Champion honoured with doctorate in social justice

The University of East London has awarded Dr Tessy Ojo CBE an honorary doctorate in social justice in recognition of her outstanding leadership in youth empowerment and civil society.

The chief executive of The Diana Award was presented with her honorary doctorate in front of students from across the university at a graduation ceremony on UEL’s Docklands Campus.

Dr Ojo told the audience,

For me, leadership has never been about titles, it’s been about using whatever influence I have to shine a light on others, to break down barriers, and to ensure that everybody has the opportunity to thrive.”

For more than two decades, Dr Ojo has dedicated herself to young people, transforming The Diana Award into one of the most influential youth charities of its kind. Working alongside the sons of Diana, Princess of Wales, she has championed issues from mental health to online safety. In 2024, she co-launched the Decade of Youth Wellbeing at the United Nations with The Duke of Sussex.

Her service extends far beyond her executive role. She is a trustee of Comic Relief, a member of the BBC Appeals Advisory Committee, co-chairs the #iwill Leadership Board and founded Tessy’s Brunches, a fast-growing movement empowering women to embrace visibility, purpose and leadership.

Her achievements have been recognised internationally. She is the first British recipient of the Martin Luther King Award, has received the Global Gift Foundation’s Excellence Award, and is listed among British Airways’ Top 100 Leaders. In 2020, she was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire for services to children and young people.

Dr Ojo told graduates, 

You might never feel completely ready. None of us are ever ready. Because change doesn’t wait until we’re ready. Change is about stepping out. Change is about doing that thing that people say is impossible. When people say to you, this is how we've always done it, ask why. 

Because you’ll be surprised that sometimes the answer is very shallow. Do it even if your knees are trembling, because mine are. Mine often tremble, but I still do it. The world doesn’t need you to be perfect. The world needs you to be courageous, compassionate and kind.”