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Student Nursing Associate Melissa Moyo (pictured in the first image below) was nominated for three awards and received two: the ‘Mary Seacole Award for Outstanding Contribution to Diversity and Inclusion’, and ‘Outstanding Contribution to Student Affairs’, following her development of student-led initiatives aimed at improving the learning experience for students.

This included a student-focused EDI toolkit addressing microaggressions and unconscious bias in practice, as well as practical resources such as a ‘Learning on Shift’ guide and a structured placement brief designed to support equitable access to learning opportunities.

Judges said Melissa was: “an exceptional role model as a student, and will likely go on to create lasting national impact for the student body.”

“I feel incredibly honoured and grateful,” Melissa said, “It’s very encouraging to see student-led work recognised, particularly work that focuses inclusion, psychological safety, and improving the experience for others.

“If I could offer any advice to other nursing students, it would be to trust your perspective.

“If you notice a gap or something that you feel could be improved, don’t be afraid to act on it – you don’t have to wait until you are qualified to make a meaningful difference; small ideas can grow into impactful change.”

Another win came for student Ikechukwu (Ike) Onyenaobia, who was awarded Student Nursing Associate of the year after leading work around patient-centred care, safeguarding, and improving outcomes, particularly a sleep-hygiene intervention that made a measurable difference to service users. The nomination was also a reflection of Ike’s commitment to advocacy, supporting vulnerable individuals, supporting colleagues, and helping to shape a more inclusive environment for international staff and apprentices.

Judges said: “Ike’s commitment to dignity, mental health, and the connection between physical and psychological wellbeing is evident in every interaction. He has overcome significant visa, cultural, and linguistic barriers to pursue his vocation, showing resilience and determination that will undoubtedly influence national conversations about accessibility to apprenticeships for international students. He is passionate about promoting the Nursing Associate role, inspiring others to enter the profession, and using his platform to contribute to wider systemic change. His drive, insight, and compassion mark him as a future leader - someone who will not only improve care at the bedside but also shape the future of nursing on a much larger scale. "

“If I could offer any advice to current or prospective Student Nursing Associate and Nursing students, it would be this,” Ike said, “lead with compassion, always.

“Believe that your background is a strength, not a barrier; seek opportunities to make small, meaningful changes – they often create the biggest impact.

“Surround yourself with people who challenge and support you, and most importantly, remember why you started – that purpose will carry you through the toughest days.

“I am proud to represent the ��������, and I hope my journey encourages others to see what’s possible.”

The university’s quadruple win was completed by success for Katie Connor (pictured in the second image below) in the ‘Learner of the Year: Post-registration’ category. Postgraduate Children’s Nurse Katie completed her diploma on the Community Nurse Specialist Practitioner programme (CNSP) at the University.

Judges said: "Katie Connor is an exceptional, evidence-informed practitioner who drives meaningful change in child health by translating research into practice, reducing inequalities, and innovating care delivery - demonstrated through her development of impactful 7-minute briefings, creative asthma education initiatives using songs, and her commitment to safeguarding, multidisciplinary team collaboration, and person-centred care for vulnerable children."

The Student Nursing Times Awards recognise the very best nursing and midwifery education providers and students across the UK. Recent years have seen the ��������, which is one of the largest providers of nursing and midwifery undergraduate education in the North, consistently shortlisted across an exceptionally high number of categories.

Karen Heggs, Director of Nursing and Midwifery at the ��������, said: “This was another excellent year of success for our amazing team and our students. It is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate together and reflect on the hard work and dedication of our entire team.

“Everyone in our Nursing, Midwifery and Nursing Associates teams absolutely go above and beyond to support our incredible students and I know they will be delighted to see this recognition of Melissa, Ike and Katie’s success.”