Words by Cheyanne Bryan
Graduation Season may be coming to an end, but standing up for what you believe in is not.
In a world where positive actions often go unrecognised, there are individuals who have made significant contributions to society and are being honoured with honorary degrees! These remarkable individuals have spoken out and advocated for different cause areas, inspiring change, embodying the values of excellence and service.
Join us as we throw our caps in the air and highlight the stories of these honorary degree recipients who have truly made a positive impact on the world.
University: Leeds Beckett University
Area: Domestic Violence advocacy
Known to many as Scary Spicy, but this spice girl is fierce in her commitment to campaigning against domestic violence. In her speech, she compared receiving the degree to performing with the Spice Girls at Wembley Stadium. Not many people know about her advocacy work but she has worked with the likes of Women’s Aid and others to champion their messages.
She even got a custom made gown for the occasion with her signature leopard print.
University: University of Bradford
Area: Education activist and empowerment
Varaidzo (Vee) Kativhu received an honorary doctorate in this year’s ceremony making her the youngest person to do so in University of Bradford history! Recognised for her efforts in girls’ education and empowerment, she is currently working on another PhD in the US. She has an impressive track record as she obtained her undergraduate degree at Oxford and her Masters at Harvard. Vee wears multiple hats and has a slew of awards to her name including being a Diana Award Legacy Award Recipient by Prince Harry and Prince William and working as a Young Leader for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
This does not even scratch the surface of what Vee has done to champion equal opportunities to education, but you can find out more about it on her website here.
University: University of Exeter
Area: Mental health campaigning
Despite reality dating show Love Island being his claim to fame, Dr Alex George is a former A&E doctor and UK Youth Mental Health Ambassador. Ditching the limelight to help with the COVID-19 pandemic, Alex has been awarded an honorary degree by the University of Exeter (where he trained to be a doctor) in recognition of his campaign for extra psychological support for young people. In his acceptance speech, he spoke about the death of his brother and how that spurred him on to campaign for others struggling with their mental health.
University: Loughborough University
Area: Physical health and wellbeing
Presenter and fitness coach, Joe Wicks MBE was awarded an honorary degree for his commitment to health and wellbeing, with special note to his "PE with Joe" series which ran during the pandemic. Wicks expressed gratitude for the recognition, citing the university's esteemed reputation in sport and health. Despite his success with the Body Coach brand, known for its large social media following, Wicks remains dedicated to improving public health by freely sharing advice on his platforms.
Congratulations to all 2024 graduates!
At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article.
Change Mental Health. This Scotland-based and compassion-focused charity provides support to people suffering from a variety of mental illnesses. Support them here.
MK ACT. This organisation works in the Milton Keynes area to provide support for more than 100 families daily who are suffering from the rot of domestic violence. Learn more here.
Ambitious about Autism. This charity focuses on making the education system more accessible and accommodating towards children with autism. Read more here.
