Warwick Celebrates - On the Day (PM)
Please be aware: Doors to Butterworth Hall will close promptly at 2.30 pm for graduands and guests.
Welcome to Warwick Celebrates!
Schedule of Graduation Activities taking place in the afternoon
Jump to section
On Arrival - Ticket and Robe collection
On arrival, head to the Studio Theatre, Warwick Arts Centre
for ticket and robe collection (access for graduands only). Please ensure you have photo ID ready- you will need this to collect tickets.
Here, graduands will collect:
- Their graduation ticket. Please keep this with you at all times. This has your seat number for the ceremony
- Guest tickets, including any extra tickets you have paid for. These should be passed to guests as graduands, and guests will be entering through different doors
Once robed, you should also:
- Check that you are wearing the correct hoodLink opens in a new window
-
Store any coats in the Arts Centre cloakroom (subject to capacity)
Before the Ceremony - What to do
- Read through the following information, and keep an eye on the time - graduands and guests must be seated by 2.30 pm. You will not be able to enter the Hall after this time.
- Find out about the benefits and opportunities available to you as a Warwick graduate by visiting our alumni stand in the Celebration Zone in the Piazza.
- Have your pre-booked professional photos (Ede and Ravenscroft) taken in the Mead.
- Visit our graduation shop outside the Mead Gallery, Warwick Arts Centre
- Go to the bathroom! Once you're seated in the Butterworth Hall, you cannot leave until our final seating checks are complete
- Share the link to the live stream with friends and family
From 1.30 pm
- Guests with Butterworth Hall tickets should make their way to the ground-floor Butterworth Hall doors, and guests with Cinema tickets upstairs to Cinema 1
- Guests with pre-booked accessible seating have seats reserved for them in the Hall and do not need to queue
- Graduands should get ready to enter the Butterworth Hall. Graduands enter via Door 1 on the first floor of Warwick Arts Centre from approx. 1.45 pm. Graduands with accessibility requirements should enter via the ground-floor Butterworth Hall doors. Staff at the information point next to the guest entrance will be able to assist you.
- Graduands should find and take their designated seat. Graduand seats will have a card with your name on it- you must sit in your allocated seat.
- Guests will be directed to a seat by Warwick Arts Centre stewards. Please take your seats promptly and do not leave any gaps.
Doors to Ceremony close 2.30 pm
Once in the Butterworth Hall:
- From 2.30-3 pm, graduands should ensure they are seated in their allocated seats. This is when we will be doing our final seating checks. You must be seated in your allocated seat. If you move seats, your name will be crossed off, and you will not be allowed to cross the stage.
- Please put your mobile phone on silent.
- Staff will indicate when it is time for graduands to stand to cross the stage. After crossing the stage and collecting your certificate, you will return to the same seat.
Ceremony Programme
Click on your ceremony date to see your ceremony programme, including details about your presiding officer and master of ceremonies, as well as other awards and speakers at your ceremony.
Week 1 (20-24 July 2026)
Order of Proceedings
-
University of Warwick Anthem & Academic Procession | Performed by The University of Warwick Chamber Choir, Brass and Percussion
-
Welcome & Introduction | Piers Gibbon
Piers Gibbon is the host and Master of Ceremonies for our graduation ceremonies. He has the responsibility for reading out every name and ensuring that everyone has a memorable day. Piers is a speech writer, a television presenter (Headshrinkers of the Amazon, A Taste of History, The Witch Doctor Will See You Now) and the author of Tribes: Endangered Peoples Of The World.
-
Address by the Presiding Officer | Advocate Bience Gawanas Chancellor
Bience Gawanas -The Chancellor is the formal Head of the University, whose official duties include conferring degrees on behalf of the University. Beyond the formal and representational duties, the new Chancellor will play a key role in the University’s life by promoting the work and ambitions of the University in the UK and overseas. The Chancellor will also play a crucial role in the University's development and fundraising activities.
Advocate Bience Gawanas is a known and respected Namibian lawyer, diplomat, and passionate advocate for social justice. Bringing over four decades of unparalleled experience in law, human rights, and global leadership, Advocate Gawanas has dedicated her career to championing social justice, gender equality, peacebuilding, and sustainable development. Her extensive international contributions include serving as United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Special Advisor on Africa and African Union Commissioner for Social Affairs. Domestically, she held pivotal roles within the Namibian government, including Ombudswoman and Public Service Commissioner.
More information…[https://warwick.ac.uk/services/vco/execteam/chancellor/Link opens in a new window]
FIRST PRESENTATION OF GRADUANDS
-
Alumni Speaker | Professor Jennifer Visser-Rogers, Chief Scientific Officer, Coronado Research
PhD Statistics 2011
Professor Jennifer Visser-Rogers is an internationally recognised statistician. She specialises in clinical trial methodology, working at the intersection of data, medicine, and decision-making to accelerate the development of new therapies. Jennifer is also a leading voice in public engagement with data, regularly appearing on television and radio, and served as a trusted authority during the COVID-19 pandemic. Reflecting her leadership and impact, she was named one of the 2024 Twenty Women in Data and Tech for her advocacy and influence and has received multiple awards for improving public understanding of statistics. She is deeply committed to mentoring and developing the next generation of data leaders.
