Heather Paul, the daughter of Gertrude and Senior Lecturer at the Carnegie School of Education has contributed research to the project. During her lifetime, Gertrude had a profound impact on the city of Leeds, being a founder of the Leeds West Indian Carnival, The United Caribbean Association, Leeds International Womens Group, the Afro-Asian Organisation, founder and first chairperson for 7 years of the Leeds West Indian Centre. The project, created in collaboration with Leeds School Library Service by writer and illustrator Salomey Doku, offers a springboard for teachers and students to explore, including the challenges and triumphs of the Windrush Generation and the changing racial relations in British society. Exploring Gertrudes early life, which began in St Kitts, her journey to Leeds during the Windrush era and into her teaching career. Students will then discover more about Gertrudes legacy as a community leader. Speaking about the launch, Heather said: Writing a book about my mother's magnificent achievements in educational and community activism during her career as a Headteacher is a way for me to honour her legacy and share her inspiring story. My mother dedicated her life to making a positive difference in the lives of all children and communities, tackling inequalities, championing fairness and opportunity. Even many years after her passing, the Leeds community wanted to keep her spirit alive by sharing her journey from childhood to becoming a Headteacher with children in schools across Leeds. Through this research and storytelling, I hope to inspire young students to stand up for justice, appreciate the power of education, and remember the incredible impact one person can have in creating a better world. I would like to thank Salomey Doku who lives here in Leeds, is a world-renowned illustrator and a published writer, also Kirsty Fenn who is a Senior Librarian at Leeds City Council Schools Library Service without whom this would not have been possible.
The UKCGE Research Supervision Recognition Programme provides national, peer-reviewed accreditation that recognises the skills, experience, and reflective practice of supervisors across the UK and beyond. Two levels of recognition are available: the Recognised Associate Supervisor Award, designed for those in the early stages of their supervisory journey, and the Recognised Supervisor Award, which recognises experienced supervisors who have demonstrated sustained and effective practice. Those who achieved recognition in the latest application round are: Recognised Supervisor Award Dr Sarah Bowen, Leeds School of Arts Professor Jim Boyne, School of Health Professor Louise Warwick-Booth, School of Health Recognised Associate Supervisor Award Dr Paula Beesley, School of Health Dr Emma Geddes, School of Health Dr Jonathan Moss, Carnegie School of Sport Professor Louise Warwick-Booth, Associate Director of the Centre for Health Promotion Research, said: I really enjoyed the process of reflective writing that was needed to apply for this accreditation. I found it a welcome opportunity to consider how much I have learned from my PhD students during supervision, panel meetings, examinations and writing for publication together. Considering why we do what we do, and reflecting on this is a key aspect of pedagogical practice. Receiving feedback from colleagues also helped me to think more deeply about how I work, and what I can improve on - I am still learning after many years of teaching, which is great. It was wonderful news too to have a positive outcome. Dr Jonathan Moss, Senior Lecturer in Events Management, said: Receiving the Recognised Associate Supervisor Award has given me the opportunity to reflect deeply on my supervisory practice, what I have learned, how I have grown, and where I can continue to develop. Engaging with this award provides a clear and valuable framework for ongoing professional growth, and I am eager to pursue the next stage. More importantly, this recognition reflects the value we place on our research students as a school and institution. It is a testament to the first class team supporting our postgraduate researchers and to our shared commitment to fostering a truly outstanding research community. Funding is still available for colleagues who wish to apply during the current application window (21 March 19 June 2026), please email researcherdevelopment@leedsbeckett.ac.uk if you are interested in applying. Further details about the scheme and award criteria can be found on the UKCGE Research Supervision Recognition Programme website.
