From groundbreaking research to grassroots initiatives, the University of Manchester celebrated its changemakers on Thursday 8th May, hosting the annual Making a Difference Awards ceremony, celebrating the inspiring social responsibility achievements of staff, students, alumni and external partners. This year, the Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health (FBMH) featured prominently, reflecting its commitment to health equity, global impact and inclusive research and education with six category winners and seven highly commended awards.

Social responsibility is embedded across the University — from research and teaching to public engagement and operations. The Awards highlight the breadth of initiatives making a positive impact locally and globally, with categories including environmental sustainability, widening participation, equality, diversity and inclusion.

From over 130 entries, judges recognised 14 winners and 23 highly commended projects, including several FBMH-led initiatives. These included a project addressing inequalities in asthma diagnosis and care, improving access and outcomes for patients and an initiative encouraging underrepresented students to consider careers in research, furthering our aim to widen participation in science and medicine.

FBMH students also led a global oral health education initiative in Kenya, exemplifying the Faculty’s strong culture of student-led public health outreach. Another winning project promoted sustainable transport and healthy lifestyles through bicycle use, supporting both environmental and personal wellbeing.

Two University Medals for Social Responsibility were also awarded. Among the recipients was Charles Bakolo Mvula, an FBMH alumnus, recognised for leading a youth-driven environmental sustainability movement in Malawi — highlighting the global influence of our graduates.

President and Vice-Chancellor Professor Duncan Ivison said:

“Tonight, we’ve seen the extraordinary gift of expertise, care and commitment from our University community. It’s been inspiring to witness this work.”

Dr Julian Skyrme, Executive Director of Social Responsibility and Civic Engagement, added:

“These Awards recognise the incredible work our staff, students, alumni and partners do to enhance the wellbeing of society and the environment.”

Professor Nalin Thakkar, Vice-President for Social Responsibility, concluded:

“The Making a Difference Awards are a true celebration of extraordinary individuals and teams and the spirit within our University; an inspiring reminder of how passion, dedication, and vision can drive meaningful change. As we shape our strategy for 2035, our award winners illuminate the path forward, showing us the remarkable potential we have to transform lives and communities, both locally and globally’.

As we look to the future, FBMH remains central to the University’s mission — using science, education and wisdom to make a difference where it matters most.

More Information 

• See the full list of all our 2025 winners and highly commended 
• Watch our winners’ films
• Watch the Awards ceremony

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