SECOND PRESENTATION OF GRADUANDS
-
The National Anthem | Performed by The University of Warwick Chamber Choir and ARC Brass Quintet
-
University of Warwick Anthem & Academic Procession | Performed by The University of Warwick Chamber Choir, Brass and Percussion
Order of Proceedings
-
University of Warwick Anthem & Academic Procession | Performed by The University of Warwick Chamber Choir, Brass and Percussion
-
Welcome & Introduction | Piers Gibbon
Piers Gibbon is the host and Master of Ceremonies for our graduation ceremonies. He has the responsibility for reading out every name and ensuring that everyone has a memorable day. Piers is a speech writer, a television presenter (Headshrinkers of the Amazon, A Taste of History, The Witch Doctor Will See You Now) and the author of Tribes: Endangered Peoples Of The World.
-
Address by the Presiding Officer | Professor Stuart Croft Vice-Chancellor & President
Professor Stuart Croft is the Vice-Chancellor and President of The University of Warwick and has been instrumental in leading the university's development since 2016, with a strategic focus on creating a better world together.
In addition to his role at the University of Warwick, Stuart serves as Chair of Universities West Midlands and has held several other leadership positions in academia. He has a background in International Security and has made significant contributions to publications and journals in the field.
In 2021, Stuart was appointed as a Deputy Lieutenant for the West Midlands.
More information…[https://warwick.ac.uk/services/vco/vc/]
FIRST PRESENTATION OF GRADUANDS
-
Alumni Speaker | Tom Goodman-Hill, Actor
BA (QTS) [Arts Ed.], 1991
Tom Goodman-Hill is a prolific English actor known for his extensive work across film, television, and theatre. Recently, he gained widespread acclaim and a Primetime Emmy nomination for his portrayal of the abusive writer Darrien O’Connor in the 2024 Netflix hit Baby Reindeer. In television, he is well-recognised for starring as Joe Hawkins in Humans, Roger Grove in Mr. Selfridge, and the corrupt PC Phil Collins in Ideal. Other appearances include Black Mirror, The Devil’s Whore and The Office. His filmography includes major productions such as The Imitation Game, Everest, and the 2020 adaptation of Rebecca. A seasoned stage performer, he earned an Olivier Award nomination for his role as Sir Lancelot in the original London cast of the musical Spamalot, starred in the West End in Lucy Prebble’s Enron, Death & The Maiden, and at The National Theatre in The Effect. He is also a regular voice on BBC Radio 4.
SECOND PRESENTATION OF GRADUANDS
-
The National Anthem | Performed by The University of Warwick Chamber Choir and ARC Brass Quintet
-
University of Warwick Anthem & Academic Procession | Performed by The University of Warwick Chamber Choir, Brass and Percussion
Order of Proceedings
-
University of Warwick Anthem & Academic Procession | Performed by The University of Warwick Chamber Choir, Brass and Percussion
-
Welcome & Introduction | Piers Gibbon
Piers Gibbon is the host and Master of Ceremonies for our graduation ceremonies. He has the responsibility for reading out every name and ensuring that everyone has a memorable day. Piers is a speech writer, a television presenter (Headshrinkers of the Amazon, A Taste of History, The Witch Doctor Will See You Now) and the author of Tribes: Endangered Peoples Of The World.
-
Address by the Presiding Officer | Professor Caroline Meyer Provost
Professor Caroline Meyer is Provost at the University of Warwick, where she supports the Vice-Chancellor in the academic leadership of the University.
Caroline was previously Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Research), where she was instrumental in supporting and maintaining Warwick’s research excellence and pioneering the launch of the National Centre for Research Culture, along with, the new Warwick Research Spotlights. Prior to this, Caroline was Vice-Provost and Chair of the Faculty of Science, Engineering and Medicine. Caroline has a PhD in Eating Disorders from the University of Southampton. She was a Lecturer in Clinical Psychology at the University of Birmingham and then worked in the Department of Psychology at Warwick and Warwick Medical School.
Caroline returned to Warwick in 2014, having been a Reader and then Professor at Loughborough University. Her research is predominantly within two key areas: eating disordersandworkforcemental health and productivity. Her work involves many external partner organisations, including the NHS, industry partners and schools both nationally and internationally.