A group of ten students from the universitys Carnegie School of Sport took on key operational roles during the showpiece rugby league games at Allegiant Stadium, supporting areas including media operations and talent movement. The opportunity was brokered by a former national rugby league player who now lectures in Sport Management at Leeds Beckett, helping connect students with organisers of the high-profile event. The Las Vegas showcase saw some of rugby leagues biggest names from both hemispheres come together as the sports culture and fanfare took over the famous strip. Throughout the week-long trip, the students contributed across a range of events. These included the headline Leeds Rhinos vs Hull Kingston Rovers Super League fixture and additional Super League matches. There was also a Rugby League 9s tournament featuring Hunslet RLFC and a schools tournament. Third-year Sport Business Management student Patrick Wilkinson worked at the heart of the event throughout the week, including roles in media and talent movement. Patrick said: The trip was full of learning, networking and unforgettable experiences. Every experience added a new layer of understanding about how major sporting events are delivered, promoted, and brought to life on a global stage. Being part of the media and talent movement operation for such a major international event reinforced just how much coordination, precision, and teamwork goes into elite sport off the field. Seeing it up close was an invaluable learning experience and a brilliant way to end the trip. Im heading home motivated, inspired, and even more excited about whats next in sport. Sport Management lecturer James Webster praised the students contribution throughout the week. He said: What an extraordinary week it has been for the students. They were given the incredible opportunity to contribute to a major global sporting event in the worlds capital of sport. A special mention must go to their outstanding contribution to the world-famous Fremont Street fan event, as well as their involvement on match day itself. Our sincere thanks to the NRL team for making this truly unique and invaluable experience possible.
Caryn Cox, who studied BSc Environmental Health from 1991 to 1995, joined St John Ambulance in 1979 as a Cadet and has volunteered with the organisation for the past 47 years. The Order of St John is a Royal Order of Chivalry that can award honours to people or organisations who make a selfless contribution to humanity. Entry is by invitation only and subject to the sanction of HM The King. On receiving the honour, Caryn said: I am humbled to be appointed a Dame within the Order of St John, its an organisation that has been ever present and shaped my life in so many rich and rewarding ways, including my day-to-day work as an NHS Consultant. I have gained so much being a part of this truly fantastic organisation. I continue to be inspired by our St John People both volunteers and staff their dedication, talent and unwavering commitment to serving their communities and saving lives is without bounds. They give thousands of unpaid hours each year to help other people there is nothing more selfless. I am particularly proud of our young people, Badgers and Cadets, who really do embody all we would hope for in our future generations and all those adults and families who support them in their development and make their learning fun and engaging. Caryn has had a wide-ranging career since graduating, mainly working in the NHS, but she also worked extensively for the World Health Organization in Copenhagen, the EU in Strasbourg and recently finished working in the role of Chief Medical Officer and Director of Public Health on the Isle of Man. Caryn added: Learning first aid can and does make a difference to so many peoples lives I would strongly urge anyone who has not recently learnt CPR or how to use a defibrillator to book onto a course now. Find out more about studying Environmental Health at Leeds Beckett: https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/degree-apprenticeship-courses/environmental-health/ https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/subjects/safety-environmental-health/
