upReach Annual Report 2023-24 - Report - Page 26
Student Social Mobility Awards
In July of 2024, we hosted our sixth annual Student Social Mobility Awards (SSMAs), which
celebrated the outstanding achievements of undergraduates from lower socio-economic
backgrounds and showcased the incredible work being done by organisations and individuals to
improve social mobility across the UK.
We received a record breaking 285 unique nominations, along with exceptional press coverage of
the event, including 22 press features and a radio interview on BBC Radio Three Counties.
At the 2024 SSMAs:
15%
69%
of Nominees were
previously in care
of Nominees
had parents
who did not go
to university
61%
of Nominees
were previously
eligible for Free
School Meals
68%
from ethnically
diverse
backgrounds
[Winning] symbolises recognition of the resilience and determination that have driven me
from a refugee camp in Lebanon to a prestigious UK university. This achievement af昀椀rms
the value of perseverance and hard work, reinforcing my belief that overcoming adversity
is possible with dedication and support.
- Ali Issa,
Winner of the Outstanding Achievement Award and Tech Sector Award
Read the stories of our shortlisted nominees and winners here
#SSMAzing
Guests at our 2024 SSMAs
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