More information…[https://warwick.ac.uk/research/recognition/ref/stories/cultivate-research-excellence/]
FIRST PRESENTATION OF GRADUANDS
-
OSCA | Zineb Nmili
BSc Management
Zineb Nmili is an exceptional Warwick student recognised for her commitment to widening access and inclusive education. Through volunteering locally and internationally, she has empowered young people, improved learning outcomes, and supported students in overcoming barriers. Her leadership and dedication have made a meaningful and lasting impact on both communities and the student experience.
SECOND PRESENTATION OF GRADUANDS
-
Alumni Speaker | Ben Story, Chair, Digital Catapult
BSc Management Sciences, 1990
Ben is Chair of the Digital Catapult, a key national asset that bridges the gap between universities, start-ups, industry, government and investors to support innovation and unlock commercial opportunities. Ben is the Interim Chair of Vertical Aerospace, which is developing an electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft in the UK. Ben is a Venture Partner of New Vista Capital, an investor in defence technology start-ups. Ben is a Board Member of Reach South, a provider of education services in south-west England. Ben is a former Director and Executive Committee Member of Rolls-Royce. Before joining industry, Ben was an investment banker for 26 years, latterly as Head of UK Investment Banking at Citigroup. Ben has also served on numerous boards.
-
The National Anthem | Performed by The University of Warwick Chamber Choir and ARC Brass Quintet
-
University of Warwick Anthem & Academic Procession | Performed by The University of Warwick Chamber Choir, Brass and Percussion
Order of Proceedings
-
University of Warwick Anthem & Academic Procession | Performed by The University of Warwick Chamber Choir, Brass and Percussion
-
Welcome & Introduction | Piers Gibbon
Piers Gibbon is the host and Master of Ceremonies for our graduation ceremonies. He has the responsibility for reading out every name and ensuring that everyone has a memorable day. Piers is a speech writer, a television presenter (Headshrinkers of the Amazon, A Taste of History, The Witch Doctor Will See You Now) and the author of Tribes: Endangered Peoples Of The World.
-
Address by the Presiding Officer | Advocate Bience Gawanas Chancellor
Bience Gawanas -The Chancellor is the formal Head of the University, whose official duties include conferring degrees on behalf of the University. Beyond the formal and representational duties, the new Chancellor will play a key role in the University’s life by promoting the work and ambitions of the University in the UK and overseas. The Chancellor will also play a crucial role in the University's development and fundraising activities.
Advocate Bience Gawanas is a known and respected Namibian lawyer, diplomat, and passionate advocate for social justice. Bringing over four decades of unparalleled experience in law, human rights, and global leadership, Advocate Gawanas has dedicated her career to championing social justice, gender equality, peacebuilding, and sustainable development. Her extensive international contributions include serving as United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Special Advisor on Africa and African Union Commissioner for Social Affairs. Domestically, she held pivotal roles within the Namibian government, including Ombudswoman and Public Service Commissioner.
More information…[https://warwick.ac.uk/services/vco/execteam/chancellor/Link opens in a new window]
FIRST PRESENTATION OF GRADUANDS
-
Alumni Speaker | Sanzhar Taizhan, Founder, TaiSan
BEng Automotive Engineering, 2020
Sanzhar is a former Jaguar Land Rover, The Faraday Institution, and Vertical Aerospace battery scientist. At Warwick, he founded both the Warwick Hyperloop and Warwick Boring teams, which became three-time finalists at SpaceX Hyperloop and tunnelling contests. He’s now the Founder of his own company, TaiSan, that explores new sodium battery technology. So far, it’s raised £4m and been named in four individual battery awards. He was also named in Kazakhstan’s Forbes 30 under 30 in 2019.
SECOND PRESENTATION OF GRADUANDS
-
The National Anthem | Performed by The University of Warwick Chamber Choir and ARC Brass Quintet
-
University of Warwick Anthem & Academic Procession | Performed by The University of Warwick Chamber Choir, Brass and Percussion
Order of Proceedings
-
University of Warwick Anthem & Academic Procession | Performed by The University of Warwick Chamber Choir, Brass and Percussion
-
Welcome & Introduction | Piers Gibbon
Piers Gibbon is the host and Master of Ceremonies for our graduation ceremonies. He has the responsibility for reading out every name and ensuring that everyone has a memorable day. Piers is a speech writer, a television presenter (Headshrinkers of the Amazon, A Taste of History, The Witch Doctor Will See You Now) and the author of Tribes: Endangered Peoples Of The World.
-
Address by the Presiding Officer | Professor Caroline Meyer Provost
Professor Caroline Meyer is Provost at the University of Warwick, where she supports the Vice-Chancellor in the academic leadership of the University.
Caroline was previously Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Research), where she was instrumental in supporting and maintaining Warwick’s research excellence and pioneering the launch of the National Centre for Research Culture, along with, the new Warwick Research Spotlights. Prior to this, Caroline was Vice-Provost and Chair of the Faculty of Science, Engineering and Medicine. Caroline has a PhD in Eating Disorders from the University of Southampton. She was a Lecturer in Clinical Psychology at the University of Birmingham and then worked in the Department of Psychology at Warwick and Warwick Medical School.
