Loughborough College’s Iqbal Ullah has been presented with a major accolade in recognition of his outstanding contribution to enterprise.
Iqbal, who leads the Business Management degree at the College, was honoured with the Young Enterprise Gold Award.
It comes only a month after Jonah Boyce and Harry Rudkin’s fledgling Loughborough College student business, 3-Six Sports, scooped 2017’s Start-Up Company of the Year title and Harry was named Student of the Year.
The pair impressed the audience at the Regional Final for the Young Enterprise Company programme for schools with the presentation that sealed their triumph in the national competition and now takes them through to the European finals – and were congratulated in person by Rosemary Conley CBE.
Harry received his Student of the Year £1000 prize before Iqbal was announced as Gold Award winner.
“The Gold Award is given in recognition of those that have excelled in their contribution and involvement and in their achievements with their students,” said Annabelle Armes, Young Enterprise Manager for Leicestershire.
“Iqbal is outstanding in promoting enterprise at Loughborough College with the Business Management students and his support is second to none.
“Young Enterprise are proud to have him on board as their Centre Lead for the Start-Up programme in the East Midlands.”
Iqbal added: “It was a pleasant surprise but I didn't expect an award, and I don't do this for awards. I was just happy to see Harry and Jonah being treated like celebrities.
“They delivered their presentation to an audience of 200 plus and they wowed them. In fact, following the presentations Rosemary Conley CBE congratulated them on their fantastic presentation and their product, then gave them advice on what their next steps could be.
“The aunt of England International Rugby Union player Heather Fisher also suggested they talk to Heather about an endorsement.
“Everyone - students, teachers, judges and entrepreneurs – were all congratulating them and wishing them the best of luck for the next stage in Helsinki.”
Pictured: (left to right) Jonah Boyce, Neelum Savania, Gold Award winner Iqbal Ullah, Annabelle Armes and Harry Rudkin