Taking place at The Rose Bowl Atrium on 16-17 March 2026, the International Circular Fashion Week Conference and a student-led Oxfam Pop-Up will run side by side, creating a dynamic programme of talks, exhibitions, workshops, live performance and retail experiences. Organised collaboratively by Circular Fashion Incubator CIC and students from across the University including fashion, marketing, music and creative disciplines the event showcases how education, enterprise and activism can come together to reshape the future of fashion. Day One: International Circular Fashion Week Conference Monday 16 March 2026 | The Rose Bowl Day One centres on the International Circular Fashion Week Conference a global platform exploring sustainability, innovation and cultural storytelling in fashion. The 2026 edition highlights: Cultural heritage and folklore Traditional craft and repair Upcycling and circular design Bold contemporary expression The conference opens with a keynote from Professor Natascha Radcliffe-Thomas of Ravensbourne University London, examining the myths and realities of circular fashion. Dress historian Phillip Warren, Chair of The Costume Society, will explore The Foundations of Fashion, alongside international speakers from Italy, Pakistan and India. A centrepiece of the day is The Corset Revival Project, a global creative initiative led by Circular Fashion Incubator CIC and Dr Esther Pugh of Leeds Beckett University. The project has rescued 150 corsets from landfill and challenged designers worldwide to transform them using only discarded and reclaimed materials. The reimagined works will be unveiled in a live fashion show and exhibition, with awards presented during the conference. Selected designs will later tour internationally, including an appearance at Global Sustainable Fashion Week Budapest. Day One also features: Sing the Thread, Move the Memory a live cultural performance blending music, movement and craft. A sustainable dye innovation demonstration Panel discussion on communicating and selling handmade and upcycled fashion. A handmade market featuring independent craft fashion, jewellery and accessories. Networking and a closing drinks reception To attend day one in the Knowledge Exchange spaces are limited so you will need to book, but tickets are free to LBU staff and students: International Circular Fashion Week Conference 2026 Tickets, Monday, Mar 16 at 09:00 to Tuesday, Mar 17 at 19:00 | Eventbrite Day Two: Oxfam Pop-Up Conference Programme Tuesday 17 March 2026 | 10:0016:00 On Day Two, the conference continues alongside a vibrant Oxfam Pop-Up Shop, curated and delivered by Leeds Beckett students in collaboration with Oxfam. Running throughout the day, the pop-up will offer preloved clothing, accessories, books and music, supported by live music and a DJ. Students will create a full retail experience including styled rails, serviced fitting rooms, a living feedback wall, donation station and interactive social media activations. In the Knowledge Exchange, a series of Sustainable Fashion TED Talks led by Student Services will explore sustainable fashion from diverse perspectives, including: 10am to 12.00 TED Talks by Student Services in the Knowledge Exchange. 10.00 Wellbeing Gareth Cavill. Feel Good, Look Good, Do good. 10.25 Disability and Inclusion Amy Hambrook 10. 50 Global Village Moira Lundi Samson. Preloved Across Borders: What Global Cultures Teach Us About Sustainable Fashion. 11.15 Student Money Ben Turney-Chastney. Is Sustainable Fashion Affordable Fashion. 11.40 Jobs and Careers Ben Robertson - Wear Your Values: Building a Sustainable Career That Actually Fits Book for free online. Hands-on Denim Upcycling and Personalisation Workshops, facilitated by fashion students, will invite participants to repair, embroider and customise garments using donated or personal items bringing circular principles to life. Research into consumer behaviour will also take place during the event in partnership with the Retail Institute, adding an academic dimension to the live retail environment. A movement, not just an event Dr Esther Pugh said: "Experience fashion like never before! Our multi-sensory circular fashion event is designed to immerse you in every stitch, story and sound. Discover the movement, engage your senses and be part of the change. See you there!" Andrea Benahmed Djilali of Circular Fashion Incubator CIC added: Each corset is a canvas for reimagining what fashion can mean in todays world, and we are so excited to see the many diverse approaches of all our creatives. Together, the International Circular Fashion Week Conference and the Oxfam Pop-Up demonstrate how circular fashion connects heritage craft, global dialogue, student enterprise and social impact all within one collaborative, two-day programme. Staff and students passionate about sustainability, heritage, creativity and circular innovation are warmly invited to attend, collaborate or support the movement. Event Details 16-17 March 2026 The Rose Bowl Atrium Leeds Beckett University For more information on day one: info@circularfashionincubator.com For more information on day two: e.pugh@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