Caroline returned to Warwick in 2014, having been a Reader and then Professor at Loughborough University. Her research is predominantly within two key areas: eating disordersandworkforcemental health and productivity. Her work involves many external partner organisations, including the NHS, industry partners and schools both nationally and internationally.
More information…[https://warwick.ac.uk/research/recognition/ref/stories/cultivate-research-excellence/]
FIRST PRESENTATION OF GRADUANDS
-
Alumni Speaker | Rachael Crook, CEO and Founder, Lifted
BA Politics with International Studies, 2010
Rachael Crook is the Founder and CEO of Lifted, a technology platform built to fix the recruitment and retention challenges in social care. As we all live longer, the world needs millions more people to look after us — and a system worthy of them.
Rachael holds a first-class degree in Politics and International Studies from the University of Warwick and an MPhil in International Relations from the University of Oxford. She began her career in the Civil Service Fast Stream working on counter-extremism, before becoming a Senior Advisor in the Prime Minister's Implementation Unit, where she advised Cabinet Ministers on the government's highest-priority commitments and won five awards for exceptional performance. She then joined McKinsey & Company as a consultant.
After her mum was diagnose with early on set dementia, Rachael went on to found a technology-enabled home care provider, grew it into the best home care provider in the country at the LaingBuisson Awards, and sold the business. In 2024, she launched Lifted to tackle the sector's recruitment and retention crisis, raising over £9M and reaching 50,000 care workers across 500 providers.
In 2022, the Obama Foundation named her one of 36 leaders across Europe contributing to social change.
SECOND PRESENTATION OF GRADUANDS
-
The National Anthem | Performed by The University of Warwick Chamber Choir and ARC Brass Quintet
-
University of Warwick Anthem & Academic Procession | Performed by The University of Warwick Chamber Choir, Brass and Percussion
Week 2 (27-31 July 2026)
Order of Proceedings
-
University of Warwick Anthem & Academic Procession | Performed by The University of Warwick Chamber Choir, Brass and Percussion
-
Welcome & Introduction | Piers Gibbon
Piers Gibbon is the host and Master of Ceremonies for our graduation ceremonies. He has the responsibility for reading out every name and ensuring that everyone has a memorable day. Piers is a speech writer, a television presenter (Headshrinkers of the Amazon, A Taste of History, The Witch Doctor Will See You Now) and the author of Tribes: Endangered Peoples Of The World.
-
Address by the Presiding Officer | Professor Caroline Meyer Provost
Professor Caroline Meyer is Provost at the University of Warwick, where she supports the Vice-Chancellor in the academic leadership of the University.
Caroline was previously Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Research), where she was instrumental in supporting and maintaining Warwick’s research excellence and pioneering the launch of the National Centre for Research Culture, along with, the new Warwick Research Spotlights. Prior to this, Caroline was Vice-Provost and Chair of the Faculty of Science, Engineering and Medicine. Caroline has a PhD in Eating Disorders from the University of Southampton. She was a Lecturer in Clinical Psychology at the University of Birmingham and then worked in the Department of Psychology at Warwick and Warwick Medical School.
Caroline returned to Warwick in 2014, having been a Reader and then Professor at Loughborough University. Her research is predominantly within two key areas: eating disordersandworkforcemental health and productivity. Her work involves many external partner organisations, including the NHS, industry partners and schools both nationally and internationally.
More information…[https://warwick.ac.uk/research/recognition/ref/stories/cultivate-research-excellence/]
FIRST PRESENTATION OF GRADUANDS
-
Honorary Graduate | Tom Ilube
Tom Ilube CBE is Chair of the King’s Trust UK and Chair of LINK, the UK’s cash access and ATM network. He is also Non-Executive Director of FTSE100 company WPP plc, the global advertising group. Previously he was on the Board of the BBC and Chair of the Rugby Football Union (RFU) from 2021 to 2024. Tom is an Honorary Fellow of both Jesus College, Oxford and St Anne's College, Oxford.
An educational philanthropist and technology entrepreneur, Tom has been involved in launching several tech companies and a number of schools. He is Chair of the British education charity, the African Gifted Foundation and launched the African Science Academy (ASA). Tom was the Founding Chair of Hammersmith Academy and the Chair of ADA College, the UK’s National College for Digital Skills amongst others. In 2017 Tom was named Britain’s most influential Black person. He was appointed a CBE in 2018 for services to Technology and Philanthropy and has been awarded Honorary Doctorates by several universities.
SECOND PRESENTATION OF GRADUANDS
-
OSCA | Adam Allen
BA sociology and Criminology
Adam Allen is an exceptional Warwick graduate whose work has been defined by his commitment to widening participation and supporting students from all backgrounds. Through mentoring, outreach, and leadership roles—including Co-President of the 93% Club—he has expanded access to education, led impactful initiatives supporting students facing financial barriers, and strengthened the wider community. His dedication, leadership, and compassion have made a lasting difference to the student experience at Warwick.
