, empowered, and inspired. With a patient and thoughtful approach, they help students understand complex material and build confidence in their abilities, leaving a lasting impact on their academic journey.
🤝 Outstanding Support Award
Dan Bennett
Dan brings incredible energy and genuine care to every interaction. Known for offering both academic guidance and emotional support, Dan creates a safe, inclusive environment where students feel seen, heard, and encouraged.
✍️ High Quality Assessment and Feedback Award
Louise Fitzgerald
Louise delivers thoughtful, constructive feedback that helps students grow. Their clear communication and academic guidance empower students to improve their work, build confidence, and feel more connected to their learning.
đź”— Excellence in Collaboration and Partnership with Students Award
The Library Team
From partnering with student groups on Black History Month and LGBTQ+ History Month, to extending library hours and supporting BSU’s food bank campaign, the Library Team are a model of meaningful student collaboration. Their work has improved accessibility, inclusion, and wellbeing across campus.
🎠Student Awards
🆕 New Society of the Year
Students for Humanity
From raising funds for flood relief in Kenya to running donation drives and events, this new society has brought students together around global issues and created real change and awareness at Brighton.
📚 Academic Society of the Year
Engineering Society
Through peer-to-peer sessions, industry workshops, and society collaborations, the Engineering Society has built a strong community for students to grow academically and socially.
🎊 Society of the Year
Women in Business
With regular workshops and a focus on inclusivity, this society has empowered its members and supported professional growth in a welcoming, collaborative space.
🎟️ Society Event of the Year
Drama Society – Winter Play
A standout event that showcased creativity, talent, and teamwork, the Winter Play brought the society together and left audiences truly impressed.
🎤 Course Rep of the Year (Overall Winner)
Zainab Quraishi – School of Applied Sciences
Zainab worked tirelessly to improve the student experience, resolving issues around placements, exam feedback, and staff communication with dedication and leadership.
🏛️ Central & Membership Services Student Staff Member of the Year
Lorna Leatherdale-Edwards
Lorna’s photography has helped shape how BSU celebrates student life—creating inclusive, authentic visuals that capture the essence of our community.
🏨 Commercial Student Staff Member of the Year
Tom Flaherty – The Venue
From major events to training new staff, Tom has been a key part of The Venue team—bringing energy, reliability, and a brilliant attitude to everything they do.
🏅 Honorary Lifetime Membership of Brighton Students' Union
John Wilson
John has served as one of BSU’s External Trustees for the past eight years, offering guidance on governance, finance, and strategy. His attention to detail and financial expertise helped transform the organisation during his tenure. As he steps down this year after completing the maximum term, we’re proud to recognise his incredible contribution with this award.