Social Impact Award

Carrie, a 2020 Bioscience graduate, has spearheaded transformative social change through the creation and curation of Food Troops CIC based in Redruth Cornwall. Drawing on insights from her dissertation, which explored children’s perceptions of vegetables after health and cooking interventions, and her experience as a single mother of four, Carrie inspired the launch of Food Troops to address food poverty, improve dietary choices, and reduce social isolation in those living in food poverty.

Food Troops has redistributed over 40 tonnes of surplus food and provide 5,000 meals to individuals and families in need. The organisation champions hands-on learning, connecting communities with the skills to grow, cook, and confidently choose nutritious, locally sourced foods. Partnerships with local farms and community-supported projects enhances access to fresh vegetables and deeper connections to nature.

In addition to its food redistribution efforts, the organisation operates a community kitchen and garden complete with poly tunnels in the heart of the public park, delivers holiday and out of school learning programmes based on cooking and growing for children, and hosts free gardening workshops to improve wellbeing.

Brenda Msangi exemplifies the spirit of the Social Impact Award through her transformative leadership and unwavering commitment to improving the lives of underserved populations. As the Chief Executive Officer of Comprehensive Community-Based Rehabilitation in Tanzania (CCBRT), Brenda has redefined healthcare delivery in Tanzania by championing accessibility and equity. Her leadership has guided CCBRT to serve thousands of patients annually, providing life-changing disability and rehabilitative services, often to the most vulnerable. Under her direction, the organisation has also embraced a social enterprise model, reducing donor dependency and ensuring financial sustainability while amplifying its impact.

Beyond her professional achievements, Brenda’s passion for empowerment resonates through her mentorship platform, Dear Girl Child BMK. This global initiative inspires and uplifts emerging leaders, particularly young women, equipping them with the tools to overcome barriers and realise their potential. Through mentorship, coaching, and thought-provoking content, Brenda has influenced thousands, fostering a generation of changemakers poised to contribute positively to their communities.

Brenda’s influence extends to the boardrooms of prominent organisations, where she advocates for inclusive governance and strategic partnerships that drive sustainable development. She is also a sought-after speaker on local and international platforms, including TEDx, where she shares her insights on leadership, empowerment, and social impact.

Ian champions compassionate, individualised social care for people with dementia and their carers. He represents the University nationally, and internationally, spearheading initiatives and contributing to research to improve social care in communities. He is working with researchers/ policy makers in China, Japan, Turkey, Tanzania, and Nigeria on dementia projects and DPACT - exploring placing dementia support workers in GP practices. He implemented and chaired an educational group broadcasting dementia awareness through the B.B.C World Service. Currently working with UK Ministers and a Ukrainian dementia charity to secure long-term funding to rebuild their dementia services.

Ian chaired the Prime Ministers National Air Transport Hidden Disability group, and co-founded the international, national sunflower lanyard.

Ian teaches across the Faculty of Health, ensuring that the needs and rights of people with dementia are recognised by social and healthcare workers. Ian led a team from the University supported by the Chief Dental Officer for England to produce a Dental Dementia Guide to all N.H.S dentists.

Ian sat on the Prime Minister’s Dementia Champion group, chaired the Prime Ministers Rural Dementia group. Ian worked with the Local Government Association, to research building dementia friendly communities in 10,000 English Parish/Town Councils; culminating in writing a Dementia Guide with a personal letter from the Prime Minister.

Sumalka has actively championed social inclusion and support for marginalised groups, particularly refugees and asylum seekers, through her role as an outreach officer for the Student Action for Refugees (STAR) initiative. Her leadership in organising events such as cultural kitchen, care bag distributions, and fundraisers has provided essential resources and created safe spaces for refugees.

Through her involvement with Global Plymouth’s International Dinners and other community initiatives, Sumalka has fostered intercultural understanding and celebrated diversity. Her efforts have not only brought people together but have also showcased the power of community driven initiatives in bridging cultural divides.

Sumalka’s innovative use of her social media platform has had a profound impact on Plymouth’s local economy. By promoting small businesses and showcasing the city’s unique culture, she has encouraged others to explore and support their local community. This initiative has strengthened connections among residents and businesses, emphasising the importance of collaboration and local pride.

Sumalka was the recipient of the prestigious Student Positive Impact Award in 2021, recognising her ability to lead with compassion and inspire positive change.