THIRD PRESENTATION OF GRADUANDS
-
Alumni Speaker | Dr Dave Smith, National Technology Advisor, Department for Science, Innovation and Technology
PhD Physics. 1995
Dr Dave Smith FIET FRAeS is the National Technology Adviser (NTA) having taken up the role in September 2023. A technologist and industrial expert by background, as the NTA, Dave advises the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology and the Cabinet on the best approach to building and enhancing the UK’s technology strengths. His role includes working across government to champion the science and tech industries, in addition to building networks across industry to draw the best minds into policy making.
-
The National Anthem | Performed by The University of Warwick Chamber Choir and ARC Brass Quintet
-
University of Warwick Anthem & Academic Procession | Performed by The University of Warwick Chamber Choir, Brass and Percussion
Order of Proceedings
-
University of Warwick Anthem & Academic Procession | Performed by The University of Warwick Chamber Choir, Brass and Percussion
-
Welcome & Introduction | Piers Gibbon
Piers Gibbon is the host and Master of Ceremonies for our graduation ceremonies. He has the responsibility for reading out every name and ensuring that everyone has a memorable day. Piers is a speech writer, a television presenter (Headshrinkers of the Amazon, A Taste of History, The Witch Doctor Will See You Now) and the author of Tribes: Endangered Peoples Of The World.
-
Address by the Presiding Officer | Advocate Bience Gawanas Chancellor
Bience Gawanas -The Chancellor is the formal Head of the University, whose official duties include conferring degrees on behalf of the University. Beyond the formal and representational duties, the new Chancellor will play a key role in the University’s life by promoting the work and ambitions of the University in the UK and overseas. The Chancellor will also play a crucial role in the University's development and fundraising activities.
Advocate Bience Gawanas is a known and respected Namibian lawyer, diplomat, and passionate advocate for social justice. Bringing over four decades of unparalleled experience in law, human rights, and global leadership, Advocate Gawanas has dedicated her career to championing social justice, gender equality, peacebuilding, and sustainable development. Her extensive international contributions include serving as United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Special Advisor on Africa and African Union Commissioner for Social Affairs. Domestically, she held pivotal roles within the Namibian government, including Ombudswoman and Public Service Commissioner.
More information…[https://warwick.ac.uk/services/vco/execteam/chancellor/Link opens in a new window]
FIRST PRESENTATION OF GRADUANDS
-
Alumni Speaker | Dr Last Mafuba, Founder and CEO, Inini Initiative Ltd
BSc Psychology, 2015; LLM International Development Law and Human Rights, 2017
Dr Mafuba is the Founder and CEO of Inini Initiative, a community-led organisation working at the intersection of mental health, migration, and health inequalities. Her work focuses on developing culturally responsive, community-based approaches that improve access to support for refugees and underserved populations. Combining research, practice, and lived experience, she collaborates with health systems, local authorities, and community organisations to influence more inclusive models of care. She is currently advancing a programme of research exploring how trust, culture, and faith shape mental health pathways, with a commitment to driving systemic change and amplifying underrepresented voices.
SECOND PRESENTATION OF GRADUANDS
-
The National Anthem | Performed by The University of Warwick Chamber Choir and ARC Brass Quintet
-
University of Warwick Anthem & Academic Procession | Performed by The University of Warwick Chamber Choir, Brass and Percussion
Order of Proceedings
-
University of Warwick Anthem & Academic Procession | Performed by The University of Warwick Chamber Choir, Brass and Percussion
-
Welcome & Introduction | Piers Gibbon
Piers Gibbon is the host and Master of Ceremonies for our graduation ceremonies. He has the responsibility for reading out every name and ensuring that everyone has a memorable day. Piers is a speech writer, a television presenter (Headshrinkers of the Amazon, A Taste of History, The Witch Doctor Will See You Now) and the author of Tribes: Endangered Peoples Of The World.
-
Address by the Presiding Officer | Professor Caroline Meyer Provost
Professor Caroline Meyer is Provost at the University of Warwick, where she supports the Vice-Chancellor in the academic leadership of the University.
Caroline was previously Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Research), where she was instrumental in supporting and maintaining Warwick’s research excellence and pioneering the launch of the National Centre for Research Culture, along with, the new Warwick Research Spotlights. Prior to this, Caroline was Vice-Provost and Chair of the Faculty of Science, Engineering and Medicine. Caroline has a PhD in Eating Disorders from the University of Southampton. She was a Lecturer in Clinical Psychology at the University of Birmingham and then worked in the Department of Psychology at Warwick and Warwick Medical School.
