DerbyStars

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Aimee achieved the Social Media Champion award at Sports Awards 2026 for her incredible work on the Volleyball club's social media channels this year, showvasing her ability to create amazing visuals to promote the club. Aimee has been elected as President of the club for 2026/27 and was also recently elected as a Union Sports Councillor too!

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I would like to recognise Jessica Allen, our exceptional Sports Chair and scholar, in recognition of her outstanding sporting achievements and continued excellence. Jessica recently secured a Bronze medal in the Women’s Singles at the BUCS Badminton Individual Championships in Sheffield, demonstrating her high level of skill, determination, and competitive spirit. In addition, she achieved a Silver medal in the Women’s Doubles event, further highlighting her versatility and consistency at an elite level. Her achievements build on an already impressive profile, including her recent success representing Great Britain in Flag Football at the European Championships. Jessica’s dedication, leadership, and ability to perform at the highest level make her a truly deserving candidate for recognition.

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Tim has represented the University with distinction through his outstanding achievement of winning a BUCS 8-ball Gold Medal. His dedication, perseverance, and sporting excellence have brought pride to the University and serve as an inspiration to other students. This recognition celebrates both his success and his commitment to excellence.

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Isaac consistently goes above and beyond in supporting his students, creating an inclusive, engaging, and encouraging learning environment where everyone feels valued. He is always approachable, takes the time to provide meaningful guidance, and demonstrates a genuine commitment to helping students succeed both academically and personally. His recent Lecturer of the Year award is a testament to the lasting impact he has on those he teaches. Through his dedication, compassion, and willingness to exceed expectations, Isaac has made a significant positive difference to the student experience and is a truly deserving recipient of this nomination.

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Phoebe has contributed massively to the development of sport at the Union this academic year whilst also acting as Captain of the Women's Hockey team who enjoyed their most successful season in BUCS this year!

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Sophie has been a valuable Sports Councillor this year, helping sport to thrive at the Union. Sophie has also competed for the Badminton Women's 1st team this year, and despite picking up an injury continued to support her team from the sideline. Sophie's commitment to sport saw her achieve Sports Personality of the Year at Sports Awards 2026!

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Neve is one of the most incredible students I have had the opportunity to meet and work with. She is enthusiastic, proactive, and driven; she independently founded her own community group and over the past two years, has grown it into a thriving and sustainable community that continues to make a meaningful impact. She has served as President for two consecutive years, demonstrating strong leadership, commitment and the ability to build and support a dedicated committee team. Alongside this, she also works within the Union Blends commercial team, balancing her employment with her academic studies and leadership responsibilities.

Neve is a consistently dedicated student who volunteers her time to support Union events and actively engages in wider University initiatives whenever possible. She is passionate about representation and advocacy, and notably brought attention to the impact of the 2025 bus service changes on disabled students, ensuring their experiences and concerns were heard. Her ability to combine leadership, advocacy, and community-building makes her an outstanding role model within our student community.

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For providing amazing performances through the day (Varsity) as always and maintaining a winning attitude.

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Guiding of new students with academic rigours

Advocating for student learning

Being a support system to students who are overwhelmed

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Aneeka has shown exceptional dedication in her role as a Student Representative, consistently advocating for her fellow students and ensuring their voices are heard. She is approachable, supportive, and always willing to listen to concerns, offering guidance and helping students access the right support when needed. Her commitment to improving the student experience, combined with her positive attitude and genuine care for others, has had a meaningful impact on those around her. Aneeka's efforts have strengthened the sense of community within the University, making her a truly deserving recipient of this recognition.

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Jade is an exceptional and truly inspirational student who consistently demonstrates resilience, determination, and compassion. Despite living with the physically and emotionally draining condition of endometriosis, she continues to strive for excellence in her studies, maintaining a strong commitment to achieving high grades

What makes Jade stand out even more is her ability to balance these challenges while raising a family; an achievement that speaks volumes about her strength, dedication, and time management. She approaches every obstacle with positivity and perseverance, refusing to let her circumstances define her limits.

Beyond her own accomplishments, Jade is always willing to support and uplift others. She embodies kindness and selflessness, regularly offering help and encouragement to her peers.

Jade is not only a hardworking student but also a role model to those around her. Her determination, resilience, and generosity make her truly deserving of this nomination.

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David has been a reliable and approachable Student Representative who is always willing to support his fellow students. He takes the time to listen to their concerns, offers practical guidance, and helps create a positive and inclusive environment. His commitment to supporting others makes him a deserving recipient of this recognition.

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Jessica has had a great year as Union Sports Chair this year, she has supported sport at the Union tremendously and been a figurehead for students to look up to as an athlete too.

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Sharan is such a wonderful, genuine, and caring person. Sharan has made such an impact on so many students and has made a lot of impact on the university, her way of fighting for student and staff voices is truly remarkable. Sharan has pushed for transparency and change, for the greater good. Without some of Sharan’s insights and without her bravery of being a voice for the voiceless, I don’t think that things would be the same (regarding true honesty from the student body). Sharan is incredibly empowering and inspiring.

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David has been a strong advocate for the student voice, ensuring that the views and interests of his peers are represented effectively. He approaches his role with professionalism, integrity, and a genuine desire to make a positive difference. His dedication to improving the student experience is second to none.

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Arooba has had a positive impact on her fellow students through her kindness, encouragement, and willingness to help others. As a Student Representative, she creates a supportive environment where students feel heard and valued.

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Hayley has been a dedicated Student Representative who consistently advocates for her fellow students. She listens to feedback, communicates effectively, and encourages others to make the most of their university experience.

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I would like to applaud Abbie Smith for her excellent sporting achievements and valuable contribution to the student community.

Abbie recently secured a Silver medal in the Women’s Doubles at the BUCS Badminton Individual Championships in Sheffield, showcasing her strong teamwork, skill, and commitment to the sport. She has also gone on to achieve further success, earning a Bronze medal at the Senior English Nationals alongside her doubles partner. Beyond her sporting accomplishments, Abbie is an active PAL leader and student representative, consistently supporting and engaging with fellow students. Her ability to balance competitive sport with leadership and peer support makes her highly deserving of recognition.

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Chris has an infectious positivity that brightens every room he walks into, lifting the spirits of both colleagues and students alike. His enthusiasm, kindness, and genuine warmth create a welcoming atmosphere that makes people feel valued and supported. Alongside his positive outlook, Chris consistently demonstrates dedication and professionalism in everything he does, qualities that were rightly recognised through his recent Staff of the Year award. He is a fantastic ambassador for the Union, and his uplifting presence and commitment make him truly deserving of this DerbyStar recognition.

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Harry consistently supports students by ensuring they are aware of opportunities that can enhance their academic, professional, and personal development. I have personally benefited from his guidance, as he has taken the time to signpost me to valuable opportunities and provide encouragement that has positively influenced my university journey. His approachable nature, genuine care, and willingness to invest in students' success have made a real difference, not only to me but to many others. Harry creates an environment where students feel supported, valued, and empowered to reach their potential, making him truly deserving of this recognition.