The University of Warwick is proud to announce the exceptional achievements of its students at the National Student Social Mobility Awards.

Four students were nominated in their various categories, with Rachel Imade and Matthew Stephenson coming home with awards. The University was also recognised as a finalist for the University of the Year award.

Rachel Imade (Second year, Law and Warwick Scholar) secured the prestigious Sector Award for Banking, Finance, and Insurance.

Despite pursuing a Law degree, Rachel has significantly impacted the finance industry. During her internship at J.P. Morgan, she played a pivotal role in integrating Nutmeg Investment with J.P. Morgan and analysing the financial promotions of their investment products. Her outstanding performance earned her a graduate role offer.

Overcoming disruptions during her A-Levels and degree studies, Rachel’s dedication and industry achievements are truly commendable.

Mathew Stephenson (Second year, Politics and International Studies) was one of three winners of the ‘Social Mobility Champion’ awards, recognising his significant contributions to advancing social mobility at Warwick and beyond.

As President of The 93% Club Warwick, Mathew has led numerous cost-of-living schemes, networking events, and introduced the University’s first student-led Widening Participation mentoring programme for 16–18-year-olds. His lived experience and passion drive his impactful work in social mobility.



Additionally, two other Warwick students were finalists in their respective categories:

Chloe Goodyear (Final year, Economics) was a finalist in the Banking, Finance, and Insurance sector award.

A trailblazer in her family, Chloe participated in the Warwick Scholars access programme and secured a position on Rothschild & Co’s 2024 graduate programme after an impressive internship. She recently graduated with a first-class degree, setting a remarkable example for her four siblings.

Daniel Oke-Uyanneh (Second year,Law and Business) was a finalist in the Property Development sector award.

During his first year, Daniel launched a successful Airbnb business, providing high-quality, budget-friendly accommodation in Coventry.

His venture, motivated by the financial challenges of university costs, has got over 200 reviews with a 4.8-star rating.

The University of Warwick itself was also recognised as a finalist for the University of the Year award, highlighting its efforts to promote social mobility through widening access, student success, and career progression.

The University’s comprehensive approach includes partnerships with social mobility charities like UpReach and IntoUniversity, and initiatives such as the Student Social Mobility Research Hub.

Recently, a partnership with University College Birmingham furthered the mission to provide educational opportunities to disadvantaged communities in the region.

A special mention goes to Warwick Scholar Marsharah Powell (2nd year, Philosophy), who co-hosted the awards ceremony.

Marsharah was the 2023 Champion of Social Mobility award winner, and continues to excel, having won Targetjobs' Black Heritage Undergraduate of the Year in 2023 and ranking 7th on the ‘150 UK Black Future Leaders’ list.

Programmes such as the Warwick Scholars are made possible through by the philanthropic support of alumni and donors, enabling students to access invaluable opportunities and resources that drive their success and social mobility.

ENDS