Caroline returned to Warwick in 2014, having been a Reader and then Professor at Loughborough University. Her research is predominantly within two key areas: eating disordersandworkforcemental health and productivity. Her work involves many external partner organisations, including the NHS, industry partners and schools both nationally and internationally.
More information…[https://warwick.ac.uk/research/recognition/ref/stories/cultivate-research-excellence/]
FIRST PRESENTATION OF GRADUANDS
-
Honorary Graduate | Georgina Eku Edewor Thorley
Georgina Eku Edewor-Thorley is a British‑Nigerian actress, television presenter, model, and film producer, widely known for her dynamic presence on Africa Magic’s flagship entertainment program 53 Extra. Born in London and raised between the UK and Lagos, Georgina brings a distinctly global perspective to her work. She is a University of Warwick alumna, where she earned an honours degree in English Literature and Theatre Studies, and later trained at the New York Film Academy in acting for film.
Her onscreen journey began with Britain’s Next Top Model in 2006, and she has since become one of the most recognisable faces in African entertainment. Georgina has starred in films such as Sex & Drugs & Rock & Roll, Flower Girl, and When Love Happens, and has hosted major platforms including the Big Brother Africa All Stars red carpet and the Pepsi Top Ten Countdown.
Most recently, she gained widespread acclaim as producer of the award‑winning film Breath of Life, celebrated at the 2024 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards for its artistic excellence and storytelling depth. Georgina’s career is shaped by her multicultural heritage, creative versatility, and passion for elevating African narratives. As a mother, performer, and industry innovator, she continues to inspire audiences with her authenticity, curiosity, and commitment to craft.
SECOND PRESENTATION OF GRADUANDS
-
OSCA | Katie Todd
Philosophy, Politics and Economics
Katie Todd has made a significant and lasting impact on women and LGBTQ+ students at Warwick through her leadership and commitment to inclusion. Through her work with Warwick PLAN and as Students’ Union Women’s Officer, she has created supportive, empowering spaces, led innovative initiatives such as Warwick Drag Race, and championed student wellbeing. Her dedication has strengthened the community and ensured that more students feel seen, supported, and able to thrive.
-
OSCA |Mayomikun Ladipo
Philosophy, Politics and Economics
Mayomikun Ladipo is an exceptional Politics, Philosophy and Economics graduate whose leadership and global impact have strengthened the Warwick community. Through key roles in the Warwick Africa Summit, she expanded its reach, secured high-profile speakers, and built international partnerships. Alongside mentoring peers and foundingThe Placement Playbook, which has reached thousands worldwide, her work reflects a deep commitment to empowerment, collaboration, and meaningful social change.
THIRD PRESENTATION OF GRADUANDS
-
Alumni Speaker | Henry Ajder, AI and Deepfake Cartographer, Latent Space Advisory
BA Philosophy, 2015
Henry Ajder is a globally recognised expert and advisor on AI, deepfakes, and the synthetic media revolution. The first “deepfake cartographer”, Henry’s research since 2018 has transformed society’s understanding of AI, shaping international legislation and the landscape of AI ethics. Henry presented the BBC series, The Future Will be Synthesised, the BBC’s first documentary series exploring the generative paradigm shift. He continues to contribute as a leading AI expert to international news media, including CNN, MIT Technology Review, Bloomberg, and The New York Times.
Henry advises organisations including Adobe, Google Deepmind, The UK Government, and The World Economic Forum. He co-leads The University of Cambridge’s Generative AI in Business programme and is a visiting lecturer at Jesus College and the Judge Business School.
-
The National Anthem | Performed by The University of Warwick Chamber Choir and ARC Brass Quintet
-
University of Warwick Anthem & Academic Procession | Performed by The University of Warwick Chamber Choir, Brass and Percussion
Order of Proceedings
-
University of Warwick Anthem & Academic Procession | Performed by The University of Warwick Chamber Choir, Brass and Percussion
-
Welcome & Introduction | Piers Gibbon
Piers Gibbon is the host and Master of Ceremonies for our graduation ceremonies. He has the responsibility for reading out every name and ensuring that everyone has a memorable day. Piers is a speech writer, a television presenter (Headshrinkers of the Amazon, A Taste of History, The Witch Doctor Will See You Now) and the author of Tribes: Endangered Peoples Of The World.
-
Address by the Presiding Officer | Advocate Bience Gawanas Chancellor
Bience Gawanas -The Chancellor is the formal Head of the University, whose official duties include conferring degrees on behalf of the University. Beyond the formal and representational duties, the new Chancellor will play a key role in the University’s life by promoting the work and ambitions of the University in the UK and overseas. The Chancellor will also play a crucial role in the University's development and fundraising activities.