In the lecture on Wednesday 11 March, Professor Sharp will explore how his career has been shaped not by a single planned pathway, but by the interaction between serendipity, strategic thinking and strong professional relationships. He argues that impactful academic careers emerge when curiosity, preparedness and self-determination allow individuals to recognise and act on unexpected opportunities. Professor Sharp said: During my early work in biomedical science and smart health technologies, openness to new directions enabled interdisciplinary research, innovation and real-world applications. These experiences demonstrate how research impact often develops when different subjects work together and when universities collaborate with partners outside academia. A central theme of the lecture will be his transition into academic leadership, including roles as Head of School and Dean. Professor Sharp will reflect on how this shift changed his focus from individual achievement towards creating environments in which others can thrive. He highlights how leadership is a collective endeavour - one that enables collaboration, innovation and shared success across teams and institutions. Professor Sharp also emphasises how strategy plays a vital role alongside chance, providing clarity, shared values and long-term direction while still allowing space for creativity and emerging opportunities. Under his leadership, a strong focus on strategic partnerships has helped position Leeds Beckett University as a trusted partner across local, regional and national health, care, policy and research systems. Professor Sharp added: These partnerships have delivered tangible public benefits, including increased research income, expanded placement and workforce opportunities, embedded research collaborations and greater influence on policy and professional practice. The inaugural lecture celebrates not only Professor Sharps career achievements but also the wider role of universities in fostering partnership, innovation and positive social change. This lecture, which takes place at the Rose Bowl on the City Campus and online, is part of Leeds Beckett University's inaugural professorial lecture series. To book a space please visit - https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/events/inaugural-lectures/professor-duncan-sharp/
The Leeds City Challenge, unveiled at a launch event on Friday 27 February 2026, will support students and recent graduates to develop business ideas that tackle some of the most pressing challenges facing the city and surrounding region. Bringing together civic leaders, business figures, entrepreneurs, staff and students, the event marked the start of a programme focused on innovation, inclusive growth and tangible civic impact. A 10,000 boost for bold ideas At the heart of the challenge is a 10,000 prize funded by Leeds Beckett University, underlining the university's commitment to backing the next generation of entrepreneurs. The Leeds City Challenge is open to all students from first-year undergraduates through to PhD candidates - as well as alumni up to 18 months after graduation. Participants will propose innovative business ideas responding directly to challenges within Leeds and the wider city region. The initiative is the first challenge of its kind to be launched by a UK university. The programme will include enterprise workshops, expert mentoring and a shortlisting process, culminating in a final pitch event where shortlisted teams will present their ideas to a high-profile judging panel. Civic leadership and collaboration The launch opened with remarks from Professor George Lodorfos, Dean of Leeds Business School, followed by Vice Chancellor Professor Peter Slee. A keynote address was delivered by Ed Whiting OBE, Chief Executive of Leeds City Council, who highlighted both the opportunities and inequalities within the city and encouraged students to engage directly with the challenges Leeds faces over the coming decade. Professor Lebene Richmond Soga, Professor of Entrepreneurship and Management Practice at Leeds Business School and Academic Director of the LBS Centre for Entrepreneurship and Knowledge Exchange, outlined how the challenge connects student creativity and ambition with the needs of the city's economy. More than 20 students have already signed up to take part. Ed Whiting OBE, Chief Executive of Leeds City Council, said: "Leeds is a city that is growing and changing, we're a big and diverse city, but we have poverty, inequality and gaps in life expectancy between different wards in our city. We have to close those gaps. I hope the students leading the Leeds City Challenge and getting involved will really get stuck into those challenges and help us make the most of the decade ahead." Professor Peter Slee, Vice Chancellor, Leeds Beckett University, said: "It's a brilliant opportunity for students to be involved in real-life learning that makes a difference to communities, organisations and people. This is an anchor project because it's linking our organisation with others in common purpose. It's