Award-winning graduate gives insights into the experiences of care leavers at university

A former student, recognised earlier this year for his work to support care leavers, has spoken at the annual conference of the National Educational Opportunities Network this week.

Law graduate Brandon Akem spoke at the event on 22 June about how his work to support care leavers and how his time at the University of Leicester has transformed his life. In March, he attended the NEON awards ceremony to receive a Commendation for his work with vulnerable children and young people who have been in care.

Professor Mark Peel, Pro-Vice Chancellor (Student Experience), said of Brandon. “On behalf of the University of Leicester I would like to thank Brandon for all his hard work as part of our outreach team. Many staff members and students found him to be an inspirational leader of our work to support care leavers, especially because of his willingness to share his life story with a wide audience so that others can learn from his experience. With his success in overcoming adversity and taking control of his own destiny, Brandon was an incredibly important role model for many of the young people who had the benefit of hearing him and talking with him.”

• You can read about Brandon's experiences in a feature for our website entitled 'I do not feel disadvantaged any more'.