Advocate Bience Gawanas is a known and respected Namibian lawyer, diplomat, and passionate advocate for social justice. Bringing over four decades of unparalleled experience in law, human rights, and global leadership, Advocate Gawanas has dedicated her career to championing social justice, gender equality, peacebuilding, and sustainable development. Her extensive international contributions include serving as United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Special Advisor on Africa and African Union Commissioner for Social Affairs. Domestically, she held pivotal roles within the Namibian government, including Ombudswoman and Public Service Commissioner.
More information…[https://warwick.ac.uk/services/vco/execteam/chancellor/Link opens in a new window]
FIRST PRESENTATION OF GRADUANDS
-
OSCA | Tani Ilemobola
Law and Sociology
Tani Ilemobola is an outstanding Law and Sociology finalist whose academic excellence is matched by her exceptional commitment to widening participation and community-building. As founder of Capital Sisters, she has created a thriving network supporting Black women at Warwick, while her extensive mentoring, outreach, and leadership have supported hundreds of students. Through her vision, resilience, and dedication to inclusion, Tani has made a lasting and transformative impact on the Warwick community.
SECOND PRESENTATION OF GRADUANDS
-
Alumni Speaker | Omoyemi Akerele, Founder and Executive Director, Style House Files and Lagos Fashion Week
LLM International Economic Law, 2003
Omoyemi Akerele is the Founder and Executive Director of Style House Files and Lagos Fashion Week, where she leads strategy, partnerships, and impact-driven programming across Africa’s creative ecosystem. Her work focuses on building sustainable fashion infrastructure, supporting emerging designers, and fostering cross-sector collaboration through initiatives such as Green Access, Woven Threads, Irapada, and circular economy pilots. Through her leadership, she has created platforms that connect designers to global markets, investors, and knowledge networks while championing innovation, education, and responsible production. A recognized leader in sustainability and creative economy, Omoyemi is a Yale Climate Fellow, BOF 500 Honoree, Time100 Climate Honoree, and serves on advisory initiatives including the Mastercard Foundation Nigeria and the Sustainable Markets Initiative. In 2025, Lagos Fashion Week received The Earthshot Prize in the “Build a Waste-Free World” category, recognising its contribution to advancing circular fashion, sustainable innovation, and creative impact across Africa.
-
The National Anthem | Performed by The University of Warwick Chamber Choir and ARC Brass Quintet
-
University of Warwick Anthem & Academic Procession | Performed by The University of Warwick Chamber Choir, Brass and Percussion
Order of Proceedings
-
University of Warwick Anthem & Academic Procession | Performed by The University of Warwick Chamber Choir, Brass and Percussion
-
Welcome & Introduction | Piers Gibbon
Piers Gibbon is the host and Master of Ceremonies for our graduation ceremonies. He has the responsibility for reading out every name and ensuring that everyone has a memorable day. Piers is a speech writer, a television presenter (Headshrinkers of the Amazon, A Taste of History, The Witch Doctor Will See You Now) and the author of Tribes: Endangered Peoples Of The World.
-
Address by the Presiding Officer | Advocate Bience Gawanas Chancellor
Bience Gawanas -The Chancellor is the formal Head of the University, whose official duties include conferring degrees on behalf of the University. Beyond the formal and representational duties, the new Chancellor will play a key role in the University’s life by promoting the work and ambitions of the University in the UK and overseas. The Chancellor will also play a crucial role in the University's development and fundraising activities.
Advocate Bience Gawanas is a known and respected Namibian lawyer, diplomat, and passionate advocate for social justice. Bringing over four decades of unparalleled experience in law, human rights, and global leadership, Advocate Gawanas has dedicated her career to championing social justice, gender equality, peacebuilding, and sustainable development. Her extensive international contributions include serving as United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Special Advisor on Africa and African Union Commissioner for Social Affairs. Domestically, she held pivotal roles within the Namibian government, including Ombudswoman and Public Service Commissioner.
More information…[https://warwick.ac.uk/services/vco/execteam/chancellor/Link opens in a new window]
FIRST PRESENTATION OF GRADUANDS
-
Honorary Graduate | Dr Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcucka
Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka is the former United Nations Under- Secretary-General and Executive Director of UN Women, who completed her term in August 2021 after being sworn into office on 19 August 2013. She was awarded her bachelor’s degree in the Arts and Education at the National University of Lesotho (awarded in 1980). She further obtained a qualification in Gender Policy and Planning from the University College London (in 1988), a master's degree in Philosophy from the University of Cape Town (awarded in 2003), and a doctorate in Technology and Education from Warwick University (awarded in 2013).
As student and in her professional life she was a campaigner against Apartheid and against Gender Discrimination.
She was a lecturer at a Teachers Training College (1980 - 1981)and a became teacher at the Ohlange High School (1981 - 1983). She then moved to Geneva as the global coordinator of young women’s mobilization at World YWCA, where she worked with young women around the world and established a global programme. She returned to Cape Town where to spearheaded TEAM, an ecumenical organization that focused on building leaders especially women. From there she transitioned to campaign for South Africa’s democratic government as a member of the African National Congress.