about helping Leeds to grow and thrive and for our students to make a difference while gaining skills and experience that will be unique." Professor Lebene Soga, Professor of Entrepreneurship and Management Practice at Leeds Business School said: "This is a unique platform for our students to think about Leeds and make an impact. We are a university for Leeds, and this challenge offers our students an opportunity to think about the problems that this city faces. Business ideas solve problems, and good businesses solve great problems - we want our students to think that way and be problem solvers for our city." Student Gemma Hunt, studying for an MA in Entrepreneurship and Business Development said: "My idea is about youth unemployment and in order to be able to do this challenge, the experience and support of the university and Leeds City Council will be really beneficial." Student Senyo Kofi Agbleze, studying for an MSc in Supply Chain Management and Logistics said: "You can identify a problem in the classroom and take it to the real world, to make an impact, to make lives better, to make the city better. I need to put my entrepreneur cap on and take action, this is an opportunity and a platform for me to push forward." Supporting Leeds Anchors and Leeds Ambitions The Leeds City Challenge reinforces Leeds Beckett's role within the Leeds Anchor Network. Anchor institutions - including councils, universities, colleges, hospitals and major employers - use their employment power, spending, assets and expertise to support local economic and social development. As a partner in the network, Leeds Beckett works collaboratively with other major institutions committed to strengthening Leeds' economic, cultural and social life. Professor Peter Slee currently chairs the Leeds Anchors Network, underlining the university's civic leadership role. The challenge also aligns with the city's long-term vision set out in Leeds Ambitions - a shared plan driven by organisations and communities across the city. Its four priorities are: Healthy - making Leeds a healthy and caring city for everyone Growing - reducing poverty and inequality through inclusive economic growth Thriving - building strong, welcoming and safe communities Resilient - becoming the UK's first net zero and nature positive city By encouraging students and graduates to design businesses that respond directly to these priorities, the challenge positions entrepreneurship as a practical tool for delivering meaningful change. A platform for impact More than a competition, the Leeds City Challenge has been designed as a platform for collaboration, creativity and civic engagement. By connecting students and recent graduates with mentors, civic leaders and industry partners, the university aims to strengthen the pipeline of innovative, locally rooted enterprises. Participants will benefit from structured support and the opportunity to refine their ideas in response to real feedback from business and civic stakeholders. The final pitching event will provide a public platform to showcase ventures with the potential to drive economic growth, social impact and long-term resilience in Leeds. The challenge also introduces students to the wider support available through the Leeds Business School Centre for Entrepreneurship and Knowledge Exchange, reinforcing Leeds Beckett's commitment to enterprise at every stage of the student journey. Business leaders, SMEs and external partners interested in mentoring, judging, sponsoring or collaborating are encouraged to get involved. Find out more about the Leeds City Challenge and the Centre for Entrepreneurship and Knowledge Exchange.
Dr Bill Davies and Dr Alexandria Bradley, both from the School of Humanities and Social Science, attended the ceremony on behalf of LBU and were presented with a silver medal and certificate (signed by The King) by Their Majesties The King and Queen at an investiture ceremony at St James' Palace. The prize, which forms part of the UK Honours system, recognises the impact of LBU's Educational Alliance with HMP Full Sutton (LEAF) led by the two LBU criminologists. It celebrates their project's pathbreaking and innovative approach to prison education and its clear benefit to society. Bill and Alex attended the ceremony with some former students. Rachel Greene studied a degree in Criminology with Psychology and then a Master's in Criminology and was taught by both Bill and Alex: "The best part of my university experience was being accepted onto the Learning Together course. We used to go to Full Sutton prison every other Tuesday and I loved it. The most important part about the whole experience was the integration between the students from Leeds Beckett and the students within Full Sutton. As soon as we entered the classroom, we were all equal. We were there for