Are you making a difference to society or the environment? Do you know someone who is? Why not enter the University’s annual Making a Difference Awards for social responsibility?

The Making a Difference Awards celebrate the positive impact our students, staff, alumni, and external partners are having on the wellbeing of our communities and wider society. This is a chance to be recognised for your exceptional efforts in social responsibility, share best practices and inspire others.

Our students have a chance to be recognised in several categories including equality, diversity and inclusion, environmental sustainability and widening participation. From supporting communities in Ardwick to Asia, to fighting cancer and reducing carbon emissions, the Awards provide the opportunity to highlight a wide array of meaningful initiatives our students are committed to – each striving for a greener, healthier and more sustainable world.

Professor Nalin Thakkar, Vice-President for Social Responsibility said: “It’s inspiring to see how our students are driving meaningful change in society. The Making a Difference Awards give us the opportunity to celebrate their achievements and honour the impactful contributions they’re making both locally and globally. I encourage everyone making a difference to enter the Awards, share their journey, and inspire others with their dedication and hard work.”

All shortlisted entrants will be invited to a high-profile awards ceremony on 8 May 2025 to receive their Award and celebrate their commitment and dedication. This ceremony serves as a platform to raise awareness of your work and highlight your remarkable achievements.

Take inspiration from previous winners, who found the recognition a powerful boost to continue tackling the issues they are passionate about, bringing increased attention and support to their projects.

Muhammad Arinal Haq, a 2024 student award recipient, said: “Receiving the Making a Difference award is a great honour and a source of pride for NAYS Indonesia. As our first award, it motivates and encourages us to continue running this social project sustainably. This recognition not only raises awareness and garners more support for our cause but also paves the way for future collaborations, enabling us to achieve a more substantial and widespread impact.” The 2025 Making a Difference Awards are now open! We encourage you to enter and showcase your dedication to positive change or nominate a fellow student who is making a difference.

If you would like to find out more about entering the Making a Difference Awards you can attend our briefing session for entrants on 28 November, 12-1pm.

Enter via the social responsibility website.

Other Important Information:

• Deadline for entries is 15 January 2025.
• Candidates can self-nominate or be nominated by a third party.
• Individuals or teams can enter.
• If you do not have access to an online entry form, please email socialresponsibility@manchester.ac.uk or telephone 0161-306-3044