UEL students shine at Summer Graduation 2025
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Published
22 September 2025
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The University of East London was filled with energy and joy as the Class of 2025 celebrated their achievements at Summer Graduation. The cheers of thousands of graduates, along with their families and friends, echoed throughout the Docklands campus as degrees were proudly conferred.
Over the course of three unforgettable days, from 9-11 September, the University hosted 12 graduation ceremonies, each marking the culmination of hard work, resilience, and dedication.
Every ceremony provided a moment to shine, honouring not only academic success but also the spirit of determination that defines UEL’s community.
Professor Amanda Broderick, Vice-Chancellor and President of UEL, congratulated everyone on their perseverance, growth and achievements, and celebrated their role in shaping the University’s bold future. She said,
Graduation is not simply a ceremony. It is a punctuation mark in the story of your lives, an exclamation point after years of hard work, perseverance, and discovery. It is also a doorway, opening into the next chapter of possibility."
She continued, "Graduands, today you stand on the threshold of your future. You are part of a proud tradition and a bold future. You carry with you not only a degree, but a story of perseverance, growth, and achievement. At the University of East London, we believe education should be preparation for the continuous next – for the careers and opportunities ahead of you and the positive difference you can make in the world."
In this spirit of celebration, students shared what the day and their UEL experience meant to them.
Arju Ahmed, awarded a First Class BA (Hons) in Education Studies from the School of Childhood and Social Care, said, “Starting with the New Beginnings programme, I never imagined the challenges ahead. I discovered I had dyslexia and I faced a major illness that would have stopped me without the support of my tutors. But, standing here with my friends, I can say this journey has changed my life forever. I am proud, grateful, and overjoyed to be celebrating our graduation together.”
Chuba Aniwetalu Ogugua, awarded a First Class BSc (Hons) in Computing for Business from the School of Architecture, Computing and Engineering, said, “UEL changed my life. More than just a degree, it gave me a sense of belonging. Being part of such a diverse student body surrounded by people from different cultures and backgrounds opened my eyes and made me feel seen. I was not just ‘the international student’ — I was a valued part of a community. That diversity inspired me. It showed me that there are many paths to success and that every story matters. UEL helped me find my confidence, not just as a student, but as a person.”
Bhavani Rangu, awarded an MSc in International Business Management with Merit, “Coming from Hyderabad to study at UEL was a big adjustment, but the support from friends and staff made all the difference. Graduating today feels so special—it’s my first time walking across the stage, and being the first woman in my family to study abroad makes me feel incredibly proud and grateful.”
Emily Simpson, awarded a First Class BSc (Hons) in Sport, Physical Education and Development from the School of Health, Sport and Bioscience, said, “I just feel so proud. It’s been such a journey with late nights, doubts, and challenges, but celebrating alongside my friends makes it all worth it. I’m so grateful to everyone who supported us along the way.”
In recognition of their extraordinary achievements, the University awarded honorary doctorates to six remarkable figures whose dedication to inclusivity, sustainability, health equality, and both local and international collaboration exemplifies the very values at the heart of UEL.
Dr Lisa Cameron, former MP and clinical psychologist, was recognised for her pioneering work on digital assets and mental health, including founding the Global Legislators’ Forum on Digital Assets. Asma Khan, restaurateur, author and UN World Food Programme Chef Advocate, received her award for her leadership in food, equality and social change. Judi Love, award-winning comedian, actress and TV personality, was celebrated for breaking new ground in British comedy, including becoming the first Black female comedian to headline a sold-out show at the London Palladium.
Dr Tessy Ojo CBE, Chief Executive of The Diana Award, was honoured for over two decades of championing young changemakers and her global advocacy on youth wellbeing. Finally, Professor The Lord Patel of Bradford, one of the UK’s most influential voices in social justice and mental health, was recognised for his leadership in government, public service and higher education.
The achievements of this year’s honorary doctorate recipients, together with the determination of the Class of 2025, made Summer Graduation a celebration of excellence, resilience and the limitless potential of the UEL community.