News round-up

Alumnus inducted as fellow of the British Computer Society

Kaj Pedersen, who graduated from Wolverhampton in 1988 and rose to become a global tech leader, attained one of the highest honours in the computing profession when he received a British Computer Society fellowship.

Kaj now works as a strategic technology adviser, following an impressive role as Chief Technology Officer at AstrumU. He credits his time at the University of Wolverhampton for giving him a strong foundation and a practical approach to technology.

Royal recognition for impact

The university is proud to congratulate alumna Maddison Walker, who received the prestigious “Patron’s Award” by Her Royal Highness the Princess Royal at the inaugural Get the Nation Learning Awards.

Maddison, a West Midlands businesswoman and graduate of the university’s Senior Leader Apprenticeship programme, received the award in recognition of her inspiring journey through adult education and her commitment to lifelong learning.

The Patron’s Award is personally selected by Her Royal Highness, The Princess Royal, Patron of Learning and Work Institute, the Nation Learning campaign.

Chef Eros named MasterChef Nigeria host

WLV Life 2025 feature interviewee and alum Chef Tolu “Eros” Erogbogbo was recently appointed as host and judge on MasterChef Nigeria.

Chef Eros, known widely as “The Billionaire Chef”, graduated from the University of Wolverhampton with a degree in International Business Management in 2009, and has since built a continent-spanning career blending culinary brilliance, shrewd entrepreneurship, and cultural storytelling.

He said: “Becoming a judge on MasterChef Nigeria is more than a personal milestone; it’s an opportunity to shape how African cuisine is seen, understood, and respected on a global stage.”

University alumnae “give to gain” on International Women’s Day

Two accomplished alumnae took part in International Women’s Day across Wolverhampton, engaging with audiences at two well-attended events.

Renowned broadcaster Suzi Perry and humanitarian and entrepreneur Deana Uppal both contributed their time and efforts to the event’s success, highlighting achievements across the region and in the university community.

Deana, known for her charitable work and support for young people, spoke to attendees at the university’s own International Women’s Day event Give to Gain, while Suzi Perry delivered the keynote address at the Black Country Chamber of Commerce’s own International Women’s Day event.

Hollywood star comes to campus

The University of Wolverhampton welcomed Hollywood star Nathalie Emmanuel (Game of Thrones, Fast and Furious) to campus as part of a celebration marking the fifth anniversary of TNB Connect, a community-led organisation founded by graduate Nate Ethan Watson.

Nate, who graduated in 2019 with a Public Health degree, established TNB Connect to support and raise awareness for the trans and non-binary community.

As a long-time friend of Nate and a passionate advocate for TNB Connect, Nathalie joined the five-year celebration as a special guest and organisation ambassador.

Malaysian alumnus returns 30 years after graduation

Arthi Arunasalam reunited with the institution that launched his successful legal career, three decades after earning his degree.

Now a respected legal professional in Malaysia, Arthi made a long-awaited journey to the UK in September 2025 with his family, including a special visit to the campus that laid the foundation for his career. Having studied at a partner institution in London, it was his first Wolverhampton visit.

Reflecting on the emotional return, he said: “My visit to the campus after three decades since graduation has been a very meaningful insight and reflected the right choice I made in choosing a Wolverhampton.”

50-year anniversary of lifelong friendship

A group of Wolverhampton alumni marked an astonishing milestone, by returning to the city to celebrate 50 years since they first arrived as students.

In the mid-1970s, while studying at what was then Wolverhampton Polytechnic, the five students forged friendships during their studies that have lasted a lifetime.

Travelling from across the UK, including Cornwall and Newcastle, the group spent a weekend visiting places that shaped their early lives.

Anne, who studied Humanities from 1975-78, said: “It was great to be back at the university – although it will always be the Poly to me!”

University retains Top 3 spot for social mobility

The University of Wolverhampton has been ranked third in the UK for social mobility in the 2025 English Social Mobility Index, published by the Higher Education Policy Institute.

This top-three position reflects the university’s longstanding commitment to widening participation, supporting learners from across the West Midlands, and ensuring higher education remains a powerful driver of opportunity and social change.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Ebrahim Adia said: “Retaining such a high ranking for social mobility highlights that our strategy, Creating Opportunities, Transforming Futures, is a lived reality.”

Jakarta reunion celebrates Wolverhampton legacy

Alumni from the university’s Leadership and Management for Reinventing Government programme reunited in Jakarta in August 2025 for a heartfelt reunion organised by alumnus Satria Nusantara.

The group of Wolverhampton alumni studied the course under the UK-Indonesia grant cooperation, which ran between 1998-2003. They graduated in 1999 and have met twice a year ever since to celebrate their enduring friendships and life-changing experiences at the university.

“This university wasn’t just a place to learn. It was where we built lifelong friendships,” said Satria. “It was a place to source knowledge, benchmark science, and learn best practice.”

University graduate honoured by Royal Economic Society

Alumnus Gavin Simpson has been named a fellow of the Royal Economic Society (RES) – one of the highest accolades in the field of economics.

The prestigious honour recognises Gavin’s outstanding contribution to economic education and public engagement, and places him among a distinguished group of professionals shaping how economics is taught and understood.

Gavin is co-creator of the popular podcast Economics In Ten, developed with former colleague Pete Clift, which aims to improve economic literacy among a wide audience.

“We were really proud that the RES recognised our efforts to make economics more approachable,” Gavin said.

Global graduate returns to serve

The university’s long-lasting community spirit was highlighted once again when international alumna Rezwana Ahmed flew to the West Midlands to volunteer during the 2025 summer graduation.

Originally from Bangladesh, Rezwana travelled at her own expense in early July to support graduation ceremonies on campus, staying in the Midlands through the university’s celebratory week.

“Wolverhampton changed my life,” Rezwana shared, who studied BA (Hons) Fine Art and graduated in 2009. “It’s an incredible privilege to come back and help ensure our newest graduates feel celebrated.”