British Council awards distinguished Egyptian UK Alumni in recognition of their impact in different fields

 The British Council is delighted to announce the distinguished Egyptian winners of the Study UK Alumni Awards 2023, recognizing the exceptional achievements of UK alumni across various fields. Hosted by the British Ambassador to Egypt Gareth Bayley, the awards ceremony took place yesterday at the British Embassy, marking the eighth year of the Study UK Alumni Awards program. The ceremony was attended by Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Dr Hani Sweilam and Minister for Immigration and Egyptian Expatriates Affairs, Ambassador Soha Gendi, both giving speeches to congratulate the finalists and winners.

This year, British Council Egypt received 97 applications representing 55 different UK universities. Notably, approximately 3300 Egyptian students enroll in UK universities annually, with the UK boasting four out of the top 10 universities globally. Renowned figures, such as former South African President Nelson Mandela and Nobel Prize winner Malala Yousafzai, have studied at UK universities, reinforcing the global impact of British education.

The selected award winners and finalists are exemplary leaders in their respective fields, leveraging their UK university experiences to contribute positively to their communities, industries, and countries. Among this year's inspiring stories, one awardee is dedicated to combating climate change through active involvement in COP27 and other summits, contributing to London's ambition to become the world's largest national park by 2050. Another recipient played a pivotal role in raising awareness of ADHD through compelling drama, while the third, the first Egyptian to study science communication- significantly transforming science communication in Egypt and the MENA region, inspiring future generations. The fourth awardee is revolutionizing banking solutions by integrating entrepreneurship and technology with finance, positively impacting thousands of lives.

Award Categories and Recipients:

Science and Sustainability Award: Dr. Hashem Taher, University of East London, Cardiff University

Culture and Creativity Award: Karim Elshenawy, Goldsmiths-University of London

Social Action Award: Mohamed Elsonbaty, The University of Edinburgh

Business and Innovation Award: Ahmed Abd-Elhamid, The University of Edinburgh

British Ambassador to Egypt Gareth Bayley said: "I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the exceptional individuals recognized tonight for their outstanding contributions in various fields, whether in climate, finance, arts or science. It is noteworthy that three of today’s four winners as well as several of these accomplished finalists are Chevening scholars, highlighting the enduring impact of the UK-Egypt partnership in fostering talent and expertise. Their achievements not only reflect their personal dedication but also showcase the collaborative success between our two countries in the realm of education and leadership development."

Mark Howard, Director British Council Egypt, delivered welcoming remarks, stating, "Tonight, we celebrate the achievements of the outstanding Egyptian alumni of UK universities. Every one of the finalists has used their experience of UK study, and all their own abilities, skills, initiatives, to make a career in which they have made a significant difference. Each and every one of the finalists has a very compelling story to tell."

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Notes to Editors

About the Study UK Alumni Awards

The Alumni Awards were developed by the British Council and UK universities, and were launched by the British Council in September 2014. They are open to alumni currently residing in any country outside the UK, who have studied in the UK, at an officially recognised provider of UK university degree level study for a minimum of a term or semester, or who have been awarded a full UK degree level qualification (or higher), by a UK university, within the last 15 years.

Award winners and finalists are leaders in their fields who have used their experience of studying at a UK university to make a positive contribution to their communities, professions and countries. The Alumni Awards celebrate and showcase the impact and value of a UK higher education and raises the profile and reputation of UK alumni, their former universities, and the whole of UK education.