Celebrating achievement at the Black History Youth Awards

Engineering student Kingsley Ukabiala was among winners at the Black History Youth Awards, hosted by Teesside University for the second consecutive year.

Organised by Stockton community organisation Cultures CIC, which works with groups and individuals from black and ethnic minorities and immigrant and refugee communities, the awards aim to recognise the achievements of youths of African/Afro-Caribbean origin.

The annual celebration is part of Culture CIC’s mentoring programme It’s You and Me which aims to offer support and experiences for young black role models aged from 11 to 24.

Teesside University was among business from across the region which sponsored awards, which included recognition for achievements in academic study, sport, arts and contribution to the community.

Kingsley, who is studying BEng Civil Engineering at Teesside University’s School of Science & Engineering, is originally from Nigeria. He was presented with the STEM award, recognising excellence in science, technology, engineering or maths.

He said: 'I was overwhelmed and full of surprise to win this award. Hard work pays off and after receiving this award, it has inspired me to push higher. I am grateful for my nomination.'

Sade Sangowawa, CEO of Culture CIC, said: 'Young people don’t have to do it all alone, there are people and organisations willing to stretch out a hand of friendship to offer support and open doors. Our differences are our strength, with the many professionals attending the awards from different backgrounds coming together to celebrate and support young people.'

Abbie English, Recruitment Officer at Teesside University, said: 'Teesside University has a long-standing commitment and passion for widening participation, raising aspirations and engaging with the whole community. We were delighted to again support Cultures CIC with these awards.'

Barry Walmsley, Programme Leader in Civil Engineering in the University's School of Science & Engineering, said: 'Kingsley is one of those people who sets an example to everyone around him with his enthusiasm, cheerfulness and positivity.

'Not everyone is so naturally able to display the level of commitment and engagement which is proving to reward Kingsley well in his academic studies. I am confident that he will one day become a credit to the engineering profession not only for his future qualifications, but because of his attitude to life.’

---