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North Pole explorer receives Freedom of the City of London

Tuesday 26 March 2013

Dwayne Fields

(Dwayne second right alongside Ben Fogle).

Dwayne Fields, one of UEL's most inspiring and influential students, was given the prestigious honour of the Freedom of the City of London at a special ceremony last week.

Dwayne, a combined honours student in Psychology and Third World Studies, became the first young black British man to walk across the North Pole, following a gruelling 370 mile trek in 2010.

Dwayne, who is currently in training for an expedition to the South Pole later this year, was honoured for his motivational visits to schools, youth clubs and projects, where he urges young people to follow their dreams, and to seek inspiration through exploration, adventuring and embracing the outdoors.

Speaking at the ceremony in Guildhall London, Dwayne said: "I am so thrilled to receive this honour, as it is testament to the work I have put in over the years with young people, in trying to inspire them to make productive choices in their lives. I am just lucky that I have managed to carve out a better future for myself, and that I am in position where I can help those who need guidance and direction."

Lord Mayor Roger Gifford, said:“The Freedom of the City of London is often bestowed on individuals by the City Corporation to celebrate their contribution to London or public life, or to mark an outstanding achievement. These individuals have turned their own lives around, or helped other people turn their lives around, and my colleagues and I were delighted to support their nominations."

Castaway star, television presenter and explorer, Ben Fogle, was also in attendance to pick up the same honour as Dwayne.

 

Notes to Editors

The University of East London (UEL) is a global learning community with over 28,000 students from over 120 countries world-wide. Our vision is to achieve recognition, both nationally and internationally, as a successful and inclusive regional university proud of its diversity, committed to new modes of learning which focus on students and enhance their employability, and renowned for our contribution to social, cultural and economic development, especially through our research and scholarship. We have a strong track-record in widening participation and working with industry.

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