the same purpose. We supported each other. I found it so special. Once the course had ended, I was extremely gutted. However, I was invited back to be a peer mentor, which was so exciting and I was honoured to be asked. This module will always have a special place in my heart. I am so honoured and grateful to have been a part of it." She is delighted that Bill and Alex have received the award for Leeds Beckett: "I am so lucky to have met Bill and Alex. They have both encouraged and supported me through difficult times, academically and in my personal life. I am so proud of them for achieving this award, they truly deserve it! They both work so hard and they have also made the Learning Together Course one to remember. It was not just a course; it was a privilege. That's why I am extremely honoured to be invited to witness them receive this award. I can't think of two more deserving people." LEAF, based in the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, delivers inclusive higher education at HMP Full Sutton, a long-term high-security men's prison. The programme supports learners to gain recognised qualifications through targeted study that improves future opportunities. Combining trauma-informed teaching with social justice and higher education practice, LEAF creates a supportive and stable learning environment for people who may have experienced disrupted education or limited support. The programme focuses on strong staff-learner relationships, consistent teaching and inclusive, student-led learning. Dr Bill Davies, Reader in Teaching and Learning at Leeds Beckett University and Co-Director of LEAF, said: "We are incredibly proud to receive the Queen Elizabeth Prize for Education, which recognises the dedication and collaboration at the heart of the LEAF partnership. The award reflects the commitment of students from both Leeds Beckett and HMP Full Sutton, whose enthusiasm for learning and willingness to embrace education in a unique setting have made this work possible. We are thankful to everyone involved in supporting this shared learning community and look forward to continuing to widen access to meaningful educational opportunities for those who can benefit most." Dr Alexandria Bradley said: "I'm absolutely thrilled that our educational alliance with HMP Full Sutton has received this prestigious award. Positive educational experiences are inspiring, they increase confidence and they start to open the door to real personal growth. When we, as a society, prioritise education in prisons, we invest in people's potential and in stronger communities. It has been wonderful to see our alumni flourish through their experiences and use them to help others involved within the Criminal Legal System." Feedback from partners at HMP Full Sutton used as part of LBU's submission for the prize attested to the importance of the work: "The impact of this over the years is huge. On the back of these courses, we saw an increase in engagement in education. It has challenged preconceptions and changed behaviours and attitudes. In some ways this led to a more profound change than achieving the qualifications for some." For Leeds Beckett, the award reflects the outstanding contribution of Dr Davies and Dr Bradley and the university's mission to advance social justice through education and research. Professor Peter Slee, Leeds Beckett University Vice Chancellor, who accompanied Bill and Alex today along with Chancellor Sir Bob Murray and Chair of the Board of Governors Iain Cornish, said: "This national recognition highlights the outstanding collaboration between our colleagues and partners at HMP Full Sutton. The LEAF partnership demonstrates the powerful impact that innovative teaching and strong partnerships can have in transforming lives and supporting communities. I would like to offer my sincere congratulations to Dr Bill Davies and Dr Alexandria Bradley for their leadership in delivering this pioneering and sector-leading work." The recognition affirms Leeds Beckett University's leadership in educational innovation and community engagement. It celebrates a project that has changed lives, challenged inequality and shown the transformative potential of education in restricted environments. Sir Bob Murray CBE, Chancellor of Leeds Beckett University, said: "Education changed my own life, and I have been a lifelong advocate of its power to change lives and strengthen communities. For that reason, I am immensely proud to see Leeds Beckett University recognised in this way. "It is a privilege to serve as Chancellor and to work alongside Bill, Alex and their colleagues, whose commitment and dedication have made this honour possible. This recognition is richly deserved." Find out more about LEAF and the Queen Elizabeth Prize for Education and studying Criminology at Leeds Beckett.