Her formal political journey began as a member of the first democratic South African Parliament then as Deputy Minister in the Department of Trade and Industry (1996 - 1999), as Minister of Minerals and Energy (1999 - 2005), and finally as Deputy President of South, she became the first woman to hold the position of Deputy President, the highest-ranking female political leader in the history of South Africa. She focused on collaboration between government, business and civil society , focused on ending poverty and expanding access to opportunities for young people and women.
As the head of the United Nations Women she worked to change laws that discriminates against women and girls. She established work on transforming social inequalities that discriminate against women. Mobilised new allies inclusive of men through initiatives such as the HeforShe movement (for men and boys to contribute in the fight against gender ineequality), the UnStereotype Alliance initiative for influencing advertising norms for positive change and equal representation and helped countries to change hundreds of laws that discriminate against women and girls.
She has also successfully mobilised a historic 40 billion USD in financial commitments from Member States, private sector, philanthropies and civil society as well as young people, which have formed Generational Equality to mark Beijing 25 around the world.
She was inducted as a Hauser Leader at the Harvard Kennedy School’s Center for Public Leadership and awarded the Vanguardaward by Howard University for Leadership and Activism in promoting human rights, equality and justice for women and girls .
She has authored several scholarly and other opinion pieces, including in the Harvard International Review. She was awarded Honorary Doctorates from the following institutions: (2003)the University of the Western Cape (2007), Nelson Mandela University (2014), the University of Fort Hare (2016) University of Witwatersrand(2019) Rhodes University (2022) and University of Edinburgh.
Dr. Mlambo-Ngcuka continues to be engaged and affiliated with organisations committed to education, women empowerment and gender equality. She has affiliations with Umlambo Foundation which she (Founded) which works for improvement of education, access to edu tech and non discrimination.
She Is in the board of the global organisation Women Deliver, Global Citizen, Chancellor of the University of Johannesburg and Chairperson of International Olympics Committee human rights. A member of the Panel of the Wise at the African Union. A board member of two listed companies Mercedes-Benz SA and a Canadian Mining Company Ivanhoe as well as a Renewable Energy start up SmartGrid.
SECOND PRESENTATION OF GRADUANDS
-
The National Anthem | Performed by The University of Warwick Chamber Choir and ARC Brass Quintet
-
University of Warwick Anthem & Academic Procession | Performed by The University of Warwick Chamber Choir, Brass and Percussion
Graduation Reception
Want to know where your graduation reception is being held? See the table below
Week 1
Day |
Department |
Room |
| Monday | Chemistry | Rootes Building |
| Tuesday | SCAPVC | Faculty of Arts Building |
| Wednesday | WBS | Rootes Building |
| Thursday |
Engineering | Rootes Building |
| Friday |
PAIS | Rootes Building |
Week 2
Day |
Department |
Room |
| Monday | Physics Sociology |
Rootes Building Rootes Building |
| Tuesday | Psychology | Rootes Building |
| Wednesday | Philosophy- PPE/PPL/EPP | Rootes Building |
| Thursday |
School of Law | Rootes Building |
| Friday |
WMG | Rootes Building |
After your ceremony
Celebrate with family and/or friends and enjoy your day!
- Share your celebrations with us @UniOfWarwick or #WarwickGrad.
- You will find photo opportunities around the Piazza and Warwick Arts Centre to make use of.
- Join your academic department reception events - they will have confirmed with you directly where this is taking place.
- Purchase your graduation (stage crossing) photo from Ede and Ravenscroft's stand in the Arts Centre Foyer, opposite the Box Office.
-
Welcome to the Warwick Alumni Community! We're excited to welcome you to a network of over 305,000 alumni who live and work in over 180 countries and territories globally. Find out more about the benefits and opportunities available to you by visiting our alumni stand in the Piazza.
-
Have your professional photos taken in the Mead Gallery, or purchase souvenirs in the pop-up shop in Warwick Arts Centre, if you did not have time before the ceremony.
- Keep your certificate safe!
- Return your robes by 6:30 PM. Take them to the Ensemble Room in the Arts Centre, which is opposite Panda Mami. Locate the large black wheeled bins and place your robes inside.
After Graduation:
- See our Souvenirs and Gifts page, where you will find the full ceremony footage to download and photos from the day.Link opens in a new window
- We'd love your feedbackLink opens in a new windowLink opens in a new window on the day! Please complete our survey about graduation- open to graduates and guests.
- Keep in touch! You're now part of a proud, vibrant, global alumni community like no other - with a shared bond and a lifelong connection to Warwick. Find out more about the range of benefits and opportunities that are available to you as a Warwick graduate on our alumni pages
-
Email alumni@warwick.ac.uk
-
Facebook: Warwick Alumni
-
YouTube: @UniofWarwickAlumni
-