British Council honours alumni at the Study UK Alumni Awards 2025 in 4 categories

NEW DELHI: The British Council hosted 11th edition of the 'Study UK Alumni Awards 2025' in India, today. The council presented the awards to the alumni of UK universities in four categories- science and sustainability, culture and creativity, social action, and business and innovation.

The international award received more than 130 applications from India and over 1,300 submissions from 100 countries across the UK, as per the official statement by the council.

Alison Barrett MBE, country director India, British Council, said: “The eleventh edition of the Study UK Alumni Awards in India has once again showcased the inspiring journeys of UK alumni who are shaping industries, influencing policy, and creating lasting impact. This year’s winners and finalists represent a diverse spectrum of talent—from groundbreaking sustainability advocates to visionary entrepreneurs and influential leaders in social change. Their achievements reflect the power of higher education in nurturing global changemakers and strengthening the UK-India partnership.”

Aashish Mathur, an alumnus of Ulster University, won the science and sustainability award for contributing in the “world of science and sustainability.” He is currently working as a professor at UPES, specialising in Nanotechnology.

The culture and creativity award was presented to Gayatri Madkekar, who is an alumnus of Leeds Beckett University, for carving her career in arts and culture and demonstrated her “artistic ingenuity, influence, and creativity.” Madkekar is a sports psychologist and is known for sports and performance psychology in India.

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Raju Kendra from the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London, was presented with the social action award for his contribution and commitment to creating social change, improving the lives of others. He is the founder and CEO of Eklavya India Foundation and works for the betterment of unprivileged students to provide them education facilities in India and abroad.

The business and innovation award was given to Mayank Bherulal Nagori, an alumnus of University of Nottingham, for “initiating and contributing to innovative or creative new ideas, solutions, or business opportunities that have the potential for growth.” Nagori is the found of Gud Gum, a biodegradable, plastic-free chewing gym brand.

British Council Study UK Alumni Awards 2025

The winners of the alumni awards will receive greater visibility, networking opportunities, and professional growth avenues. “The finalists also stand a chance to be selected as global winners, who will be invited to the UK for a special networking visit, engaging with key stakeholders and fellow awardees,” the British Council said.

The British Council celebrates the Study UK Alumni Awards to honour UK higher education and achievements of its alumni from all over the world.

Lindy Cameron CB OBE, British high commissioner to India, including representatives from UK universities, business leaders, and key influencers from diverse industries, attended the award ceremony. Chiki Sarkar, founder and publisher of Juggernaut Books; Sam Dalrymple, writer, filmmaker, and historian; and Sparsh Ahuja, filmmaker and creative producer, were also part of the conclave.

“Alumni awards is a global platform and India is among the select countries hosting a national-level Study UK Alumni Awards ceremony, a testament to the significant impact UK alumni have in the region,” the British Council said.