Building on the success of a previous programme, this initiative helps develop leadership capability, confidence and emotional intelligence among women at all stages of their professional journey. The programme, hosted by the Centre for Entrepreneurship and Knowledge Exchange (CEKE), supports women working in SMEs, those leading teams or projects, and women setting up or growing their own businesses. CEKE has collaborated with The Leadership Centre who will deliver a 12-month development series - Women Leading with Impact - combining leadership workshops, mentoring and peer-to-peer learning. Participants learn about practical tools that they can apply immediately and can discover valuable insights into their leadership strengths through an Emotional Intelligence (EQ) diagnostic. Additionally, those taking part can join in events, roundtables and networking opportunities that bring together a diverse and supportive community of women. Recognising the importance of inclusive leadership and shared responsibility for gender equity, they can also invite a male ally, helping to extend learning and influence beyond the programme itself. The programme focuses on three core leadership themes: Leading self Leading others Leading for impact and influence Together, these themes provide a structured pathway for personal development, team leadership and organisational growth. #WECAN - Impact and Growth offers clear benefits for SMEs, enabling them to invest in the development of women in their organisations. Businesses taking part in #WECAN report stronger leadership capability, increased confidence and resilience, and improved people management and strategic decision-making. Previous participants have responded positively: Imogen Steiner, Senior Account Manager at Blueberry Marketing, said: "The #WECAN course created a rare, open space for our team to step back, reflect and have honest conversations about strategy, leadership and how we work together. "Completing the course early in my career also gave me the confidence to develop my skills and step into more of a management role." Amy Leadbetter, Account Manager at C2events, added: "The #WECAN programme was an incredibly valuable experience for me from start to finish, on a personal and professional level. "A fantastic way to build on my skills, whilst also expanding my knowledge and confidence in identifying and implementing the most effective communication styles. "The practical tools were immediately useful in my day-to-day role." #WECAN has also launched a Pay It Forward Scheme inviting established SMEs to support the next generation of women founders by offering a 'ladder down' to those at earlier stages of their journey. Through the scheme, businesses can fund a year's #WECAN membership for an early‑stage woman entrepreneur or encourage the clients and networks they work with to access the programme. Professor George Lodorfos, Dean of the Leeds Business School says: "#WECAN demonstrates our commitment as an anchor institution to regional development. At Leeds Business School, that begins with developing the people that build the businesses that grow the region. This targeted intervention through our #WECAN programme continues to deliver positive outcomes and I encourage women leaders to take advantage of this opportunity." Professor Lebene Soga, Academic Director of the Centre for Entrepreneurship and Knowledge Exchange adds: "We believe the future of business must be more inclusive than its past. At Leeds Business School, we're not just supporting women in business, we're actively closing the leadership gap." #WECAN - Impact and Growth reflects Leeds Beckett University's ongoing commitment to inclusive leadership, business growth and meaningful social impact. For more information about the programme which starts in April 2026, visit our WECAN webpage.
The collaboration brings together LBU's expertise in computing, data systems and applied research with Zenergy Solar's experience in delivering bespoke renewable energy solutions for the commercial, public and third sectors. Together, they will develop a new digital platform to address the complexity that often prevents businesses from adopting solar energy at scale. The 28-month project is a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP), part-funded by UKRI (UK Research and Innovation) through Innovate UK, and is led by Dr Akbar Sheikh-Akbari, Reader in the School of Built Environment, Engineering and Computing. Dr Sheikh-Akbari said: "Zenergy Solar build and supply custom-built solar energy solutions, including solar panels and battery storage. They work mainly with commercial and public and third sector clients, including care homes, social housing associations and schools. The solar energy market can be complex, with a wide range of suppliers, technologies, and considerations around cost and long term maintenance. "Our KTP with Zenergy Solar aims to support their ambition to make solar energy solutions easier to implement and manage for organisations, such as social housing landlords and care home providers, who have multiple properties and a complex infrastructure of solar energy to manage." At the heart of the project is the development of ZenSmart, a new research-informed digital platform that will allow businesses and organisations to manage solar energy systems across multiple properties from one place. Using advanced computing and data modelling, ZenSmart will enable organisations to: Monitor energy generation in real-time, enabling quicker fault detection and resolution Manage multiple buildings and sites through a single, user-friendly dashboard Create bespoke solutions that optimise different solar panels, battery sizes and manufacturers in one platform Julian Wiley, Managing Director at Zenergy Solar, said: The solar energy sector faces significant challenges due to the diverse suppliers available, complicated monitoring systems and ineffective fault detection technologies. ZenSmart will be an innovative product, bringing LBU's advanced technical expertise and cutting-edge research to simplify the social energy market and encourage broader adoption and ongoing innovation. It will track and operate multiple potential solutions without the added headache of multiple portals and data repositories. "Using advanced AI, we will be able to enhance fault detection, reduce downtime and improve reliability, whilst performance modelling will support more complex product installations." An experienced graduate will be recruited to manage the project as a KTP Associate. The role, Smart Energy Systems Engineer, will be a full-time member of the Zenergy Solar team, with full support of the LBU academics. For more information and to apply for the role, please visit the Leeds Beckett University Jobs site. The closing date for applications is 26 February 2026. The full LBU KTP team consists of: Dr Akbar Sheikh-Akbari, Reader in the School of Built Environment, Engineering and Computing Professor Amar Aggoun, Head of Computer Science and Professor of Visual Computing Dr Pooneh Bagheri Zadeh, Course Director for MEng/BSc Computer Science in the School of Built Environment, Engineering and Computing
The nine-minute stop-motion animation, Two Black Boys in Paradise, has already picked up top honours at over twenty festivals, including Woodstock Film Festival in New York and Best of British at Manchester Animation Festival. It now adds one of the industry's highest honours - a BAFTA - to its already impressive list of accolades, which was presented last night during the prestigious ceremony at London's Royal Festival Hall. Celebrating the win, Director Baz Sells said: "The recognition is incredibly welcome because so many people worked so hard. There were a lot of tough challenges that were only overcome because we had such an extraordinary crew. I'm so proud of Ben and Dean for bringing their stories to the screen and allowing us collectively to share it with the world." Producer Ben Jackson added: "This means absolutely everything beyond my wildest dreams." The film, based on a poem by Dean Atta and narrated by actor and writer Jordan Stephens (of Rizzle Kicks), is a production of One6th Animation Studio, founded by Baz and Ben Jackson in 2018. It tells the story of teenagers Eden and Dula and their love for each other, tackling themes of racism, homophobia, and identity. Dr Oliver Bray, Dean of the School of Arts at Leeds Beckett University, says: "We are immensely proud of Baz and Ben, and their extended network, on this remarkable achievement. Winning a BAFTA is an extraordinary honour and a testament to their talent and dedication. "We are also proud of the strength of creative practice and industry-focused learning here at Leeds Beckett, and the calibre of learning our student's experience. Our students are inspired by our amazing alumni, who are shaping the future of British film." Returning to Inspire the Next Generation Following the BAFTA win, the duo will be returning to campus for a special screening of Two Black Boys in Paradise. The event will include a QA session, offering current students a unique opportunity to gain first-hand insight into their creative journey and real-life industry experiences. Leeds Beckett University's Film School has a strong track record of nurturing creative talent across directing, producing, cinematography and screenwriting, with graduates going on to achieve national and international success. This latest accolade further cements LBU's reputation as a leading centre for creative education.
It will explore the rapidly evolving relationship between climate change, peace and security in Nigeria, and provide a platform for conversation about national policy directions and opportunities for collaborative research that can help support meaningful impact in Nigeria and across Africa. Key themes of the event include: Emerging security risks linked to environmental degradation Climate change and gender Policy responses and national climate action priorities Pathways for strengthening resilience and peacebuilding Opportunities for UK-Nigeria academic collaboration and impact It is being hosted by Dr Olayinka Ajala, Associate Professor for Politics and International Relations at Leeds Beckett University. Dr Ajala said: "Climate change is reshaping security dynamics across Nigeria and the wider African region, and our research at Leeds Beckett seeks to understand these emerging risks and identify pathways to resilience. Hosting Hon. Yussuf Kelani offers an invaluable opportunity to connect evidence‑based scholarship with national policy thinking, strengthening the collaborative work needed to address one of the most urgent challenges of our time." The other speaker is Dr Pedi Obani, Associate Professor of Law from the University of Bradford. All the speakers will take part in a roundtable event after the talk. The event is at the Rose Bowl RB538 on City Campus on Tuesday 17 February from 12:00 to 13:30. Find out more about studying Politics and International Relations at Leeds Beckett.